The Advantages of Your Way of Living
Story★★★★When asked if she would remain in America if she could, a foreign student commented: “You meet when and where you please, and speak as freely as you like, either in criticism or praise of persons and ideas. You have morning newspapers that give you full accounts of world happenings. You enjoy the benefits of countless inventions to make life interesting and comfortable. You have plenty of light. America is, indeed, a wonderful land in which to live.” Then, considering the question, she added: “I should like the advantages of your way of living, but I am afraid I am not a big enough person to live in such liberty.”
— SEARS
Also attributed to: Minniz Sandberg, Minniz Sandberg Sears, Unknown
Minnie Sandberg Sears.
The point
A foreign student admires American freedom and comfort but humbly admits she fears she is not mature enough to handle such liberty, prompting reflection on the responsibilities that come with freedom.