With regard to the article "Why are Arab families unable to save?" (Aug. 28), I would like to add that some Arab families (especially GCC families), tend to spend a lot on showing off, which is something that is completely unnecessary. They seem to care too much about what people say, and it is getting out of control. Unfortunately, they blame society and turn a blind eye to the fact that change comes from one's self, and not from others. For some reason, it seems that they find it embarrassing to live a simple life. This is truly a strange mentality. Fatema, Online response The author is a true Arab patriotic who has written about a serious social and economic issue which if it does not change will hurt Arab societies in the near future. Social activists must come to the forefront to advise people on learning how to save for the future needs of their children. However, in Saudi society, I can see a positive change. Many Saudi parents are worried about securing a good education for their children. We must be grateful that the government has made scholarships available, but parents still have to be very careful in their spending. Muhammad Bashir, Online response