My 73-year-old father just blew his entire retirement fund on a $35,000 Harley Davidson

My 73-year-old father spent his $35,000 retirement fund on a Harley Davidson for a cross-country “last great adventure,” ignoring my pleas to help with my loans or a condo down payment. For years, his greasy motorcycle shop and biker lifestyle embarrassed me. Now, instead of supporting his 42-year-old daughter, he’s chasing freedom on a bike I think he’ll ride until his heart gives out.

I confronted him, furious at his selfishness, but he laughed it off, saying, “All crises are end-of-life crises at my age.” My friends agree parents should prioritize their kids’ financial needs, but Dad’s obsessed with the “open road.” I canceled my Bahamas trip due to debt, while he plans a three-month ride.

I planned to guilt or legally pressure him into giving me the money, believing I deserved it more. But in his garage, he showed me a shoebox of receipts—school supplies, doctor visits, my college tuition. He’d sacrificed his truck to afford my education, walking to work for months. A photo of 6-year-old me on his old bike reminded me I once loved his world. He gave me everything; now he’s taking something for himself.

I helped him pack. He sends postcards from the road, living freely. I’m still in debt, but I see now: love isn’t just money—it’s chances. He gave me mine; I’m letting him have his.