The American Dream Research Paper

The American Dream The “American Dream” is something we hear about while in our elementary history classes. We have all heard of it but, do we know what it is? The forefathers of our great nation established America with the idea that its citizens would be guaranteed life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (Thomas Jefferson). Well, today we have liberty and are free to pursue happiness. However, what about the quality of our lives? Are we striving for greater material wealth and ignoring moral and social responsibility? I believe we are. American has made a perception for this “American Dream” to be an American social ideal that stresses egalHarianism and especially material prosperity (Merriam Webster). Hasn’t this definition changed
From people who are under-educated, under-funded- in their lives in this country. We have a major problem; enormous differences in income of the top of the ladder and in the middle…need to start teaching people who are not ‘born to the manor’ economically, and the like- to make them a true part of this country.” (Floyd Abrams 2009). Michelle Alexander, an associate professor of law at Ohio State University and a civil rights advocate/ writer sees the “American Dream” as “A vision for an America that is not colorblind, but rather an America that cares deeply for people of all colors. And that can see people in their uniqueness, in their individuality. That can appreciate and celebrate no matter what their age, their background, their class, and their nationality.” (Michelle Alexander
To me, it’s time to stop discussing and wishing for the future and start to act upon it. As a society we need to become balanced, socially and economically responsible, and start searching for that pursuit of happiness (Thomas Jefferson). As Abrams says we need to make everyone feel as if they’re a part of this country. “We the People” have a role to play in this country and every day we are forgetting about all of these responsibilities we have yet to uphold. If we want to take a step to reduce racism we need to take a stand instead of wishing. As a congregation we have the power to make a difference. In order to make that difference we need to get off the couches and complaining about the “what ifs” and make them reality. We can’t expect everything to be handed to us, you have to work for it. This perception of big houses in the suburbs, a successful job, nice cars, and a big family isn’t impossible, but yet it is a reality that we can all one day reach as long as we learn to come together and learn that hard work stands for