Reflecion paper

Reflection paper

  

First, learning about the Puritans, “What I Saw in America,” by Chesterton, and “Trans-National America” by Bourne were somewhat revealing.  One could see how the fusion of culture and someone way of life has a profound effect on society as a whole.

 In “What I Saw in America”, Chesterton describes his experience going to the passport office and filling out forms to travel to the United States.  He found great amusement in the questions that were being asked on the paper.  For instance, imagine being asked, “are you an anarchist, and are you in favor of subverting the Government?  Shouldn’t people be offended by such a question, but then again, was it a sign of the times?  All the author wanted to do, in short, was to travel to America.  Yes, he wished to leave the inside where he was raised in order to visit the outside, which is America, the unknown.

Second, in “Trans-National America” Bourne describes the consequences of the Great War as a reverberatory effect on the American public’s opinion, not just the failure of the “melting pot.”   Quite frankly the immigrants came to America to find something new, whilst keeping their old attitudes.  These people had no intention of changing or even adapting to the “new world.”  Instead, they came with their previous value system, which for them, was all they needed.  I believe many immigrants forget or purposefully deny their, if I may say” immigrant experience.”  Presently, this is especially true, regarding the “Dream Act,” which many ignorant people believe will only benefit Mexicans immigrants.  When did Mexicans become the only immigrants, can someone please explain?  That being said, it is indeed a farce for many first, second or third generation immigrants to complain and lambast the so called new immigrants.  I am quite aware that many of them do not know their history, but I am also not that naïve to believe that some are not denying their history in order to be accepted.  Assimilation comes in many forms, such as race or culture.  Nevertheless, one thing for sure, with regards to most American immigrants, is that they keep their strong and resilient customs.  Individuals must never be afraid to try new things.  That being said, one should never betray his/her principles or be weak in the face of change.  Traditions, customs and values were essential in the past, (old country) and they will be required in the future, America, the new country.      

Third the Puritans way of life was conforming to a high standard of morality and virtue.  The Puritans believed in working hard, living simple and saving money.  They focused on individual acceptance, and an admiration of religious rituals.