CR 1

Dear Therese Carter,
I enjoyed reading your story in Division Street America. I feel as though we would get along very well because we share the same views. Its hard for myself to always keep a happy face, and NOT be "real" with people. Unfortunately, until this day I see people putting on a fake persona, especially with the area of work that I am in. I always try to keep my distance from people who are like this, but sometimes you just need to deal with it and wish the best for them just like you would wish the best for yourself.
Just like you, I want to become a teacher. I am currently taking the steps towards fulfilling that wish and I think you should also. Its unfortunate that you feel the people around you will make fun of you for wanting to go to school. Are those really people that you want involved in your life anyway? Its an amazing thing to have knowledge and you dont see many people anymore who are so eager to learn like you. Alot of students just go about school with a non chelant attitude and sometimes its frustrating to see that because there are many people who arent as fortunate to be in school, learning, and doing want they would like because they dont have access to it.
I have to admit that I dont keep up much on my current events either. For me its just because I dont have the time with school and work, but I think its a good idea to try and learn as much as possible about what is going on in the world, not only just to be aware of it, but to also remember how good you may have it when your situation feels bad. There is one thing that stood out to me when I was reading your story and that is when you said, " It seems it wouldnt take that much to make peace as it does to make war." I couldnt agree with you more. The war going on in Iraq has cost the United States so much money, lives, and just energy that could be put to use in so many other areas. Sometimes I feel as though it is a power "tug of war" between countries.
Its a good thing to want peace and happiness; many people say that they do want it, but what steps are they taking to make it happen? What steps could every single person make (even if it is a baby one like saying hi to a random person on the street and making them smile) to make our world a more tranquill place to live in? I belive that with more people like you, who have drive and kindness in their hearts, it is possible.
Sincerely,
Laura Marquez