I think those two are exceptions. A lot of my family lives in Mexico, and they definitely don't live anything like the girl in Mexico City, much less many Americans. Most of the houses are humble, but not nearly as luxurious as many standard American homes. And thinking more about it, I don't really know that I can speak for most Americans. I'm sure that there are a whole lot of people who live similar to you and me (assuming you live like a lower-mid to upper middle class person). I'm not really sure how many there are in this country who live in a dilapidated home like the American girl, but my guess is that it's a smaller percentage of our population.
Well, bringing ourselves into the equation: I live off of less than minimum wage (around $280 a month) and am only able to avoid living with my parents because I'm living in a couple I'm friends with's side house for $50 a month. So I wouldn't say I'm thriving in America, haha. But yes, I'd say in general people in America are better off. I just think we should try to avoid seeing other countries as chock-full of poor folks, since there are at least SOME people in other countries doing fairly well. (Even though you're definitely right, in the long run, haha)
Woah, you got lucking finding a place to stay for such a small amount. How is it possible to work for less than minimum, if you don't mind my asking? Yeah definitely. While most countries aren't as affluent as we are (and I use that term loosely in that we aren't as happy as other countries), there are still very well of places. Take the popular tune Gangnam Style. It's about an extremely rich area of South Korea, similar to our LA.
Well that really bites. How difficult would it be to just change jobs to one that at least pays minimum?
I'm actually potentially in that boat also. I might not be able to afford the remainder of this school year and might have to drop out. But I try not to think too much about that for the time being. Haha, I'm right there with you. I tend to generalize a lot, and it's gotten me into some heated debates before.
Whoooops. Didn't see this comment! I'm currently living in a small town in Arkansas, so job opportunities kinda suck. I'm hoping I'll be able to get back to Colorado in the summer. And if you do have to drop out, I'll be right there with ya, haha, so someone will have your back!
Colorado is so beautiful and full of opportunity. I mean, just look at this:
If we both drop out, let's room together, eh?
(my girlfriend and me in Eagle, CO)
Well, I work for tip wages for less than part time, and people are stingy at smaller restaurants, for some reason. It's a hassle. I had to drop out of college because money got so tight, which was a bit of a bummer. I still live in the town my ex-school is so that I can be with my ladyfriend though. I just try not to generalize in serious conversation. I fail at that a lot though :P