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Overcoming the Obstacles of Life

 

"Because of my education and my proficiency with the English language, I have acquired many mechanisms for dealing with the anger I experience " (Ortiz Cofer 95). Facing stereotypes is quite a challenge, and it can lead to receiving offenses from others. The author uses her knowledge to manage resentment. Not everyone can achieve to fight stereotypes, but education gave Ortiz Cofer a chance in life. "Yet I am one of the lucky ones. My parents made it possible for me to acquire a stronger footing in the mainstream culture by giving me the chance at an education " (Ortiz Cofer 96). Similarly, Mairs relies on education to help her overcome her disability. "I am lucky that my predilections were already solitary, sedentary, and bookish " (Mairs 247). Multiple Sclerosis can force a person to abandon many of activities. This could lead to a serious depression. Thanks to the type of activities Mairs perform, she is able to continue her normal life. "In addition to studying, I teach writing courses. I also teach medical students how to give neurological examinations. I pick up freelance editing jobs here and there " (Mairs 248). Mairs does not let her condition stop her life. Schooling acts as an incentive in their lives.
             In spite of th common traits shared by the essays, they differ on certain aspects as well. The most important difference is the type of obstacle they have to overcome. The essay wrote by Judith Ortiz Cofer, presents a social obstacle. The author is trying to fight stereotypes of Latinas. "The big and little screens have presented us with the picture of the funny Hispanic maid, mispronouncing words and cooking up a spicy storm in a shiny California kitchen " ( Ortiz Cofer 95-96). This idea about Latinas is set into the mind of the society that she lives in. Ortiz Cofer was part of a Puerto Rican family, living in New Jersey during the sixties. During this time, there were heavy stereotypes on Latinas.


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