The American Dream

My American Creed is based on how this country provides people with the opportunity to succeed and create lives better than those they were born into. This belief is really personal to me through the example of my mother. Born into a poor family in a small town in southern Ohio, she lacked access to private education and other expensive resources. She relied on public education, free market principles, and meritocracy to transform her life.

Public education was the first stepping stone. By working hard and achieving good grades, she earned her way to becoming a first-generation college student, where she gained the skills needed to build her own business. This demonstrates the principle of meritocracy, where individual effort can pave the way to success regardless of one's initial circumstances.

Free market principles, influenced by Adam Smith’s ideas on free enterprise, played a crucial role in her journey. In the United States, she was able to start her business with minimal government interference, something that is often not possible in other countries. The ability to innovate and compete in an open market was essential to her success.

Finally, her ambition and drive led her to become a successful business owner. She founded a thriving yoga studio group, positively impacting many lives. This embodies the American Dream, where hard work and perseverance can lead to personal and financial growth. My mother’s story shows how meritocracy and free market principles can provide opportunities for success, making the American Dream a reality.