True American Grit
By Olivia Jaber
When I think of my grandparents’ lives in the face of today’s problems, I am in awe. Around my friends, I have grown accustomed to participating in the colloquial culture of complaining. When I am around my grandmother, I have found myself catching my complaints right before they fall from my tongue. Though my two sides of the family are distinct in the ways they grew up— my grandfather on my mom’s side is from a farm in Minnesota— while my grandfather on my dad’s side immigrated from Jordan— I’ve noticed certain commonalities between the two families. It comes down to work ethic and how they treat others, from what I have observed.
In the face of building a company, my grandmother existed behind the scenes, serving as an instrumental player in the bigger game. My grandfather relied on her to look after the children, help him with his MBA classes, and develop critical aspects of their business. Her work did not warrant credit or praise— she was working hard to help make a life for herself and her family. Notably, it has been her resilience, kindness, and wisdom that have gotten her through life. At 86, we banter back and forth about the important topics in life— from discussing politics, to boys, to family, I always leave with the same feeling after talking with her. This woman knows her stuff— she’s been around the block and can separate the noise from the rest. My grandmother’s perspective has sparked an interest in what generation has become disenchanted by: The American Dream.
People argue that the American Dream is dead because it is rigged. They contend that capitalism and the system are unfair. Yet, can anyone say that there is a better country to live in than the United States of America? Despite what they tell you, the American Dream is alive and well. With the right values and principles, a work ethic centered around running against the clock, putting it all out on the table, and betting on yourself because there is no other option, a business can be built, and success can be created. In America, success isn’t promised to you, but the opportunity to chase it is.
My grandparents came here with nothing but worked hard to create something. What many today look at as a curse, they saw as a blessing— an opportunity. Their story is true American grit— it is rising to the occasion— it is not filled with complaints, but a shared understanding of what matters— hard work and family. My grandparents faced discrimination, class struggle, hardship, and unfairness. I think our generation can learn quite a bit about what it takes to succeed— for starters, expect to be owed less, work a little harder, and leave that righteousness on the sideline.
Photo via Flickr
