The American Dream

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The American Dream is the belief that anyone, regardless of where they were born or what class they were born into, can obtain their own version of success in society. Where upward mobility is possible for anyone. It is achieved through sacrifice, risk taking, and hard work. 

The term “American Dream” was brought about by historian James Adams in his best selling 1931 book, “Epic of America.” He described it as “that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability and achievement.” The idea of the American Dream has much deeper roots. It’s roots can be found in the declaration of independence which states, “We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” 

In a society based on these principals, an individual can live life to its fullest as he or she defines it. America also grew mostly as a nation of immigrants who created a nation where becoming an American (and passing citizenship on to your children) didn’t require being the child of an American. 

Achieving the American Dream requires a few things; such as political and economic freedom. Without them, individuals can’t make the choices that will permit them to attain success; nor can they have confidence that their achievements won’t be taken away from them through use of force. The American Dream promises freedom and equality, It offers the freedom to make both the large and small decisions that affect one's life; the freedom to aspire to bigger and better things and the ability to achieve them. The freedom to accumulate wealth, the opportunity to lead a dignified life, and the freedom to live in accordance with one’s values; even if those values are not widely accepted. But perhaps the most important aspect of the American Dream is that it offers the notion that the circumstance of someone’s birth does not determine their future. 

So, how do I embody the American dream? Well for one, I strongly believe that everyone is created in the image and likeness of God. We are all equals here, we all bleed the same. So I don’t put anybody down because of rank or class. I don't discriminate because of race or ethnicity or sexual preference. I tend to treat everybody the way I would want them to treat me, and that’s a value in my life that grows stronger everyday. I also believe that despite your birth circumstance, anyone can succeed in life. Being born in a minority family never stopped me from achieving everything I’ve achieved so far. And it won't stop me from doing more. I entered college when I was just 16; and I intend to stay until I get my degree. I’ve planned out my future and I’m taking the necessary steps to achieve all my goals. 


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