Cleveland is a mixed bag for me.  

There are plenty of wealthy people who know all kinds of sports stats, drink and smoke like a fish, and work at jobs they hate.

When a so-called friend or family member has negative comments ask yourself this...Does that person;-Embody a make it happen attitude-Believe in themselves in any situation-Lead or follow-Have the ability to see themselves as above average-Have the ability to sacrifice time away from TV, sports, video games, beer etc. to spend time learning and networking-Have the ability to see the futureIf you answered no to any one of these questions then you already know the answer.

Competative national sports teams (and also the Browns). 

Still a Californian or newbie on BP will be convinced it has great cash flow and be the next bag holder unfortunately.

I'd empty the contractor trash bags into dumpsters other people owned (where I knew they'd be picked up the next day).  

Disclaimer here:  I am a bag of contradictions, but also strong opinions, loosely held.  

Buying German sport cars and maui jims sunglasses.

Your idea of sacrifices (accepting free cars, buying Nike shoes, Coach bags, Premium Cable/Internet, Etc.) are pipe dreams for the vast majority of Americans and I understand why people would mock your 'sacrifices'.

We are now "retired" and she "owns" (not leases) an X5 Sport twin turbo.