“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view…until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”
To Kill a Mockingbird
It’s been a long day! I’m currently listening to the new Lumineers album, and writing my fourth entry. I will like to talk about 3 things: learning curves, To Kill a Mockingbird and Atticus The Poet.
Let’s start by going back to 2006, I had just moved to Texas, I was not fluent in English, and my tolerance for spicy food was zero. It was a period of many adjustments. I started eighth grade year in San Antonio, TX with ESL classes (English Second Language). The next year, was my first year of HS. Freshman year, I decided to request from my counselor to switch me into regular & AP classes. Did she agree right away? Did my parents think it was the best idea? Was I ready? Could I understand everything/anything? No. So, why choose added responsibilities? Specially when others think you are not ready, and perhaps you question it yourself too. The answer is simple on paper, because that’s the best way to learn. Just jump in the water! Or how did you learn to walk? There is always a learning curve. Some implications may be greater, but we should rest assured that grow is inevitable. We just need to toughen up.
After going into regular classes, the first book I read was To Kill a Mockingbird, and after giving you some of my background, you might’ve guessed it. At the time it was not an easy read. As a matter of fact, I carried with me a book full of words and definitions. A dictionary? Yes, an actual paper one and not a phone. Nowadays with everything being so readily available we have no excuses if we want to learn something. Going back to To Kill a Mockingbird, I fell in love with the book. Atticus became a character I admired because of his outstanding bravery, and his thirst and commitment to justice. I could easily relate to Scout, as I’ve always felt and been different than what has been expected of me. I could also relate to Jem on the love he had for his sister, and his desire to protect her. Of course one can’t forget “Boo” Radley, how easy we can judge a book by its cover, and how soulful it can turned out to be. The book has so many beautiful lessons, be brave, lead by example, fight for what is right, be willing to defeat the odds. Simply keep growing while never losing sight of what is important, compassion.
Now, as for Atticus The Poet, lately I’ve been really into his writing. I recently listened to a podcast where he was being interviewed: “The Think Tank Podcast with Tank Sinatra: 036 Love her But Leave Her Wild (Atticus the Poet)” I recommend it! On that note, more about Atticus The Poet in tomorrow’s blog “Atticus 2”.
Today's Thoughts 