Mary Breuer
English 250
12.2.2012
Ms. White
Introduction Reflection
Throughout the semester, I learned about different relations with nature, and to what extent some people will go to protect the environment. I also gathered a sense of what I thought was too extreme and what was necessary to conserve the environment. I am able to take away from this class a better understanding of other peoples’ motives behind their actions. As I can understand their logic, I personally do not agree with extreme actions. Before this class, I was nervous about writing papers. I will also be able to take away improved writing skills.
At the beginning of the semester, I was a little skeptical and judgmental about what this class would be like. I figured it would imply drastic measures to save the environment, talking about what will happen if humans do not change their ways. The story of Julia Butterfly Hill however was beyond the stereotypical idea of what I thought the class would suggest. I was unfamiliar with Julia Butterfly Hill before this class and I was surprised to find out how extreme Hill was about saving the trees. I know camping out in a tree for a year is not something I have ever considered or desire to do. I figured people would sit around the bottom, but living within the branches seemed unreal. It was interesting and exciting to read her story. I praise her for her level of commitment. Another intriguing story regarding extreme measures was the Monkey Wrench Gang. I understand their reasoning to save the environment but I believe they were too extreme. In my opinion there is always another way to prove your point without harming people, like Julia Butterfly Hill. It might mean personal sacrifice but harming people causes more problems. I also believe tree spiking is too radical. Before this class, I had heard of tree spiking but I had not heard of yarn bombing. Coincidentally I chose to explore the Reiman Gardens for my photo journal and saw yarn bombing in person right after discussing it in class.
Into the Wild was another extreme, but the more I thought about it, the more I would like to do something like that for a little while. I wouldn’t be as radical though. I would prefer to live in a cabin or a more stable shelter instead of an abandoned bus. Unlike Chris I would bring along some money, and a map too. At first, I thought the idea was crazy, giving up all your money and leaving all possessions to live in a secluded location. In todays’ society though it is easy to get caught up in unimportant things like material belongings. I think the overall experience would change my outlook on life. After returning to civilization, I believe I would be more appreciative of the things I do have, instead of wanting things I truly do not need. I also believe I would help more people without being asked.
Writing papers was another concept I wasn’t used to and was nervous about. I had to write occasional papers in high school, but writing papers in college I thought would be different. I thought they would be more intimidating than they actually are. Over this semester I believe I have improved my writing skills and learned how to cite properly. I also learned the sooner I start a paper, the more I feel at ease. Knowing I am able to step away from it for a bit and come back with fresh ideas and fresh eyes makes the task more manageable.
As for the future, I plan to have an open-mind about extremists and try to make small differences on my own such as recycling. I think if more people alter their habits the world will be a better and cleaner place. This semester has taught me a small change can and will make a difference.
English 250
12.2.2012
Ms. White
Introduction Reflection
Throughout the semester, I learned about different relations with nature, and to what extent some people will go to protect the environment. I also gathered a sense of what I thought was too extreme and what was necessary to conserve the environment. I am able to take away from this class a better understanding of other peoples’ motives behind their actions. As I can understand their logic, I personally do not agree with extreme actions. Before this class, I was nervous about writing papers. I will also be able to take away improved writing skills.
At the beginning of the semester, I was a little skeptical and judgmental about what this class would be like. I figured it would imply drastic measures to save the environment, talking about what will happen if humans do not change their ways. The story of Julia Butterfly Hill however was beyond the stereotypical idea of what I thought the class would suggest. I was unfamiliar with Julia Butterfly Hill before this class and I was surprised to find out how extreme Hill was about saving the trees. I know camping out in a tree for a year is not something I have ever considered or desire to do. I figured people would sit around the bottom, but living within the branches seemed unreal. It was interesting and exciting to read her story. I praise her for her level of commitment. Another intriguing story regarding extreme measures was the Monkey Wrench Gang. I understand their reasoning to save the environment but I believe they were too extreme. In my opinion there is always another way to prove your point without harming people, like Julia Butterfly Hill. It might mean personal sacrifice but harming people causes more problems. I also believe tree spiking is too radical. Before this class, I had heard of tree spiking but I had not heard of yarn bombing. Coincidentally I chose to explore the Reiman Gardens for my photo journal and saw yarn bombing in person right after discussing it in class.
Into the Wild was another extreme, but the more I thought about it, the more I would like to do something like that for a little while. I wouldn’t be as radical though. I would prefer to live in a cabin or a more stable shelter instead of an abandoned bus. Unlike Chris I would bring along some money, and a map too. At first, I thought the idea was crazy, giving up all your money and leaving all possessions to live in a secluded location. In todays’ society though it is easy to get caught up in unimportant things like material belongings. I think the overall experience would change my outlook on life. After returning to civilization, I believe I would be more appreciative of the things I do have, instead of wanting things I truly do not need. I also believe I would help more people without being asked.
Writing papers was another concept I wasn’t used to and was nervous about. I had to write occasional papers in high school, but writing papers in college I thought would be different. I thought they would be more intimidating than they actually are. Over this semester I believe I have improved my writing skills and learned how to cite properly. I also learned the sooner I start a paper, the more I feel at ease. Knowing I am able to step away from it for a bit and come back with fresh ideas and fresh eyes makes the task more manageable.
As for the future, I plan to have an open-mind about extremists and try to make small differences on my own such as recycling. I think if more people alter their habits the world will be a better and cleaner place. This semester has taught me a small change can and will make a difference.