re: American middle class families must really not be saving any money.

wife and I have been very fortunate last few years. Stayed in our first house that was $155k 14 years before we upgraded .

My folks don’t have much to give her parents are ok.

That being said I couldn’t imagine either of our parents supporting us on a monthly basis in some capacity.

We all know it’s not easy at times you just have to be disciplined and skip the night out at “supper club” etc

additionally
I don’t need my parents telling me how to run my life in my early 40’s b/c they are helping financially.

Taking care of our business allows us to get their opinion/ advice when needed , and appreciate when the offer to by dinner or stick a $20 in our kids piggy bank.

To me being accountable for your own business will get your family to where it needs to be and set your kids up for success in life in all phases.