Week 8 Growth Mindset

Growth Mindset (Flickr)

Without a doubt, one of my "fatal flaws" is the fact that I am very critical of my work. Looking back to my post from the beginning of the semester, I wrote about taking risks and growing in that mindset. While I do continue to believe in that and try to take risks whenever possible, I know that regardless of the outcome, I am critical of the work that I put in. I definitely think that this class is a way to gain some important insights by reading stories but also by realizing that I shouldn't always be critical of my work. I think that by being more positive about my work, I can continue to grow by improvement while taking risks. 

Week 8 Reflections

Reading (The Blue Diamond Gallery)

When I enrolled for this course, I thought that I would just be reading Indian epics, stories, fables, etc. I was definitely excited at the chance to be able to read all these stories that I grew up learning. I did not expect to create my own stories or use the epics as inspiration for my portfolio project. But, I am enjoying every minute of it. The ability to read these stories but then reflect on them in various ways is so great because it allows me to connect to the stories and remember them better. Looking through my blog made me realize that I do have the ability to write creative stories, it just takes some inspiration. Specifically, I'm kind of proud of my portfolio because the idea is something I have always had, I just never sat down to do it. But, being able to research all of the interesting architectural sights and food of the different regions of India has been a lot of fun. I hope to use all that research when I go to India again in the future! When thinking of the second half of the semester, I definitely want to read a variety of stories. I love how all of the stories are somehow tied together and usually most of them have a moral behind them. But, I think another interesting facet of this class is being able to read the other student's posts because it not only shows their creativity but helps me gain some inspiration as well! I'm excited to see what the rest of the semester holds and can't wait to read more!

Reading Notes, Mahabaratha, Part D

 Pandavas vs. Kauravas (Wikipedia Commons)

When I think of the Mahabaratha, usually what comes to mind is the battle between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. I think the way the epic is narrated, the story builds to the eventual battle--which in a way is a battle of good vs. evil like in the Ramayana. While the battle is a crucial element to the Mahabaratha, I think the importance of it lies with the Bhagavad Gita and the internal struggles that each of the characters face. It appeals to the reader because of the parallels with every day life. Obviously, not everyone faces a violent battle to the extent of the Pandavas versus the Kauravas, but, everyone faces battles in life. These battles often take form in internal disputes, relationship troubles, issues with work/school, etc. The various lessons within the Mahabartha act as a guide to facing one's problems head-on and confronting them. While Veda Vyasa wrote this epic with an elaborate battle, depicted with intricate details, he was really appealing to the common man in describing how to confront these every day battles. However, in keeping with this theme of tackling issues, he also makes sure to address the troubles that come from it. Specifically, the Pandavas are obviously distraught at the fact that their cousins are now dead, by their hands. The Bhagavad Gita, for example, helps Arjuna to come to terms with the fact that he will have to fight his cousins. In an every day context, the Gita can be applied to literally anything. And that is the beauty of the Mahabaratha. 

Bibliography: Mahabaratha, R.K. Narayan, Reading Notes