Lit. Circle Post Four

What is the What

Sunday March 21

Page 521, Par 4

"We were thinking of of the kind of work we would do in the United States. We though of the school there, many of us imagining that we would, within weeks, be studying at American universities."

Significance: I think that this quote represents how hopeful they all are right before going to America; looking forward to education, jobs, homes and families. When I look at the position Achak is in currently I feel bad because he was working at a gym, still trying to finish college at age twenty-seven. Everyone leaving to America thought that they would receive immediate gratification and while a few did, many did not with Achak being one of them.

Personal Connection: I think that this relates to many things in everyday life, such as investing in stocks or insurance. While at first it may seem like your investment is pointless, when you get in a car crash or the stocks go up later on, you realize how beneficial it really was. Because Achak went to America instead of staying in America, he has achieved much more and will achieve much more.

Question: What is one experience that you benefitted in something that did not take effect immediately?

Page 531, Par 8

"-But we're no longer rain, I said, -We're no longer seeds. We're men. Now we can stand and decide. This is our first chance to choose our own unknown."

Significance: I think that this quote represents that the Lost Boys no longer have to follow someone else. Because they are going to America they can make their own decisions. Throughout his entire journey leaving Sudan he had been following people, being told what to do by the authorities at the numerous refugee camps. Now he and the rest of the Lost Boys have the opportunity to either be a seed for a new Sudan or go on to America to become successful.

Personal Connection: I can sympathize with Achak and the rest of the Lost Boys because I know about the privilege to make your own decisions. Because this is the first time that Achak has had control over his life, the pride of making his own decision was amplified.

Question: What is the What?