Had this conversion with my dad earlier today, he’s an elder…both my parents were laid off during the recession, however, they saved and lived a decent life. They paid off for their homes in their late 20’s, so they never had a mortgage which lingered for years.
Dad: Good morning son, how have you been keeping?
Kool Jo: I’m not too bad, how r u & mum doing?
Dad: We’re doing well, besides your mom found a job after being unemployed for three years.
Kool Jo: This is great news…(I’m happy, because now, she’ll be only doing 1 day in FS).
Dad: By the way, we’ve been approved for a new KHall and the building is coming along quite well…you know our old Hall has been here since 1914!
Kool Jo: Ha Ha dad…good one…yes that old KHall needed a jump start or a new one…
Dad: So our branch is downsizing, just to let you know, and many of the folks there are being sent home….I feel so sorry for them, because some have never worked in the real world nor have any formal education. I mean, who knew we’d still be here? But I still believe the end is near.
Kool Jo: (With a smile)…I agree dad, it’s going to be tough on them…glad I went to college and got my degree and now I have a decent job!
Dad: I’m proud of you son, and I know you’re company will provide financial assistance when you start your MBA next year…go for it son..we don’t know exactly when the end is coming, so we have to live normally.
Kool Jo: Thanks for the support….I really do feel sorry for the folks leaving bethel, some will have to go back living with parents or friends.
Dad: On another note, our congregation is on the radar by the Society.
Kool Jo: What do you mean?
Dad: We received a letter from HQ, stating that our congregation has donated the least over the past decade and that they’re concerned. Besides, we owe them quite a bit. Son, you know we’d like to help, but what we have, is for your mum and I to enjoy our retirement and to do some traveling.
Kool Jo: I agree with you dad, you and mum worked very hard and now it’s time to enjoy it….afterall the HQ told us not to have high-paying jobs or go to school, so where do they expect to get more money from? Most of the folks in your congregation are retired.
Dad: Also, we had the C/O visit and they were a real pain the ass.
Kool Jo: Could you say that again? (My jaw dropped)
Dad: You heard me correctly, they just sponged on us and they never wanted to leave….they overspent their time with us….almost ate down the entire house…
Kool Jo: Don’t worry dad, I’ll send you a cheque to help you with the expenses…but promise me that those brothers they’re sending out to pioneer ect…you won’t accept anyone.
Dad: Ofcourse not son, we don’t want that responsibility…we couldn’t afford it anyways.
Kool Jo: Dad, they’re going to make you feel guilty and pressured…but don’t give in…they’re gonna say you have 3 available rooms.
Dad: I won’t give in to their demands; I’m not spending money on anyone else…beside those that are being sent out have to be liable for their own welfare, according to a letter that was sent out.
Kool Jo: Ok dad, I know you won’t give in.
Dad: Are you getting read ready for work and when are you coming to visit?
Kool Jo: I’m heading in the shower now and will let you know as soon as I book the flight!
Dad: Fair enough son, enjoy your day, love you.
Kool Jo: You do the same; we’ll chat on skype over the weekend!