The tone of this thread has gotten quite intense. I have learned some things.

My parents expected a lot of me and my siblings. Use your god-given talents, we were told. We also were taught a work ethic that helped us later on (My Dad often reminded me even as an adult I had never worked a day in my life.). Working to better ourselves was encouraged.

I saw how hard my parents worked. I certainly have not looked down on them for being honest, hardworking people. In fact, I was proud of them in that regard.

Kathy, have you talked to your son about what you have told us? If not, I hope you do. You raised him to show respect, empathy and compassion, I expect. He simply may need to be told how his talk is bothering you?

It is not up to me to tell others how to live, even if I do not understand the logic.