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I went to sleep with the hope that made America famous. I had the kind of a dream that maybe they're still trying to teach in school. Of the America that made America famous...and Of the people who just might understand That how together yes we can Create a country better than The one we have made of this land, We have a choice to make each man who dares to dream, reaching out his hand A prophet or just a crazy God damn Dreamer of a fool

Harry Chapin#90

DreamsHopeSocietyChoicePoliticsActionAmericaPatriotism

About this quote

What does it mean?
Idealistic dreams about a better America persist, but realizing them requires choices and risks from individuals.
In plain terms
Old dreams of a better nation remain, but we must choose to build them.
What can you take from it?
Dream big but recognize the courage needed to act.

Where it applies

  • political engagement
  • community building
  • activism

Putting it to work

  • support community projects
  • vote responsibly
  • mentor youth

Questions to consider

  • What dream drives you?
  • Are you a dreamer or a fool?

Another view

It assumes collective action is always possible or welcomed.

More from Harry Chapin

  1. He rolled on up in the fire truck And raised the ladder to the ledge Where me and my girl and a couple of kids Were clinging like bats to the edge. We staggere…

    Permalink to quote #89
  2. There's something burning somewhere. Does anybody care? Is anybody there?

    Permalink to quote #91
  3. We were the kids that made America famous. The kind of kids that long since drove our parents to dispair. We were lazy long hairs dropping out, lost confused, …

    Permalink to quote #88

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