Beloved memory,rememory, power of the past Response

Memories and past experiences play a significant role in chapter 9.  Past experiences and memories can raise issues as well as controversy.  Throughout the chapter, Sethe discusses her past and the differences which existed.  "She knew Paul D. was adding something to her life-something she wanted to count on but was sacred. Now he had added more: new pictures and old rememories that broke her heart.  Into the empty space of not knowing about Halle-a space sometimes colored with righteous resentment at what could have been his cowardice, or stupidity or bad luck- that empty place of no definite news was filled now with a brand-new sorrow and who could tell hoy many more on the way,"(112)  In this quote, Sethe has brought up her past with Halle.  Halle broke Sethe's heart and she doesn't want the same result with Paul D.  This can bring up one of the challenges for Sethe when she brings back the past.  Should she give Paul D. her love and trust on a daily basis, or should she play this relationship safe and take steps a lot slower so her heart doesn't go through the same pain. Sethe's past experiences with Halle can significantly impact her relationship with Paul D. She may be using Paul D. as a way of trying to forget or erase what occurred with Halle. It might be the only way to avoid her stressful memories. These memories can also be hidden at times because Sethe may not want to tell Paul D. she continually thinks about Halle.  This has the potential to upset Paul D. and make him feel lower than Halle.  In conclusion, Sethe's memories only brings up conflict and stress to her mind.  The power of the past is able to determine one's future.     

Emerson response

How does (and should) a person define his/her place in society? (What does Emerson mean by "society" anyhow?)

I believe a person defines their place in society by creating an unique path of their own.  This path is made up of the person's beliefs, ideas, and values.  In order for people to find their role in society they must look in within themselves.  "What I must do is all that concerns me, not what the people think."(23)  If individuals carry the same beliefs of the regular society they will never find their own meaningful place.  Society wouldn't be as valuable as it is today if people didn't have different beliefs.  That is why the main idea of Emerson's passage is to become a non-conformist.  Emerson refrences society as the norm or majority of people.  This can also connect to Washington's farewell address.  People of America should not allow foreign nations or political parties to influence our ideas.         

Quran Burning Response

Personally, I believe Rev. Terry Jones is thinking about performing a very selfish act.  If Rev. Terry Jones decides to go through with his idea, it will greatly increase tensions between religious groups. "If he'd gone through with it, it would have been tantamount to war."  Rev. Terry Jones has to understand that people all over America can be affected if he finalizes his idea.  Rev. Terry Jones needs to take a moment and think about how he will negatively impact the overall country of America and Christian population. "Besides endangering lives, it would give Islamic terrorists a recruiting tool."(Obama)  Its ironic that one man can fuel others fire causing a similar 9/11 attack in his attempt to satisfy himself after the nine year anniversary of September 11. 
     This can connect to the constitution due to freedom of speech.  Yes, Americans do have the power to say what they want, but there are things that cross the line.  This can be an example where one man has clearly stepped over the line.  Religion is a significant part of many lives and to disrespect and reveal to the public you want to burn one of the holiest books is unacceptable. 

  

The American Crisis

Thomas Paine wrote a very interesting pamphlet relating to the significance of freedom.  This pamphlet was also used to motivate a group of troops battling at Valley Forge. "The first of these, with its rousing call to fight for freedom, was issued on December 23,1776; its excerpted below. This spirited essay was read to General Washington's demoralized troops at Valley Forge, by order of the general."(50)  I believe Paine's main point was that all men go through certain hardships at least once in their life.  Great men are determined on how they deal with their problems.  "Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph."(51)  I also believe Paine tried to show the American people that hardships can be overcome if everyone sticks together.  "I call not upon a few, but upon all: not on this state or that state, but on every state; up and help us; lay your shoulders to the wheel; better have too much force than too little.."(52) Personally, I believe that Unity is one of America's most important values.