Solutions for the American Dream

One person can make a difference and every person should   - John F. Kennedy  

To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.  - Ralph Waldo Emerson

What would you write about American's future and your involvement? What suggestions do you have for change, improvements, and progress?  Do you have an American Dream?

Everyone can criticize and whine about their frustrations.  If one person can make a difference, give it your best shot.

See where creative thinking might take you.  What do you say to the current claims by politicians and media portrayals?  Where do you agree or take issue?   Can you define your responsibility and be your true self and true to yourself?

Most Americans express dissatisfaction, and lack of confidence in the functioning of our country.  The Occupy Wall Street Movement (OWS) condemns the American economic and financial system. The Tea Party Movement launches its anger at American government and the modern corporate system.

Tea Party members claim to represent victims of the economic crisis because they lost jobs, businesses, or homes. OWS individuals want to break the power of finance in America.  They include middle to upper middle class liberals in political and cultural outlook.

Both movements blame bankers and politicians in Washington. They just place their blame differently. OWS hate the bankers whom they feel have manipulated the system and oppressed their countrymen.  The Tea Party rails against fundamental protestants, cultural conservatives, warmongers and Republicans. They plan to get Barack Obama out of office.

The two movements have erupted out of shared political resentment and economic distress.  How will they discover reform programs?

How will you rise above the whining from both sides? American workers are excellent at what they do.  Wall Street financial experts understand economics and could affect the economy with investments in educational and infrastructure issues.  Why do we lag behind in those areas?

Don't forget environmental issues.  Do you believe global warming is a warning?  Is the earth going through a natural stage or has humankind created pollution beyond control?  Do you feel a responsibility to Mother Earth?

Warren Buffet said, "I could end the deficit in 5 minutes."  He told CNBC, "You just pass a law that says any time there's a deficit of more than 3% of GDP, all sitting members of Congress are ineligible for re-election.

Buffett's Proposed Congressional Reform Act of 2011

1. No Tenure / No Pension. A Congressman collects a salary while in office and receives no pay when they are out of office.
2. Congress (past, present, future) participates in Social Security. All funds in the Congressional retirement fund move to the Social Security system immediately. All future funds flow into the Social Security system, and Congress participates with the American people. It may not be used for any other purpose.
3. Congress can purchase their own retirement plan, just as all Americans.
4. Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise. Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.
5. Congress loses their current health care system and participates in the same health care system as the American people.
6. Congress must equally abide by all laws they impose on the American people.
7. All contracts with past and present Congressmen are void effective 1/1/12. The American people did not make this contract with Congressmen.

Would we get the brightest and the best to run for office?

With the 2012 election approaching, take the time to probe your thoughts, feelings, and responsibilities as an American.  Try to approach without judgment of past policies and current issues.  Write with open-minded creativity and a focus on possibility.

Remember, you do make a difference.  Become solution seeking.  Be yourself.

Write on!