Dealing with that Outright Cheap Person

Don't we all know at least one person who claims to be broke all the time, 365 days a year? Maybe not always flat broke, but you ALWAYS have to chip in for them? No, this is not about that super economical person but someone who is not willing to take their growing fat wallet out of their pockets at any time of the year. And when they do, "MAMA, AJKE TOH EID!" (but no, not really).

Taka ushul kora" is their motto in life. I was (un)fortunate enough to come across such a person in life, let's call him Rahim, and here's a few instances that made him that outright cheap person. 

Rahim actually chose to stand under the pouring rain during a break at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, while everyone was running back for shelter, until his friends pulled him back. Why, you ask? Well, he "paid for the seat" so a little bit of rain can't be "ruining the value". This peculiar Rahim also once sneakily put bottles of cold drinks back into the refrigerator during a dawaat, specifically after his dad asked why they weren't being served. Clearly, our Rahim doesn't like sharing. 

Here's one last Rahim story. Rahim's mom makes just the best achaar so when his friends went over and were offered some by his mom, Rahim went to the kitchen and was seen to mount large scoops - almost one whole boyam - into a bowl. Consequently all his friends were impressed, wondering what brought the change in him. He then stepped out of the kitchen. In his hands were the almost empty boyam and he simply apologised by saying they were all out of the achaar and that all his friends had to share the small portion that was left at the bottom. 

Ladies and gentlemen, we all have a Rahim in our lives and dealing with their dim-witted nonsense is nothing new. Rahims are usually financially stable so even if you want it or not, money matters do slide into the much valued friendship. The next time you're with one, just keep the following things in mind.

First and foremost, do not plan trips with them. Splitting up is something they avoid so you have to avoid the whole Rahim package to save your own money. Being a little selfish in this situation is vital to survival. Another thing you can do is ask Rahim to pay up beforehand. Secondly, do not take Rahim out to a fancy dining place. VAT and service charges are not on their agenda and separate checks should be your go to. Don't fall for their "oh, I'll pay back tomorrow" – just no. The last thing you can do, when it's just too much to take, is put up an intervention and simply confront. Go for "the talk". Whatever helps, right? 

A Rahim is a hilarious addition to life, but just not someone you can hang out with 24/7.

Faria Khan is an ambivert who truly believes in the divine power of music. Give her a piece of your mind at fariaa.964@gmail.com