The son of a successful business owner, Max had everything he wanted: the latest gadgets, designer clothes, and even his own sports car.
Max was not happy, even though he had all his material possessions. He was under constant pressure from his parents to do well in school and follow in his father’s footsteps. Max’s parents were just his A’s and expected him to be the company’s next CEO.
One day, Max decides he’s fed up with the pressure and constant expectations. He wanted the freedom to pursue his passions and interests regardless of what his parents wanted.
So he made his plans. With his baggy clothes and fake tattoos, he pretended to be a poor kid from the other side of town. Max thought he had no choice but to pursue his dreams.
At first, Max’s plan seemed to work. His parents were shocked by his sudden change in appearance and worried about relating to the “wrong crowd”.
Max soon realized that pretending to be poor wasn’t as easy as he thought. Accustomed to the luxuries of a privileged life, he suddenly found himself struggling to make ends meet.
One day while Max was “shopping” with his new friend, Max’s debit card was declined at the store.
Embarrassed and annoyed, Max had to call his parents for money. His plan backfired.
When Max came home, his parents were waiting for him. They were disappointed and hurt that Max had lied to them and pretended to be someone he wasn’t.
After a long and emotional conversation, Max finally told his parents about his pressure and his confided in his desire to pursue his passion. His parents realized that they were too focused on their expectations and didn’t think about Max’s happiness.
Ultimately, Max’s parents supported his decision to follow his dreams and even helped him get into college in creative writing, which he had always been passionate about.
Max has learned that material possessions and wealth do not bring true happiness, and that it is important to follow your dreams and passions, regardless of what others may expect of you.
