The American Dream

It is my opinion that the American dream is the embodiment of freedom. With that freedom there is equal opportunity for all members in the society. When Martin Luther King Jr. gave the speech that is entitled “I Have a Dream” he was thinking along the same lines. He wanted a place where injustice would be banished and where all children would be free to play together. There would fulfillment and democracy for all parties.
At times I get caught up in the financial aspects of the American dream but I remind myself that money cannot solve all problems. Money is important especially in the money market economies of the world but it is not without complications. Money can be an element that fosters discrimination and injustice.
A world that is built around financial strength can only endure as long as the money lasts and I am increasingly aware of the transient nature of things and especially money.
The American dream I see is dependent upon relationships. It is defined by how we get along with each other as a nation. Those relationships allow people of different backgrounds to work together for the common good.
I asked my friend Joe what he thought the dream was about and he was quick to note that the most compelling word for him is opportunity. Without it one may never know how far the horizon stretches. Besides, the ability to redefine oneself cannot be separated from freedom. It is freedom that makes room for people to realize their potential.
I do realize that opportunity is important especially because it allows every member of the society define themselves. It gives us the chance to change whatever we find unacceptable. That means I can change my circumstance and I have confidence that no one can limit my abilities. However, all these freedoms cannot be realized without the input of other members in the community. Thus cultivating good relationships with other members of the society is crucial.