“Purple Hibiscus” is a book I am sure is renowned by Nigerian young and old. I am not a Nigerian nor had I heard about Adichie’s novel until it was assigned as a reading for a women’s study class I took two years ago. I didn’t have time to complete the assignment, and I wrote my paper based off Wikipedia summaries. But I never forgot the storyline and decided after graduation I would pick it up. A few months ago I remembered this resolve, checked the book out from my local library and finished it in two days.
After turning over the very last page, I realized I was completely in love. I sat for a very long time staring at the cover of that book, holding it tenderly in my hands, a million thoughts racing through my mind, and it occurred to me that the lessons contained in this beautifully written story are applicable to global audience. The following are a few things I, an American learned from “Purple Hibiscus”:
Life is too short not to love others with your whole heart. And to love someone with your whole heart means that you embrace that person for everything they are; including the things that makes them different from you.
Everyone you meet has trials and troubles and challenges, even if they are not readily obvious. We must treat everyone as though they need our help and love and compassion, for most likely they do.
The most abundant and full life a person can be come from laughter, love, family and kindness. The abundant life has nothing to do with possession or wealth.
We should never let the tents of religion obstruct or obscure our view of God.
The most useful gift in this world is free will
Life is messy, unpredictable, difficult, and full of disappointments. It can also be beautiful and fulfilling when you turn outward and love.
Valerie Bagley.
No comments:
Post a Comment