When we think of the American Dream, many ideas come to mind. Each person has a different understanding of this concept. But it’s important to understand that this dream changes over time and takes on different meanings, which can negatively impact those who seek to live it. Many people focus on showing off their wealth, but they live in delusion because it’s an unhappy lifestyle. So, while many believe the American Dream is about material achievements, I believe the true American Dream is about finding happiness. While the material goals of the American Dream might inspire some, I believe the true American Dream must be rooted in living a good, humble life. 

The idea that the American Dream is based on appearances tells us that it’s a feeling of believing oneself to be important in society, which is neither humble nor beneficial to others. As an immigrant in the United States, I am Dominican and I discovered the American Dream when my relatives lavished themselves with luxuries, went on vacations to their home country just to show off, and even took out excessive loans, which made it even more difficult for them to cover their basic expenses upon arriving in this country. On the other hand, those who come to the United States in search of better opportunities tend to be more successful because they don’t focus on bragging about what they have. Proof that people succeed more by achieving their dreams than by bragging about them is the article “The American Dream is Real. I Am Living Proof” by Ángel Eduardo, whose parents are Dominican. The author states: “During all this time, neither of us uttered a single word about the American Dream, but we didn’t have to; we lived it in every step we took. Despite the struggle and the risk, we decided to try our luck because we believed in the possibility of building something better, and we achieved it. I am living proof of that.” It’s incredible how people like Mr. Eduardo who set out to achieve their dreams achieved them without being flashy or wasteful..  His humble, diligent efforts to create a better life must serve as an example for all Americans

It’s time to raise awareness; we must promote better ways to manage people’s money. We need to reflect on what kind of dream we pursue: one based on appearances or true happiness? People should focus on achieving a full and meaningful life, not on feigning success, and work hard and with humility to achieve their true dreams. That’s why it’s important to promote values ​​today, as we are losing them, but it’s not too late to raise awareness. That’s why it’s time to create campaigns that help us put happiness above materialism. This should be a growing collective vision. Immigrants in the United States represent a high number of people with depression, so raising awareness about managing personal finances to plan for a better future is a great step forward.

-Reyni Almanzar is a senior at The College Academy.  He has lived in the United States for 3 years.  In his free time he enjoys playing music and playing video games.