My American Dream

       

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         The American Dream to me is doing what you love and pursuing it. Following your dream to me is the American Dream. This differs from the definition in The Great  Gatsby because it is not based on wealth. During the time the book was written the definition of the American Dream was throwing the most extravagant parties and having a ton money. Being wealthy was the American Dream in the book.  

   
         My dream  is to study social work so I can work with children in some way. That is a job that doesn't pay much but it is something that I am wanting to do. The job holds many of the ideas and values that I hold dear. Those values for me outweigh the little I will be making. I value helping others and want to help those in our society who may feel they don't have anyone.

           My family has also helped me with these values and figuring out what I want. They are encouraging in what I want to pursue. They hold the belief that you should follow your heart and do what you want. That was different than what happened in the book where friends and family believed that you should do what makes the most money. That for them was how you showed worth and success.

      My values have also come from those I have grown close to and those that I no longer have in my life. My friends both past and present have taught me values that I did not know I had at the time. Some also inspired me to continue my passions and help point out unhealthy habits. All these friendships whether they lasted or not helped me grow into the strong person I am today.