Scott Brady’s GSW 1110 Blog (Fall 2009)

·         Many of the essays base what they believe in on a specific past learning experience (usually an extremely troubling or hard experience)

o   Ex.  “Science” – Brian was discouraged from science because it made him feel extremely small. He overcame this realizing that, although small, we are incredibly special and blessed to have life

o   Ex.  “In giving” – Isabel lost her daughter at a young age

·         In none of the essays is the writer trying to persuade the reader to “believe” what they believe in, but more rather to teach the reader a lesson or to simply tell a story

·         All of the essays took between 3.5-5 minutes to read

The most interesting aspect of the book “This I Believe” is the fact that the point of the book cannot be explained by one individual. This, I believe. With that said, “This I Believe” is left to be interpreted, judged, and taken in by the readers themselves. Some readers do not value the beliefs of others while others may, very well, end up living by someone else’s beliefs.

To go about selecting a “This I Believe” essay to be published, editors first look at the basic structure of the essay. They do not want the writer to determine right from wrong or to persuade the reader in any way. The type of essay wanted is one that simply shows what a person believes in and why they believe in it by showing specific stories and experiences. Finally, the reader is left with the openness to decipher exactly how they want to interpret and react to the essay.

I believe that writing truly can bring out the best in an individual. Writing is a way of expressing a persons true, honest thoughts.

I would tell the professor that writing is important to me because it is a main part of the gateway to my future. Without good writing skills, it will be extremely difficult to get a job in any profession.

Writing is important to you (a ten year old) because it is a skill you be using and perfecting for the rest of your life. It is a way of getting your foot in the door of opportunities for your future.