After reading Atlas Shrugged I was baffled that Ayn Rand could stand up against the masses and express her philosophy and individualism. Before reading Atlas Shrugged my mother did my laundry and made my food. Because I am 14 I thought this was acceptable but after reading Atlas Shrugged I felt awful for becoming a moocher and making my mother work for my life. Since reading the book I've become extremely independent in doing everything on my own; laundry, preparing food, school work, etc. I thank Ayn Rand for helping me see my true potential.