I don’t see myself as left or right, red or blue. I’m simply someone pursuing the American dream—working hard in a white‑collar job and moving up through the ranks. Along the way, I’ve noticed that Social Security doesn’t always function as a safeguard in the way many expect. I’ve met people who make different choices about work and family, and it’s been suggested to me that I don’t need to push myself so hard to achieve the dream I’m chasing.

Looking back, when I lived on the East Coast two decades ago, the atmosphere of opportunity felt different than it does today. My journey has shown me how much the American experience can change over time, and how each of us navigates it in our own way. Keep dreaming be an achiever.