American Prosperity

One of the announced candidates for President in 2020 has reportedly said “An entire generation, which is now becoming one of the largest electorates in America, came of age and never saw American prosperity.”

I am not naming the candidate as I don't wish for this to become a political article. But just stop and think for a moment about this statement. While I understand that “American prosperity” can mean different things to different people, let's look at it from a rational point of view.

Has the generation the candidate references (a younger generation) had the privilege of clean water? Showers? Toilets? Hot water? Microwaves? Refrigeration? Transportation? Communication? Education? Health care? Energy (electricity and heating fuel)? Shoes? Underwear? If so, the generation HAS indeed seen American prosperity, because those things are sure signs of it...signs that most of the world can only dream about.

It is disingenuous to say the least to talk of an entire generation of Americans not seeing American prosperity. It is also incorrect in so many ways. American prosperity does not mean all are millionaires. It does not mean that there is no need to work hard for a living. It does not mean that all have everything they may desire. And it doesn't mean that anyone owes that generation...or any generation...anything or should collectively feel apologetic for the state of the world today.

No generation is entitled. No generation is deserving. No generation has an automatic lock on wealth or the American dream (whatever that means). Each generation must work, be good citizens, demonstrate a pragmatic and decent moral compass. Each generation must find its own prosperity, for only in doing so will that generation appreciate, cultivate, and hold dear to the principles which have made this nation the envy of the world.

American prosperity? If you have running water, you are ahead of most of the world in terms of prosperity. It's time we began to appreciate and cherish what God has given us.