I wouldn’t go back even if my family was nice to me. You can’t make moves like that for other people. If you’re happy where you are, stay where you are and set some boundaries. Narcissistic parents will continue to do this until you set those boundaries. Took years of constant head butting with my family, but don’t give up even an inch. I had to threaten to kick them out of my life before they finally got it. They’d rather have you in their lives even just by phone than not at all.

I’m not saying that’s the right approach for your family, but my family is extra hard headed so it became necessary for my situation.

This is an opportunity for your parents here. You’re the adult building your life just as they did when they were younger. They’re coming into your space. It’s up to them to be the supportive parents and put forth the effort to get to know your partner, even if hey have to use google translate to communicate at first. It’s crazy to me they aren’t ecstatic that you’ve found a person you want to be with. I know the guilt can get in the way, but try setting some boundaries and remind them that it’s your space they’re coming into and they’ll need to assimilate a little bit.

America is the same way. I think that’s just western culture in general.

It’s happening everywhere slowly but surely. Even my hometown of Nashville is turning into Denver with the cost of living.

The only thing I’d disagree with is the income in this statement. While the median is $70k, it doesn’t mean people are doing well. The vast majority of people can’t afford a $500 emergency because of how wages haven’t kept up with inflation over the past 50 years or so. I made $80k last year living in Denver and while I was comfortable, it would still take me a decade to save what I need for a down payment on a house. It’s just really expensive to live in the US compared to the UK/Ireland. I think they’ll be surprised how little they’ll get at the grocery store for $50.

Sell your soul to your job and the dollar because it’s the only way to be successful in this country. Be prepared to pay $100 just to walk into the doctors office. Plan on having kids? That’ll cost you $10k out of pocket with MAYBE 6 weeks leave for it (unpaid). Seriously do research on what you eat. Our laws are written by the billionaire class so food isn’t as regulated here. Buy a car and be prepared to drive everywhere. The US is huge and has a ton of awesome geography to see. Stay away from the south. Seriously. Americans love the Irish so be ready to be loved by everyone you meet. Keep a stress ball and whiskey handy when doing your taxes. They’re a huge headache. If you haven’t already, I’d recommend getting your degree in Ireland first if you have plans to go to school (if you haven’t already). University is quite expensive and you will need loans or scholarships to pull it off. Give up on buying a home unless you want to live in Oklahoma or Kansas.