One thing unique about American Society in relation to Indian Society is the concept of "Self Reliance".
We have 10 children. Children bring us happiness. We are raising children for our own happiness. Making my children happy makes me happy. That is the main reason I make my children happy.
On the other hand I would never ever expect my children to help me at my old age. When I raise children I don't think about "Oh children should help parents at their old age".
I 'll stand on the earth as long as I can by myself. And then let it go.
That is living with pride and dignity.
I have seen many old living like that.
They are the ones who get the most love from their children as a matter of fact.
Please also keep in mind the ills of the American society due to this concept of "self reliance". Parents and kids are often not properly connected, kids do not care much about parents and their views. Parents do not dedicate much of their time and money for their kids... Kids do not treat parents and other elderly people with the respect we (Indians) in general are used to. The institute of marriage and family is broken in USA. Even the social/mental health specialists are worried in USA. So, before making such arguments, please keep in mind all facts.
While I do agree that parents should not try not to keep themselves dependent upon kids, it is not always possible for parents to save money for themselves (in India) for old age and there are many reasons for that.
Anyways, one should not forget the amount of love, comfort and material things provided by their parents, no matter how much parents suffered or how many times they spent it on their kids rather than on themselves.
And above all "Maa ke doodh kee koi keemat nahin hotee, woh to anmol hotaa hai.." just keep that in mind my dear friend.
We all should feel obliged to take care of our own parents to the best of our abilities.
