Davion’s English Blog

 Troy’s complaint about the unfair job system made me think about how discrimination still affects fairness and opportunity in society today. It showed me that people can work just as hard as others but still be denied chances because of their race. If I were in Troy’s position, I would speak up about the unfair treatment, just like he did, because staying silent would only allow the problem to continue. It reminded me that fairness means giving everyone an equal chance, no matter who they are.

  A truth I was afraid to accept was that not everyone I considered a friend truly cared about me. At first, it was hard to admit because I didn’t want to feel alone, but over time I realized that forcing those friendships only made me unhappy. Accepting this truth was painful, but it helped me focus on building real connections with people who actually support and value me.

 One time, I was judged unfairly when a teacher assumed I wasn’t paying attention in class just because I wasn’t speaking up. In reality, I was listening closely and taking notes quietly. It made me feel frustrated because I knew I was trying my best. Instead of getting upset, I explained afterward that I learn better by listening first. That moment reminded me that people don’t always see the full picture before making judgments.

If I were learning about Hispanic/Latino heritage for the first time, I would be curious to know more about the different celebrations and what they mean to the people who celebrate them. I would like to learn about traditional foods, like tamales or empanadas, and how they are connected to family gatherings. I would also be interested in music, since it seems to play such an important role in bringing people together. Exploring these traditions would help me understand not just the culture, but also the values of family, community, and joy that are often shared through them.

 I used to think a quiet classmate was unfriendly because they rarely talked to anyone, but later I learned they were just shy and nervous about speaking in groups. My single story made me avoid them, assuming they didn’t want friends. Once I actually had a conversation with them, I realized they were kind and funny, and we even became friends. That experience showed me how easy it is to misjudge people when you only see one side of their story.

 One time, a classmate made a comment about how I “wasn’t smart enough” to answer a question in front of the whole class. At first, I felt embarrassed and angry because their words made me feel small. Instead of lashing out, I calmly told them that their comment was disrespectful and continued with my work. Later, they apologized, and I realized that handling the situation calmly kept it from escalating. That experience taught me that communication is more effective when you express your feelings respectfully instead of reacting with anger.

 Edna Pontellier’s decision to pursue love outside her marriage can be partly understood because of the strict gender roles placed on women in her time. She was expected to only serve as a wife and mother, which left her feeling trapped and unfulfilled. Still, while these pressures explain why she longed for freedom, they don’t fully excuse her affair since her choices also brought pain to others.

 I enjoy hands-on activities the most because they help me stay focused and really understand what I’m learning. When I can see or do something for myself, it sticks in my mind better than just reading or listening. It also makes class more fun and keeps me interested in the lesson.

 In my culture, men are expected to always act tough and not show emotion. This has been hard for me because I’m the type of person who feels things deeply, and holding it in makes me feel like I can’t fully be myself.