As I was studying the February 2021 issue of PEDIATRICS, vol.147, nu. 2 pg. 5, I came across an article by Arvin Garg, M.D., MPH, et al entitled “Protecting the American Dream: a Pediatric Imperative.”

 

It was pointed out that the term “The American Dream” was first coined by James Truslow Adams in 1931. Ever since then it has been used by many authors and almost every politician. James Adams defined the American Dream as “that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone”.

 

I do believe the American Dream still exists for anyone who strives to attain it. Therein lies the rub.

 

One has to work to attain it. It is not something that is handed to you by a government agency. It demands hard work, education and sometimes sacrifice to attain. Some countries simply do not allow this dream to be available.

 

Yet there is no utopian society that grants such a dream without hard work. There is no question that some citizens have to work harder than others. As a culture we must be sure that the opportunity is available for all; no matter race, creed, gender or sexual preference.

 

We must raise our children to understand that acquiring the American Dream is not easy and will necessitate hard work and determination. It will not be achieved like the ubiquitous participation trophy. If one simply shows up for life the dream will never be attained.

 

Be an informed parent. Teach your child that success is the fruit of dedicated hard work. The American Dream is not given. It is earned.