Even though everyone in the reservation dislikes Thomas because of all the stories after stories he used to tell, he feels that it was his purpose to tell stories to the people. He believed that it does not matter if his stories changes the world or it does not, the only thing he wanted to do and the only thing he got was the stories that comes to his mind.
Lesson of determination presented by Thomas in this story could be a valuable example to everyone living in a society. If we really want to be a responsible person and take positive part in the society we have to be determined to help the people in need. Determination here represents the willpower a person could possess or develop during their life time with positive attitude.
For example; only if you are determined to study you will get good grade and eventually be able to successfully complete studies and get better job which could secure yours and your family’s future. There might be people who believe education is not important in life and tries to brain wash you, there might be difficulties financially, there might be other problems, but if you have determination you will be able surpass all these obstructions. Like in the story how Victor was determined to bring his father’s ashes and was successful in surpassing his financial problem and be able to go to Phoenix and get his father’s ashes back to reservation.
Hello, I agree with definitely. Thomas is a great person, has been heard by a lot of people for his amazing story telling. He deserves to be known because he's great. He great as a person, and only see best in people.
ReplyDeleteWhat I like most about Victor is his integrity, and ability to strive no matter what. People put him down and make fun of him all the time, but he still has the strength to keep going no matter what anyone says. Like he said, the only thing he has for himself is his story telling. I DON'T believe he has only that, he has more than that, I don't know if people like him for his stories, but I LIKE him because he's determined to show the world what he has.
Thanks, Lesley
Hi Sujan,
ReplyDeleteGreat quote! It's insightful and highlights a theme from the story--determination. I think you're right that it's a powerful word to describe both characters.
I like your point about Thomas' stories. They seem to be symbolic medicine, and a way to empower both Thomas and the characters within his stories. I can see how having a positive attitude, especially given the conditions on the reservation, can be a powerful tool to counter oppression.
Thanks for your insights.
Take care,
Lauren
Sujan,
ReplyDeleteYour response made me think about struggles. Thomas struggled because he was misunderstood. Victor struggled with his father's death. Everyone in the story struggles in one way or another. Life in general is a constant struggle. That's not to say that there aren't blessings, there certainly is.
There's struggles and blessings, but of course, struggles are the ones that cause us pain and hardship. Because of this, they tend to stand out and overshadow the good. What I liked about Thomas was that he was always optimistic and bubbly. We can take out a lot from his example.