“Against the Great Divide”

            Although the race barrier had officially been broken involving the “separate but equal” policy in the 1960s, segregation continues to plague America’s schools. One must venture into a high school cafeteria to witness a true division. These partitions involve age, nationality, religion, and extracurricular activities, but none is more obvious than racial division. In his essay, “Against the Great Divide,” Brian Jarvis discusses possible remedies, if deemed necessary, to this nationwide problem. But will any remedy truly solve this dilemma, or are these separations natural and voluntary?

            Jarvis suggests that mandatory steps be taken to desegregate the cultural divisions within schools. He believes that by forcing students of different racial backgrounds to work together and share classes discussing racism and culture, students will come together. This will not work in the majority of cases. Separation into specific groups is done for a reason. While the racial divisions between black and white may be the most obvious to see on the football field or in the cafeteria, there are many other divisions that plague schools. Wouldn’t a student feel just as uncomfortable at a “black table” as they would at any other table of people who they are not friends with and do not share interests with but are of the same race?

            When I walk into an unfamiliar place, I immediately try to associate myself with people who look like they would be similar to my friends and me. While I may immediately turn away from some blacks or Hispanics, I also turn away from many white kids who just do not appear to be “my kind of people.” By forcing desegregation, schools will only be further proving that there is a barrier and a difference between whites and minorities. People will chose to be with those that are most comfortable with, and if they are not comfortable with other races, then forcing them will only cause an awkward situation.

DEFINITION OF REDEMPTION

            Redemption is my favorite word because it is revenge without a negative connotation. To redeem is to make what was bad, good. Redemption is a second chance in a world where there aren’t very many. It is to make up for your mistakes and continue.

            Redemption is to make a bad joke while trying to seem witty to the girl you really like. After letting the bright red fade out of your cheeks, you are able to make a smooth and sexy move so that you can kiss her anyway.

            Redemption is opportunity. Those who redeem themselves not only make up for their mistakes, but gain a new respect for their persistence in overcoming a weakness.