In this day and age, we live in a world that is built from money. While this may fit certain lifestyles, there are millions of Americans that suffer from inflation, homelessness, and decrease of pay. The cost of living in today’s society is deadly. Looking at our unstable economy now, it is understandable why many Americans have a foreboding feeling about the future. 

Due to ongoing political and economic issues, along with recovering from the pandemic, prices on essentials have become astoundingly high. Especially gas. Prices are now ranging from $3-6 per gallon, which may not seem like a lot but is $2-3 dollars more than what the average American was paying in 2019. On top of this, many vehicles tend to rely on premium types of gas, which can cost far more than regular fuel.

A regular day out has become outrageously expensive. Some things are more heavily priced without even knowing. Transportation, food, shelter, education, and many other necessities are slowly increasing in price. Accumulating these expenses every week, month and year, it is clear why there is an increasingly high chance of debt in America.   

Our lives are centered around trying to maintain a good paying job. We are encouraged to work hard, and accomplish the “American Dream”. Well, what is the American Dream and why is it so unrealistic? According to Oxford Languages, it is said to be “the ideal by which equality of opportunity is available to any American, allowing the highest aspiration and goals to be achieved.” For many, this is a flawed and unattainable view due to this country’s hierarchy. 

We are all put at some sort of disadvantage the day we are born, some more significant than others. People of color, immigrants, the poor, people with disabilities, etc. The American Dream is not achievable for everyone. Throughout American history, our country, despite its hardships, has been painted out to be some sort of perfect land where nothing can go wrong. Where peace would always be, food was readily available and homes were accessible. Truly the land of prosperity. 

There are many things to be grateful for in regards to our country, but there are also plenty of challenges to overcome in making this world a better and safer place. Poverty, homelessness, and inflation are at some of the highest rates ever seen. Thousands do not have the money to pay for their children’s education or their own. The cost of living is truly deadly.