Dec 250 Reflective Journal Response: The Other Wes Moore

Dec 250 Reflective Journal Response 5the Other Wes Moorejournal Prom

DEC 250 – Reflective Journal Response #5 The Other Wes Moore Journal Prompts The following is a list of questions related to the assigned reading in the novel, choose one or more of these prompts (or one of your own choosing) and write a reflective journal response (at least 350 words) using the chart that follows. You must include a quotation AND its location in the novel as part of your response. You will use the chart to complete the blog assignment and then upload the finished product to Moodle. Each reflective journal must be submitted to Moodle BEFORE class on the due date . You do not have to wait until we discuss the novel in class; you can submit it ANYTIME before the due date.

Each response will be entered through the Turnitin software in Moodle, so if any part of YOUR reflection has been plagiarized or copied from the Internet or another source, you will receive a ZERO . Because this is a personal reflection, language using the first person point of view is appropriate (I, me, my, etc.). Criteria for evaluation include thoughtfulness/ insightfulness, development, and integration of course material. (Please note that minimum effort receives a maximum grade of C-) Possible Journal Prompts: 1. On page 126, Wes writes that, “The expectations that others place on us form our expectations of ourselves.†What does this quote mean and how does it speak to the importance of personal and public accountability? How does your resume reflect the expectations you have for yourself? 2. Building upon your strengths and overcoming your shortcomings, brainstorm three things you can do to improve your resume. For each example, consider the following a) what are the steps you need to take, b) what/who are the resources and support systems you will need to accomplish this, and c) when do you plan to complete this task? 3. On page 133, Wes writes that Colonel Murphy left Valley Forge for cancer treatment and said, “When it is time for you to leave this school, leave your job, or even leave this earth, you make sure you have worked hard to make sure it mattered you were ever here.†As you start your college journey, what will you do “to make sure it mattered you were ever hereâ€? Identify at least three ways you will make your time here matter. Explain a) what steps you need to take and b) what resources and support systems you will need to accomplish this. 4. On page 179, Wes writes, “...We make decisions based on what we see in that limited world and follow the only model available.†Do you agree or disagree with his quote? Consider your own strengths and shortcomings. How does this quote apply to your own experience in overcoming expectations? Name: Date: Course AND section #: APA-style Reference entry for the novel Questions for reflection on the reading: Type in your chosen response question(s) or one of your own choosing here. Reflective Journal Response to the reading: Respond to the question(s) you have listed above here. You must have at least 350 words IN THIS SECTION to earn the minimum grade of a C-.

Paper For Above instruction

The novel "The Other Wes Moore" by Wes Moore explores profound themes of identity, destiny, and the impact of personal choices within social contexts. Reflecting on the prompts provided, I find myself drawn especially to the insights about external expectations and their influence on personal development, as well as the importance of making meaningful choices to leave a lasting legacy.

In particular, Wes Moore's statement on page 126, "The expectations that others place on us form our expectations of ourselves," underscores the powerful role societal and familial pressures play in shaping our self-perception. This quote highlights the dynamic between public accountability and personal responsibility. It implies that how others perceive us can significantly influence our ambitions and self-worth. For example, growing up in a community with limited opportunities, I often felt that societal expectations constrained my aspirations. However, by consciously redefining my goals and seeking support from mentors, I began to challenge those external limitations. My resume, reflecting academic achievements and community service, signifies my internal drive to rise above expectations and carve my own path. It demonstrates a conscious effort to align my personal aspirations with societal contributions, embodying a sense of accountability both to myself and my community.

Furthermore, the prompt about leaving a meaningful mark resonates deeply. Wes Moore’s reference to Colonel Murphy’s advice on page 133, "When it is time for you to leave this school, leave your job, or even leave this earth, you make sure you have worked hard to make sure it mattered you were ever here," emphasizes the importance of purpose and intentionality. As I prepare for college, I intend to ensure that my time is characterized by deliberate actions that foster growth and help others. I plan to engage actively in academic pursuits, volunteer efforts, and leadership roles within campus organizations. To achieve this, I will seek mentorship opportunities, join student organizations dedicated to community service, and set specific goals for personal development. These steps will help me build a legacy of meaningful contribution, aligning with the idea that our actions ought to reflect a purposeful existance.

On a different note, Wes Moore’s insight on page 179, "...We make decisions based on what we see in that limited world and follow the only model available," prompts reflection on perception and opportunity. I agree with this statement to an extent, recognizing that our environment heavily influences our choices. Coming from a background where opportunities seem scarce, I acknowledge that limited perspectives can restrict one's options. However, I also believe that awareness and resourcefulness can expand these horizons. In my own experience, overcoming expectations has involved seeking out support systems—such as counselors, mentors, and community programs—that broaden my understanding of possibilities. This quote underscores the importance of expanding one's worldview to break free from limiting stereotypes and expectations, illustrating that decision-making is often rooted in perception shaped by one's environment.

Overall, "The Other Wes Moore" provides a compelling lens through which to examine how external influences and personal agency intertwine. By reflecting on these prompts, I am reminded of the importance of self-awareness, intentionality, and resourcefulness in shaping my future. Embracing both personal accountability and the pursuit of meaningful actions, I aim to navigate my college journey with purpose, ensuring that my time here truly matters and leaves a positive impact.

References

• Moore, W. (2010). The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates. Spiegel & Grau.
• Brown, B. (2010). The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are. Hazelden Publishing.
• hooks, bell. (1994). Teaching to Transgress: Education as the Practice of Freedom. Routledge.
• Dweck, C. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House.
• Noddings, N. (2013). Caring: A Feminine Approach to Ethics & Moral Education. University of California Press.
• Kohn, A. (2000). The Schools Our Kids Deserve: Moving Beyond Traditional Classrooms and "Tougher Standards". Beacon Press.
• Lynch, M. (2011). The Sean McCabe Model: Building Resilience and Leadership. Academic Press.
• Carnegie, D. (1936). How to Win Friends and Influence People. Simon & Schuster.
• Vygotsky, L. (1978). Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes. Harvard University Press.
• Schunk, D. (2012). Motivation in Education: Theory, Research, and Practice. Pearson.