I seem to have a lot of the values that are dominant in the United States. I believe that our country has a very hard working attitude and I agree with that. I also think, however, that the United States has proved to be a very materialistic nation. Many tend to judge others by what they own instead of who they are as a person. I believe this is the value many Americans hold that is hurting our country.
             The three values I find most important are #1 (I believe in a personal God), #2 (It is important to have an identity that is based on yourself and not other people), and #3 (It is important to decide goals for yourself). #1 is important to me because I believe it is important to have faith in something. I'm not about pushing my religion on other people, but I feel it is good to have your own personal faith. I know, for me, this helps me be a strong person. #2 is important because with all the trends and style magazines out there it is easy to get lost in what other people think you should be. It is extremely important to have your own individual flair. #3 is probably the most important to me. I find that it is easy to accomplish things if I have set a goal for myself. I do this on a short term level, and on a long term level. Whether it is setting a goal to clean my room before dinner, or make it a goal to graduate college in 3 ½ years, I am always setting goals for myself. I think it is a good way to push my self toward accomplishments that will fulfill my life. I think that setting goals for oneself goes hand in hand with ambition. In the United States, ambition and perseverance can help you go far in business, investments, and achieving long term goals.
             The interesting thing about these three values is that I learned them from my parents. My parents always told me that personal faith is important; however, they never forced me into church. They let me explore my own relationship with God. My parents
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