After reading the following
New York Times article about "green lights" in
The Great Gatsby and the "green lights" of students in the real world, I found myself wondering about the necessity of green lights. I'll admit that it is important to have motivators, or "green lights", but sometimes working towards a goal that is too difficult to achieve may be more harmful than helpful. As an example, one student from the article, Jinzhao Wang, considers Harvard her green light. Being accepted to Harvard, probably one of the most selective universities in the country, would certainly be an amazing accomplishment. However it is very important to consider how realistic that might be. In my opinion it is better to find a green light that is attainable, rather than one that may be extremely far out of reach.
It seems as though these green lights are due to the perceptions of the 'American Dream'. The idea that living in America can somehow vastly improve your life isn't necessarily logical, but it may be the reason why so many people have green lights. Despite this, at least America has allowed people to create their own dreams and believe that they could someday be fulfilled.
Overall, how limited should a green light be, if at all? How do you feel about the concept of the 'American Dream', and how has it affected you?
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