My Parents Gave Me $10,000 to Pay for College — I Was Shocked to Find Out What They Wanted in Return
I am about to graduate high school and I have been applying to universities and going on tours. My parents decided to gift me $10,000 to cover college costs. I was excited about this gift until they told me what they wanted in return. I refused their terms and walked away but now they are calling me ungrateful.
Parents giving cash gift to daughter | Source: Getty Images
Growing up in a small state with big dreams, I always envisioned my future in New York pursuing my dreams. My vibrant brushstrokes, which had been a part of me almost all my life, kept my dream going.
My room was a kaleidoscope of colors, filled to the brim with paintings that spoke volumes of my journey through high school. I won art competitions and its perks were evident in the array of accolades adorning my walls.
A young woman painting | Source: Getty Images
But art wasn’t just about the trophies; it was about the stories behind each brushstroke, each piece holding a piece of my heart. Among these masterpieces, a subtle hint of my side gig lingered, paintings created with love, for lovers, whispering tales of romance and passion.
A room with framed artwork | Source: Getty Images
Painting was more than a hobby to me, it was my passion and my identity. My parents, on the other hand, saw it as a fleeting interest, something that would never sustain a ‘real’ career. They encouraged me to explore more ‘practical’ fields, but my heart was set on pursuing an art degree in New York, a city that pulsed with creativity and opportunity.
A woman painting her room | Source: Getty Images
One evening, amidst my college applications and tours, the dinner table conversation started off innocently enough. My parents had a surprise for me, a gesture so generous it left me speechless. “We’ve decided to give you $10,000 to help pay for college,” my mom announced, her smile as warm as the summer sun.
I was over the moon. “Thank you so much! This means I can apply to my dream art schools in New York!” I exclaimed, visions of bustling city streets and inspiring art galleries dancing in my head.
A happy daughter receiving cash gift from parents | Source: Getty Images
But the warmth quickly faded as my dad cleared his throat, signaling the onset of conditions I hadn’t anticipated. “There are two rules,” he said sternly. “First, you can’t leave the state for university. And second, you can only choose from the degrees we approve of — medicine or law. We don’t think an art degree is the right path for you.”
My heart sank. “But I’ve been painting my whole life. You know how much this means to me,” I countered, trying to keep my voice steady despite the turmoil inside.
A daughter sad at her parents terms | Source: Getty Images
“We’re doing this for your own good, Ruth. Stop being ungrateful. We just want you to have a secure future,” my mom chimed in, her voice softer but no less firm.
The argument that ensued was not just heated; it was a clash of dreams and practicalities, each word sharp with the tension of unmet expectations. “How can you call it help if it comes with strings that strangle my dreams?” I cried out, my voice cracking under the strain of emotion. My parents, steadfast in their stance, responded with equal fervor.
A mother repremanding daughter | Source: Getty Images
“Ruth, we’re not trying to strangle your dreams, that is an ungrateful thing to say. We’re trying to ensure you have a future that’s not dependent on whims,” my dad countered, his tone laced with frustration and concern.
“Art isn’t a whim! It’s who I am. Don’t you understand? By restricting me to medicine or law, you’re asking me to give up a part of myself,” I shot back, desperation creeping into my voice. Each word felt like a plea for them to see me, to really see the person I was and the dreams I harbored.
Very upset parents scolding their daughter | Source: Getty Images
My mom sighed, her usual composure faltering. “We’ve seen too many struggles in fields like art. We don’t want that life for you. Can’t you see we’re doing this out of love?”
“But love shouldn’t come with conditions that force me into a mold I don’t fit,” I argued, my heart aching with the need to be understood. “I appreciate the gift, I really do. But if it means sacrificing my passion, my dreams, then what’s it worth? Isn’t my happiness and fulfillment important too?”
Angry father with daughter | Source: Getty Images
The room fell silent, the air thick with unspoken words and unresolved emotions. I stood there, feeling more alienated than ever. It was clear that the gap between us wasn’t just about the money or even about my career choice; it was about recognition, about them not validating my identity and aspirations.
Unable to bear the weight of their expectations and the pain of feeling so fundamentally misunderstood, I stormed out, the sound of my departure echoing through the house.
A daughter leaving home | Source: Getty Images
The door slammed shut behind me, a symbolic closure to a conversation that left me feeling more lost and alone than before. The gift that was meant to pave my way to the future now felt like chains binding me to a path I couldn’t walk, a future I couldn’t accept.
In the weeks that followed, I sought refuge at my friend’s place, a sanctuary where I could escape the stifling atmosphere of my home. It was a time of reflection and, surprisingly, of understanding. I realized that my parents’ intentions, albeit misguided, came from a place of love. They wanted me close, and safe in a career they deemed secure.
A sad daughter | Source: Getty Images
But a fire still burned within me, a desire to follow my dreams. I started working on a presentation, pouring my heart into every slide. I gathered testimonials from successful artists, statistics on the demand for creative professionals, and a detailed budget plan to manage my expenses beyond the $10,000 gift. My aim was to show not just the viability of an art degree but the depth of my commitment to my passion.
A daughter thinking about her future | Source: Getty Images
With the presentation ready, I reached out to my parents, asking for a chance to discuss my future. They agreed, and on the day of the meeting, a mix of nerves and determination filled me. As I walked into the hotel lobby to meet my parents, a knot tightened in my stomach, and my palms grew clammy with nerves.
Nervous woman walking | Source: Getty Images
Despite my determination, fear gnawed at me, whispering doubts and uncertainties. The weight of the impending conversation pressed heavily upon me, each step forward feeling like a leap into the unknown. Yet, amidst the fear, a flicker of hope persisted, driving me forward with the belief that this meeting could change everything.
Nervous daughter presenting to parents | Source: Getty Images
“Mom, Dad, I understand your concerns, but I need you to see things from my perspective,” I began, as soon as we were done with the pleasantries. Clicking through slides that represented my dreams and plans. I spoke of compromise, of understanding, of a future where passion and pragmatism could coexist.
A woman presenting | Source: Getty Images
“Pursuing art is not just an urge; it’s my passion, my calling. I need the freedom to explore this path fully,” I said meeting my parents’ gaze with determination.
Acknowledging their worries, I continued, “I know you want what’s best for me, and I appreciate that. So, here’s what I’m proposing, regular check-ins and updates on my progress. You’ll see firsthand how committed I am to making this work. Please, trust me to follow my dreams.”
Parents listening to their daughter | Source: Getty Images
As I talked, I saw the change in their expressions, from skepticism to contemplation, and finally, to understanding. “We never realized how much this meant to you,” my dad admitted, his voice softer than I’d heard in weeks. “Your presentation… it’s clear you’ve thought this through.”
Happy parents with daughter | Source: Getty Images
Snoop Dogg’s Heartfelt Tribute: Remembering His Beloved Grandkid Through Their 7 Cherished
Snoop Dogg is famous for his music, but his role as a grandfather shows a different side of him, one filled with joy, loss, and deep love for his family.
Born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., Snoop Dogg has created a career that goes beyond just music; he is also a committed family man. He has been married to Shante Broadus since 1997 and is a father to four children: Corde, 30; Cordell, 27; Cori, 25; and Julian, 26, from a previous relationship.
Over the years, Snoop’s family has expanded, and he is now a proud grandfather, with each grandchild holding a special place in his heart. He is particularly devoted to keeping the memory of one grandchild who passed away alive, ensuring that their legacy continues in the family.
In 2007, Snoop shared his family values while promoting his reality show, “Snoop Dogg’s Father Hood,” which aimed to show the less visible side of hip-hop artists as family men.
Speaking to “People,” Snoop said, “I have kids, and I always play my music for them. I like to know what they like. They think I’m old, but I feel young.”
Looking back on his journey as a father, he said, “Ninety percent of rappers grew up without fathers, but most of them become fathers to their kids. We don’t often get credit for that. We become real men when we reach this point in our lives.”
The coach for Season 26 of “The Voice” has stayed actively involved with his family as it has grown. In a 2015 interview with “Today,” he humbly rated himself as “about a 7-plus” as a father, noting areas where he wants to improve.
“My relationship with my kids is more important than anything. It’s a friendship… it’s based on me being a father, a mentor, and a friend,” he said.
When asked about being a grandfather, Snoop said he planned to be a lenient one, describing himself as a “gullible, get-away-with-everything kind of grandpa.”
Recalling his first experience as a grandparent, he shared, “It’s just a spark of joy to look into his eyes and hold him. I thank my oldest son for making me a grandfather.”
Snoop Dogg’s extended family is a big part of his life. In January 2024, he talked about his grandkids on “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” explaining how each grandchild calls him “Papa Snoop.” This name comes from a nickname his oldest grandson gave him when he was little.
Snoop said, “[My grandkids are] different ages and sizes, but I love them all the same. Actually, my oldest [grandson’s] birthday is today, so I’m on my way to his birthday party.”
He remembered how his oldest grandchild first called him “Papa Noop” because he couldn’t say “Snoop” properly at first.
After his family grew, Snoop faced the tragic loss of one grandchild, which has deeply affected him and his family.
In September 2019, Snoop’s grandson, Kai Love, passed away just 10 days after birth. Snoop shared a heartfelt message on social media, reposting a note that read, “If you’re facing something you don’t understand: Choose to trust God. Remember all He has done for you. His ways are higher than ours. He is always good.”
The post showed Snoop’s faith during his family’s sorrow and received many supportive comments from followers.
One user wrote, “I’m so sorry for your loss. Children are precious gifts from God, but sometimes he takes them back… sweet little Kai RIP… God bless and comfort all who love him….” Another added, “Sorry for your [loss]. God Bless=.” A third user said, “Prayers for you and your family.”
Kai’s parents, Snoop’s son Corde Broadus and his wife, Soraya Love, were heartbroken by the loss. On what would have been Kai’s fourth birthday, Soraya posted a touching tribute on Instagram, sharing her grief and newfound purpose.
“Happy heavenly birthday to my 1st son Kai Love who passed away on 9-15-2019,” she wrote, explaining the pain of losing a child due to a heart defect. Soraya added, “…I know God used this painful time in our lives to help me reach out to others in need of faith and self-awareness.”
Soraya’s post also described how losing her son motivated her to lead a life dedicated to wellness, spirituality, and supporting the community.
Kai’s legacy inspired Corde and Soraya to start the “Kai Heart Foundation,” which aims to spread love and healing through community support.
In a March 2024 post, Soraya shared, “We would love to partner with organizations that help heal, educate, and assist people with LOVE. This is our purpose, and we want to keep giving back to the community.”
In December 2022, Soraya explained, “I started the Kai Heart Foundation in 2019 after my son Kai passed away from a heart defect. He inspired me to help others through acts of LOVE and a healthy lifestyle.”
She expressed gratitude for the guidance she felt from Kai and her faith, inviting support from the community. “Today was magical. Love you all, and if you want to donate for the next event, let me know.”
After experiencing both joy and sadness with the loss of baby Kai, Snoop has continued to embrace his growing family, with each grandchild bringing unique joy and purpose into his life.
Snoop first became a grandfather in January 2015 when his grandson, Zion Kalvin Broadus, was born to Corde and his then-girlfriend Jessica Kyzer.
Proud of this new role, Snoop posted a video saying, “Proud grandad. My son spank n grandson Zion!!Jah bless.” Zion, now 9 years old, is a constant reminder of the family’s growth and Snoop’s commitment to being “Papa Snoop.”
In August 2018, Snoop’s family grew again with the birth of Elleven Love Broadus, Corde’s daughter with Soraya.
Soraya celebrated Elleven’s fifth birthday in 2023 with an emotional Instagram post, writing, “HAPPY 5th BORN DAY TO MY 1st BORN E11EVEN this little Queen taught me how to be a mom when I didn’t know how to change a diaper.”
Elleven brought healing and love into Soraya’s life, adding to Snoop’s family legacy.
In March 2019, Cordoba Journey Broadus was born to Snoop’s son Cordell and his wife Phia. Now 5, Cordoba has shared special moments with Snoop, including attending a Chanel fashion show with him in May 2023.
In February 2021, Snoop welcomed another grandchild, Sky Love Broadus, who is Corde and Soraya’s third child. Shante Broadus, Snoop’s wife, posted about her excitement, saying, “I’m so happy my 5th grandbaby boy was born today .”
In March 2021, Cordell and Phia welcomed their daughter, Chateau Broadus. Shante celebrated her arrival, saying, “I Was Down Earlier But She Just Took All Of That Away My 6th GrandBaby Girl #ChateauBroadus .”
In May 2023, Snoop introduced his youngest grandchild, Symphony Sol, on Instagram, sharing his excitement for the new addition to the family.
Through all the joy and heartache, Snoop Dogg’s love for his family shines brightly. Each grandchild not only represents a new member of the Broadus family but also a legacy of love, strength, and togetherness.
From his own children to his many grandchildren, Snoop’s commitment to family remains strong, grounding him and keeping him connected to his roots as “Papa Snoop.”
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