Discrimination, along with prejudice, racism, and sexism, are the cancers of our society. Hurtful judgments spread through mankind like a wildfire, destroying the emotional aspects of life. If a person succumbs to such a negative way of life they ultimately become trapped in a disillusioned state of mind. Raymond Carvers’ “Cathedral” is a beautiful story that illustrates how the fear of the unknown can easily turn into discrimination. The beautiful part of the story is when the ignorant husband starts to connect with the Robert, the blind man, and comes to appreciate his way of life.
This story is sadly corresponding with the some minor discriminatory events happening in my work life. I am experiencing inequality in my place of employment. My fellow employees treat me unfairly due to my age and educational status. I am a 23 year old successful college student, yet in their eyes I am a mere child. Carver created the perfect ignorant comment when the husband said, “I wasn’t enthusiastic about his visit. He was no one I know. And his being blind bothered me.” The husband’s words were very naïve, yet very impactful because it shows the thought process of a discriminatory individual. I have recently been wounded by a coworker who said, “What does she know? She is just a tech.” Those few words were like a knife through my heart. I am a fabulous, intelligent, and witty individual and for someone to say such derogatory comments about me is ludicrous!
I found it ironic that at the end of the story that the husband said, “But I had my eyes closed. I thought I’d keep them that way for a little longer. I thought it was something I ought to do.” The husband had an epiphany and was finally able to understand the blind man. In the real world I wish that scenario happened like that more frequently. I can however offer hope for those who are currently being discriminated against. My boss Tracie recently told me, “Ali, I commend you for your helpful nature and kind attitude towards others; I hear wonderful things about you and have yet to hear a negative comment.” I will not let people who discriminate against me bring me down. It makes me work harder at setting an example for others who discriminate. I will always rise above them and teach them the right ways through my kindness, just as Robert did in “Cathedral”.
Alison,
This is another successful response. You focus your discussion of the story on what you view as one of the key elements: it’s presentation of a character with prejudices and stereotypes. You also incorporate a relevant personal experience.
For most responses I have been looking at the use of quotations and addressing issues in my first set of comments. You’ve handled both nicely.
Jack
Comment by wednesdaycomposition — October 7, 2009 @ 7:41 pm