Notes on the First Half of Freedom Writers

- I love writing... journaling was one of the few outlets I had growing up
- it's scary how much our environment molds our perception of the world around us... it's even scarier how hard it is to break our minds out of those molds
- I really REALLY love Hilary Swank...
- people can have the best intentions, but I believe that the Superhero Complex is a real thing and it can be just as detrimental as apathy and complacency if not kept in check
- egos + pride can blind us and keep us from connecting with others
- power-trippers + cliques are one of my most non-favorite people
- poetry is powerful, I remember the first activity I had analyzing a song and it changed my life
- sincerity and ingenuity... a couple reasons why Erin Gruwell was probably amazing (I've become a little skeptical of inspirational movies based on real people... I'm so easily inspired and slightly eager to believe everything I see and I might get a little sad when I remember that life isn't as perfect as the movies)
- feeling like you belong can be a very strong incentive... I used to think being in a gang would be an amazing thing... a real family who would do anything for me, people who would love me, people I could fight for... fighting in general had it's own appeal (I had a lot of anger as a kid) and being accepted because you were tough? A badge of honor you could wear proudly. I would never have to be afraid. Now I'm glad I found my extended family without being in one.
- I love sharing/teambuilding exercises
- Everyone has a story to tell... I feel like so many people are just too preoccupied to listen
- our school system is so messed up... a great example of the Superhero Complex, apathy and complacency
- 2 jobs to support the first job... tHaT's dedication!