Remembering the American Dream

The American Dream

The American Dream, I believe, is a concept that varies significantly from person to person. Just like dreams that happen when people fall asleep, the American Dream is unique. It is unique in the fact that some people follow it and others do not, however, I believe that each person has some sort of American Dream. Weather they admit to this dream, or not, it resides in each and every individual in the world. The American Dream might be perceived by the American public as the idea to gain power, and to become successful through monetary value. Even though that may be true for some people, I do not agree that this is the theme that the American Dream consist of. Rather, it is success that is unique to each individual. Success in relationships, living a happy life, having a career that they are proud of, or having fun in every aspect of life; these are only some examples of what the American Dream may consist of.

Personally, the concept of the American Dream consisting solely in monetary wealth is not what I interpret it as. Wealth, in my eyes, is defined as any value that one consists of in a large quantity or quality. This value is not limited to money; wealth can be associated with a multitude of things. In my own life I do categorize myself as being wealthy in money, however, I hold greater value in the wealth I have in great relationships, family, religion, and overall life that I live everyday. I do understand the privilege I have as a white upper-middle class citizen.The concept of people living without food on a daily basis and living in constant fear is extremely troublesome. Especially since I see such a high level of ignorance within the United States when it comes to poverty and a lack of wealth. Rather than lifting up children and individuals from poverty I notice that citizens and government officials continue to neglect those that are not as privileged as some Americans. America holds a fascination and will for the rich to continue to become richer, as the poor continues to become more poor. The concept of becoming rich is popularized by the American media and is what I have seen become the central idea of the American Dream. However, I do not believe wealth only relates to money; I do believe money can bring people to more wealth in relationships, living a life of happiness, and fun among many other concepts. However, that does not necessarily mean that money is needed to bring these concepts. I am not arguing that it can be helpful to bring happiness, I am arguing that the concept that money is happiness is a misconception in the American Dream.

It is disappointing that I do not have a resolution to poverty, however, I believe the American Dream can be reached no matter the social class of an individual. The American Dream is something that can be simple or extravagant, some may not ultimately reach their dream, but in the end I believe that everything happens for a reason. I understand this saying is cliché, but it is important to keep faith in everything that we do. In the end, each person impacts life in a specific way for a certain purpose, and I think finding that specific purpose does revolve around The American Dream. Whether we like it or not life on earth is not eternal, and being completely negative about having a purpose in life will not help us in having a life full of success and happiness. This relates to my American Dream in which I aim live a life that is of happiness and that I can be proud of. I dream of having an impact on many individuals in the sporting industry, my everyday life, through my faith, and many other avenues that I have not yet discovered. I understand this will not be perfect but I do believe that I will impact people along my life and will reach my American Dream of happiness. With that being said I believe I am already in the middle of my American Dream and that my life goes through this dream everyday.

Dreaming about Haramabe,

Connor Finengan