Reflection

On Tuesday we started our unit, the "good Samaritan unit" and now we are reading this story "And of Clay Are We Created" by Isabel Allende. It is a pretty interesting story that changes a lot. You think you know how the story is going at one point and then out of nowhere there is a total shift. Nonetheless, it got me thinking a lot. First about media and our numbness to dramatic situations. The story talks about how Rolf Carle is the only one trying to help Azucena who is stuck in what seems to be mud pit. It made me think about a lot of different things, mainly about media today and our possible numbness to crisis. While she is stuck and Rolf is the only one attempting to help, other reporters are breathing down Azucena's neck. The glaring lights and camera screens became her everyday existence. I think it represents media today accurately, we watch tragedies unfold before our eyes and most people just think "That's horrible" and then proceed to eat their dinner. That is just the unfortunate reality of human nature now.

This story also got me thinking about World War 2. We always learn about how the Jewish conditions were horrible and the Nazi's are evil. It is different when you read about this boy having to experience; having to take naked dead bodies turned to ashes in crematoriums, his abusive father unleashing his fury on his both physically and psychologically and seeing his mother being what seems to be sexually assaulted. This just gives you a new, heart breaking perspective on one of the darkest moments in human history.

On a lighter note; we started a "game" to encourage people to participate in class. The purpose is to get the most points and then whatever team does gets no homework passes or extra credit. It is a good idea the only thing with the game is that it does not seem to be helping too much at times and the same people seem to be talking, and is that not what teachers want to avoid? Just thinking out loud, plus I think that instead or everyday Ms. A should tally up all the points and pick a winner at the end of the week.