The land of opportunity

Whether you've been tuning in to the National Conventions last week or this week, whether you are highly political or not, there is a likelihood that there are issues that are part of the 2012 election that are near and dear to your heart. For most of us, spending time year round following the ever-changing (and sometimes shady) political landscape does not happen. But during this time of year, during the ramp up to what I believe is a tremendous election that will determine our path as a nation and a people, you're likely (and hopefully) paying attention.

Last night was the first night in the Democratic National Convention in which Michelle Obama delivered a speech that has been revered as extraordinary. There was a line from last night's speech that spoke to me as I believe it should speak to all of us: "When you walk through the door of opportunity you do not slam it behind you," she said. "No. You reach back and give other people the same choices that help you succeed." We are not alone in the success we find. There is no such thing as the Republican platform, "We Built It" (which should be translated to, "I Built This With No Help From Anyone"). For me, this belief is the crux of what is at stake during this election.

What bonds Americans together is that we can transition from a have-not to a have with hard-work, determination, and opportunity. We all have a story like this. My story, Michelle Obama's story, those are not unique. What is unique is to have success handed to you and not want that same success for others. Listen, the way our economy, a free-market economy works means that some will have more than others, we should all understand that. However, the way our country is set up is to support those who have less and to provide opportunity and chances to everyone who wants it. We are at risk of giving that up.

So why should you care during this election? There are many reasons. The war, the economy, the budget, new jobs. But above and beyond all of that, it is the question of opportunity. Personally, that is something I am not willing to give up. I grew up in an apartment, sharing a room with my brother my whole life. We stayed in my town because the school district is top-notch. I worked my ass off in high-school to get into a good college and when I got accepted to nearly every school, I was elated. I went from the University of Maryland to an internship at a media agency, which turned into my first job. I've continued my career in this industry, knowing that I've been lucky to have these opportunities, but that I alone was not responsible for this success. We are helped by those around us: my parents, my teachers, my grandparents, my uncle, my mentors- they have supported me. That is why I take time to help others to offer advice or to make an introduction. My opportunities were only available because someone was willing to take a chance on me. Which ironically, is the belief that our country is based on: taking a chance and offering an opportunity.