Integrity Essay: The American Dream

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What is Dignity? Is it even important? Dignity can be many things to many different people. Some believe it is a teachable quality, while others believe it to be a trait that you either have or you don’t. Others believe it to be both a trait and a teachable quality. No matter the opinion, it is common that a person who has dignity is often someone who has respect not only for others but for themselves as well. Respect for oneself is a main point in the concept that is dignity. Many believe this quality is often found in those that are helping in the healthcare industry, law enforcement, etc. It is often believed to go hand-and-hand with noble careers like those just listed. That itself speaks volumes to strength of the word. It represents pride …show more content…
Vance refers to the working class and “The American Dream.” What exactly is “The American Dream”? The definition can vary from person to person, but it is a person’s vision of success. It can be achieved through hard work, determination, dignity, respect and risk-taking. “The American Dream” is not handed out every day, and there are many who feel like they never reach “The American Dream” in their life-time. It is just about how people see their success and how high life goals are set. “No matter how hard I try, nothing good happens” (Vance). Many people say this over and over. Having dignity is how people push through the bad times to get to the good. A lot that have to do with children being like this is their family, friends and their surroundings. This plays a key factor in how children are when they grow up. “Kids are more likely to do as their parents have done” (Vance). This is very true. If kids are watching their parents give up, not working hard, taking risk or lack determination and dignity they aren’t going to know any differently. It makes it easier for the kids when they grow up and watch people who have determination, dignity and work hard, then they see the outcomes and will want to prove that they can do the same. That will provide them with the path way to their own “American

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