The American Dream is still alive. America continues to be a land of blessings, a place where dreams can be realized. We, as a nation, will overcome any challenges that come our way.
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The American Dream: Still Alive and Thriving
When I heard a report on Fox News saying the American Dream was gone due to housing difficulties, I felt really upset. Why would the media make such a huge, nonsensical statement to the public? How can current challenges in the housing market define the entire concept of the American Dream being gone? Do they realize how such exaggerated statements can negatively impact people’s beliefs and make things even more difficult for those striving to achieve their dreams?
It’s important to understand that challenges like housing issues don’t erase the broader opportunities and freedoms that define the American Dream. Yes, there are problems that need to be addressed, but they don’t cancel out the many positive aspects and possibilities that the United States offers.
Reality
America has given us the chance to achieve our dreams. Everyone has different dreams, but here, we can finally make ours come true, even though we come from different countries. My husband is from North Korea, a place known for its tough human rights issues and a history of famine and shortages. The first time he visited a Walmart in the United States, he was amazed by the variety of food and products, all at prices he could afford.
When I arrived in the U.S. in the 90s, I was also impressed. The food, including all kinds of fruits, was not only diverse but also reasonably priced. I could buy what I needed with my earnings. The education system impressed me too. There were so many scholarships and grants, things I didn’t have access to back in South Korea. Of course, things have changed there now.
What is American Dream?
But what really surprised me was when I was buying donuts. The cashier just asked how many I had, without opening the box to check. She trusted my word. This was a real shock to me, showing trust I hadn’t experienced before.
The abundance of materials, big houses, and luxurious cars in America are impressive, but what really stands out to me are the social values and community morals. It makes me feel blessed to have come to the United States to start a new life. Since the U.S. is made up of many ethnic groups and cultures, there’s a strong sense of community collaboration and volunteerism, more advanced than in many other countries. Also, the concept of democratic citizenship is well-developed here. Of course, there are still areas that need improvement, but overall, in terms of human rights and civic movements, the U.S. is among the leading nations in the world.
Some people might point out the darker aspects of society like gangs, drugs, and gun violence. It’s true, these issues exist, but every country has its own challenges. In many places, immigrants don’t get fair job opportunities, equal wages, or a good welfare system. But I didn’t come to the United States just for the food or cars. I came to learn about advocating for minorities, freedom of speech, civil rights movements, and community efforts.
If I only wanted affordable food and housing, I wouldn’t have needed to come to the U.S. There are other countries with cheaper living costs. However, what those places often lack is democracy, a strong education system, and active community movements. That’s what makes the United States special to me.
My husband expresses his gratitude for being in the United States every single day. Sometimes, he even feels like he’s dreaming, especially when standing in a Walmart, marveling at all it has to offer. I also know another young North Korean refugee who shared a similar sentiment. When he first set foot on American soil, he described the air as sweet and warm. These experiences reflect the profound impact that living in the U.S. can have on those who come from challenging backgrounds, offering a sense of freedom and possibility they might not have experienced before.
The United States isn’t just defined by its political parties or leaders. This country was built by immigrants, with a backdrop of the sad history of Native Americans. There are many lessons to be learned from our history, passed down from generation to generation. The U.S. isn’t only a symbol of material success; it represents the opportunities available to those who dare to chase their dreams.
Hearing claims that the American Dream is over saddens me. Why do people say this, and what’s their reasoning? Outside the U.S., there are countless people like my husband, still yearning for a chance to fulfill their dreams. What justifies such negative statements?
I want to say boldly that the American Dream is still alive. America continues to be a land of blessings, a place where dreams can be realized. We, as a nation, will overcome any challenges that come our way.
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