Some thoughts on our discussion of Gov. Blanco's speech

First, let me say that I'm generally very pleased with the level of in-class discussion. Almost everyone has contributed in both sections, and we've gotten into some significant and interesting issues. If we keep that up, we'll be in great shape for the rest of the semester. (I am, however, less impressed with the blogging. While there have been a few people that have done some nice writing, in general there's been very little beyond the initial assignment.)

So, all that said, I keep thinking about our discussions Thursday of Gov. Blanco's speech. It was, again, a good discussion with broad participation, but the discussion in both sections ended up being (to my ears) much more about her presentation style and general choice of topic than about the actual content of her speech. We can debate all day whether she should have said more or less or whatever about Katrina, her life, blah, blah, but the fact is that she gave that speech and said those things, and our discussion (and the few blog posts on the subject) didn't really address her statements with much depth.

There were quite a few things that I thought might warrant discussion, most of which never came up. At the very beginning, for example, she said "Life is simply not fair". Is everyone comfortable/happy with that sort of blanket assertion? If so, do we just accept it, or do we work to change it? You were told to "Put yourself in a position to make a difference... No one is going to do this for you.". Do you agree with this exhortation? Why is this important (or not)? What are you doing (or not) to put yourself in such a position, and why?

Some other lines I found noteworthy:

• "Don't let stereotypes shut you out of any career."
• "You don't have to know everything, but you have to be willing to learn."
• "Ignore the false prophets - be true to yourself."
• "Stereotypes can be broken if we all work to defy expectations."
• "Focus on the value of diversity."

Lastly, what did she mean by "Be open to committed living"? What does that imply for you here at UMM? For you in this class?

Thoughts?