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The Man in a Wheelchair

4/26/2013

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Picture
When I first saw this picture, I was drawn to the American flag in the background. I then noticed the man standing up, partial blocking my view of the flag. My eyes set on the caption and I became emotional. Thoughts of my family and honor came to mind, as well as thoughts of my years in the Boy Scouts and Texas State Guard. How can an American not be moved by seeing this picture?

This picture reveals much and provides a glimpse of our new America. The color guard represents America, steadily marching forward as our great country has for 236 years. We Americans make a choice of how we use and treat her. The man in a wheelchair represents the American Dream. By standing to face the flag, he represents those selfless Americans who sacrificed - who believed that hard work and entrepreneurship would pave the way for future generations and ensure their greatness.

The wheelchair represents life’s struggles. Although unwanted, these struggles are a part of life.  Struggle is a key component of the American Dream. The man is a dying breed, much like the American Dream. The dream still exists but is only embraced by a declining number of Americans.

The crowd represents our new America. These individuals believe they are entitled to sit on the curb as the color guard passes by. They appear comfortable and conveniently choose to stay seated. These individuals lack character and are lazy and selfish in nature. The crowd represents a majority of Americans.  
     
Sitting on the curb is a choice – choosing the easy way instead of the hard. Success in Americais achieved through hard work, sacrifice and dedication. My heart wept after seeing this picture. It serves as a reminder of the state of our great nation.

It may not be popular in today’s America but it is ok to stand for the principles of our past – hard work, dedication and sacrifice. These principles are necessary in restoring the American Dream to the masses.
 
In my America, hard work and sacrifice bring success.

In my America, the thought of every child getting an award for participation – because everyone’s a winner - is ridiculous. There are winners and losers. Success comes from experience; to learn from a loss and work harder toward the next win. 

Life is hard. In America, millions of people are competing for jobs and a better way of life. You either bust your tail to achieve your dream or stick with a large portion of Americans who settle for minimum wage jobs, accept government entitlements and live average, uneventful lives. 

Do not be afraid to reach for that high paying job, big house, nice car or stability. Pull yourself up, take a deep breath and believe in yourself. Push yourself to excellence. Pursuing the American Dream WILL bring success with great rewards.

Will you sit on the curb - or stand up and do what is right?


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    by Mark Steven Caffey

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