The American Dream

When people “get it”, it’s apparent.  A week or so ago, I was watching the popular television show The Voice.  Shakira – who I had no clue about before she became a coach on The Voice – made an interesting comment to one of the contestants. She was commending this contestant for the hard work and effort the young singer displayed, while also praising her for reaching the accomplishments she had already attained.

“You are the American Dream.” Shakira told her. “You are improving and getting better with hard work.”

Now, I don't know anything about Shakira, nor anything that she stands for or believes. This is not an endorsement of Shakira, but clearly she "gets" the "American Dream", and isn't afraid to say so. What she said to the young artist is basically the epitome of the American Dream; and Shakira appears to understand that. Shakira is a Colombian singer-songwriter, crossing national boundaries to become a world pop star. She has gained a great deal of accomplishment and popularity in the United States.  Perhaps coming from another country into success in the United States gave her a better understanding of  the American Dream. I don't know; but clearly Shakira has a respect for America as revealed in her comment and advice to the young beginner.

Contrast that with the comment Adam Levine - lead vocalist for Maroon 5 and also a coach on The Voice - recently made, when one his contestants on the show was cut.  “I hate this country,” he breathed, apparently unaware, into a hot mic.

Now, I am not going to beat up too much on Adam. I don’t believe he really hates this country. We all make mistakes or sometimes say things we don’t mean in frustration. Levine later apologized and attempted to explain his comment.

But clearly, he doesn’t “get it”, or he would never have been able to make such a statement.

Obviously, both of these singers are a huge success, gaining much for their lives in capitalistic America. Neither of them should ever want to run down the nation that has brought them such achievement.  I believe it is a clear example of taking for granted growing up in America without understanding all that is great here; versus growing up elsewhere that may not be quite as rich in blessings. Maybe there is also some liberal influence in Adams's life revealed here. I don't know; but I am not surprised by any of it.

I hope to begin a series of posts discussing the change in Americans regarding our "dream" and all that we have lost in the United States in these later times.

Please stay tuned. You can "Follow" along anonymously by email by registering at the top, left of this page.