They shouldn’t feel that way. Many of the Japanese cars are built here and in that they’re built in non-union plants by Americans in Right-to-Work states, they’re a heck of a lot more American than the ‘American’ cars.
I remember back in the day it was a bad thing to do this if you worked at Mack Trucks or Bethlehem Steel here where I live. Import cars were a no no to the Union folks. I had no idea it was the same today. Why be scared to let people know you had a new ride? This seems odd to me. Whenever I get something new, I am sure to let people know about it just because.
In Socialist countries you do not celebrate success. You cannot be excited over acquiring anything new or expensive. You are to feel guilty that everyone cannot live as high as you. This is coming soon to the USSA.
Well, I suppose that your co-worker is aware enough to be sensitive to the horrible economic plight of their fellow Americans, and doesn’t want to flaunt their good fortune at a time such as this.
I can understand them feeling that way.
You say the car’s an import. Depending on the brand, it may have been built right here in America by non-union labor.
I can understand his situation. It’s obviously a big deal to afford anything more than 10 grand nowadays but remember that he is surrounded by co-workers who may have financial issues and didn;t want to rub it in their faces so it was the right move. Be humble and answer nicely only if asked upon it.
Reminded me of one of our acquaintances who just bought an Ipad 2 and made it such a big deal, one person simply just told him to “shut up” about it.
Just my analysis, but if the co-worker and the car were seeing each other in the parking lot, maybe they really didn't want you to tell anyone else.
Luckily, you put this in "News" so no one will know about their little tryst.
I have five imports sitting in my driveway and I’m not one bit ashamed!
I gave American car manufacturers a chance, they screwed me. Then they went belly up and screwed me again.
Then your co-worker is an idiot. They were able to get a new car - fantastic!
My parents bought new cars every 3-4 years, but never talked about it. They considered talking about the acquisition of ‘things’ to be poor manners. I have followed their example. Funny thing is, people seem more impressed to learn you have a new car when you haven’t said anything about it.
Do you live in Berkeley? at my work we all walk out to the garage to see anyone’s new car.
Not me. I just got a new Ford Taurus and I love it and I’m NOT keeping it a secret.
I’m not adverse to buying an import, but my next vehicle will be a Ford, just to reward them for not taking 0bama’s blood money.
A hopeful start. Make buying American something people actually think about. Even if it to avoid stigma. Very good start.
The co-worker is weak and shallow. It’s their money. Spend it however they want, period.
I have sort of mixed feelings about this. Owning “stuff” in and of itself is nothing to be proud of, and the pursuit of “stuff” for the sake of “stuff” is not much of an accomplishment, either.
For a very long time, talking about possessions and money was the height of gaucheness and a sign of a bad upbringing. People simply did not discuss money or what they owned.
Character mattered. Family mattered. Manners and honor mattered.
So if it happens that people stop talking about the stuff they buy (too often on credit) and return to the things which actually matter, I will not mourn.
So what's the problem?
Seems all good to me.
If someone disapprovingly asked why one bought a car, quote Gov. Christie, “It’s none of your business.” Then walk away.
Remember when getting a new car was a celebration, ...
Funny, but in all my 62+ years, after buying a new car I never felt like it was a cause for celebration. More like I was just personally violated and had immediate buyers remorse - which wore off in a couple days.
There were only three exceptions -- when I got my '88 Benz, our 98 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo and the 2002 Kia for our daughter (I had ALL the bottom line 'buy prices'). I also felt like celebrating in 1974 when I bought my 'pre-driven' '72 Cadillac Sedan Deville. I felt like I stole that one from the dealer. The tires alone were worth about $1K (brand new Goodyear Double Eagle, $200 ea iirc)
But nowadays I'd sooner poke my eyes out with a fork than buy one of those $40,000 Electric Mini Clown Car Death Traps. Or any of those mini 'hybrid' death traps. Or ANY gubmint motor or UAW made pieces of garbage.
Nope. Next new car is coming from Germany or South Korea (I don't like any Japanese made cars, been there with a Toyota)
