"به همین دلیل است که آن را رویای آمریکایی می‌نامند چون باید خواب باشید تا آن را باور کنید"

The core idea here is pretty straightforward: the idea of the American Dream, this notion that anyone can make it big with hard work and determination, might be more of a fantasy than a reality. It's a sharp critique, suggesting that believing in such a dream requires a kind of willful ignorance or naivety—almost like you have to be asleep to buy into it.

George Carlin, the comedian and social critic who said this, was known for his incisive and often cynical take on society. This particular line is from one of his stand-up routines where he dissects various aspects of American culture. Carlin wasn't just trying to make people laugh; he wanted them to think, to question the status quo. In this case, he's poking holes in the popular, almost mythic, narrative that America is a land where anyone can become successful regardless of their starting point.

Imagine you're a small business owner who moved to the U.S. with big dreams. You work tirelessly, nights and weekends, pouring your life savings into your business. But despite all your hard work, you can't seem to catch a break. The harsh reality of high taxes, cutthroat competition, and mounting debt keeps dragging you down. Your struggle reflects Carlin's point — the American Dream may seem beautiful when you're dreaming, but waking life can be much grittier.

Now, let’s talk about how you can apply this wisdom in your life. Don't just buy into big, shiny promises without scrutiny. It's one thing to be inspired by the dream; it's another to let it blind you to the real obstacles you might face. If you're setting out with a big goal, make sure you have a clear, realistic plan. Be aware of the challenges and be prepared to adapt. It’s about balancing hope with practicality.

Think about Jenny, a friend of mine who graduated with top honors and expected to land a fantastic job right away. She believed in the American Dream wholeheartedly. But months went by, and the job offers didn’t come. She was stuck in a cycle of unpaid internships and part-time retail work. It was a wake-up call. She realized she had to change her approach. She started networking more, took additional courses to boost her skills, and eventually, she did land a fantastic job—but it took more time and effort than she initially thought.

So, let’s bring this home: it’s fine to dream, but don't sleepwalk through life. Stay awake, stay aware. Life's not a fairytale, and success often requires more than just hard work and a positive attitude. Be prepared for setbacks, learn from failures, and don't be afraid to question the narrative. Carlin’s quote might sound a bit dark, but it’s a nudge to stay realistic and grounded—because that’s the best way to chase dreams that can actually come true.