Book 1 Post 2
I thought Kal Penn's story is particularly interesting. I enjoyed his mentality of trying to make the impossible possible, such as traveling to another school early in the morning to take another honors course because his school wouldn't let him. It was quite amusing when I thought about him as a former White House Staff and the contrast with his character in the Harold and Kumar series. Also, I found the quote by Julian, Joaquin Castro's brother, the most memorable. He talks about how the American dream isn't a spring or a marathon but a relay, and how the fruits of the previous generation's labor will be passed down for the upcoming generation to build upon. The way he phrases it makes the American dream seem a lot more accomplishable.
I also do appreciate the fact that America is relatively more progressive compared to many parts of the world. They are always people willing to fight for the rights of the minority and for what is right. You can be whatever you want to be as long as you're not harming others. When I was reading Carmen Carrera's story, I imagined the countless individuals around the world experiencing anxiety because they can't come out as transgender due to the backlash from their society. For many neglected communities, America is definitely appealing. However, it is quite unfortunate that people are so unaccepting of different ideologies. It's even worse that the media thrives on conflict.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and the diverse experience of the many minorities in America. As I mentioned in class, I think the book emphasizes that being an American is being the best version of yourself. It has nothing to do with the type of food you eat, the accent you have, or the culture you are part of. It's about embracing and developing yourself. When I was reading this book, I realized I also had these epiphanies at some point in time in my life. I am also fortunate to move abroad and attend a school with over 50 nationalities because doing so made me relatively less concerned about the "standards" of being an American.
Hi David, I loved reading about your main take-aways from the book. I think it's cool that the book has helped you to clarify your own definition of what it means to be American. I'm intrigued by this concept and I'm curious to read the book on my own as well.
ReplyDeleteI agree that America is definitely more progressive. More people speak up about social issues and rights compared to other countries where oppression is more prevalent, but very little address these issues. I like how you defined being American as "being the best version of yourself."
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the insights you have shared with us about this book. Sometimes I forget the best parts about being American amidst all the conflict we have going on, but your thoughts have reminded me why we all stay and fight for this place. It truly is a unique country, and while we certainly don't all see eye to eye, the diversity is unmatched elsewhere in the world and that says something. We have a lot of work to do to make sure all of our fellow Americans are seen on one playing field.
ReplyDeleteHi David, even though I didn't read this book, I really like the part of being American is being the best version of yourself. There are so many types of living styles and people are not chasing specific one. People all come with their own stories and perspectives, I think that's the precious part of realizing the American spirit
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