You know… the common denominator is you. People lie. Businesses lie.

“Despite having zero debt except my house”

… this comment made me chuckle.

About your comment on hard work getting nothing. You’re absolutely correct. We occupy a period of time called the Information Age, or silicon age. We value smart work now, greatly. Hard work is reserved for the young and uneducated, but you have a masters degree… in what might I ask?

My point is, if you really cared, you’d pivot away from the masters that bears no fruit. It’s possible a carefree and “lazy” Costco employee makes more than you.

I had a college professor in her mid 60’s who told us she was 200k in debt from her masters when only 100k was principal. It’s a racket but damn did I feel bad. She rents a house and makes 3.5k per class(I felt it was TMI TBH). At least you have equity, so cheer up, buttercup.