Surviving

Use this page to discuss the ability of humankind to survive adversity. Use the discussion tab at the top to post comments or to reply to existing posts.If you saw Ishmael as he stood on the stage at Heritage High School or have viewed any of his videos on his own [|web site]you cannot help but be impressed with the sense of optimism and joy with which he lives. Where do you think this joy originates? How was he able to overcome the horrors he experienced and participated in as a boy soldier?

He realized that his life is by no means guaranteed. He lives each day knowing that there is no certainty of tomorrow, and that he must make every bit with the time he has currently. He lives a life of joy because to live a life of sorrow is to live a life of regret. Beah realizes that regret is an inevitable part of life, but that its effect on us is within our control. Therefore Beah chooses to embrace the joys of life and forget the troubles that would inhibit his happiness.