At the beginning of the letter the inmate describes prison, and how trapped he feels behind the cells. Furthermore, he questions his existence as a prisoner. He tries to alleviate the void in his life by keeping busy. He describes how he is constantly in motion. For instance, reading, watching the television, and conversation keep him preoccupied. To him, silence is unacceptable. In order to alleviate his pain and loneliness he fills his schedule with hobbies and leisure activities. However, preoccupation will only partially block his desire for love. While reading this letter, I could feel the depression this inmate was falling into. He describes his constant state of longing for love, but only sees an endless stretch of blackness in his future. Sure, he has hobbies, learning and entertainment, but humans need contact, humans long for love. Parallels between this inmate’s letter and the other inmate’s letters I’ve read are quite apparent. Generally, the inmates voice their regret, however, they also speak about their deep-seated longing for love and human contact. While reading the letter, I could really feel the true desperation this inmate has for love. I can’t imagine being stripped away from love and companionship like this inmate. It makes me wonder what this man did, to receive life in prison. The invisible strings are once again at work. The influences around him caused him to make one mistake that cost him his ability to find love and companionship on a physical level. Reading this letter and the other letters before by other inmates, has really opened my eyes to life in prison, and the inmate’s perspective on life. I feel more compassionate towards these inmates. I realized that one mistake really makes a big difference. Towards the end of the letter, the inmate acknowledges his mistake and states that he, himself stepped into the pit and so, therefore, he will never know what love is. That’s one depressing conclusion.

In America, we want to believe that our military is all around respectable and moral, however, when stories like these surface in the news and media, Americans feel disturbed and are unsure how to respond. Due to the great sense of patriotism in Americans, some fail to fully understand the realities that are happening in Afghanistan and Iraq. Furthermore, we as American citizens are kept in the dark about war. We don’t know what’s actually going on, only the soldiers who experience the war firsthand know.

What’s surprising about these soldiers is that these murders were premeditated. They were planning on killing a few Afghanistan citizens and even developed strategic tactics to make it look like these Afghanistan people were terrorist or supporting the terrorist groups. For instance, they would trade pornographic magazines for artillery to use as props for their murderous plan. None of these soldiers were told to commit these acts under their sergeant, they wanted to, which makes this incident even more scary for many Americans. Seeing how these soldiers could kill innocent citizens reveals that they probably had psychological problems within themselves. If they could easily kill innocent children in Afghanistan, what are they capable of when they come back to America? They would definitely pose a threat to American citizens. Even more shocking is how none of the commanders took action after hearing these stories. They brushed it off, as if it was normal or they just seemed indifferent to the whole thing.

These soldiers seemed bored, frustrated and angry and so, they took out their frustration on innocent bystanders. They probably developed some or already had psychological problems coming into the military. It seems as though they had a blood lust. These soldiers were probably having trouble with the constant adaptations and transitions they had to make, but that gives them no right to kill innocent people. As an American citizen, I fully respect the soldiers who put their life out on line for us, and I will never understand what they actually go through in the military. I can’t imagine how difficult it is. The soldiers are trained to defend, which comes with kill, this is an alien concept. Humans aren’t meant to kill, that’s why many find it difficult, but once placed in a dire situation, nobody knows how people will react. In the end this article is a tragedy. It’s a tragedy that these innocent people had to die and that people in general are capable of such gruesome acts.

The video in class about the soldiers in Iraq was definitely eye opening and sad. Soldiers are constantly trained to defend their country and people, however, when they are thrown into war, they don’t know how they’ll react. No one does. Only those who have experienced war first hand truly know how it’s like to be caught in the middle of war. As citizens of the U.S., we don’t know what its like to be in war. We know that were in war, but we don’t truly feel the effects of it. In the video, the soldiers are trained to be tough and to hide signs of fear and weakness. This is evident in the different soldiers that were in the video. Many of them refused to believe they had a problem, because they feared what their fellow soldiers and sergeant would think about them. They feared to be thought of as incompetent or unsuited for war. For instance, one guy refused to believe he had a problem, after coming back from Iraq. His family could tell something had changed, and urged him to see someone, but he ultimately refused and resorted to suicide. The fate of this soldier really saddened and bothered me. I felt helpless for the soldier, because he was so self-conscious about what his unit would think about him. I can’t imagine the psychological state these soldiers come home with after being in war. People aren’t trained to see gruesome deaths and killings. People aren’t trained to kill. And so, I can’t fathom the different emotions these soldiers experience after getting back from war. As Americans we want to believe our soldiers are strong both physically and mentally, that nothing can break them. However, that isn’t the case. They are only human, and humans aren’t trained to kill, and witness death first hand. These soldiers basically live in fear everyday, but they hide it, which probably puts a big burden upon their shoulders. This shows that the military should definitely take the mental state of these soldiers coming back from war more seriously.

In society, male and female are viewed as the only acceptable gender groups to be categorized in. The influences around us mold our minds to believe that trans genders are seen as unnatural and wrong, and we fail to recognize hermaphrodites altogether, as stated in the intersection readings. At a young age we are constantly influenced and brainwashed to see and distinguish something as “normal,” or “strange.” Although, trans genders associate themselves to one gender, people who are aware of them still feel skepticism towards them. They are labeled as strange because they fail to “fit in” with their birth given or natural gender. Gender is definitely a biological distinction but it also divides people in different ways. Males are believed to act a certain way, as females are also expected to act and dress a certain way. In society, males are expected to be masculine, which includes playing with toy swords and hot wheels as a child, while girls are assumed to play with Barbie dolls and makeup. If a person deviates from their expected gender rolls, they are often out casted from their groups. For instance, a feminine guy would automatically be considered gay, and society would most likely see him as strange. Although, this idea was very true back in the day, today society seems to be more open and accepting of gays, lesbians, and trans genders. However, it is not totally considered acceptable, and will probably never be considered normal. For instance, in this article this former female, who is now a male, was hired as a urine monitor. However, upon hearing he was actually a trans gender he was instantly fired. After the incident Mr. Devoureau filed for a discrimination lawsuit. This shows the obvious signs that prejudice against trans genders still exist, because they fail to fit in with the “social norm.” I’m not sure if people will ever become more accepting of gays, lesbians, and trans genders, only the future knows, but I think if people were more aware sociologically, there wouldn’t be such a big debate on the issue. In society we accept only two genders as mentioned before. Male and female; a male is associated with penis, and a female is associated with vagina, but what do we do about the hermaphrodites. What are they categorized as? And furthermore, why must they choose to live either as a male or a female, why can’t they just be both? The novel intersections went into a deep debate under this issue. If institutions had check boxes for hermaphrodites, society would probably be more accustomed or opened to it. But since we as Americans only identify ourselves with either male or female hermaphrodites are never really considered, or considered strange. Once again, we are influenced socially which is why we are they way we are.

In society, male and female are viewed as the only acceptable gender groups to be categorized in. The influences around us mold our minds to believe that trans genders are seen as unnatural and wrong, and we fail to recognize hermaphrodites altogether, as stated in the intersection readings. At a young age we are constantly influenced and brainwashed to see and distinguish something as “normal,” or “strange.” Although, trans genders associate themselves to one gender, people who are aware of them still feel skepticism towards them. They are labeled as strange because they fail to “fit in” with their birth given or natural gender. Gender is definitely a biological distinction but it also divides people in different ways. Males are believed to act a certain way, as females are also expected to act and dress a certain way. In society, males are expected to be masculine, which includes playing with toy swords and hot wheels as a child, while girls are assumed to play with Barbie dolls and makeup. If a person deviates from their expected gender rolls, they are often out casted from their groups. For instance, a feminine guy would automatically be considered gay, and society would most likely see him as strange. Although, this idea was very true back in the day, today society seems to be more open and accepting of gays, lesbians, and trans genders. However, it is not totally considered acceptable, and will probably never be considered normal. For instance, in this article this former female, who is now a male, was hired as a urine monitor. However, upon hearing he was actually a trans gender he was instantly fired. After the incident Mr. Devoureau filed for a discrimination lawsuit. This shows the obvious signs that prejudice against trans genders still exist, because they fail to fit in with the “social norm.” I’m not sure if people will ever become more accepting of gays, lesbians, and trans genders, only the future knows, but I think if people were more aware sociologically, there wouldn’t be such a big debate on the issue. In society we accept only two genders as mentioned before. Male and female; a male is associated with penis, and a female is associated with vagina, but what do we do about the hermaphrodites. What are they categorized as? And furthermore, why must they choose to live either as a male or a female, why can’t they just be both? The novel intersections went into a deep debate under this issue. If institutions had check boxes for hermaphrodites, society would probably be more accustomed or opened to it. But since we as Americans only identify ourselves with either male or female hermaphrodites are never really considered, or considered strange. Once again, we are influenced socially which is why we are they way we are.

The inmate in this letter definitely described the ideal man a woman would like to have in her life. A respectable friend, lover and protector are the basic traits that a woman looks for in a man, however, is there really a man who possesses all these traits. People have flaws, which make us human, and so, to come by a man who fits the perfect description is definitely a challenge, if even possible. The same goes for men. I’m sure men have a set of qualities that they search for in women, but they definitely aren’t going to find the perfect woman. However, I do believe that people look for the same basic qualities that would like in their partners. These are simple qualities, not too demanding. As long as the relationship is fundamentally built up on trust and connection, I think people are satisfied.
Earlier today, I was reading an article on CNN that caught my attention. It was an article that described how infidelity in women is on the rise. I found this quite amusing, seeing how we are made to believe that men are usually the ones committing infidelity. In reality a woman committing infidelity is much more detrimental to their marriage over a man committing infidelity, because women are more likely to develop emotional feelings towards the person as men are just men. Anyways, I’m digressing from the topic. This letter the inmate wrote stands true, but it almost seems like a fantasy. I highly doubt I will come across a man who fits this description, probably only in my dreams. I can’t help but think about the invisible strings that have shaped us to make us think this way. Our idea of a perfect mate is definitely not our own, but the influences around us. We are made to believe that our partners should fit into this mold in order to be considered a good companion. Anyways, to find a guy that fits this description would be awesome ^^.

As the richer get richer the poorer get poorer, this catchphrase has been around for years, and is proven correct. Many people are aware of the unequal distribution of wealth going on, however, nothing is done about it. Why? Because people believe that the powerful and wealthy earned their spot up there through hard work and dedication. Yes, some dedication and work was probably put into their current position but not to the extent that people believe. The most powerful and wealthy are the ones pulling the strings from behind, we citizens with low or average income believe that we have a voice in the government, because that’s what they want us to believe, but in actuality the powerful politicians, and corporate men are in charge. They pull strings to make laws that make them richer. It’s all about money. The powerful and wealthy will continue to make decisions, while we are left believing we have a say in America’s policies and laws. And so, in conclusion, America is corrupt with greedy people, which include almost all of us. If we happened to be at the top, we would most likely be pulling the same strings that these guys are pulling in order to sustain their wealth and gain more wealth. There is never enough money for Americans; no one can have too much money. Basically, we are never fully satisfied with what we have.
People have this disillusioned belief that with hard work they can become whatever they want. This saying has been drilled into our heads since kindergarten; even Disney supports this message with their “Dreams do come true,” motto, what a load of crap. In actuality, dreams could come true, depending on what it is, and your financial background and connections. The invisible strings are at work once again. For example, lets say the dream is to go to Harvard and become the CEO of a company. An average income student could get into Harvard, but they are most likely not going to become the CEO of a company. Those positions are reserved for the people with connections, such as the daughter or son of the big guy upstairs. In reality, people with middle class parents are most likely going to be in the same financial situation as their parents, maybe a little richer, but nothing close to the wealthiest politicians and corporate bosses. Unless one happens to come across A LOT of luck. This is the sad truth of our society. Its all about the invisible strings that shape us.

After reading this inmates story, I could almost understand what drove him into killing his parents. Those long and devastating years of abuse and torture he received from his parents should not have occurred. At such a young age he was raped by his father, and his mother just stood by and let it happen, as if she didn’t care, which she probably didn’t. Or she refused to believe him. The mother obviously had some psychological problems. Not only was the father in on the abuse but also his mother, and siblings. I can’t fathom the hatred he felt for the people he was supposed to feel closest with, his family. Family members are supposed to serve as a support system and a mode of comfort, but this inmate grew up with no one who showed they cared. From a young age he had to defend for himself, and so he grew up in fear. In his letter, the inmate describes growing up in fear. He was afraid of his own family murdering him. Its like a sick and twisted game his parents played with him, and his sibling were in on it. What puzzles me is why none of his other siblings were abused. Why did they decide to abuse him, what made him seem so vulnerable? I could never understand, unless I was his parent. Seeing that he didn’t commit suicide, reveals his strength, if I was placed in his situation I don’t think I would have been able to keep my sanity, I probably would have committed suicide. His whole life was a game of survival from his own family.
Growing up this inmate was forced to repress his memories in order to forget his abusive past. Keeping to himself, he ruined relationships because he refused to open up and tell his story, due to embarrassment and hatred. Until he hit his thirties his memories came flooding back all at once. I can’t imagine how overwhelming and painful this experience was. He states in his letter, that he could deal with the shame, but his anger was unleashed. His anger consumed him, and so, he decided to kill his parents. Some part of me feels as though his parents deserved to die, for the pain they put their own child through. I feel no pity for his parents, but I do feel sympathy for this inmate. Yes, this inmate murdered his parents, but some part of me wants him to be a free man, to be happy again. Reading on, this inmate talks about fear. He states that he was afraid of prison but no more afraid than he’s always been. He states that you get used to living in fear, once being consumed by it your whole life. This part is very saddening. I can’t imagine living in fear my whole life.
While reading this, I thought about the invisible strings at work here. I wonder if his father was abused as a child. What triggered his father to commit such an immoral act? These invisible strings probably influenced his life in ways he cannot fathom which caused him to rape and abuse his son. The same goes for his mother and siblings, what made them think this was okay? Did his siblings jump in on the abuse because his parents were basically promoting it? I believe the parents brainwashed and/or influenced his siblings to take part in abuse.

Although, “M,” refuses to accept pity, it’s hard not to feel pity towards this inmate. At the beginning of the letter, “M,” partially describes his normal childhood. He grew up reading fantasy books, dreamt of being a space explorer and roamed free in the woods like any average boy. However, as he goes on, these memories seem so far and distant, as if they vanished. He was once a boy, now he is an inmate, a surprising twist in his life. He was once a boy, now he’s in prison with rapist, murderers, and thieves.
While reading his letter, I was surprised by the fact that he was only 14, when a group of his friends and an adult devised a plan to murder a man, a man who was once a counselor, who tried to help him during his troubled youth. What stumps me is what would possess these people to murder an innocent man, or even witness the crime and not say or do anything. But then again, I remember he was only 14, I could see why he would be too scared and shocked to speak up about the crime, let alone take action. Furthermore, as he described that fateful day, he remembers crying and begging God for them not to kill him next, after witnessing the crime. From then on, he regretted not having the courage to help this man, for standing quiet. After this, I couldn’t help but sympathize with this trouble teen, who was so young and naïve at the time of the murder. While reading this passage he goes on to briefly describe his troubled youth. He would frequently run away from home, which placed him in a group home. As I read this part I thought about the invisible strings Sam talked about in class. These incomprehensible strings definitely effected his childhood in a negative way, which led him to the position he is in now. Throughout the letter, “M,” refuses the crime to define him. He wants no sympathy, no pity, nor does he want to feed morbid curiosity. He is just one man telling his story as it was. He doesn’t expect fame or reward, and I admire him for saying this. He, himself, believes that he should be a shunned man for the crime he committed; however, in my opinion I think he is being too harsh on himself. He was just a child when all this happened, and he didn’t even do physical harm to the man, he was just an accessory to the crime. I am in no way defending his part in this crime, but I believe he should be given a second chance. He was still naïve, confused and probably lacked any understanding of life and how precious it is.

The invisible strings that are out of our control and the influences it has on our daily life is quite clear in this video. The Helsinki residents in this video describe the effects that the gloomy and dark weather has on their daily life. The residents described it as depressing and dreary during these dark winter seasons. The lack of sunlight and the cold weather seem to point to the feeling of depression, but do these two concepts have a direct correlation that we could identify with, and if so, why? Why does the cold/dark weather seem to affect the people in a negative way? From personal experience, I also feel the same. During winters I feel more lethargic and dreary, however, when summer rolls around I feel energetic and rejuvenated. Maybe this is due to a biological reason, our bodies respond better to the warm summer over the cold winters. As humans we are prone to feel depressed and slow during the winter seasons because our bodies are unable to endure a long period of the cold and darkness.
Furthermore, throughout the video the government seemed to take the initiative in trying to lighten up the mood of the city. An abundance of light panels were used to brighten up rooms in restaurants and offices. Also, statues and buildings were lit up with these lights. Although these methods help brighten up the city, the people were still probably feeling a little depressed, because nothing beats natural sunlight. I know I would, probably because I haven’t adapted to this style of living. Furthermore the residents do leisurely activities to help alleviate seasonal depression, for instance, the music playing the in the streets, taking a cold swim, and leaving the country all together. Through this video we can see how the weather affects peoples moods and emotions. Light, in general, is associated with happiness and enthusiasm as dark is associated with words such as depression and sadness, which parallels the human emotions when it comes to light/dark weather. The influence that weather has on the human mentality is out of our reach, and so, we can only find substitutes to alleviate the winter season blues.