“I pretend to be broke so people stop asking me for money": A clever solution

Loading player...
Every Thursday around this time, we detail some of the wildest confessions from the streets of Mzansi. We get YOU to weigh in on your unfiltered thoughts.

Here's what anonymous shared with us:

“I pretend to be broke, not because I am, but because the people closest to me won’t stop asking for money.

It started with small favours. ‘Can you help just this once?’ Then it became expectations. Family members are counting my salary before I even get paid. Friends making plans with my wallet in mind. I tried being honest. I said no. I explained boundaries and suddenly I was ‘selfish’, ‘forgetting where I come from’, ‘acting better than everyone else’.

So now I lie. I complain about being broke. I downplay promotions. I hide wins, because it’s easier than being guilt-tripped by the people who raised me and grew up with me.

They say money shouldn’t come between family and friends, but money already has. So tell me… am I wrong for protecting myself, or wrong for lying to the people who expect me to provide?"
19 Feb English South Africa Society & Culture · Personal Journals

Other recent episodes

HPV Prevention: Stacey Norman shares her journey and an expert weighs in

Last year the National Department of Health shared that Human Papillomavirus vaccinations will be conducted at public, special, private and independent schools by teams of healthcare workers. The Department has stressed that Cervical Cancer is highly preventable through the HPV vaccination. They further encouraged parents, caregivers and legal guardians to…
18 Feb 8 min

Homework vs TV: A would you rather with the kids of KZN

Every Wednesday, the little ones of our province take over our airwaves with their cuteness. It’s a chance for the kids of KZN to share something with us. This week, Aunty Stacey and Uncle J Sbu asked your little ones: Would you rather not do homework and never be able…
18 Feb 1 min

Who actually has the "license" to discipline your child?

Discipline is the ultimate balancing act, but lately, the scales are tipping. These days, we see very different worlds. Throw in the reality of parental fatigue, that bone-deep exhaustion where you just want to tap out without being judged and the lines get even blurrier. So, here’s the real question…
17 Feb 11 min

Financial abuse by loved ones - when is it too much?

This week, Stacey and J Sbu touched on a topic plaguing many South African households. From a R100 here, to a R500 for this and before you know it - you have no money in your bank. J Sbu shared a touching, personal story about his struggle with financial mistreatment…
16 Feb 12 min

Varsity Cup: Emeris players AB Mthembu and Jacques Marais share it all

They’ve earned their spot. From unbeaten Shield champions to stepping onto the biggest stage in university rugby, the Varsity Cup. Now, flying the KZN flag with pride, hunger and something to prove, the Emeris boys are in the building. Stacey Norman and sports lead Nick Tatham spoke with AB Mthembu…
11 Feb 7 min