Tori Hinz
ENGW 1101
Professor Young
6 February 2017
Descent
The
action of descending from someone or something requires moving away from them
or thinking differently. Descent occurs a lot in today’s society as many people
have different views and beliefs on situations that occur. This may also at
times cause conflict between others as their personal opinions vary. As for in Friendswood
the idea of chemical dumping causes members of the society to descent based
on what they have lived through.
Rush
is a character in the book that has an opinion that varies from one of her
close friends, Lee. After losing her daughter Lee feels that it her obligation
to protect her community from the possible harm of the chemicals that once took
her daughter from her. She is constantly doing research on the soil and trying
to prevent housing to be built on the land. However, Rush personally feels that
she is living in the past. It is her town too, and she is not concerned about
the chemicals. She believes that Lee is letting this all consume her and that
her actions are not necessary. Rush openly tells Lee how she feels and is not
afraid to hold back, this is how she thinks differently.
This
can also be related to the current situation that is taking place in East
Chicago. Residents received word that there were high levels of lead and
arsenic around their homes. They were told by their mayor to relocate and soil
samples were requested. However, in Friendswood Mayor Wallen believes
that property values trump everything and stated that the land was fine to live
on. These are opposing views on very similar situations in which both have the
right to state their opinions. The communities may agree or disagree with what
their mayors have stated however it is accepted to think differently.
My
personal views on when descending is acceptable are that personal beliefs and
values should never be contained. If one feels or thinks differently, than it
should be known. No two people are the same and one should not conform just to
fit in with others. We must look at things with different perspectives and take
others into consideration. Although you may not always agree with one another
it is still important to respect how they feel. Our society is too diverse for everyone
to think the same and being able to express yourself should be accepted.
Descent
occurs often as personal beliefs and values differ. Thinking differently
however, may occasionally cause for controversy. As for in Friendswood
two friends had opposing views on the chemical dumping. This can also be
related to Chicago lead contamination and their views on the situation.
Thinking differently may be difficult at times as it easier to conform, however
it is important to follow through with how one truly feels.
