Remember the point that Grandpa was trying to impress upon Mr. Kirby: there are always people to create inventions, fly airplanes, and "go down to Wall Street because they like it." He is not saying become a hobo and refuse to work. He is saying to find something that you like to do and pursue that career. You may not be rich, but at least you'll be happy. Alice seems to enjoy her job at Kirby and Company. Ed and Essie sell candy while Essie prepares to be a dancer -- which probably will never happen, Penny writes plays, Paul and Mr. DePinna make and sell fireworks. A plus for them is that Grandpa owns the house and receives a small income from some property he owns.
Will the family ever be rich? No! Will they be happy? Yes! Because they are doing things that they enjoy doing and that they find fulfillment in. Even Tony says that he will give up Wall Street and become a brick layer, because at least he'd be doing something that he wanted to do.
The moral of the story is not to become a hobo and do nothing. It is to take on a career that gives you happiness and satisfaction, not ulcers.
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