As the economic crisis refuses to loosen its grip on us, it is likely that by now all of us have felt the effects in some way. Maybe your neighbor was laid off from his or her job. Maybe your boss has asked you to work fewer hours or accept a smaller paycheck. Maybe you’re cutting back on extras, such as cable TV, or even essential items such as groceries and medicine.
A report in yesterday’s Parade Magazine shows just how profoundly this recession has shaken us to our core, forcing people throughout the United States to rethink what’s important and to wonder whether the “American Dream” is still within reach.
This must-read article focuses on a poll the magazine conducted asking Americans whether and how they’ve been affected by the recession. The results are staggering. Sixty-nine percent of those polled has lost their job, had their pay reduced, or knew someone who had. Many people said they feel the government betrayed them, and only 52 percent of those polled still believe that if you “work hard and play by the rules” you can succeed.
The poll also found some positive effects from the recession, with many Americans saying they are now volunteering for charities, reconnecting with friends and forming stronger relationships with their families.
I think the part of this story that strikes me most is where the magazine asked people about the “American Dream.” While 69 percent said they feel the American Dream is “somewhat broken,” 68 percent still say they don’t believe the American Dream is out of reach.
I didn’t need the Parade story to tell me that the recession has not killed our sense of optimism. I see it all the time with people in my district who keep finding ways to hold the American Dream in their sights no matter how much they struggle to keep their families and communities healthy and strong during this tough time. This optimism is what our country is founded on, and I truly believe that this sense of hope, along with the ingenuity, hard work and persistence Americans are known for, will get us through this crisis.
Check out the Parade piece if you have a few minutes and let me know your thoughts. Or just leave me a post about your thoughts on the American Dream. Do you still believe in it? What does it mean to you? I want to hear what you think.
