Growing Up

In the Richard Rodriguez article assigned this week we were exposed to a different style of writing.  Instead of an essay format we were given an in depth view of Rodriguez’s life and childhood.  I preferred this piece to the others as I found the autobiographical style more personal and interesting to read.  I could also relate to this piece for the fact that my mother is Spanish, from Peru, and although my feelings were never as intense as Rodriguez’s, I too understand where he is coming from when it comes to things such as a word pronounced incorrectly and how something so small can really irritate you.  My mother however has made a wonderful life for herself and is very successful much like Rodriguez himself,  driven and intelligent.  Rodriguez faced much aversion, not only did he feel his parents were inadequate when it came to understanding his desire to learn and read and excel, but his peers he also felt did not want him to succeed.  As a result he felt alienated both at home and in the classroom leaving him sad and frustrated.  What Rodriguez lacked in self-confidence he gained by mimicking his teachers.  This is a good example of the banking concept of education, he was very much an empty vessel waiting and eager to be filled with knowledge as a student.  Although this way of learning is looked down upon in some eyes, clearly it can be successful for Rodriguez is an example of how learning from others can cause you to develop intelligently.  Rodriguez says himself that he doesn’t think imitation will always work in becoming successful but it was one of his keys to success.  After effectively completing college and spending time abroad Rodriguez felt he had completed himself academically but somehow something was still missing.  With this realization he came to the conclusion that his family was not something he should run from or be ashamed of.  He regained the appreciation of family and this for him was the most important thing he had learned.  The Rodriguez article was one that hit close to home for me and I enjoyed very much.  Rodriguez demonstrates how anyone with drive and a desire to succeed, can.