In todays America we are not forced to face reality. why should you move for a job? Isn't that what drove America for the entire 19th century? I'm pretty sure I live in California today because my great great grandfather got a deal on some farm land. why didn't my family just stay in Missouri and get federal aid to support their growing family on the land they already owned... because there were opportunities waiting for them just over the horizon....

I'm not sure if this is what the OP was going for, but I think Americans have gotten to a point they no longer dream big dreams, and chase them. instead we have built up the government to the point that we now expect it to cover for us when things go bad. I think that line of thought will kill off the creativity and drive that made this country what it is today.

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