I'm Doing Alright

I always feel uncomfortable whenever somebody says that I've done well for myself (not that this happens often). Relative to whom or what?

Two instances come to mind.
- A family member mentioned to his acquaintance that, financially, I've done well myself. This was shortly after my previous employer got bought out by my current company and a small windfall blew my way.
- My cousin declared to an older couple that, like her, I'm married with children, and have done well for myself.

Why this uneasiness about a compliment? I guess I've never measured myself by how much money I have, or by my progeny count. The $64,000 question [pun intended] is whether or not I would have a different attitude had I been the male equivalent of a bag lady. Or the male equivalent of Paris Hilton. I don't think I can answer that.

Sure, I get the infrequent "more-is-better", "wouldn't-it-be-great-if-I-had" pang from time to time, but they last no longer than a urinal flush. But this much I know, I do not want to be measured by the number of bathrooms in my house.

Tell me instead that I take great pictures (lie if you have to!), or that I have responsible, sensitive children—now that's praise I can handle.