Okay, I'm joking. I figured it would be more interesting to write some English expressions about independence, freedom, and opportunity--three things that make America great:
to stand on one's own two feet
I would like your help, but I want to be able to stand on my own two feet.
(I want to be independent.)
to be off the hook
I thought I would be in trouble for not reporting to work this Saturday, but there was a huge snowstorm so they closed the office. I guess I'm off the hook!
to get off Scott free
He really should have been punished, but he got off Scott free.
to be in the clear
My coworker had a terrible cold but it's been a week since then, so I think I'm in the clear.
to be free and clear
(see "to be in the clear")
to be master of one's own destiny
No one tells me what to do. I am the master of my own destiny.
the world is one's oyster
I just graduated with top marks and five prestigious companies have asked me to work for them. I feel like the world is my oyster! (he has so many options and opportunities right now)
to be under someone's thumb
They strong-armed him into volunteering; he felt like he had no choice.
to be forced into VERB-ING
Do you have any other expressions that describe freedom, independence, or opportunity?