Reflection

I love that feeling that you get when something finally “hits you”, when you feel that strange sense of realization. I would have to say that this is how I’ve felt about my English class these past few weeks. Nickel and Dimed is probably one of the most boring pieces of literature that I have suffered through, however, I’ve come to realize how much I truly have taken away from it. While it may have taken several long hours to read, it also gave me time to reflect on what was being said. My eyes have been reopened to the idea of diversity, be it good or bad. I now realize how little 7.25/hour really is.

This American Dream that thrives in each and every one of us is undoubtedly alive. But what is it? What is it that keeps us thinking that there is this idea for social mobility and that it is possible to break free from a life of struggles? It’s hope. Hope that the future might change for each of us simply because chance has favored a select few in the past.

These discussions lately have left me with a myriad of questions. This is not something I am complaining about though; I think that these concepts are things that, when reflected on, reveal a true insight to self and society. The most troublesome question in my mind right now is what’s the next step?

Do we live on hope and dreams or do we face the reality and the truth in numbers. Hope is this idea that no one can take away from you, but at the same time it can blindside you from the facts. There are countless numbers of people on welfare, working multiple jobs (if they can find one) and still have to spend cold night in their cars. The reality is that our economy is at a stand-still. We need to stop waiting around, living with this idea of the American Dream and get things together.

Honestly, I feel the best way to go about making it by, would be to not look at the bigger picture. Do not strive to be on top. Be the best that you can be, not the best you that someone else wants you to be.