"The American Dream"

I have always believed that those who work hard deserve to receive what they worked for. My belief, although still reasonable, seems to be out of date, according to Thomas L. Friedman. He supports his claim by pointing out the progression of technology and globalization, and how it is “wiping out lower-skilled jobs faster, while steadily raising the skill level required for new jobs”.  Therefore, working hard is not praised, but rather expected in the work force. Employers, according to Van Ton-Quinlivan, the vice chancellor for work force and economic development at the California Community Colleges System, are searching for “ready now” employees, employees who know exactly what to do before even starting the job. Next on the list are the “ready soon” employees, those who need little training, but can still fit right in. Then come the “work ready” group, workers who have a college education, but need a lot of training, and lastly are the “far from ready”. These people are the ones with no college education, but are ready to work hard. The unemployment rate for high school dropouts ranges from 8.8-12.0 percent. As you can see, working hard only gets one so far, you need a college education and even experience to help back up that hard work ethic.

The beliefs behind the so-called “American Dream” seem to contradict with the way America is heading. The “American Dream” is something that brings hope to America. I mean personally it makes me feel inspired. However, Friedman makes a good point, working hard can only get you so far. As such, I begin to wonder how long the inspiration of the “American Dream” can continue on before to many Americans become disappointed. I feel the spirit behind the “American Dream” is immortal, but I do think people will come to the realization that technology is constantly expanding, and being a hard worker is just not enough anymore. Could the “American Dream” be in jeopardy?