The Growing Epidemic of Romantisicm

Within the recent past I feel as though there has been an upsurge in this idealistic “perfectly imperfect” life which isn’t actually at all about embracing imperfection but instead inserting a sort of “convenient imperfection” making it seem as though everyone has the perfect life by projecting the perfect kind of messiness.

Evidently this has been only exacerbated by the media. Social media is only a highlight reel, however the issue grows when it is advertised as being reality. For example, a model showing what they eat in a day being a cheeseburger and a pizza, a college student showing their day in their life studying at little cafes and going out with their friends, these are all only adding to the issue. These people are constantly talking about romanticizing their lives, always finding what is exciting and new about a given day, and showing a cookie cutter life with these “convenient imperfections” that look like nothing to the average person.

I’m not saying the issue is with finding beauty in the mundane, except I feel quite the contrary I really believe finding beauty in the mundane is essential to happiness and joy within everyday life because I think that it is there as long as you look for it. But what I am saying is that it is when these people preach an impossible standard of reality (that is really still a highlight reel) that is seemingly attainable, but in reality just simply is not, that is when the romanticist mindset turns sour.

So it isn’t that we can’t find joy in our everyday lives, even if we aren’t a celebrity, have a trust fund, or are a nepotism baby. It just is that we need to take in life exactly the way that it is given to us. Find the joy in as much as you can, it’s there you just have to be willing to receive it. Let yourself feel when things are hard or sad or disappointing, not everything is going to work out exactly then way you think they will and that is the same for everyone, but that doesn’t mean its all bad. Everything happens for a reason. Laugh and cry and smile and sing and dance and like and dislike and form opinions and look up and receive life for what it is. Because no one is going to see it the same and really that is what is so romantic about it.

Why Do We Love Fast Food?

Fast food is unique in American culture. Why is it so popular? The reasons- convenience, affordability, and societal influence. In every corner of every neighborhood, there’s always a convenience store, a McDonald’s, or other fast food restaurants. Our country is keen on fast food.

On every corner of every city and neighborhood, fast food chains dot the landscape because families like fast and familiar meals that have become a staple for many. What is the reason for this love of fast food? It has unparalleled convenience.

Fast food offers a solution in a society where time is a precious commodity. If you need a quick lunch and are short of time, these fast food places provide meals in minutes, require minimal effort and time commitment from buyers, and don’t taste bad either.

Affordability plays a significant role in the appeal of fast food. With menu items often priced competitively, they are so affordable that even young kids can afford a burger or fries.

Another factor that makes fast food a significant influence on our culture is the influence of advertising and marketing; this is the key factor in shaping the culture surrounding fast food. Fast food chains have successfully ingrained Americans from a very young age through strategic campaigns emphasizing convenience, taste, and value. TV commercials, social media promotions, or sponsorships make fast food popular among young children and teens. They have been ingrained in the American psyche as a quick, enjoyable dining experience.

Beyond practical considerations, fast food has become woven into the fabric of American social life. These restaurants also serve as gathering places for friends and family; students meet here for meals and study together.

The consistency and predictability offered by chain restaurants contribute to their enduring popularity. With standardized menus and quality control measures, we, as buyers, know what to expect when visiting our favorite fast-food restaurants. Fast food is a multimillion-dollar industry, and these restaurants are out to make the culture ingrained in our minds.

The love affair with fast food in America is complex due to convenience, affordability, marketing prowess, and social dynamics. It reflects changing dietary habits and broader shifts in lifestyle and consumer behavior. As fast food continues to evolve and adapt to new trends and tastes, its place in American culture remains secure and will only become more widespread.

My hope is that the widespread fast food trends will change according to our healthier lifestyle choices, help our population become more fit, and provide a means for younger generations to have fewer food-related illnesses.

Here’s to better, healthier fast food!

Bella H.