How would you feel if someone rubbed your shortcomings in your face, even when you’re doing everything you can to make ends meet?
It happened on a quiet Friday night. One of the movie producers I often work with—someone I consider a friend—called me and asked me to see him early the next morning. The urgency in his voice made me pause, so I asked if everything was okay.
He replied, “Everything is fine. Why are you scared?” I laughed and told him that the way he sounded, it felt like he needed urgent help.
And then, out of nowhere, he said something that crushed me. He said, “So if I need help, do you think you’re in any position to help me?”
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I smiled, trying hard not to let his words show how much they hurt. I acted like it was nothing, but deep down, I was bruised.
Just because I’m not financially on his level doesn’t mean I can’t offer help, does it? I may not be as buoyant as he is, but I’ve always tried to support in the little ways I can—especially as a video editor who has worked on many of his projects.
In hindsight, I guess what he said was a bitter way of reminding me to hustle harder. Maybe he didn’t mean to be cruel, but it still stung. His words lingered, and not in a good way.
Have you ever been made to feel small or unimportant by a friend just because of your financial status? It’s a tough pill to swallow. But if you’ve been there, know you’re not alone.
Let’s talk about it. Drop your experience in the comments. And if you’re looking for advice on how to grow financially or maintain healthy friendships as you rise, this piece on recognizing toxic friendships might help.