American Dream

It is clear after interviewing my little cousin of 13 years and my mother of 48 years that there is a distinct difference in opinion as to what characterizes “The American Dream.” Often, it is generally portrayed as a materialistic pride and having power and fame; however, an older generation will claim it as a more personal issue. The majority of the youth are concerned with money, fame, and power, whereas the elder look towards compassion, intelligence and a motivated person as their model American. Although, there are some terms that the generations have agreed upon.

First is the view of the “You-Tube Generation.” Their idealistic American dream is composed of flashy items: cars, diamonds, big houses, money, gold, and everything else that could represent financial success. They believe everyone has the same opportunity to become successful, regardless of race, gender, or sex, because “that is what America is all about.” I asked my cousin whom he thought was truly living the American dream, and his response was Donald Trump because he owns a lot of property and has a ton of money. This is the ultimate portrayal of the youth’s idea of a model American.

Secondly, the adults in the community have a very different take on this subject. They believe a wealthy person has health, happiness, family, love, friends, goals, freedom, and peace of mind. Not gold. I asked my mother whom she thought represented the model American and I received an interesting response: her parents. She said her parents because they have all the characteristics that were previously listed and then some. They have lived a full life and continue to make the best of what they are given.

Moreover, my opinion lies somewhere in-between these two sides; I believe that the model American does have significant financial success, but he/she also knows what matters in life, and that it family