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California State University, Dominguez Hills
University of Wisconsin, Parkside
Soka University Japan - Transcend Art and Peace
Created: Octobera 19, 2002
Latest Update: October 20, 2002
jeannecurran@habermas.org
takata@uwp.edu

Commentary on Recent Lectures: October 25, 2002.
Laying on of Alternatives

Comments grouped by course.
Subject of comment in green.
jeanne's commentaries in bright blue.

From Soc 334: Women in Society

On Friday, October 25, 2002, Marsha Walker wrote:

Subject: a hello letter

hello jeanne, I hope you are getting your needed rest. This is marsha walker in your tth, 11:30 class. I am very sad today, my last adult relative on my dad's side of the family died yesterday, and I am extremely sad about it. She was the last adult family member of mine and in our entire family. I grieve , grieve, grieve, today. My children do not understand why I cry so hard about this. No matter what I say to them, they have the most ridiculous answers, trying to console me. I have been reading in chapter four, of Pia Lara, about self determination and self realization, right now I don't have my book in front of me, but I know that in telling my thoughts on paper I feel a sense of freedom, independence about my self worth, that my opinions are of great value to me, and say a lot of who I am, and will become in the near future.

I have come to realize that narrativity is an important part of my autonomy, and that my opinions are my opinions and are terrific opinions. These two words, autonomy and authenticity are so interrelated and interesting to me at this time, I have read some of the comments about them from others and from the book and see that most people are seeking to identify and embrace, and free themselves in order for autonomy to occur for them . I am especially impressed with the class and the students in my class because all of them have given me many thoughts to ponder over, in many areas, and I've sat and listened and learned from them , from Pat, and from you, and all the talking has been a source of encouragement and enlightenment at this time.

have a good weekend and I will see you next week. bye

On Friday, October 25, 2002, jeanne responded:

Good comment, Marsha. I'm sorry for the loss of your Aunt. And I understand that it is hard for the children to console you. I think we need a story for our kids' site on tears that bring healing with them. Try telling the children that the tears help us heal and bear the pain of losing someone, so they don't have to worry that you are crying. That crying is the way we say goodbye to someone we love. The children are trying to lay their alternatives of playing and seeing less deeply, so that you won't be hurt. You can explain to them that your alternatives are different. It's fine for them to play. But you need, and it is appropriate to cry.

You also did a good job of bringing me up to date on your reading in Pia Lara and on conceptually linking that to your experiences. Yes, I think autonomy and authenticity are two very important areas as we try to redefine ourselves as women and the world as a place that has not repressed its feminism. Your ahead of my study notes. Good for you.

And for those of you who are looking for how to get good grades, here's an excellent example. I think a "hello" letter is a wonderful idea for evidence of learning.

love and peace, jeanne

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