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219065 Responseshttp://www.racerelationsproject.org/2010/04/stories-for-uplift/Stories+for+Uplift2010-04-26+03%3A03%3A20Sam+Richards to Stories for Uplift
First of all I just want to say that both those videos actually made me want to cry. But as far as the first video goes, it is so nice to hear that there are still people out there who will do such extreme favors for others because they care. Sometimes it feels like people in this world just are too busy to even hold the door open for someone else but it is stories like these that remind us that when it comes down to it people are willing to help others. It also makes the story even a bigger deal when you think about who these people are and how they come from completely different spectrums. The woman can barely speak any English and this man is a working, middle class man who just happens to see her when he goes to the grocery store. Their lives are completely different and they could easily just pass each other when they see each other and not create a friendship but because they are caring people this was the result. It is amazing that this man gave up his kidney for this woman. He changed her life drastically for someone who he was not even related to which is truly amazing. It is sad that there are not more people in the world like this because although it is a big favor to ask to do something this extreme, it would really make the world a better place if people were this kind. If people made friends with the cashier who rings them up at the grocery store even if it is just to be nice it would really make people happier in general. It is a shame people can’t be more accepting the way this man is and willing to do things for other people the way he does. As far as the second video goes, I was confused at first because I was not really sure what the direction was that this video was taking but then I understood when it got to the end. It actually is true when you think about how less judgmental children are then adults. Kids barely know the differences between people and when they’re too young to know the differences, they are actually more accepting then most adults. It is the environment that turns people against each other. Kids aren’t born to be racist or to hate other groups, they learn it from their parents or from the people who’s example they follow. This video sort of does tie in with the first video. If people could be more accepting of each other and “color blind” maybe people would be more willing to do these acts of kindness for each other and our world would just be a better place.
It is a bit of an extreme example of kindness to give up your kidney for someone you barely know, however I agree that it is great to see that this type of kindness still does exist. I totally agree that it seems like most people cannot be bothered to be even the least bit kind to someone else. This story demonstrates how far just a little bit of kindness can go and what can be accomplished by it. There stories make it even more amazing this woman being Asian and poor, most people would not care to develop a relationship with her. And the man being a social worker at a high school is probably not rolling in money, and the fact that he was willing to put his life and family on hold to help someone is truly amazing.
I have to say that when I watched both of these videos, I kind of wanted to cry, too. It just so nice to see that are people with these characteristics out there. In a world, where people seem to not care about anyone else, but themselves, it is always nice to be reminded that there is still caring and this simple love out there. In the first video, it made me so happy to see someone so giving and caring. He actually gave something to someone who he is not even related to, but still considers that person family. It just goes to show it does not matter who you are or what kind of ethnicity you are, everyone is equal. It is so nice to see that this man would only see this woman maybe not even once a week, but he changed her life. He gave up something for someone who he barely sees to save her life. To me, this kindness and love in the world is what everyone needs.
I kind of wanted to cry too watching these videos. They really were so uplifting and so sweet. I love that we got a chance to comment on something so wonderful and caring instead of the usual more unsettling topics we discuss in race relations. I hope that maybe next year Sam decides to include more lessons that inspire and motivate others to really care for others around them instead of focusing on past transgressions and all the bad things that exist in the world. These videos have really inspired me to consider other’s situations and it really illustrates a quote that I love, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
In the second video, it just goes to show that everyone is truly equal. It is the judgmental adults in the world that cause the problems. When you are little, you really do not understand anything. You are always trying to figure things out and understand why everything is the way it is. The last thing on a child’s mind is different races. Do you really think a child thinks that if another child does not look the same as that, that it means they should treat them differently. Children are more accepting and do not think about race. When they grow older, they are then submitted into a world of prejudice and judgment. If only the adults of the world can think back to when they were younger and look at the world they used to know.
It was hard not to think that their love was adorable. It makes you not think about race really when you watch it because that should not be a problem at all. I can see how it does tie in with the first one by means of accepting each other no matter who were are. If only more people could be like the man and woman in the first video and the two little children in the second video. There would not be any race problems that we would have to deal with and everyone would be able to understand each other. If people are willing to help others and to care for others in a world where we are dealing with all of these issues today, it just goes to show that there definitely is progress and improvement toward a better society. If everyone gave a little kindness every day and if everyone cared as much as children do.
With all the things in this world that want to make you not believe in humanity, a lot of things in this class really show you what kind of good people can do in the world. As far as the first video, I cannot imagine even giving an act of kindness like that. Me and my buddy have a good relationship with one of the lunch ladies in the dining commons. We see her everyday, and it's really a pleasant part of our day to talk to her and what have you. But put in the position and giving her one of my kidneys? I would like to think that I would have the courage in my heart to give a kidney up, but that's even a little unnerving to think about. I applaud this man for just that, his courage. This isn't something fake that he did to get recognition from people, this was his kidney. The love and commitment that his actions must have taken is unimaginable. It's easy to give a kidney to your dad, uncle, or spouse. This guy probably goes to the grocery store once a week, and still has the kind of relationship with this woman to save her life. This is an outstanding man, and an outstanding story.
I completely agree with you. It is so easy to form casual friendships with others, but so much more complicated to commit that kind of kindness and courage to someone you barely know. This man really gave up a part of himself to someone he had no personal or intimate connection with. I would also love to believe that I could sacrifice something like my kidney for another person in a dire situation, I’m not sure that I could, but after seeing this video I think that I would make a much more committed attempt to really evaluate my final decision.
Wow those are some really touching stories. The one about the kidney transplant especially hit me. Often in this class, the topics are kind of gloomy and easy to get down on. However this was really uplifting and inspiring. It goes to show that there are still many, many good people left in this world. A lot of people say that we are crumbing as civilization and all common decency no long longer exists. This video proves there is still good left.
Also what was really interesting was how it was a white, successful man giving his kidney to a poor, Asian women. It crossed racial bounds, as it did not matter in the least that they were from completely different backgrounds. That guy made a huge difference in a person’s life that was really suffering. He is an angel I guess.
This also hit home for me because my grandfather on my dad’s side needed a kidney transplant a few years ago. Luckily he found a match, but there was definitely a feeling of dread and hopelessness among us who were not a match. I felt very strongly and would have given mine if I was a match. One of my 3rd cousins was a match and gave his. Still, it was a scary situation.
In my book, this all comes down to karma. I do believe in karma, it all comes back to you at some point in your life. It always does. If a person does something great like giving a kidney, they are setting themselves up for something good down the road. When this guy is in dire need of help, he will probably get it. The world tends to unfold as it should.
I thought that the other video was pretty interesting as well, although I didn’t fully understand it. Since they were different races is that why they couldn’t be together? It wasn’t explained very well in the video. I just thought that the kid was cute and I could relate it to my own experiences as a child. We all had those little embarrassing crushes as kids. Everyone did. We all were shy about it and we had no idea why. People all around the world are literally the same as us. Except for the color of their skin, everyone is the same.
I was cheering for the kid in the video at the end. It was really funny to see him grinning like a goofball when his crush was being interviewed. She didn’t like him, but she didn’t want to say it. He eventually grabbed her and walked off with her. At that point I was like “OK little pimp!” That kid is awesome.
These stories were both very neat to see however I do agree with you and say that there is not much that the second story can do to compete with the first story. It is neat to hear this from the perspective of someone that has experience with this type of situation, as you did with your grandfather. I also agree with you that karma probably has a lot to do with what happened here, I too believe that if you are nice to people and lead a respectful life good things will come your way. This might take some time and it might not be the most extravagant thing in the world however good things will come if you do good things for others.
The thing about kidney failure really hits home, because I know how much goes in to having a transplant and the fact that this random stranger was a match for a random cashier is amazing. My mom is a social worker for people with kidney failure and who deal with dialysis. All my life i've grown up knowing about dialysis and knowing all the facts. I know you only need one kidney to live and would donate one to anybody in my family in a heartbeat so that they wouldn't have to suffer. I don't know if i would give to a stranger for the sole purpose, that I'm selfish and want to save it for a potential family member.
I've grown up walking through the dialysis unit and seeing the blood trasnfussions that people have to sit through for three hours, because there kidneys don't filter their systems for them. That some random stranger could stop the suffering for someone out of the good of their heart is amazing. My mom or somebody else in her unit always needs to work on holidays. The patients don't go on vacation on busy holidays where accidents are prone because as sick as this sound, there waiting for a kidney that somebody else can no longer use. The transplant list is extremely long and it takes a while to actually find a match and a willing donor. I'm baffled by the fact that two strangers were matches like that. That man not only made that cashier's day, but he changed her life. Growing up with the knowledge of kidneys, the struggle of dialysis and having it constantly surround my life, made this video make such a larger impact on me, then it would for something else. For example, if it was another disease, I would probably feel the same way towards this man and think that what he did was incredible and that he really is a sincere good person, which is rare to find now. However, the fact that it did deal with kidneys made more of an impact on me over most people in the class.
I would never wish dialysis on anybody in the world. The pain and suffering they go through is tolerable, but nobody should have to deal with it. I hope that there are more people like the man in the video out there. I hope that those on the transplant list and soon off of it and that people are getting healthier. Dialysis is the only medical condition that takes medcade if you're not of age for it. You're in the hospital three times a week for three hours at a time and people don't understand. With all the bad things going on in world, the news is more focused on that because lets face it, that gets more viewers. However, with all of those bad things, its sometimes nice to be reminded of the good things going on in the world. It's a good reminder that with all these natural disasters and wars going on in the world, it's good to be reminded that there are good people around. I may do something in the world and it may or may not affect someone else. However, if i do something positive that affects just one person I feel like I did something well. It may not be as big a deed as giving away my kidney to improve someone else's quality of life, but it will make me feel better and feel like a better person for it and if each person could do one nice thing for another person, the world would overall be a better place.
I am so glad Sam posted some videos to warm our hearts. I feel like I am usually upset or unsettled after watching videos or reading articles posted on the race relations website, it was nice to watch two videos to counteract all the negativity in the world. It just goes to show that for all the hatred and discrimination and apathy out there, their opposites exist as well, and I would like to think that there is more good than bad.
The video about the man offering his kidney to his favorite checkout woman at the grocery store was probably the single most sweet and caring video I have ever seen. He asked nothing in return, his only desire was to help another human being. This unconditional love and caring for the human condition is truly inspirational for everyone to really consider what you can do for others instead of writing off their concerns. I think this man really exemplified the best of the human spirit and I commend him for being so selfless and charitable. I think that often people only make such personal and selfless offers if someone in their family is ill and I think if more people hear this man’s story perhaps it will inspire others to consider what they can do for others and sacrifice for more than just immediate family. I think it is hard to imagine going through surgery for another person, but I think it might be harder for me to say no if I knew I would be able to save someone’s life. Being on dialysis is not living the way humans are meant to live, and this man sacrificed his own potential well being to improve the life of another. It is truly inspiring.
I also found the video of the two kids utterly adorable. They probably could not have found a more charismatic and engaging young boy to interview… he really tugged at my heartstrings. I loved how the message they were presenting came at the end of the video and as an audience you were presented with the children’s answers before seeing the overall theme of the video. I think the children represented such innocence and acceptance, which is so often missing past adolescence. It is so interesting how children develop their worldviews at such a young age and there should be a lot of emphasis placed on their cultural and moral development. What adults say around kids has such an impact on the way they think of others and I love that this video brought attention to that.
I think these videos were the perfect way to start the week before finals and I hope that everyone gets a chance to watch and feel a bit more uplifted about all the good that humanity offers instead of always being brought down by the bad.
After hearing Dan Coyne explain how Myra is such a nice woman it makes me wonder why such bad things happen to nice innocent people. What made Myra deserve this illness? Myra’s story brings questions to my head such as, is illness something that is truly someone’s destiny that God chooses for us or is it just utter bad luck. It is true luck that Dan Coyne, a man so willing to donate a kidney to Myra, was actually a match for her. It was touching to see how generous Dan was. He is a very considerate man and the fact that he started to cry tears of joy after he found out he was a match is great proof of this. I thought the idea that Dan Coyne had to offer Myra his kidney was so touching and also creative. I cannot believe that many people like Dan Coyne exist in this world. I agree with Myra when she calls him an angel living on earth because he truly seems like an angel from God to me. When I think of angels these are the kinds of things I imagine them doing for any human. I have never heard a story of such generosity especially between two people who are in no way related. I think the video below this story of the little boy is also very touching. I cannot believe how maturely this boy talks at such a young age. I was also surprised to hear how readily and openly he shared his feelings. I have never heard a young child talk so seriously about a crush and I wasn’t aware they could experience such strong feelings for the opposite sex at that young of an age. The line at the end of the video was a very eye opening moment for me because it is so true. Children are color blind then when they grow up to read and see things on television this is when they develop racist attitudes. So in a sense, what I’m really saying is that I think we should all be more like children. Most young children accept each other regardless of their color, unless they grow up in extremely racist families and are taught prejudice behaviors at a young age. It’s sad that young children could teach educated adults a very good lesson that they have grown to forgot. We are all human and we are all equal. No man or woman is better than the other and people need to start realizing that and treating each other fairly. You should never look down on someone unless you are helping them up. If every child from now on stayed “color blind” throughout adulthood the world would be a much better and just place. Everyone would get along and no one would be judged just because of the color of their skin is different.
This video reminds me of how carefree being a child was. When you are a kid you know nothing and believe everything. The Addidas slogan “anything is possible” is a reality. We were brand new pieces of clay free of imperfections and ready for molding. It is nearly impossible to watch this video without imitating the boy’s ear to ear smile when he talks about his elementary school crush. Then when his girlfriend enters the picture and you see that she is just as passionate as he is you almost want to clap. These two children remind us that we are all part of one tribe, humanity.
It is very enjoyable to watch these out of the ordinary, change of pace, feel-good videos. The video about the cashier and her favorite customer is one that proves that there are still people on this planet who care more about others than they do about themselves. It truly is amazing that he is that selfless. I wonder what would happen if we had someone like this in the white house? Perhaps the United States would regain our good name and be seen as a country that cares more about global issues and human rights than oil and profit margins.
I have a five year old cousin and a three year old cousin who are sisters. I love hanging out with them; not just because they are cute or funny but because they are still so innocent. They are unbiased, unracist and just see life in simple manners. I was I could be more like them. Every day we are bombarded with media that tells us to act this was, think this way… do this thing. When the hell did it become okay for people to not even use their own minds when making decisions!?!? Then there are people like the man who donated his kidney…. We should all be more like him. I don’t even think I can name one cashier at my grocery store… let alone ever think to donate a vital organ to one of them. I am pleasantly amazed that people like this man still exist in today’s fucked up selfish world. I don’t believe in God or angels or any of that but this man is truly a saint. I wish I were more like him too. I think we should all try to be more like him.
In regards to the adorable little boy, I say to him “don’t loose your innocence”. I think that’s what the problem is these days…. Everyone know everything about everyone. Do you want to know who you ex is hooking up with? Just check Facebook. Or if you want to know what Brittany ate for lunch? Just check Twitter. Its ridiculous how much information we can get on the internet…. Its not natural. We are not supposed to know every tiny detail of everyone’s lives. Its like humans are getting closer and closer to being God like…I don’t mean that in a good way. Im rambling.
What I am trying to get at is that society, technology and media have really fucked us up. There are not many people like the man in the video left in the world and that is quite a shame. We need more people like him. We should all work to actually get to know people… don’t allow the Internet to be your connection to someone…. Talk to them in person! We could all learn a lot from children too. We should aspire to be more like them… don’t take life too seriously. Its like Sam says “we are all going to die anyway” so you better do something fucking amazing like this guy did and act more like this little boy did because if not, no one will ever remember you.
The first video is really cool that someone would do that, but for some reason I just feel skeptical of his motives. Maybe I'm just cynical, but all I can picture is that he must think he is really great. I'm sure he thinks himself to be very righteous, and even though he deserves to feel good about himself, it bothers me that people like this often have such a high opinion of themselves. On the other hand I see the value in his actions regardless of what his motive is, and I see how terrific his charity truly is. Even though it is a little tough to get past what I perceive to be overt righteousness, I definitely admire what he has done, and I hope more people follow his example in contributing extraordinary acts of kindness toward others.
I enjoyed both of these videos very much. The first video takes a look at a man who has compassion for other people that he does not necessarily know. This is almost impossible to find today as we have so many prejudices and stereotypes against others. Most people operate in a selfish way, worried about their prerogative. It is nice to see that some people still think and consider others without even knowing them very well. Just imagined if this was not a rare story and that people decided to act this way all of the time. It is sad to think of how we continually teach our children to be wary of those around us and never so much to be compassionate and help others. This man truly is an inspiration and one day I hope that this won't just be a special report but a common occurrence in our country. Even her initial reaction shows the mindset of our country as she says "what is he crazy? I barely know him." In the end, she realizes he is just a saint.
The second video is also very heartwarming and shows us that there is a lot to learn from children and that sometimes we should think in a simpler manner. Especially in Asia, but very prevalent here in the US, there is prejudice against inter racial couples. If we just take a look at children we would realize this is immoral and unethical. Human beings are all one in the same and to judge another because of their race, culture, or religion should not be accepted. This is a very powerful message, and the deliverance by children makes it even more touching. Kids are free of stigmas of society and they think simply and passionately. It is very heartwarming to see these two kids, free from bias and racial based thinking. Sometimes adults should learn to operate in more of the same manner and stop worrying so much about insignificant things that can ruin relations between family and loved ones.
The first video demonstrates the love that should exist between all human beings. This man did not know this woman, and he still gave a part of himself to her. He was willing to go through all of the hassles of surgery and recovery to save this strangers life. This also demonstrates how people who love and who give also receive. This clerk was friendly to everyone that she met and she always had a smile on her face. She did not distinguish between race or any other aspect. This is why the man was so willing to give her his kidney.
The second video was so precious. It shows the innocence of a child. It is a shame that children are the ones that have to teach us how to live. They do not judge anyone because of their color of skin or their nationality. They are pure beings that if society lets it, will be tainted my so much injustice in the world and so much judgment. Adults tend to judge people based on their exterior.
Children are born, at least I am told by social scientists, with purity, with no predetermined hate of others. Therefore, one can conclude that children learn hatred, racism, and stereotyping, but the question still remains where do these seeds of hate begin, and what can we all do to stop them from growing into dried-up tumbleweeds? Today's economy, in the United States, is so bad that both parents have to work just to make ends meet. This may cause the child to grow up quicker than they should. It may also cause from them to raise themselves. Many children are not being given the daily lessons of morality and the feelings of love and compassion are not their
In other words, today's world is much too focused on the individual, when it should be more concerned with our children. The children are the future. If they believe these thoughts of racism then that is what the world will continue to be life. If children do not learn about racism and stereotyping, and how it is not acceptable, then we have failed. I think we should show children different cultures and teach them that they are all beautiful. If we can teach this equality, then they will retain a positive self-image and a positive image of people who look different than themselves. Although we try to give children all of these sturdy bases to grow on, that is not enough because children are influenced from outside the family by peers, the school system, team mascots, and by the media; but, it may be a beginning. Children, like the ones in the video are the beginning of a new world.
The videos were both very uplifting and it just goes to show that there should be no such thing as race. The second video proves that there is no reason for such hatred between anyone. There should be more simplicity in the world between religion, race, etc. Unfortunately, the world is not free of enmity between different social groups. It is really sad that people of different classes “shouldn’t” fall in love or get married. The world would be a much happier place of there was no hostility like this. I wish that we could also watch more videos like this in class, but I do understand that it would contrast with everything Sam is trying to teach.
I thought both of these videos were really awesome. In the first one where the social worker at the school gives the kidney to cashier, I thought it was really neat. We need more compassion like this in the word. We live too much of a sheltered life, especially since September 11th. We all seem to put up a defense system when we meet new people; we just need to trust people more. I think the world wouldn’t be as cruel of a place if we all just tried to be nicer to each other. I know its impossible to get along with every person in the world, but you have to start somewhere. So if you nice to your neighbors then you can meet other people who will know that you are nice and then you just build the amount of people you are friends with. It does not have to be a long-term commitment, maybe just help you neighbor out with some yard work, or even just say hello to them once and a while. It only takes one small thing to brighten up someone’s day. I thought it was really cool how the cashier called the social worker man an angel.
I thought that the second video was really cute. I remember having a crush on a girl like that when I was really young. I wonder what both of the children’s parents thought about this video. Were they accepting, or did they tell their children to stay away from each other? I know that the video says that these children are colorblind, but I do not believe that it will last. As they get older they will start to get into the awakening stage and notice it more. Although I do not think that a Chinese person and Malaysian person are such a radical couple; maybe in their home country they are. I think it would be much more taboo if this video was shot in America with a white boy and black girl, or some other type of black and white combination. I think it would be really neat if they kept tabs on both of these children, and interview them again and see what their views are when they are maybe out of high school. I would hope that their views would not change; maybe they have parents that are more lenient about race. I guess as the years go by this is becoming more of the norm, and when I have children race will not be so much of an issue as it still is today. I think Barak Obama is helping our nation become less resilient to letting people of color in power, which is a good thing, because maybe we all can gradually stop hating each other.
It is great to see that there is still some compassion left in the world, the news today is too much about murderers, thief’s, and other horrible crimes.
Tan Hong Ming's reaction was SOOOOOO CUTE!! XD
That look of utter shooooock on his face when the girl he confessed to liking responded that Tan Hong Ming was her boyfriend, was aaaabsolutely priceless!
If it weren't for the title of the video, though, I never would've known that there was some sort of racial conflict between the two childrens' ethnicities, though. I didn't get any sort of racial inference in the video whatsoever, but, then again, I suppose that was the point.
Oh, and, even cuter, I loved how they ran off together in the end. <3<3<3<3
Wow, I just watched the first video;
that's really, really impressive.
I'm happy to know that there are still people in society today that can take moments out of their lives and sacrifice so much of themselves- bother figuaratively and, in this case, literally!— for someone else.
Some of the things we talk about in class make me pretty cynical about the way our world works and the way countries like the United States can be greedy as well as unsympathetic in all parts of the world. These stories bring out the humanity in people and illustrate how kind one can be to another. I think it’s truly rare to see complete strangers donating organs especially in such an extreme circumstance. A kidney is a pretty important part of your body and it’s definitely not like donating blood or anything. It’s kind of like what Ian Rosenberger said in class. When you get out of college you know you want to make a difference but are you willing to make a difference as extreme as that? I know I wouldn’t personally and I consider myself a pretty sympathetic person.
I may be on the critical side of this but at first I questioned why this complete stranger would donate an organ of his body to an individual who he really does not have a strong relationship with. I wondered if he was single or just wasn’t normal. It’s kind of sad to question these things but the way society works I would think it is the norm not to just donate your kidney to a grocery store worker who you don’t have any significant contact with. I think it takes an event or some type of personality trait or humbling event in someone’s life to do something as humbling as this man did. He not only crossed the color barrier but he donating a piece of himself to a complete stranger. However, is this person a complete stranger to this man? It certainly didn’t seem so from his perspective. It’s amazing how he noticed the intricacies of the grocery store worker and how her personality as well as demeanor stuck out. How many people are there like that out there? I don't think many but we would definitely have a different world if we did have more people like this man. Even from the women’s perspective she obviously couldn’t believe this man was willing to sacrifice his health for hers.
The short clip of the boy who had a crush on a girl of a different ethnic background was an enlightening one. The ignorance of children is something we need to recognize more often. They aren’t exposed to the predispositions of other cultures yet and truly see people for who they are in a different sort of way. They are able to see past the color barrier because they haven’t encountered the barrier that separates them yet. This is something we are striving to do in this class even though ironically we technically are more mature and intelligent than children.
I love the connection of compassion that occurs so simply between these two parties. The cycle of the man feeling appreciated because he was treated with respect and developed a special connection with the clerk is fantastic. I am extremely pleased to see that we can have these connections, no matter who the individual is, how often they are seen, or even if she plays such a small role in their life as a clerk in a store.
I am truly pleased with this man’s efforts, as I recently have thought about situations similar to this in regard to people in general and Penn State students especially. I do not like or mean to come off as cocky or something similar, but I feel that I was raised with a certain sense of politeness and set of manners that are a strong part of my personality today. That said, I get disappointed at times in situations like this with Penn State students, because I feel that a lot of individuals that work or go to school around Penn State lack these manners or respect in everyday(and night) that tend to build these small but important relationships that can build such strong bonds.
This man, on the other hand, seems to be an outstanding citizen and really a role model. The amount of compassion and emotion that he has present shows me that he is extremely caring as well as absolutely genuine. This generosity and authenticity are the qualities that I feel that have truly decreased within our population, so when this type of thing happens I am pleased. This man is admirable. When he explained that when he heard it was a match that he began to cry, I was overtaken with the amount of emotion that this man possessed. He was so overcome with happiness because he was that happy that he was able to assist this woman who he had never seen even outside of the grocery store.
What is also hugely important in this transaction is the surprise that such a person who would play such a small role in the clerk’s life as her customer, and how he made such a huge difference for her and her family like it was as simple as a birthday gift. Also, the absence of hesitation, on his part, was incredible. Once he identified that he could donate this kidney safely, he decided immediately that this was the path that he was going to carry out.
Wow Dan Coyne is a good example of the good people that are still in our society. It really shows the effect that simple kindness can make. This is obviously more than simple kindness, this was a huge donation on his part, but it makes you think what have you done today? Even doing something as small as picking someone’s books up when they drop them all or giving someone an extra dollar when they are short. I know that these simple gestures can truly make me smile and brighten up my day. Dan gave a part of him, literally, and he was more than willing to be able to make a difference in this kind grocery clerk that he had been going to for years. It just makes me feel so unkind when I think about how I am too lazy to take a few hours out of my weekend to go to a philanthropy event. He underwent pain so hers could stop. If everyone did small things like this, well we would never be short blood for one. I have to admit that I have rarely given blood simply because it takes time out and will make me weak for a few hours. What about the people who are weak for weeks and years? This really put things into perspective for me. If Dan gives a kidney I can give my blood along with a few hours of my time. Some people are so easy to simply give a few dollars donation, but sometimes there are things more important and necessary than money. Surprisingly enough people’s money can only go so far. In America we often think money buy happiness but in reality kindness like this makes happiness. People caring and loving builds happiness. Obviously money helps but it isn’t necessary. I would love to be able to meet Dan Coyle and the lady he donated his kidney to and see how it has affected their lives. I know that for me it would be a life-changing experience and I hope that someday I will be able to make a difference like this person made a difference. For now though I will get by giving small kindness to whoever is willing to take it. Whether that is opening a door for another, telling someone I love his or her outfit, or reaching a hand out to someone in need. I know that even these small outreaches can and will make a difference. Then hopefully my outreach will help that person in turn to do the same to another. A cycle of kindness quickly begins and how difficult was it for each of those people to take a few minutes out of their time? Not difficult at all, but that is how we can slowly change the world.
That’s how it all started. The world that we live in is not divided by anything other than the lines that we divide ourselves by. An image that has always fascinated me is the view of the globe from space. When looking at the earth as a whole from afar, you don’t see and boundaries that separate one county from another, all you see is the land and the water. No flags, no political boundaries, no sense of separation, just the land and the water. Over time it seems that the conquest for power and “order” over social control has caused humans to develop these lines in the sand to organize and control some of the uncivilized actions of man. We’ve established boarders to separate Americans form Mexicans, the English form the Irish.
With so much that divides us, stories like this bring a refreshing reminder of the humanity that every person posses. Many people find it hard to hold the door for the next person exiting the coffee shop, but this story of one man donating part of his body to another person –another person who he had no immediate connection shows the real power of the human spirit when challenged. Two things amaze me about the human condition; One, that we can learn to hate so blindly. Mass genocide comes as price of one people who simply can hate another for being different. History has taught us that the cost of human life can be measured by the desire for one person to rule another, without the regard for human life. Two; that acts of human kindness like this may happen far more than we know, and other are not regarded as news worthy.
I’m far from a bleeding hear t liberal that wants to sing and hold hands around the campfire, but I understand that random acts of kindness are needed in the world more now than ever. The case of young love that is described in the second video is so cool because it knows know boundary of the way things work, how things are “supposed” to be. It is innocent; it is unknowing of the realities that past generations have caused.
Did you ever take the time to stop and think about little things in life that can cause tension between people, and then realized how strange and dumb that they are? Isn’t that what this entire class is about? Looking outside of the box, from that OTHER point of view that you may seem to fighting against. I don’t have all of the answers, that’s for sure, damn, I don’t even have some. All I know is that this class has made me think, and a better person for it.
Maybe we can all learn something from these people.
This story was very heartwarming to hear, I was amazed that this kind of kindness is still possible in the society we currently live in. I cannot say that I would be able to do the same thing as this man did because sadly I would not have taken the time to get to know the cashier in the first place. This really demonstrates what can happen when people are kind to one another and genuinely care about the well being of their fellow man. This man demonstrated such selfless behavior by doing this, even though he has his own life and family to worry about he was able to risk all of that to help someone out. I doubt there are many people on this earth that would have displayed the courage and selflessness that this man did to help this woman out. Most people including myself would probably feel bad for her, but would not even think to risk their health and life so that this woman could be healed. The mans family should also be commended, I know that if my father wanted to do this for someone I would probably have a major argument with him about it. To let one of your parents risk their life to save someone, and actually encourage it, as they seemed to is truly unbelievable. This story is especially rare in the society we live in today; there is so much disrespect and rudeness in our society it is amazing to see how far a little kindness can go.
The real message from this story is how far kindness and being polite can get you. You have to remember that if this woman were not pleasant and nice to this man and his family every time they went in the store, this man probably would have never done this for her. I know that when I am checking out somewhere it makes me feel good when the clerk is polite and makes your experience more enjoyable. It is very important for everyone to be kind to people, to often in today’s society people are simply out for themselves. It is very naïve to think that stories like this would inspire people to be more kind, because people just simply seem to not care anymore and behave miserably no matter what. However when hearing a story like this it should inspire people to be more outgoing and kind to people, so one day when they have a problem someone might think enough of them to help them out like this man did. Obviously this is a very extreme example of outgoing kindness, however if people could just display a fraction of the kindness the people involved in this story did the world would be a much better place to live.
Wow, I can't stop smiling after watching the video about the little boy and little girl who like each other – how heartwarming! As I saw in another post while reading some of those already written above, I have oftentimes felt sad or angry or upset after (or during) our class – sometimes based upon what is being said or how it is being said, but many times because it seems that we are becoming more aware of these horrible injustices and realities in our world today and perhaps cannot come up with a good enough solution for such wide-scale problems. I am very glad Sam decided to go another direction with this (one of our last for the semester) post and really bring it back to what matters – kindness. It is incredibly nice to know that genuinely kind people do exist in the world and that, despite the many grave injustices going on still today, many strides have been made as well. These strides and advances exist on every level – from what may seem like smaller acts of kindness (as innocent as relations between children, shown in the video) to what may seem like large-scale acts on the governmental or policy level. I want to talk about each video and the story that video told individually, if I may – the first one was heartwarming and uplifting and really painted a picture of an overwhelmingly selfless individual who did something for someone he barely knew. While I found this somewhat odd (as did the woman who he donated his kidney to in the video), I think it is just because it seems to be such a grand scale thing to do for someone who you are not related to or extremely close with or anything along those lines. When I think about it a little more, though, I think of a line from the Bible that is something like, "Whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren, you do to me." Taking what the man did as solely a good and kind deed to help save this woman amidst sickness directly ties into that line and the notion of seeing one's God in every human being, no matter what he or she looks like, no matter where he or she is from, and no matter how we know (or don't really know…) that person individually. It also builds a strong defense for the case that small acts of kindness and compassion and genuine positivity do not go unnoticed. Had the grocery store clerk been unkind, impatient, or rude to the man, I am sure he would not have so willingly offered a part of his own body to help save this woman's life. It seems a lot is to be said for simple acts of kindness and simply treating one another well. I know it may seem cliche, but I think sometimes that is the only place TO start when we are faced with how to solve much, much bigger problems. Start in your own backyard, in your own family, in your own workplace….and the hope there is that what you do there will have a ripple effect and the trend will continue until it, too, has become much, much bigger.
In regards to the second video, as I stated previously, I watched it over and over because it was one of the cutest things I have ever seen. We have heard time and time again that we can all learn immensely by seeing through the eyes of innocent children, and this video stands as testimony to that. I really think anyone of any race should think that video is adorable, regardless of skin color or ethnicity or any other cultural, personal, or political divide – and if they don't, I do not understand. I like how the video ends by labeling the children "color blind" – as if they, in their young ways, have not yet encountered racism among and between peoples and so they see each other as the same, which, in truth, is the way that everyone should see everyone else. Unfortunately, however, as we have discussed and seen time and time again in Sam's class, this is not the case and humanity struggles with moving forward every single day. I think, though, that this video is wonderful – it is informative, entertaining, and it truly pulls at your heartstrings, cheering for the little boy and his jaw-dropping-smiling face when the girl he likes labels him her "boyfriend." If we can all agree to cheer on his innocence and well-meaning ways, that at least has to be a start to something.
At times, we are faced with things in our life that race matters. I am personally from an Asian Family where it is expected for us to marry or date someone of our own kind.The second video with Tan Hong Ming was really cute and funny, but it really represents a deep message about relationship with one another. The message in that video that race should not really matter in relationship and love, if two people are to fall in love with one another then so be it, love is something that is not suppose to be bound to limits on the basis of race. I remember when i fall in love with a Spanish girl when i was little, my mindset during that age was not based on racism topics nor base on seeing the skin color difference between us, or seeing the difference in culture in us. In that age those topics didnt really matter to me because it was something that didnt really matter to me or made a big deal of in that time. I think kids should just be "colour blind", not just kids but to everything. Why make a big deal of things such as race, appearance, and culture. I think everything should be become one, have people open their hears and minds and experience a world where everything can be seen in peace and unity. The first video where a man give a kidney to a grocery store clerk i thought was really touching, i mean this man with nothing in return goes out and gives a kidney for person who never demanded or asked it from him. The man gave his kidney with a open heart and wanted to assure safety for the person and her dearing life. He represents what good we have in our world, where everyone is willing to help each other and give each other hope and give one us recognition not on the basis of racism and skin color, but on the basis of the inside just do not understand, it is so frustrating to think about the way this world works. We honestly should all have to think about the way our children things and how their minds function, children see no differences on the basis of race and skin color, they see no boundaries or limits in people. We adults have to teach people and our children to live in a world with a open mind and heart and look beyond a person's color. We need a world where everyone is unified and love each other and care for each other not on race but on the inside.
Precious. I feel like my heart got bigger just after watching those videos. A friend of mine is in need of a heart transplant and the wait for a healthy organ and all those other complications are incredibly overwhelming. That man who helped the woman with kidney failure really is an angel on Earth. It makes me wonder why he helped her? I’d love to ask him. What inside you spurred you offer your organ to someone you hardly knew? Was it because it would make you feel good inside, or your primary goal was to help her? I do believe that inside each and every one of us we enjoy helping someone and seeing how our work benefitted them, but not to this length. Actually donating an organ is on a whole different level of service and humbleness. I’m trying to place myself in his shoes and offering a vital organ to a complete stranger is a foreign concept to me. I struggle with this and doubt that I would be able to do it. I guess it’s hard to truly know how you’d react when you’re not in the situation, but I’m certain it wouldn’t be an easy decision. I greatly admire his servant heart. It should be inspirational for us all.
Speaking of caring for others, today I saw a commercial on the TV by The Foundation for a Better Life that was uplifting. It was fairly stereotypical; a girl walked into what appeared to be a high school cafeteria and had no place to sit. She chose to sit at a table with a few other girls who looked inviting but they got up and left after she sat down. One casual observer noticed the girl sitting by herself and left her table of friends to sit with her. The message at the end of the video said “reaching out. Pass it on.” GREAT message. Simply taking time out of one’s day to pay attention to people and lend them your ear goes a long way. A friend of mine is a nursing major and while at work she was assigned a stubborn patient who just wanted to die and refused to take a bath or eat. She offered to give him a massage, which enabled him to open up and within 4 hours a transformation had taken place. He was up, clean, and combed his hair. He even wrote a poem and dedicated it to her (not in a creeper way, just in the appreciative way). We should all think about ourselves a little less and others a little more.
That last video with the young boy was one of the cutest things my eyes have seen in a while.
First and foremost let me say that this kid is one of the cutest kids ever. His reaction and facial expressions are priceless. Now down to business. This just shows what kind of world we live in. We grow up not knowing what is seen as "wrong" and "right" in our cultures. Of course a Chinese man and Malaysian woman can not be together, that is blasphemy. I ask, "why not?" is it so wrong that two people have feelings for each other but can not express them? People let other people shape their views in this world so much that we almost forget who we are. Blacks should only marry blacks, whites should only marry whites. Who says that this is the right way? Children truly are color blind. The fact is that children have it right when all of us in this world have it wrong. As we grow we learn from people around us that these practices are not to be done. There is no reason behind why this can not be done, it is just the way it is. People grow and become blind. We blind ourselves to such issues as this. I just do not understand, it is so frustrating to think about the way this world works. We honestly should all have the minds of children, children see no differences, they see no boundaries. It all comes back to the adults who shape their children's views. Do not even think of bringing a person of a different culture home. A chinese boy and a Malaysian girl. How different are these people? From the looks of it I would have to say they are not so different. Why marry inside of your own culture, is this the only way our world works? It just makes me sick inside thinking about this. People need to step back and realize that despite our cultural differences we are all human beings and are all in someway one body. We were put here for a reason and not many people are working towards any common goal. Instead we choose to stick within ourselves and live our own ignorant and blissful lives. We need to step outside of the box. We need to realize that no one group is superior to another, no group is elite. In the end it will not matter who you hate and who you are friendly with. Like Sam says, we are all going to die, and what matters then? Will it matter who you dated? Will it matter what family you married in to? No, the only thing that will matter is if you led a good life that helped others. Not that you passed down a lifetime of hate onto your young ones and taught them what they can not do. Instead teach them what they can do, and how to open their hearts and minds to a better world.
First I'll address the top video and then the one on the bottom, and afterwards I guess I'll give my two cents on kindness, giving, and love. I've worked at Whole Foods in my hometown for about 3 years now. I can safely say that the clientele there, though some may think are holistic and happy people, are some of the most miserable and rotten people on earth. The market is located in a fairly well to do area, and at least 40 percent of the people who shop there give off a vibe that they are above the workers in all ways. At the registers, I especially try to be as pleasant as possible, but when nearly half the time you have a customer that could give two shits about you, it's kind of difficult. But then there are the other 60%. And I suppose this is where the man in the CNN video would fall; a kind person, who actually makes your 8 hour shift a little bit better by conversing and actually respecting you. The story is great, that a man could be so compassionate to a worker that he hardly knows and help her in the most desperate of times. As for the little boy's story about loving the girl, it was pretty cool. Even at a young age he was nervous that she didn't like him as much as he liked her. Kids represent pure innocence, before they are polluted and corrupted by the worst of society’s ideals and beliefs on how things should really be. As these kids get older though, even if they still love each other they will feel the boiling eyes of their respective cultures bearing down on them. The Malaysian will learn of the repression that her people felt from the Chinese. She may realize that the boy she loves is different, but she still will probably feel pain that it was his people who repressed her people. A lot of times I feel like I have a slightly pessimistic view of people, and don't always see that there is good out there in all of us. Stories like these help to reaffirm that we can co-exist on the planet together, and we can truly be better people. Growing up in a household that taught me tolerance at a young age has helped me grow, and if all of us can teach our children the mistakes we've made, and just have them become a little bit better of a person than we are ourselves, the world will continue to grow. However, there are people who pass down traditions of hate to their children, which can ultimately undermine the goal of everyone opening their hearts to the 'other'.
These two video’s were so inspiring and actually made me tear up a little bit. It’s so reassuring to know there are people in the world that are so willing to help other with question. As for the first movie, it’s so moving to hear that someone is willing to give up part of their own body to help another individual. The women said it the best she truly believed that this man was an angel. You know it random acts of kindness like these that make me believe that there is a God. It also makes me look at myself and realize that I am here to help others in the world. We should all realize that there is a bigger picture that we are not hear just to go to school or work but to enjoy our lives and the lives of others. Life is too short to live from point A to point B. Be thankful for everything you have your family your friends, your pets, just be thankful and appreciative. I don’t believe that we should take anything for granted in this world because we are truly blessed with what we have no matter what. We are simply blessed for being alive today.
This next video is so genuine and priceless. That little dude is awesome and shows us how innocent feelings can be at a young age. This little guy likes a girl for the simplest reasons. Not because she has a lot of money not because she wears the latest fashion but simply by the way she puts her hair in a pony tail. Its things like these that make me want to be that age again because at that age. It just goes to show you that you don’t have to live like the media wants. This kid is so happy and living life that I’m almost jealous. This video just goes to show us that when you’re young you don’t care about the superficial things the media throws at you. We should take this and realize that we used to not care about half the stupid things that we do now. Let’s get back to the basics, love for another doesn’t have to be complicated. I don’t know just thinking that I used to not care what I wore or what I looked like makes me sick. How haven’t we grown to understand that we are all different and unique in our own way? We should be more embracing towards each other. I don’t want to give into the media image I want to live freely and with an open mind. I believe that if we can try to be more open minded and not so caring about what the media want us to be then we will progress as a society.
Yeah, I definitely wasn't crying but that's because I only cry when I am sad and these videos made me super happy so I didn't cry. Isn't it crazy that that little Chinese boy wanted nothing more than to just hold that little girl's hand and (figuratively) he just couldn't. It will be a great day on this planet when that young man can look at that young girl and have absolutely no ethnic bounds to cross in making his decision for love. We must continue to strive for a life that offers us the freedom to live and the freedom to love who we please.
I am so ridiculously inspired by these two stories! Both definitely made me want to cry, and I'm not that much of an emotional person.
I was in shock and awe of the man who gave his kidney to the grocery store clerk. I would consider myself the type of person to do that, but I never really considered that there are other people who feel the same level of connection to others, even if they barely know them. It just goes to show that there is hope, and I'm glad that Sam thought to post these to remind us. Sometimes I come out of class feeling depressed about the state of the world just because people seem to hate each other so much. Clearly some sort of progress is coming along in the form of kindness. I wonder though if it would have made headlines on CNN if these two people had been of the same ethic background? Is that unappreciated kindness. Nice to see that it's always interesting when those who have radical differences come together and are kind to one another. Clearly the ideal would be that this is a commonplace. It amused me to see how very different the man and the woman's reaction to one another was. In the picture of the two of them he has a huge smile while she is semi-serious looking. I don't doubt how grateful she is or how happy she was but her way of showing it was very unique. They were very much the "odd couple". I wish there had been more from his children's perspective and what they thought of what he did.
The two little kids were absolutely adorable. The great thing about kids is that they are so universal. His reaction to her was great. I can remember the days when boys had cooties and they pulled girl's hair because they liked them. I agreed with the message of the video in terms of children. They shouldn't worry about color differences. The irony is probably many people from the United States probably wouldn't even see the ethnic differences between the children. It's pretty easy to group all "Asians" together. So it's a perfect example of how the world should ideally be though I wouldn't argue for being color-blind. Celebrate our differences, don't ignore them or degrade them. But it'd be great if everyone could just give themselves over to pure human connection, love, whatever sappy term you want to call it. It's really sad that at some point they'll lose the ability to love so freely. At some point, and it's a horrible point, someone somewhere will tell them that it's not okay. Clearly our human instinct is to love no matter what may make us different. I think children are brave for never caring that someone's skin is a different color or their eyes are different, or they eat different foods.
These really are great stories for sure. To see the care and love that these humans exhibit toward each other is really astonishing. There really are completely selfless people in the world, you just have to look in the right places. Makes the world feel a lot less empty. Basically, all you can do is control the way that you treat other people. From there, it's pretty much just a roll of the dice. It's just so refreshing to see these two young people completely ignorant of their ethnic differences. We really can live in harmony, I've seen it with my own two eyes.
While these videos did not bring me to tears like so many people are mentioning, they did touch me. It is nice to know that there are still plenty of good people out there in the world that would help a stranger out just as easily as they would help their own family. As far as the second video goes, it is very cute and if only we could shelter kids nowadays so they could keep their innocence for as long as possible. However, life is so sweet and innocent, life is tough and kids need to know about it and how horrible it can be. As beautiful as the fairytales are that we read to our children, they need to know that those are just stories and life doesn't always end up happily ever after.
I think these two stories are very uplifting, and everyone can learn something from them.
I found the first video about the kidney transplant pretty interesting. Giving someone a kidney is a pretty serious thing, and the fact that this man just seemed to do it without really thinking it over that much and without that much hesitation is almost shocking. For a family member, I’m sure anyone would give their kidney. For a friendly grocery clerk? Maybe not so much. Just the fact that this video proves that people like this man actually exist is uplifting in itself.
Another hidden gem in this video is what this kidney transplant means deep down. Here is a Caucasian male and a Latina (I think?) woman. On the outside, racially and genetically, they probably couldn’t be any more different. Yet, they beat the odds of 1 to 4,000 chances and they were a match. There are instances every day where best friends and family members attempt to match for a kidney transplant, and they never will. This just goes to prove that while we all may be different on the outside and treat each other differently because of the color of our skin, on the inside, we are more alike with those of different races than we may ever imagine. This is science, and science is an objective power.
Also, the Tan Hong Ming video on the surface is so adorable. Nothing is cuter when a little boy has a crush on a little girl and wants to ask her to go on romantic dinner dates. You want them to stay that cute and innocent forever. If you dig a little deeper, though, this video has a more profound significance. Children aren’t born with the racial stereotypes that separate and divide our world. They’re all brought into life on equal ground in their eyes, and it isn’t until their parents and society instill social parameters and prejudices in their minds do they lose their innocence.
I wish people can stay like this forever. The Chinese boy and the Malaysian girl don’t see any difference between each other, yet when they’re older, who knows how they will feel about different races. They may separate and only hang out with others of their race because of society or what their family and friends have to say about the other. This is a huge step backwards in regards to race relations.
It just goes to show that children are born without the colored glasses that filter us away from others of a different race. More people need to be simple-minded like these two children. You should like a person because YOU like them, and you shouldn’t let society dictate who you can and can’t like. These children haven’t been influenced by society yet, and hopefully they never will be.
This video was amazing. I thought it was the cutest thing to see what this little boy was saying. They were completely adorable. It's just so sad to know that it couldn't work out between them because of where they were born. Skin color or race or ethnicity or any of that shouldn't matter at all. It's just sad that we are separated because of something that shouldn't matter at all. Personally, i believe that there are many different people that we are compatible with, but I am sure that there is someone who is very compatible to every person. Maybe the most compatible. And if things like race and ethnicity and where you are from holds people back from finding that person, then how could be know for sure that we are with the right person? I mean yeah, obviously we can't meet every single person in the world, but it's nice to see that besides all the restrictions those two little kids still considered each other best friends.
Then to see this man give his kidney to a woman just because she is a nice person? It is just so kind of him to do that for her. It really goes to show that personality should be/ is the most important aspect in deciding how you feel about a person, or your prejudices. It's obviously okay to have a prejudice against a person if its strictly about their personality, but it shouldn't have anything to do with where they were born or anything of the sort. I just never could understand it, and still have yet to.
The very end of that little kid video was so powerful. To say "Our kids are colorblind, shouldn't we keep them that way?" is just like the most beautiful thing I have seen in a while. It is so true, and we definitely should. I wish more people felt that way and didn't think about these things. If everyone who had children preached to their children to be "colorblind" then maybe we could change the world. I don't know what its going to take, but it will take something of that sort.
Kids like that are the ones who prove that all this hatred is just something that has come from social standards. It is not inherently built in us. We wouldn't feel this way if it wasn't for generations behind us. So why do we still follow it? Why don't we cut the damn strings and ignore our prejudices? I hope someday people realize this, and that we actually do.
i can not get over either of these two movies! They are so heart touching and so moving that i wish more people would be able to watch them! i just told all my 5 roommates about these two videos because the first one is that caring and thoughtful, and the second one is a video of the cutest boy i have ever seen! I can not believe that this man actually gave up one of his kidneys and went through a transplant to a cashier clerk he barely knew. Not many people, non that i have ever met would do such a thing and this man should be commended. this man saved someones life, for the betterment of the other person! this man had no idea where she came from, where her family is, where she would end up but he wanted to save her life and give her his kidney! this man is the pure definition of a hero! no one else would ever do this especially for a complete stranger he has only ever encountered at this grocery store! but hey whatever the circumstances are he is a great man, a great heart, helped out a great women and did a great and tremendous thing that no one else, that i know of would ever do!
As far as this little boy, that video is the cutest little thing ever! and the whole movie is so moving. little children are so open to anything, get so excited about any body and any one, and now when children get older color turns into the truth and the way people should live their lives, when why can not every one live the way these children do? this little kid seems like he is the happiest he can be, he seems like nothing could ever go wrong in his world, but yet once children hit a certain age everything changes? when older and young adults grow up times and views start changing. kids have friends and like each other no matter what color skin they have, why can't the rest of the world be the same exact way no matter what the age groups?
overall both of these movies are so moving and so touching i hope more people out side of this class get to watch them and feel the same way i am sure most of us do. i feel that all most of us in this class will watch these videos and feel the same thing, i feel that we have all learned through our soc 119 experience and that no long are things as strange as they once were. i feel that yes, it is odd that a stranger gave his kidney away to someone he barely knew, but it is the gesture and the aspect of saving the woman's life is what we all need to realize is the true heroic thing this man did. this two young children in the second video, before this class many of us i'm sure wouldn't think twice about two young kids, but now we think about those two young kids will grow up and start thinking differently because of today's society, and because of society's thoughts. more people need to think like these young children, like this heroic man who gave away his kidney and like us as students in soc 119 who have learned and opened our views to bigger and larger things.
This video was very touching and actually made me tear up in class. At first I didn’t understand what was occurring so I had to watch it over again and that was when I finally understood. These two little children were in love and they did not know how one another felt for the other one. When they finally discovered that they were feeling the same way it was nothing but happiness. Whenever I would tell an adult I was in love or whenever I would hear a friend tell their parents they were in love, the response we always received was that we were too young and knew nothing about love. This angered me because I hate people telling me that I do not know things are I am too “young” to experience the real thing. These two little kids are definitely too young, but who are we to tell them they do not know anything about love? If anything they know more about love than a lot of people do because their love is innocent. They do not see or have to deal with the superficial things adults are coping with in society today and they are free to just love. After all, isn’t that what love is all about? To be free and share beautiful emotions with someone who can share them with you also? I guess I would not know because according to everyone I was never in “love.” It is sad that they could never be together because of their race, but it something I could relate to. I was born in the Bronx, New York so I was mainly surrounded by people of color. I never really saw white people unless it was on television or across the street where the court house was. Even then I never really looked at them as being white because it was never an interest to me. This changed when I moved to Pennsylvania and became one of the few Latinas in the school. The setting had changed and now I was the one who was different. My best friends were now white and I even started liking white boys. It was not until high school when I had my first real boyfriend, who was white. I thought I was in love with him, but of course my mother would say no. She did not want me to have a boyfriend because I was too “young.” At the time I did not agree, but looking back at it she had a reason to say this. It did not bother me as much that she did not want me to have a boyfriend, but that she told me I should not be with a white boy and she rather me be with someone of my own culture. I did not understand and I was going through my rebel stage, so I refused to listen to her anyway. She tried to explain that we just came from two different cultures and understanding each other would be difficult and so would life if we were to end up together. Honestly, she may have been right, but if I was really in love who is she to tell me what is right? Love has no color and it shouldn’t, which is why when children love it is so pure and real. It is innocent.
Every once in a while you hear or watch something that brings tears to your eyes. Dan showed such kindness with his gift to Mira that you cannot help but to feel a sense of happiness and elation that people like Dan exist in the world. It was truly a selfless act of humanity for a person who was almost a stranger. It is hard to imagine the type of person who would submit himself to major surgery in order to improve the life of an acquaintance who he probably never spoke to outside of the market. Not only did Dan do a wonderful thing but he involved his family in the generous act and by doing so enriched the lives of his children as well as Mira and himself.
I think that both of these videos were great videos, which show the good that’s in the world. The first video was truly touching to think that a man would undergo a surgery and give up an organ to a woman he only knew by going through her checkout line. That is a huge sacrifice to make, but that man changed the woman’s life forever. I think it shows that among all of the hate and destruction that we hear about every day, on the news and just in everyday life, there are still people who would make a completely selfless donation, just because they thought it was the right thing to do.
The second video was also great to watch. The little kids were adorable, and the little boy’s face when she said he was her boyfriend was so funny! However, I also find this video to be really sad, because like the message at the end of the video says, kids are color blind, however sadly they don’t often stay that way. I am an elementary education major, and therefore have spent a lot of time around young children and it always amazes me how they don’t regard race the way adults do. It’s so refreshing to see that they don’t yet understand that race matters in the world. I think they notice race from a young age however, but they just don’t care the way many adults seem to when they grow older. Good family friends of mine have adopted two children, one from China and one from Guatemala. They just recently moved, but they use to live in upstate New York, in a town that was very predominantly white, where their children were two of only a few kids who weren’t white. However, it pleasantly surprised me that race wasn’t an issue in their children’s lives yet, since they are still so young. Their daughter who is Chinese would always joke that she had a boyfriend named Sam, a blond hair, blue eyed boy. However, I sadly think that their race would be an issue as they got older. Eventually, maybe as they started dating, it would become an issue for them to be dating people of a different race. Their parents recognized this and it influenced their decision to move to a city which was more diverse. It makes me so sad, and also angry, to think that one day they may not be allowed to date or be friends with someone because people will have a problem with their race.
I think that this shows that problems between races are learned and taught. If kids can be “color blind” then why can’t adults. As with many things in life, I think that adults could learn a lot from the simple and accepting way that children live their lives.
Both of these videos were really touching, I'd elaborate more, but I think I would just be repeating the words of previous posts in slightly different language. So instead I'll leave the forum with a poem that speaks to me just as deeply as these two videos just did. I was introduced to this my Dr. Christopher Uhl. I was a TA last semester for his Bi Sci 003 course, which is a type of Environmental Science course that teaches far more than "textbook science." As I understand, Sam and Chris are good friends, and I have to say that I see a lot of similarities between the two — yet a world of differences. I want to leave you all with this, and sincerely encourage you to take Dr. Uhl's class in the Fall. If you appreciate this class at all, I'm confident that you can find something beautiful about Oriah's words:
The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer
It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing.
It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.
It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shriveled and closed from fear of further pain! I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it or fade it, or fix it.
I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own, if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, to be realistic, to remember the limitations of being human.
It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself; if you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul; if you can be faithless and therefore trustworthy.
I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day,and if you can source your own life from its presence.
I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand on the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, “Yes!”
It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up, after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done to feed the children.
It doesn't interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.
It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away.
I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.
You know, sometimes I sit down and start thinking about the past for quite a while. As I mull through some of the good memories, the bad ones, and everything in between, there is usually a moment of realization that follows. I'm never going to be a kid ever again. Isn't that odd? Thus far (depending on your definition) I have been a kid for at least 50% of my life. That's a pretty sizable chunk! So, when I look at a video like this one and see the genuine care that little boy has for the other girl, it's a pretty cool thing. The longer that we as individuals are here on this Earth, the more and more conditioned we become toward its consistencies. Young children though are merely living on a whim. It's one of the most refreshing things you could ever experience, I'm sure. This young kid has absolutely no idea what the implications of dating a young Malaysian girl could be, and he doesn't care. He likes HER. Not her status, her nationality, her parent's bank account, but he likes HER. You know, the thing that really is a shame is that, we can't find anything remotely like that amongst American adults. It's almost like the thing to do nowadays, get married 2 or 3 times. We're witnessing completely unconditioned, unaltered love. How is it that we can let all of these "problems" with ethnicity and skin color get in the way of one of the most important things we have as humans? To deny someone the right to fall in love is to deny someone the right to life. It is unlikely that that little boy and that little girl will be around each other long enough to where they could take a serious shot at being together, but if they could, it would end in total devastation for both of them. Of course, this isn't any one person's fault or anything like that but this video really has to bother you. There's just something about their blissful naiveté that speaks infinitely louder than any words could ever hope to. In the end, that's really the only thing we're seeking: happiness. These two young kids, unbeknownst to them, are seeking pure happiness. Who is to deny them that right? When cultures begin to deny the happiness of its citizens, perhaps it is time to think about the place you live. Love and happiness are the only two basic human rights that require not one possession or dollar to obtain. So I ask, what is the sense in denying two people their rights to happiness and love? Especially since it affects others in absolutely no way whatsoever.
I love watching and hearing stories like these two. I'd like to talk about the first video first, then I will get into the second video. This guy, Dan, has more kindness in him than most people could ever dream of having. What he did was genuine, to say the least. It would be considered a truly good deed if a person gave their kidney to a family member or a best friend. However, Dan took it to a whole different level. This lady that he says he "knew" for twelve years was a cashier at his local grocery store. He saw her maybe once a week for probably about five minutes and that was it. The extent of their conversations were probably asking each other how they were doing and then how much his total was for that given day. She didn't even know who his kids were. Yet, when he found out about her problem it doesn't even seem like he hesitated. He just thought, this lady needs a kidney and I have an extra one. In a world that seems to be struggling; seeing people like this really gives us all hope. Helping people out is contagious and it really makes people feel good about themselves. If everyone would just realize this, people would stop striving for wealth and start trying to go after something better then money or power. If everybody's goal in life was to try and help people out, we wouldn't have things like slavery, racism, or murder. People wouldn't fuck their associates over just to make a quick buck. I think we can all learn something from Dan when it comes to trying to be a good person.
Watching the second video, it really brought the inner kid out of me. I remember the days when life was care free and the most important things on your mind was playing with your friends or your first crush. Now it's not failing classes and how am I going to pay for this or that. I wish I could go back to those days just so I could enjoy that feeling again. The kid in this video can bring a smile to your face no matter how bad of a day you are having. At the end, when the girl says that she is his girlfriend, his face is priceless. He doesn't care about race or ethnicity. Those are the last things on his mind. And to answer the last question in that video; it's good to think that we could. However, our world is a long way from being able to accomplish that task.
These two stories are both very touching; they really speak to the character of the human population. In this class we often look at the problems that we are dealing with in our world. The videos are a reminder that although we have a lot of problems that we have to deal with in the world there are still just as many people who are compassionate, loving, and caring.
Sam does a great job in class of making us think about what is and what could be. As I think about some of the topics he brings up I can’t help but to think about the what if’s. What if the world were as good and as loving and as tight as we all dream it could be. It is a what if so the chances of a utopian society are slim but still there is hope for a better world. These videos are examples of what should be happening all through the world. In the kidney video there is a white man who gives his kidney to an Asian store clerk. This shows a tremendous amount of compassion and respect. It is not everyday that someone is willing to give a kidney and on top of that it was basically for a complete stranger. These acts of colorblind kindness are what should be the goals of every living being on the earth. If everyone was treated with this same respect and compassion then the world would be perfect. Things will never be perfect though so really the best thing we can do at this point is change one thing out of our day to help someone else. I believe that we should all start to talk about and think about karma. It is real, no doubt about it. We all should be thinking about karma on a daily basis. Good Karma comes from doing good things like giving a kidney and even small things like helping someone carry their books. Building up good karma and doing good things are what get us ahead in life. By doing this we learn a lot about ourselves as well as learning about the person you just helped. The golden rule is basically karma without the karma aspect. Do things to others as you would want done to you. This is karma basically, just do stuff that isn’t mean and hurtful. As basic as it seems it is rare that any of us actually think about and follow this rule on a day to day basis. The greatest quote I ever read was, “Good things happen to good people” this quote couldn’t be truer. The better you treat your neighbors, friends, and acquaintances the better your life will be in the end.
Wow! What great videos! I was so happy to see both of these videos posted. They are both so extremely uplifting and put me in such a happy mood. I had already seen the second video in class, but it was even better watching it again for a second time around. Both videos are ones that everyone should see.
The first video about Dan giving his kidney away to Myra, the grocery store clerk was very astounding. This is an amazing act of kindness; in fact, words cannot really express how kind that deed was. Personally, I do not think I would give my kidney away to a complete stranger, but I suppose the situation has never really come up. I feel that usually in places like grocery stores, the customers barely acknowledge the workers there unless they are paying or have a question. This can be understandable because people get busy and are sometimes very focused when they are shopping, but barely ever give the time of day to the employees, especially the cashiers.
Dan and Myra both seem like such great and genuine people. Myra is such a great person for taking a mundane job and turning into a friendly atmosphere and make others feel great about life and wanting to do such great acts such as Dan. It was so great to see how appreciative Myra was for the deed that Dan did for her. No matter how she was feeling, she was always kind to the customers, and Dan knew her so well that he knew she was not being herself. While Myra may just be a cashier to some customers, to Dan, she is a life-changer and vice versa. With all of the horrible news that we hear about these days, I think that we should be becoming aware of the great stories such as these. It is stories that these that inspire others to do similar acts of kindness.
And of course, the second video is so bittersweet. It is remarkably sweet to see the boy’s expression when he is with and talking about the girl that he likes so much. While it is very cute, there is a very important underlying message about being “color blind.” The world definitely would be a better and peaceful place is we all were colorblind towards races, just like these young children are. Everyday, people in love are being torn apart, judged, and tortured if they are of different races or backgrounds. It is really a sad thing to see. While this video was portraying young children and was a bit silly, we need to seriously consider the fact that this happens in reality. Like the first video, it was very inspiring and thought-provoking and more commercials and videos like these should be out there for the public to see.
I must say it is nice to see some quality “feel good” stories, especially during this time when so many of us are over-stressing and worrying endlessly about our lives. The first video is quite a story (and as some have pointed out, a little extreme). To think that someone would willingly give their kidney to a complete stranger and undergo the risks of surgery and a life with one kidney is truly remarkable. It is a great example of how such a strong and necessary connection can be made with someone you barely even speak to. When I was in Paris this past winter break, I went to the same bar every night I was there for a “night cap” drink. I don’t speak a lick of French and the owner didn’t speak but two words in English. Yet some how, night after night we would “talk” for sometimes hours about the most random of events and topics through some convoluted and half assed form of communication. Watching this video made me think of that because it is clear that although this man knows the woman only through their interactions at the grocery store check out line, he has still established an amazing connection with her and one he views valuable enough to risk his life for.
The second video is very different than the first and yet still is very much a “feel good” clip. As many people have pointed out, the kid’s answers and reactions are just hilarious and he truly gives the video its strong impact. It is easy to watch the video and only think of the childhood love aspects of it, thus ignoring the actual message it is supposed to convey: those two kids should not be together for reasons far beyond their understanding. Videos like this provide us with some type of hope that grudges and prejudices will eventually fade out, and that people one day really will be able to live freely everywhere. However hopeless the reality of this may actually be, I am content with being ignorant to reality sometimes.
As somewhat of an aside to these two videos, I also wanted to comment on the AIDS story Sam presented to us at the end of class. The quote from the young boy who died from AIDS was truly remarkable, and as Sam said, is one that all of us could easily live our daily lives in accordance to. Amidst all the stress of finals week and the fates of our lives it is extremely easy to be overcome by the tasks we face. In my opinion, the best way for us to succeed is to operate as the young boy stated: facing the challenges that are in front of us right now, not looking ahead, and basically just giving it our best shot.
Thursday’s class was pretty cool. Although staring at a random partner for minute after minute after minute was about as awkward as it gets, I thought the message was a good one. I liked how Sam constructed the class, allowing students to ask questions that had arisen throughout the semester but really didn’t fit into what we were talking about at the time. I think a lot of people got to know Sam better in that last class, and saw more of the person he is as opposed to the instructor (there is definitely a distinction). It was a great finish to an eye opening class.
As I sifted through the comments, I noticed many people were saddened by the fact that the overall reaction to these stories was shock (sadness too of course, but shock that good people are out there). In response to that I just want to say that I know there are a lot of good people out there and that there are a lot of good people here at Penn State. The main thing we need to appreciate is that is doesn’t take a kidney donation to really be a “great guy.” Sure we were all amazed at how selfless that man was, but there are many great acts of selflessness happening right in front of us that we either take for granted or don’t even see. CNN made that man an international hero (to an extent), but not everyone’s story makes it to CNN and not everyone has the opportunity to act so courageously. If we all look more closely at the people around us, I think we would be surprised to see how many great people there actually are.
I love watching and hearing stories like these two. I'd like to talk about the first video first, then I will get into the second video. This guy, Dan, has more kindness in him than most people could ever dream of having. What he did was genuine, to say the least. It would be considered a truly good deed if a person gave their kidney to a family member or a best friend. However, Dan took it to a whole different level. This lady that he says he "knew" for twelve years was a cashier at his local grocery store. He saw her maybe once a week for probably about five minutes and that was it. The extent of their conversations were probably asking each other how they were doing and then how much his total was for that given day. She didn't even know who his kids were. Yet, when he found out about her problem it doesn't even seem like he hesitated. He just thought, this lady needs a kidney and I have an extra one. In a world that seems to be struggling; seeing people like this really gives us all hope. Helping people out is contagious and it really makes people feel good about themselves. If everyone would just realize this, people would stop striving for wealth and start trying to go after something better then money or power. If everybody's goal in life was to try and help people out, we wouldn't have things like slavery, racism, or murder. People wouldn't fuck their associates over just to make a quick buck. I think we can all learn something from Dan when it comes to trying to be a good person.
Watching the second video, it really brought the inner kid out of me. I remember the days when life was care free and the most important things on your mind was playing with your friends or your first crush. Now it's not failing classes and how am I going to pay for this or that. I wish I could go back to those days just so I could enjoy that feeling again. The kid in this video can bring a smile to your face no matter how bad of a day you are having. At the end, when the girl says that she is his girlfriend, his face is priceless. He doesn't care about race or ethnicity. Those are the last things on his mind. And to answer the last question in that video; it's good to think that we could. However, our world is a long way from being able to accomplish that task.
best video ever, the kid's reaction is priceless
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First of all I just want to say that both those videos actually made me want to cry. But as far as the first video goes, it is so nice to hear that there are still people out there who will do such extreme favors for others because they care. Sometimes it feels like people in this world just are too busy to even hold the door open for someone else but it is stories like these that remind us that when it comes down to it people are willing to help others. It also makes the story even a bigger deal when you think about who these people are and how they come from completely different spectrums. The woman can barely speak any English and this man is a working, middle class man who just happens to see her when he goes to the grocery store. Their lives are completely different and they could easily just pass each other when they see each other and not create a friendship but because they are caring people this was the result. It is amazing that this man gave up his kidney for this woman. He changed her life drastically for someone who he was not even related to which is truly amazing. It is sad that there are not more people in the world like this because although it is a big favor to ask to do something this extreme, it would really make the world a better place if people were this kind. If people made friends with the cashier who rings them up at the grocery store even if it is just to be nice it would really make people happier in general. It is a shame people can’t be more accepting the way this man is and willing to do things for other people the way he does. As far as the second video goes, I was confused at first because I was not really sure what the direction was that this video was taking but then I understood when it got to the end. It actually is true when you think about how less judgmental children are then adults. Kids barely know the differences between people and when they’re too young to know the differences, they are actually more accepting then most adults. It is the environment that turns people against each other. Kids aren’t born to be racist or to hate other groups, they learn it from their parents or from the people who’s example they follow. This video sort of does tie in with the first video. If people could be more accepting of each other and “color blind” maybe people would be more willing to do these acts of kindness for each other and our world would just be a better place.
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klpski44 Reply:
April 28th, 2010 at 9:52 pm
It is a bit of an extreme example of kindness to give up your kidney for someone you barely know, however I agree that it is great to see that this type of kindness still does exist. I totally agree that it seems like most people cannot be bothered to be even the least bit kind to someone else. This story demonstrates how far just a little bit of kindness can go and what can be accomplished by it. There stories make it even more amazing this woman being Asian and poor, most people would not care to develop a relationship with her. And the man being a social worker at a high school is probably not rolling in money, and the fact that he was willing to put his life and family on hold to help someone is truly amazing.
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I have to say that when I watched both of these videos, I kind of wanted to cry, too. It just so nice to see that are people with these characteristics out there. In a world, where people seem to not care about anyone else, but themselves, it is always nice to be reminded that there is still caring and this simple love out there. In the first video, it made me so happy to see someone so giving and caring. He actually gave something to someone who he is not even related to, but still considers that person family. It just goes to show it does not matter who you are or what kind of ethnicity you are, everyone is equal. It is so nice to see that this man would only see this woman maybe not even once a week, but he changed her life. He gave up something for someone who he barely sees to save her life. To me, this kindness and love in the world is what everyone needs.
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fmh109 Reply:
April 26th, 2010 at 11:12 pm
I kind of wanted to cry too watching these videos. They really were so uplifting and so sweet. I love that we got a chance to comment on something so wonderful and caring instead of the usual more unsettling topics we discuss in race relations. I hope that maybe next year Sam decides to include more lessons that inspire and motivate others to really care for others around them instead of focusing on past transgressions and all the bad things that exist in the world. These videos have really inspired me to consider other’s situations and it really illustrates a quote that I love, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
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In the second video, it just goes to show that everyone is truly equal. It is the judgmental adults in the world that cause the problems. When you are little, you really do not understand anything. You are always trying to figure things out and understand why everything is the way it is. The last thing on a child’s mind is different races. Do you really think a child thinks that if another child does not look the same as that, that it means they should treat them differently. Children are more accepting and do not think about race. When they grow older, they are then submitted into a world of prejudice and judgment. If only the adults of the world can think back to when they were younger and look at the world they used to know.
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It was hard not to think that their love was adorable. It makes you not think about race really when you watch it because that should not be a problem at all. I can see how it does tie in with the first one by means of accepting each other no matter who were are. If only more people could be like the man and woman in the first video and the two little children in the second video. There would not be any race problems that we would have to deal with and everyone would be able to understand each other. If people are willing to help others and to care for others in a world where we are dealing with all of these issues today, it just goes to show that there definitely is progress and improvement toward a better society. If everyone gave a little kindness every day and if everyone cared as much as children do.
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With all the things in this world that want to make you not believe in humanity, a lot of things in this class really show you what kind of good people can do in the world. As far as the first video, I cannot imagine even giving an act of kindness like that. Me and my buddy have a good relationship with one of the lunch ladies in the dining commons. We see her everyday, and it's really a pleasant part of our day to talk to her and what have you. But put in the position and giving her one of my kidneys? I would like to think that I would have the courage in my heart to give a kidney up, but that's even a little unnerving to think about. I applaud this man for just that, his courage. This isn't something fake that he did to get recognition from people, this was his kidney. The love and commitment that his actions must have taken is unimaginable. It's easy to give a kidney to your dad, uncle, or spouse. This guy probably goes to the grocery store once a week, and still has the kind of relationship with this woman to save her life. This is an outstanding man, and an outstanding story.
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fmh109 Reply:
April 26th, 2010 at 11:06 pm
I completely agree with you. It is so easy to form casual friendships with others, but so much more complicated to commit that kind of kindness and courage to someone you barely know. This man really gave up a part of himself to someone he had no personal or intimate connection with. I would also love to believe that I could sacrifice something like my kidney for another person in a dire situation, I’m not sure that I could, but after seeing this video I think that I would make a much more committed attempt to really evaluate my final decision.
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Wow those are some really touching stories. The one about the kidney transplant especially hit me. Often in this class, the topics are kind of gloomy and easy to get down on. However this was really uplifting and inspiring. It goes to show that there are still many, many good people left in this world. A lot of people say that we are crumbing as civilization and all common decency no long longer exists. This video proves there is still good left.
Also what was really interesting was how it was a white, successful man giving his kidney to a poor, Asian women. It crossed racial bounds, as it did not matter in the least that they were from completely different backgrounds. That guy made a huge difference in a person’s life that was really suffering. He is an angel I guess.
This also hit home for me because my grandfather on my dad’s side needed a kidney transplant a few years ago. Luckily he found a match, but there was definitely a feeling of dread and hopelessness among us who were not a match. I felt very strongly and would have given mine if I was a match. One of my 3rd cousins was a match and gave his. Still, it was a scary situation.
In my book, this all comes down to karma. I do believe in karma, it all comes back to you at some point in your life. It always does. If a person does something great like giving a kidney, they are setting themselves up for something good down the road. When this guy is in dire need of help, he will probably get it. The world tends to unfold as it should.
I thought that the other video was pretty interesting as well, although I didn’t fully understand it. Since they were different races is that why they couldn’t be together? It wasn’t explained very well in the video. I just thought that the kid was cute and I could relate it to my own experiences as a child. We all had those little embarrassing crushes as kids. Everyone did. We all were shy about it and we had no idea why. People all around the world are literally the same as us. Except for the color of their skin, everyone is the same.
I was cheering for the kid in the video at the end. It was really funny to see him grinning like a goofball when his crush was being interviewed. She didn’t like him, but she didn’t want to say it. He eventually grabbed her and walked off with her. At that point I was like “OK little pimp!” That kid is awesome.
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klpski44 Reply:
April 28th, 2010 at 9:46 pm
These stories were both very neat to see however I do agree with you and say that there is not much that the second story can do to compete with the first story. It is neat to hear this from the perspective of someone that has experience with this type of situation, as you did with your grandfather. I also agree with you that karma probably has a lot to do with what happened here, I too believe that if you are nice to people and lead a respectful life good things will come your way. This might take some time and it might not be the most extravagant thing in the world however good things will come if you do good things for others.
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The thing about kidney failure really hits home, because I know how much goes in to having a transplant and the fact that this random stranger was a match for a random cashier is amazing. My mom is a social worker for people with kidney failure and who deal with dialysis. All my life i've grown up knowing about dialysis and knowing all the facts. I know you only need one kidney to live and would donate one to anybody in my family in a heartbeat so that they wouldn't have to suffer. I don't know if i would give to a stranger for the sole purpose, that I'm selfish and want to save it for a potential family member.
I've grown up walking through the dialysis unit and seeing the blood trasnfussions that people have to sit through for three hours, because there kidneys don't filter their systems for them. That some random stranger could stop the suffering for someone out of the good of their heart is amazing. My mom or somebody else in her unit always needs to work on holidays. The patients don't go on vacation on busy holidays where accidents are prone because as sick as this sound, there waiting for a kidney that somebody else can no longer use. The transplant list is extremely long and it takes a while to actually find a match and a willing donor. I'm baffled by the fact that two strangers were matches like that. That man not only made that cashier's day, but he changed her life. Growing up with the knowledge of kidneys, the struggle of dialysis and having it constantly surround my life, made this video make such a larger impact on me, then it would for something else. For example, if it was another disease, I would probably feel the same way towards this man and think that what he did was incredible and that he really is a sincere good person, which is rare to find now. However, the fact that it did deal with kidneys made more of an impact on me over most people in the class.
I would never wish dialysis on anybody in the world. The pain and suffering they go through is tolerable, but nobody should have to deal with it. I hope that there are more people like the man in the video out there. I hope that those on the transplant list and soon off of it and that people are getting healthier. Dialysis is the only medical condition that takes medcade if you're not of age for it. You're in the hospital three times a week for three hours at a time and people don't understand. With all the bad things going on in world, the news is more focused on that because lets face it, that gets more viewers. However, with all of those bad things, its sometimes nice to be reminded of the good things going on in the world. It's a good reminder that with all these natural disasters and wars going on in the world, it's good to be reminded that there are good people around. I may do something in the world and it may or may not affect someone else. However, if i do something positive that affects just one person I feel like I did something well. It may not be as big a deed as giving away my kidney to improve someone else's quality of life, but it will make me feel better and feel like a better person for it and if each person could do one nice thing for another person, the world would overall be a better place.
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I am so glad Sam posted some videos to warm our hearts. I feel like I am usually upset or unsettled after watching videos or reading articles posted on the race relations website, it was nice to watch two videos to counteract all the negativity in the world. It just goes to show that for all the hatred and discrimination and apathy out there, their opposites exist as well, and I would like to think that there is more good than bad.
The video about the man offering his kidney to his favorite checkout woman at the grocery store was probably the single most sweet and caring video I have ever seen. He asked nothing in return, his only desire was to help another human being. This unconditional love and caring for the human condition is truly inspirational for everyone to really consider what you can do for others instead of writing off their concerns. I think this man really exemplified the best of the human spirit and I commend him for being so selfless and charitable. I think that often people only make such personal and selfless offers if someone in their family is ill and I think if more people hear this man’s story perhaps it will inspire others to consider what they can do for others and sacrifice for more than just immediate family. I think it is hard to imagine going through surgery for another person, but I think it might be harder for me to say no if I knew I would be able to save someone’s life. Being on dialysis is not living the way humans are meant to live, and this man sacrificed his own potential well being to improve the life of another. It is truly inspiring.
I also found the video of the two kids utterly adorable. They probably could not have found a more charismatic and engaging young boy to interview… he really tugged at my heartstrings. I loved how the message they were presenting came at the end of the video and as an audience you were presented with the children’s answers before seeing the overall theme of the video. I think the children represented such innocence and acceptance, which is so often missing past adolescence. It is so interesting how children develop their worldviews at such a young age and there should be a lot of emphasis placed on their cultural and moral development. What adults say around kids has such an impact on the way they think of others and I love that this video brought attention to that.
I think these videos were the perfect way to start the week before finals and I hope that everyone gets a chance to watch and feel a bit more uplifted about all the good that humanity offers instead of always being brought down by the bad.
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After hearing Dan Coyne explain how Myra is such a nice woman it makes me wonder why such bad things happen to nice innocent people. What made Myra deserve this illness? Myra’s story brings questions to my head such as, is illness something that is truly someone’s destiny that God chooses for us or is it just utter bad luck. It is true luck that Dan Coyne, a man so willing to donate a kidney to Myra, was actually a match for her. It was touching to see how generous Dan was. He is a very considerate man and the fact that he started to cry tears of joy after he found out he was a match is great proof of this. I thought the idea that Dan Coyne had to offer Myra his kidney was so touching and also creative. I cannot believe that many people like Dan Coyne exist in this world. I agree with Myra when she calls him an angel living on earth because he truly seems like an angel from God to me. When I think of angels these are the kinds of things I imagine them doing for any human. I have never heard a story of such generosity especially between two people who are in no way related. I think the video below this story of the little boy is also very touching. I cannot believe how maturely this boy talks at such a young age. I was also surprised to hear how readily and openly he shared his feelings. I have never heard a young child talk so seriously about a crush and I wasn’t aware they could experience such strong feelings for the opposite sex at that young of an age. The line at the end of the video was a very eye opening moment for me because it is so true. Children are color blind then when they grow up to read and see things on television this is when they develop racist attitudes. So in a sense, what I’m really saying is that I think we should all be more like children. Most young children accept each other regardless of their color, unless they grow up in extremely racist families and are taught prejudice behaviors at a young age. It’s sad that young children could teach educated adults a very good lesson that they have grown to forgot. We are all human and we are all equal. No man or woman is better than the other and people need to start realizing that and treating each other fairly. You should never look down on someone unless you are helping them up. If every child from now on stayed “color blind” throughout adulthood the world would be a much better and just place. Everyone would get along and no one would be judged just because of the color of their skin is different.
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This video reminds me of how carefree being a child was. When you are a kid you know nothing and believe everything. The Addidas slogan “anything is possible” is a reality. We were brand new pieces of clay free of imperfections and ready for molding. It is nearly impossible to watch this video without imitating the boy’s ear to ear smile when he talks about his elementary school crush. Then when his girlfriend enters the picture and you see that she is just as passionate as he is you almost want to clap. These two children remind us that we are all part of one tribe, humanity.
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It is very enjoyable to watch these out of the ordinary, change of pace, feel-good videos. The video about the cashier and her favorite customer is one that proves that there are still people on this planet who care more about others than they do about themselves. It truly is amazing that he is that selfless. I wonder what would happen if we had someone like this in the white house? Perhaps the United States would regain our good name and be seen as a country that cares more about global issues and human rights than oil and profit margins.
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I have a five year old cousin and a three year old cousin who are sisters. I love hanging out with them; not just because they are cute or funny but because they are still so innocent. They are unbiased, unracist and just see life in simple manners. I was I could be more like them. Every day we are bombarded with media that tells us to act this was, think this way… do this thing. When the hell did it become okay for people to not even use their own minds when making decisions!?!? Then there are people like the man who donated his kidney…. We should all be more like him. I don’t even think I can name one cashier at my grocery store… let alone ever think to donate a vital organ to one of them. I am pleasantly amazed that people like this man still exist in today’s fucked up selfish world. I don’t believe in God or angels or any of that but this man is truly a saint. I wish I were more like him too. I think we should all try to be more like him.
In regards to the adorable little boy, I say to him “don’t loose your innocence”. I think that’s what the problem is these days…. Everyone know everything about everyone. Do you want to know who you ex is hooking up with? Just check Facebook. Or if you want to know what Brittany ate for lunch? Just check Twitter. Its ridiculous how much information we can get on the internet…. Its not natural. We are not supposed to know every tiny detail of everyone’s lives. Its like humans are getting closer and closer to being God like…I don’t mean that in a good way. Im rambling.
What I am trying to get at is that society, technology and media have really fucked us up. There are not many people like the man in the video left in the world and that is quite a shame. We need more people like him. We should all work to actually get to know people… don’t allow the Internet to be your connection to someone…. Talk to them in person! We could all learn a lot from children too. We should aspire to be more like them… don’t take life too seriously. Its like Sam says “we are all going to die anyway” so you better do something fucking amazing like this guy did and act more like this little boy did because if not, no one will ever remember you.
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The first video is really cool that someone would do that, but for some reason I just feel skeptical of his motives. Maybe I'm just cynical, but all I can picture is that he must think he is really great. I'm sure he thinks himself to be very righteous, and even though he deserves to feel good about himself, it bothers me that people like this often have such a high opinion of themselves. On the other hand I see the value in his actions regardless of what his motive is, and I see how terrific his charity truly is. Even though it is a little tough to get past what I perceive to be overt righteousness, I definitely admire what he has done, and I hope more people follow his example in contributing extraordinary acts of kindness toward others.
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I enjoyed both of these videos very much. The first video takes a look at a man who has compassion for other people that he does not necessarily know. This is almost impossible to find today as we have so many prejudices and stereotypes against others. Most people operate in a selfish way, worried about their prerogative. It is nice to see that some people still think and consider others without even knowing them very well. Just imagined if this was not a rare story and that people decided to act this way all of the time. It is sad to think of how we continually teach our children to be wary of those around us and never so much to be compassionate and help others. This man truly is an inspiration and one day I hope that this won't just be a special report but a common occurrence in our country. Even her initial reaction shows the mindset of our country as she says "what is he crazy? I barely know him." In the end, she realizes he is just a saint.
The second video is also very heartwarming and shows us that there is a lot to learn from children and that sometimes we should think in a simpler manner. Especially in Asia, but very prevalent here in the US, there is prejudice against inter racial couples. If we just take a look at children we would realize this is immoral and unethical. Human beings are all one in the same and to judge another because of their race, culture, or religion should not be accepted. This is a very powerful message, and the deliverance by children makes it even more touching. Kids are free of stigmas of society and they think simply and passionately. It is very heartwarming to see these two kids, free from bias and racial based thinking. Sometimes adults should learn to operate in more of the same manner and stop worrying so much about insignificant things that can ruin relations between family and loved ones.
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The first video demonstrates the love that should exist between all human beings. This man did not know this woman, and he still gave a part of himself to her. He was willing to go through all of the hassles of surgery and recovery to save this strangers life. This also demonstrates how people who love and who give also receive. This clerk was friendly to everyone that she met and she always had a smile on her face. She did not distinguish between race or any other aspect. This is why the man was so willing to give her his kidney.
The second video was so precious. It shows the innocence of a child. It is a shame that children are the ones that have to teach us how to live. They do not judge anyone because of their color of skin or their nationality. They are pure beings that if society lets it, will be tainted my so much injustice in the world and so much judgment. Adults tend to judge people based on their exterior.
Children are born, at least I am told by social scientists, with purity, with no predetermined hate of others. Therefore, one can conclude that children learn hatred, racism, and stereotyping, but the question still remains where do these seeds of hate begin, and what can we all do to stop them from growing into dried-up tumbleweeds? Today's economy, in the United States, is so bad that both parents have to work just to make ends meet. This may cause the child to grow up quicker than they should. It may also cause from them to raise themselves. Many children are not being given the daily lessons of morality and the feelings of love and compassion are not their
In other words, today's world is much too focused on the individual, when it should be more concerned with our children. The children are the future. If they believe these thoughts of racism then that is what the world will continue to be life. If children do not learn about racism and stereotyping, and how it is not acceptable, then we have failed. I think we should show children different cultures and teach them that they are all beautiful. If we can teach this equality, then they will retain a positive self-image and a positive image of people who look different than themselves. Although we try to give children all of these sturdy bases to grow on, that is not enough because children are influenced from outside the family by peers, the school system, team mascots, and by the media; but, it may be a beginning. Children, like the ones in the video are the beginning of a new world.
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The videos were both very uplifting and it just goes to show that there should be no such thing as race. The second video proves that there is no reason for such hatred between anyone. There should be more simplicity in the world between religion, race, etc. Unfortunately, the world is not free of enmity between different social groups. It is really sad that people of different classes “shouldn’t” fall in love or get married. The world would be a much happier place of there was no hostility like this. I wish that we could also watch more videos like this in class, but I do understand that it would contrast with everything Sam is trying to teach.
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I thought both of these videos were really awesome. In the first one where the social worker at the school gives the kidney to cashier, I thought it was really neat. We need more compassion like this in the word. We live too much of a sheltered life, especially since September 11th. We all seem to put up a defense system when we meet new people; we just need to trust people more. I think the world wouldn’t be as cruel of a place if we all just tried to be nicer to each other. I know its impossible to get along with every person in the world, but you have to start somewhere. So if you nice to your neighbors then you can meet other people who will know that you are nice and then you just build the amount of people you are friends with. It does not have to be a long-term commitment, maybe just help you neighbor out with some yard work, or even just say hello to them once and a while. It only takes one small thing to brighten up someone’s day. I thought it was really cool how the cashier called the social worker man an angel.
I thought that the second video was really cute. I remember having a crush on a girl like that when I was really young. I wonder what both of the children’s parents thought about this video. Were they accepting, or did they tell their children to stay away from each other? I know that the video says that these children are colorblind, but I do not believe that it will last. As they get older they will start to get into the awakening stage and notice it more. Although I do not think that a Chinese person and Malaysian person are such a radical couple; maybe in their home country they are. I think it would be much more taboo if this video was shot in America with a white boy and black girl, or some other type of black and white combination. I think it would be really neat if they kept tabs on both of these children, and interview them again and see what their views are when they are maybe out of high school. I would hope that their views would not change; maybe they have parents that are more lenient about race. I guess as the years go by this is becoming more of the norm, and when I have children race will not be so much of an issue as it still is today. I think Barak Obama is helping our nation become less resilient to letting people of color in power, which is a good thing, because maybe we all can gradually stop hating each other.
It is great to see that there is still some compassion left in the world, the news today is too much about murderers, thief’s, and other horrible crimes.
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Tan Hong Ming's reaction was SOOOOOO CUTE!! XD
That look of utter shooooock on his face when the girl he confessed to liking responded that Tan Hong Ming was her boyfriend, was aaaabsolutely priceless!
If it weren't for the title of the video, though, I never would've known that there was some sort of racial conflict between the two childrens' ethnicities, though. I didn't get any sort of racial inference in the video whatsoever, but, then again, I suppose that was the point.
Oh, and, even cuter, I loved how they ran off together in the end. <3<3<3<3
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Wow, I just watched the first video;
that's really, really impressive.
I'm happy to know that there are still people in society today that can take moments out of their lives and sacrifice so much of themselves- bother figuaratively and, in this case, literally!— for someone else.
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Some of the things we talk about in class make me pretty cynical about the way our world works and the way countries like the United States can be greedy as well as unsympathetic in all parts of the world. These stories bring out the humanity in people and illustrate how kind one can be to another. I think it’s truly rare to see complete strangers donating organs especially in such an extreme circumstance. A kidney is a pretty important part of your body and it’s definitely not like donating blood or anything. It’s kind of like what Ian Rosenberger said in class. When you get out of college you know you want to make a difference but are you willing to make a difference as extreme as that? I know I wouldn’t personally and I consider myself a pretty sympathetic person.
I may be on the critical side of this but at first I questioned why this complete stranger would donate an organ of his body to an individual who he really does not have a strong relationship with. I wondered if he was single or just wasn’t normal. It’s kind of sad to question these things but the way society works I would think it is the norm not to just donate your kidney to a grocery store worker who you don’t have any significant contact with. I think it takes an event or some type of personality trait or humbling event in someone’s life to do something as humbling as this man did. He not only crossed the color barrier but he donating a piece of himself to a complete stranger. However, is this person a complete stranger to this man? It certainly didn’t seem so from his perspective. It’s amazing how he noticed the intricacies of the grocery store worker and how her personality as well as demeanor stuck out. How many people are there like that out there? I don't think many but we would definitely have a different world if we did have more people like this man. Even from the women’s perspective she obviously couldn’t believe this man was willing to sacrifice his health for hers.
The short clip of the boy who had a crush on a girl of a different ethnic background was an enlightening one. The ignorance of children is something we need to recognize more often. They aren’t exposed to the predispositions of other cultures yet and truly see people for who they are in a different sort of way. They are able to see past the color barrier because they haven’t encountered the barrier that separates them yet. This is something we are striving to do in this class even though ironically we technically are more mature and intelligent than children.
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I love the connection of compassion that occurs so simply between these two parties. The cycle of the man feeling appreciated because he was treated with respect and developed a special connection with the clerk is fantastic. I am extremely pleased to see that we can have these connections, no matter who the individual is, how often they are seen, or even if she plays such a small role in their life as a clerk in a store.
I am truly pleased with this man’s efforts, as I recently have thought about situations similar to this in regard to people in general and Penn State students especially. I do not like or mean to come off as cocky or something similar, but I feel that I was raised with a certain sense of politeness and set of manners that are a strong part of my personality today. That said, I get disappointed at times in situations like this with Penn State students, because I feel that a lot of individuals that work or go to school around Penn State lack these manners or respect in everyday(and night) that tend to build these small but important relationships that can build such strong bonds.
This man, on the other hand, seems to be an outstanding citizen and really a role model. The amount of compassion and emotion that he has present shows me that he is extremely caring as well as absolutely genuine. This generosity and authenticity are the qualities that I feel that have truly decreased within our population, so when this type of thing happens I am pleased. This man is admirable. When he explained that when he heard it was a match that he began to cry, I was overtaken with the amount of emotion that this man possessed. He was so overcome with happiness because he was that happy that he was able to assist this woman who he had never seen even outside of the grocery store.
What is also hugely important in this transaction is the surprise that such a person who would play such a small role in the clerk’s life as her customer, and how he made such a huge difference for her and her family like it was as simple as a birthday gift. Also, the absence of hesitation, on his part, was incredible. Once he identified that he could donate this kidney safely, he decided immediately that this was the path that he was going to carry out.
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Wow Dan Coyne is a good example of the good people that are still in our society. It really shows the effect that simple kindness can make. This is obviously more than simple kindness, this was a huge donation on his part, but it makes you think what have you done today? Even doing something as small as picking someone’s books up when they drop them all or giving someone an extra dollar when they are short. I know that these simple gestures can truly make me smile and brighten up my day. Dan gave a part of him, literally, and he was more than willing to be able to make a difference in this kind grocery clerk that he had been going to for years. It just makes me feel so unkind when I think about how I am too lazy to take a few hours out of my weekend to go to a philanthropy event. He underwent pain so hers could stop. If everyone did small things like this, well we would never be short blood for one. I have to admit that I have rarely given blood simply because it takes time out and will make me weak for a few hours. What about the people who are weak for weeks and years? This really put things into perspective for me. If Dan gives a kidney I can give my blood along with a few hours of my time. Some people are so easy to simply give a few dollars donation, but sometimes there are things more important and necessary than money. Surprisingly enough people’s money can only go so far. In America we often think money buy happiness but in reality kindness like this makes happiness. People caring and loving builds happiness. Obviously money helps but it isn’t necessary. I would love to be able to meet Dan Coyle and the lady he donated his kidney to and see how it has affected their lives. I know that for me it would be a life-changing experience and I hope that someday I will be able to make a difference like this person made a difference. For now though I will get by giving small kindness to whoever is willing to take it. Whether that is opening a door for another, telling someone I love his or her outfit, or reaching a hand out to someone in need. I know that even these small outreaches can and will make a difference. Then hopefully my outreach will help that person in turn to do the same to another. A cycle of kindness quickly begins and how difficult was it for each of those people to take a few minutes out of their time? Not difficult at all, but that is how we can slowly change the world.
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Lines in the sand.
That’s how it all started. The world that we live in is not divided by anything other than the lines that we divide ourselves by. An image that has always fascinated me is the view of the globe from space. When looking at the earth as a whole from afar, you don’t see and boundaries that separate one county from another, all you see is the land and the water. No flags, no political boundaries, no sense of separation, just the land and the water. Over time it seems that the conquest for power and “order” over social control has caused humans to develop these lines in the sand to organize and control some of the uncivilized actions of man. We’ve established boarders to separate Americans form Mexicans, the English form the Irish.
With so much that divides us, stories like this bring a refreshing reminder of the humanity that every person posses. Many people find it hard to hold the door for the next person exiting the coffee shop, but this story of one man donating part of his body to another person –another person who he had no immediate connection shows the real power of the human spirit when challenged. Two things amaze me about the human condition; One, that we can learn to hate so blindly. Mass genocide comes as price of one people who simply can hate another for being different. History has taught us that the cost of human life can be measured by the desire for one person to rule another, without the regard for human life. Two; that acts of human kindness like this may happen far more than we know, and other are not regarded as news worthy.
I’m far from a bleeding hear t liberal that wants to sing and hold hands around the campfire, but I understand that random acts of kindness are needed in the world more now than ever. The case of young love that is described in the second video is so cool because it knows know boundary of the way things work, how things are “supposed” to be. It is innocent; it is unknowing of the realities that past generations have caused.
Did you ever take the time to stop and think about little things in life that can cause tension between people, and then realized how strange and dumb that they are? Isn’t that what this entire class is about? Looking outside of the box, from that OTHER point of view that you may seem to fighting against. I don’t have all of the answers, that’s for sure, damn, I don’t even have some. All I know is that this class has made me think, and a better person for it.
Maybe we can all learn something from these people.
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This story was very heartwarming to hear, I was amazed that this kind of kindness is still possible in the society we currently live in. I cannot say that I would be able to do the same thing as this man did because sadly I would not have taken the time to get to know the cashier in the first place. This really demonstrates what can happen when people are kind to one another and genuinely care about the well being of their fellow man. This man demonstrated such selfless behavior by doing this, even though he has his own life and family to worry about he was able to risk all of that to help someone out. I doubt there are many people on this earth that would have displayed the courage and selflessness that this man did to help this woman out. Most people including myself would probably feel bad for her, but would not even think to risk their health and life so that this woman could be healed. The mans family should also be commended, I know that if my father wanted to do this for someone I would probably have a major argument with him about it. To let one of your parents risk their life to save someone, and actually encourage it, as they seemed to is truly unbelievable. This story is especially rare in the society we live in today; there is so much disrespect and rudeness in our society it is amazing to see how far a little kindness can go.
The real message from this story is how far kindness and being polite can get you. You have to remember that if this woman were not pleasant and nice to this man and his family every time they went in the store, this man probably would have never done this for her. I know that when I am checking out somewhere it makes me feel good when the clerk is polite and makes your experience more enjoyable. It is very important for everyone to be kind to people, to often in today’s society people are simply out for themselves. It is very naïve to think that stories like this would inspire people to be more kind, because people just simply seem to not care anymore and behave miserably no matter what. However when hearing a story like this it should inspire people to be more outgoing and kind to people, so one day when they have a problem someone might think enough of them to help them out like this man did. Obviously this is a very extreme example of outgoing kindness, however if people could just display a fraction of the kindness the people involved in this story did the world would be a much better place to live.
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Wow, I can't stop smiling after watching the video about the little boy and little girl who like each other – how heartwarming! As I saw in another post while reading some of those already written above, I have oftentimes felt sad or angry or upset after (or during) our class – sometimes based upon what is being said or how it is being said, but many times because it seems that we are becoming more aware of these horrible injustices and realities in our world today and perhaps cannot come up with a good enough solution for such wide-scale problems. I am very glad Sam decided to go another direction with this (one of our last for the semester) post and really bring it back to what matters – kindness. It is incredibly nice to know that genuinely kind people do exist in the world and that, despite the many grave injustices going on still today, many strides have been made as well. These strides and advances exist on every level – from what may seem like smaller acts of kindness (as innocent as relations between children, shown in the video) to what may seem like large-scale acts on the governmental or policy level. I want to talk about each video and the story that video told individually, if I may – the first one was heartwarming and uplifting and really painted a picture of an overwhelmingly selfless individual who did something for someone he barely knew. While I found this somewhat odd (as did the woman who he donated his kidney to in the video), I think it is just because it seems to be such a grand scale thing to do for someone who you are not related to or extremely close with or anything along those lines. When I think about it a little more, though, I think of a line from the Bible that is something like, "Whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren, you do to me." Taking what the man did as solely a good and kind deed to help save this woman amidst sickness directly ties into that line and the notion of seeing one's God in every human being, no matter what he or she looks like, no matter where he or she is from, and no matter how we know (or don't really know…) that person individually. It also builds a strong defense for the case that small acts of kindness and compassion and genuine positivity do not go unnoticed. Had the grocery store clerk been unkind, impatient, or rude to the man, I am sure he would not have so willingly offered a part of his own body to help save this woman's life. It seems a lot is to be said for simple acts of kindness and simply treating one another well. I know it may seem cliche, but I think sometimes that is the only place TO start when we are faced with how to solve much, much bigger problems. Start in your own backyard, in your own family, in your own workplace….and the hope there is that what you do there will have a ripple effect and the trend will continue until it, too, has become much, much bigger.
In regards to the second video, as I stated previously, I watched it over and over because it was one of the cutest things I have ever seen. We have heard time and time again that we can all learn immensely by seeing through the eyes of innocent children, and this video stands as testimony to that. I really think anyone of any race should think that video is adorable, regardless of skin color or ethnicity or any other cultural, personal, or political divide – and if they don't, I do not understand. I like how the video ends by labeling the children "color blind" – as if they, in their young ways, have not yet encountered racism among and between peoples and so they see each other as the same, which, in truth, is the way that everyone should see everyone else. Unfortunately, however, as we have discussed and seen time and time again in Sam's class, this is not the case and humanity struggles with moving forward every single day. I think, though, that this video is wonderful – it is informative, entertaining, and it truly pulls at your heartstrings, cheering for the little boy and his jaw-dropping-smiling face when the girl he likes labels him her "boyfriend." If we can all agree to cheer on his innocence and well-meaning ways, that at least has to be a start to something.
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At times, we are faced with things in our life that race matters. I am personally from an Asian Family where it is expected for us to marry or date someone of our own kind.The second video with Tan Hong Ming was really cute and funny, but it really represents a deep message about relationship with one another. The message in that video that race should not really matter in relationship and love, if two people are to fall in love with one another then so be it, love is something that is not suppose to be bound to limits on the basis of race. I remember when i fall in love with a Spanish girl when i was little, my mindset during that age was not based on racism topics nor base on seeing the skin color difference between us, or seeing the difference in culture in us. In that age those topics didnt really matter to me because it was something that didnt really matter to me or made a big deal of in that time. I think kids should just be "colour blind", not just kids but to everything. Why make a big deal of things such as race, appearance, and culture. I think everything should be become one, have people open their hears and minds and experience a world where everything can be seen in peace and unity. The first video where a man give a kidney to a grocery store clerk i thought was really touching, i mean this man with nothing in return goes out and gives a kidney for person who never demanded or asked it from him. The man gave his kidney with a open heart and wanted to assure safety for the person and her dearing life. He represents what good we have in our world, where everyone is willing to help each other and give each other hope and give one us recognition not on the basis of racism and skin color, but on the basis of the inside just do not understand, it is so frustrating to think about the way this world works. We honestly should all have to think about the way our children things and how their minds function, children see no differences on the basis of race and skin color, they see no boundaries or limits in people. We adults have to teach people and our children to live in a world with a open mind and heart and look beyond a person's color. We need a world where everyone is unified and love each other and care for each other not on race but on the inside.
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Precious. I feel like my heart got bigger just after watching those videos. A friend of mine is in need of a heart transplant and the wait for a healthy organ and all those other complications are incredibly overwhelming. That man who helped the woman with kidney failure really is an angel on Earth. It makes me wonder why he helped her? I’d love to ask him. What inside you spurred you offer your organ to someone you hardly knew? Was it because it would make you feel good inside, or your primary goal was to help her? I do believe that inside each and every one of us we enjoy helping someone and seeing how our work benefitted them, but not to this length. Actually donating an organ is on a whole different level of service and humbleness. I’m trying to place myself in his shoes and offering a vital organ to a complete stranger is a foreign concept to me. I struggle with this and doubt that I would be able to do it. I guess it’s hard to truly know how you’d react when you’re not in the situation, but I’m certain it wouldn’t be an easy decision. I greatly admire his servant heart. It should be inspirational for us all.
Speaking of caring for others, today I saw a commercial on the TV by The Foundation for a Better Life that was uplifting. It was fairly stereotypical; a girl walked into what appeared to be a high school cafeteria and had no place to sit. She chose to sit at a table with a few other girls who looked inviting but they got up and left after she sat down. One casual observer noticed the girl sitting by herself and left her table of friends to sit with her. The message at the end of the video said “reaching out. Pass it on.” GREAT message. Simply taking time out of one’s day to pay attention to people and lend them your ear goes a long way. A friend of mine is a nursing major and while at work she was assigned a stubborn patient who just wanted to die and refused to take a bath or eat. She offered to give him a massage, which enabled him to open up and within 4 hours a transformation had taken place. He was up, clean, and combed his hair. He even wrote a poem and dedicated it to her (not in a creeper way, just in the appreciative way). We should all think about ourselves a little less and others a little more.
That last video with the young boy was one of the cutest things my eyes have seen in a while.
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First and foremost let me say that this kid is one of the cutest kids ever. His reaction and facial expressions are priceless. Now down to business. This just shows what kind of world we live in. We grow up not knowing what is seen as "wrong" and "right" in our cultures. Of course a Chinese man and Malaysian woman can not be together, that is blasphemy. I ask, "why not?" is it so wrong that two people have feelings for each other but can not express them? People let other people shape their views in this world so much that we almost forget who we are. Blacks should only marry blacks, whites should only marry whites. Who says that this is the right way? Children truly are color blind. The fact is that children have it right when all of us in this world have it wrong. As we grow we learn from people around us that these practices are not to be done. There is no reason behind why this can not be done, it is just the way it is. People grow and become blind. We blind ourselves to such issues as this. I just do not understand, it is so frustrating to think about the way this world works. We honestly should all have the minds of children, children see no differences, they see no boundaries. It all comes back to the adults who shape their children's views. Do not even think of bringing a person of a different culture home. A chinese boy and a Malaysian girl. How different are these people? From the looks of it I would have to say they are not so different. Why marry inside of your own culture, is this the only way our world works? It just makes me sick inside thinking about this. People need to step back and realize that despite our cultural differences we are all human beings and are all in someway one body. We were put here for a reason and not many people are working towards any common goal. Instead we choose to stick within ourselves and live our own ignorant and blissful lives. We need to step outside of the box. We need to realize that no one group is superior to another, no group is elite. In the end it will not matter who you hate and who you are friendly with. Like Sam says, we are all going to die, and what matters then? Will it matter who you dated? Will it matter what family you married in to? No, the only thing that will matter is if you led a good life that helped others. Not that you passed down a lifetime of hate onto your young ones and taught them what they can not do. Instead teach them what they can do, and how to open their hearts and minds to a better world.
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First I'll address the top video and then the one on the bottom, and afterwards I guess I'll give my two cents on kindness, giving, and love. I've worked at Whole Foods in my hometown for about 3 years now. I can safely say that the clientele there, though some may think are holistic and happy people, are some of the most miserable and rotten people on earth. The market is located in a fairly well to do area, and at least 40 percent of the people who shop there give off a vibe that they are above the workers in all ways. At the registers, I especially try to be as pleasant as possible, but when nearly half the time you have a customer that could give two shits about you, it's kind of difficult. But then there are the other 60%. And I suppose this is where the man in the CNN video would fall; a kind person, who actually makes your 8 hour shift a little bit better by conversing and actually respecting you. The story is great, that a man could be so compassionate to a worker that he hardly knows and help her in the most desperate of times. As for the little boy's story about loving the girl, it was pretty cool. Even at a young age he was nervous that she didn't like him as much as he liked her. Kids represent pure innocence, before they are polluted and corrupted by the worst of society’s ideals and beliefs on how things should really be. As these kids get older though, even if they still love each other they will feel the boiling eyes of their respective cultures bearing down on them. The Malaysian will learn of the repression that her people felt from the Chinese. She may realize that the boy she loves is different, but she still will probably feel pain that it was his people who repressed her people. A lot of times I feel like I have a slightly pessimistic view of people, and don't always see that there is good out there in all of us. Stories like these help to reaffirm that we can co-exist on the planet together, and we can truly be better people. Growing up in a household that taught me tolerance at a young age has helped me grow, and if all of us can teach our children the mistakes we've made, and just have them become a little bit better of a person than we are ourselves, the world will continue to grow. However, there are people who pass down traditions of hate to their children, which can ultimately undermine the goal of everyone opening their hearts to the 'other'.
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These two video’s were so inspiring and actually made me tear up a little bit. It’s so reassuring to know there are people in the world that are so willing to help other with question. As for the first movie, it’s so moving to hear that someone is willing to give up part of their own body to help another individual. The women said it the best she truly believed that this man was an angel. You know it random acts of kindness like these that make me believe that there is a God. It also makes me look at myself and realize that I am here to help others in the world. We should all realize that there is a bigger picture that we are not hear just to go to school or work but to enjoy our lives and the lives of others. Life is too short to live from point A to point B. Be thankful for everything you have your family your friends, your pets, just be thankful and appreciative. I don’t believe that we should take anything for granted in this world because we are truly blessed with what we have no matter what. We are simply blessed for being alive today.
This next video is so genuine and priceless. That little dude is awesome and shows us how innocent feelings can be at a young age. This little guy likes a girl for the simplest reasons. Not because she has a lot of money not because she wears the latest fashion but simply by the way she puts her hair in a pony tail. Its things like these that make me want to be that age again because at that age. It just goes to show you that you don’t have to live like the media wants. This kid is so happy and living life that I’m almost jealous. This video just goes to show us that when you’re young you don’t care about the superficial things the media throws at you. We should take this and realize that we used to not care about half the stupid things that we do now. Let’s get back to the basics, love for another doesn’t have to be complicated. I don’t know just thinking that I used to not care what I wore or what I looked like makes me sick. How haven’t we grown to understand that we are all different and unique in our own way? We should be more embracing towards each other. I don’t want to give into the media image I want to live freely and with an open mind. I believe that if we can try to be more open minded and not so caring about what the media want us to be then we will progress as a society.
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mrm5360 Reply:
April 30th, 2010 at 5:31 pm
Yeah, I definitely wasn't crying but that's because I only cry when I am sad and these videos made me super happy so I didn't cry. Isn't it crazy that that little Chinese boy wanted nothing more than to just hold that little girl's hand and (figuratively) he just couldn't. It will be a great day on this planet when that young man can look at that young girl and have absolutely no ethnic bounds to cross in making his decision for love. We must continue to strive for a life that offers us the freedom to live and the freedom to love who we please.
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I am so ridiculously inspired by these two stories! Both definitely made me want to cry, and I'm not that much of an emotional person.
I was in shock and awe of the man who gave his kidney to the grocery store clerk. I would consider myself the type of person to do that, but I never really considered that there are other people who feel the same level of connection to others, even if they barely know them. It just goes to show that there is hope, and I'm glad that Sam thought to post these to remind us. Sometimes I come out of class feeling depressed about the state of the world just because people seem to hate each other so much. Clearly some sort of progress is coming along in the form of kindness. I wonder though if it would have made headlines on CNN if these two people had been of the same ethic background? Is that unappreciated kindness. Nice to see that it's always interesting when those who have radical differences come together and are kind to one another. Clearly the ideal would be that this is a commonplace. It amused me to see how very different the man and the woman's reaction to one another was. In the picture of the two of them he has a huge smile while she is semi-serious looking. I don't doubt how grateful she is or how happy she was but her way of showing it was very unique. They were very much the "odd couple". I wish there had been more from his children's perspective and what they thought of what he did.
The two little kids were absolutely adorable. The great thing about kids is that they are so universal. His reaction to her was great. I can remember the days when boys had cooties and they pulled girl's hair because they liked them. I agreed with the message of the video in terms of children. They shouldn't worry about color differences. The irony is probably many people from the United States probably wouldn't even see the ethnic differences between the children. It's pretty easy to group all "Asians" together. So it's a perfect example of how the world should ideally be though I wouldn't argue for being color-blind. Celebrate our differences, don't ignore them or degrade them. But it'd be great if everyone could just give themselves over to pure human connection, love, whatever sappy term you want to call it. It's really sad that at some point they'll lose the ability to love so freely. At some point, and it's a horrible point, someone somewhere will tell them that it's not okay. Clearly our human instinct is to love no matter what may make us different. I think children are brave for never caring that someone's skin is a different color or their eyes are different, or they eat different foods.
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mrm5360 Reply:
April 30th, 2010 at 5:27 pm
These really are great stories for sure. To see the care and love that these humans exhibit toward each other is really astonishing. There really are completely selfless people in the world, you just have to look in the right places. Makes the world feel a lot less empty. Basically, all you can do is control the way that you treat other people. From there, it's pretty much just a roll of the dice. It's just so refreshing to see these two young people completely ignorant of their ethnic differences. We really can live in harmony, I've seen it with my own two eyes.
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While these videos did not bring me to tears like so many people are mentioning, they did touch me. It is nice to know that there are still plenty of good people out there in the world that would help a stranger out just as easily as they would help their own family. As far as the second video goes, it is very cute and if only we could shelter kids nowadays so they could keep their innocence for as long as possible. However, life is so sweet and innocent, life is tough and kids need to know about it and how horrible it can be. As beautiful as the fairytales are that we read to our children, they need to know that those are just stories and life doesn't always end up happily ever after.
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I think these two stories are very uplifting, and everyone can learn something from them.
I found the first video about the kidney transplant pretty interesting. Giving someone a kidney is a pretty serious thing, and the fact that this man just seemed to do it without really thinking it over that much and without that much hesitation is almost shocking. For a family member, I’m sure anyone would give their kidney. For a friendly grocery clerk? Maybe not so much. Just the fact that this video proves that people like this man actually exist is uplifting in itself.
Another hidden gem in this video is what this kidney transplant means deep down. Here is a Caucasian male and a Latina (I think?) woman. On the outside, racially and genetically, they probably couldn’t be any more different. Yet, they beat the odds of 1 to 4,000 chances and they were a match. There are instances every day where best friends and family members attempt to match for a kidney transplant, and they never will. This just goes to prove that while we all may be different on the outside and treat each other differently because of the color of our skin, on the inside, we are more alike with those of different races than we may ever imagine. This is science, and science is an objective power.
Also, the Tan Hong Ming video on the surface is so adorable. Nothing is cuter when a little boy has a crush on a little girl and wants to ask her to go on romantic dinner dates. You want them to stay that cute and innocent forever. If you dig a little deeper, though, this video has a more profound significance. Children aren’t born with the racial stereotypes that separate and divide our world. They’re all brought into life on equal ground in their eyes, and it isn’t until their parents and society instill social parameters and prejudices in their minds do they lose their innocence.
I wish people can stay like this forever. The Chinese boy and the Malaysian girl don’t see any difference between each other, yet when they’re older, who knows how they will feel about different races. They may separate and only hang out with others of their race because of society or what their family and friends have to say about the other. This is a huge step backwards in regards to race relations.
It just goes to show that children are born without the colored glasses that filter us away from others of a different race. More people need to be simple-minded like these two children. You should like a person because YOU like them, and you shouldn’t let society dictate who you can and can’t like. These children haven’t been influenced by society yet, and hopefully they never will be.
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This video was amazing. I thought it was the cutest thing to see what this little boy was saying. They were completely adorable. It's just so sad to know that it couldn't work out between them because of where they were born. Skin color or race or ethnicity or any of that shouldn't matter at all. It's just sad that we are separated because of something that shouldn't matter at all. Personally, i believe that there are many different people that we are compatible with, but I am sure that there is someone who is very compatible to every person. Maybe the most compatible. And if things like race and ethnicity and where you are from holds people back from finding that person, then how could be know for sure that we are with the right person? I mean yeah, obviously we can't meet every single person in the world, but it's nice to see that besides all the restrictions those two little kids still considered each other best friends.
Then to see this man give his kidney to a woman just because she is a nice person? It is just so kind of him to do that for her. It really goes to show that personality should be/ is the most important aspect in deciding how you feel about a person, or your prejudices. It's obviously okay to have a prejudice against a person if its strictly about their personality, but it shouldn't have anything to do with where they were born or anything of the sort. I just never could understand it, and still have yet to.
The very end of that little kid video was so powerful. To say "Our kids are colorblind, shouldn't we keep them that way?" is just like the most beautiful thing I have seen in a while. It is so true, and we definitely should. I wish more people felt that way and didn't think about these things. If everyone who had children preached to their children to be "colorblind" then maybe we could change the world. I don't know what its going to take, but it will take something of that sort.
Kids like that are the ones who prove that all this hatred is just something that has come from social standards. It is not inherently built in us. We wouldn't feel this way if it wasn't for generations behind us. So why do we still follow it? Why don't we cut the damn strings and ignore our prejudices? I hope someday people realize this, and that we actually do.
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i can not get over either of these two movies! They are so heart touching and so moving that i wish more people would be able to watch them! i just told all my 5 roommates about these two videos because the first one is that caring and thoughtful, and the second one is a video of the cutest boy i have ever seen! I can not believe that this man actually gave up one of his kidneys and went through a transplant to a cashier clerk he barely knew. Not many people, non that i have ever met would do such a thing and this man should be commended. this man saved someones life, for the betterment of the other person! this man had no idea where she came from, where her family is, where she would end up but he wanted to save her life and give her his kidney! this man is the pure definition of a hero! no one else would ever do this especially for a complete stranger he has only ever encountered at this grocery store! but hey whatever the circumstances are he is a great man, a great heart, helped out a great women and did a great and tremendous thing that no one else, that i know of would ever do!
As far as this little boy, that video is the cutest little thing ever! and the whole movie is so moving. little children are so open to anything, get so excited about any body and any one, and now when children get older color turns into the truth and the way people should live their lives, when why can not every one live the way these children do? this little kid seems like he is the happiest he can be, he seems like nothing could ever go wrong in his world, but yet once children hit a certain age everything changes? when older and young adults grow up times and views start changing. kids have friends and like each other no matter what color skin they have, why can't the rest of the world be the same exact way no matter what the age groups?
overall both of these movies are so moving and so touching i hope more people out side of this class get to watch them and feel the same way i am sure most of us do. i feel that all most of us in this class will watch these videos and feel the same thing, i feel that we have all learned through our soc 119 experience and that no long are things as strange as they once were. i feel that yes, it is odd that a stranger gave his kidney away to someone he barely knew, but it is the gesture and the aspect of saving the woman's life is what we all need to realize is the true heroic thing this man did. this two young children in the second video, before this class many of us i'm sure wouldn't think twice about two young kids, but now we think about those two young kids will grow up and start thinking differently because of today's society, and because of society's thoughts. more people need to think like these young children, like this heroic man who gave away his kidney and like us as students in soc 119 who have learned and opened our views to bigger and larger things.
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This video was very touching and actually made me tear up in class. At first I didn’t understand what was occurring so I had to watch it over again and that was when I finally understood. These two little children were in love and they did not know how one another felt for the other one. When they finally discovered that they were feeling the same way it was nothing but happiness. Whenever I would tell an adult I was in love or whenever I would hear a friend tell their parents they were in love, the response we always received was that we were too young and knew nothing about love. This angered me because I hate people telling me that I do not know things are I am too “young” to experience the real thing. These two little kids are definitely too young, but who are we to tell them they do not know anything about love? If anything they know more about love than a lot of people do because their love is innocent. They do not see or have to deal with the superficial things adults are coping with in society today and they are free to just love. After all, isn’t that what love is all about? To be free and share beautiful emotions with someone who can share them with you also? I guess I would not know because according to everyone I was never in “love.” It is sad that they could never be together because of their race, but it something I could relate to. I was born in the Bronx, New York so I was mainly surrounded by people of color. I never really saw white people unless it was on television or across the street where the court house was. Even then I never really looked at them as being white because it was never an interest to me. This changed when I moved to Pennsylvania and became one of the few Latinas in the school. The setting had changed and now I was the one who was different. My best friends were now white and I even started liking white boys. It was not until high school when I had my first real boyfriend, who was white. I thought I was in love with him, but of course my mother would say no. She did not want me to have a boyfriend because I was too “young.” At the time I did not agree, but looking back at it she had a reason to say this. It did not bother me as much that she did not want me to have a boyfriend, but that she told me I should not be with a white boy and she rather me be with someone of my own culture. I did not understand and I was going through my rebel stage, so I refused to listen to her anyway. She tried to explain that we just came from two different cultures and understanding each other would be difficult and so would life if we were to end up together. Honestly, she may have been right, but if I was really in love who is she to tell me what is right? Love has no color and it shouldn’t, which is why when children love it is so pure and real. It is innocent.
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Every once in a while you hear or watch something that brings tears to your eyes. Dan showed such kindness with his gift to Mira that you cannot help but to feel a sense of happiness and elation that people like Dan exist in the world. It was truly a selfless act of humanity for a person who was almost a stranger. It is hard to imagine the type of person who would submit himself to major surgery in order to improve the life of an acquaintance who he probably never spoke to outside of the market. Not only did Dan do a wonderful thing but he involved his family in the generous act and by doing so enriched the lives of his children as well as Mira and himself.
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I think that both of these videos were great videos, which show the good that’s in the world. The first video was truly touching to think that a man would undergo a surgery and give up an organ to a woman he only knew by going through her checkout line. That is a huge sacrifice to make, but that man changed the woman’s life forever. I think it shows that among all of the hate and destruction that we hear about every day, on the news and just in everyday life, there are still people who would make a completely selfless donation, just because they thought it was the right thing to do.
The second video was also great to watch. The little kids were adorable, and the little boy’s face when she said he was her boyfriend was so funny! However, I also find this video to be really sad, because like the message at the end of the video says, kids are color blind, however sadly they don’t often stay that way. I am an elementary education major, and therefore have spent a lot of time around young children and it always amazes me how they don’t regard race the way adults do. It’s so refreshing to see that they don’t yet understand that race matters in the world. I think they notice race from a young age however, but they just don’t care the way many adults seem to when they grow older. Good family friends of mine have adopted two children, one from China and one from Guatemala. They just recently moved, but they use to live in upstate New York, in a town that was very predominantly white, where their children were two of only a few kids who weren’t white. However, it pleasantly surprised me that race wasn’t an issue in their children’s lives yet, since they are still so young. Their daughter who is Chinese would always joke that she had a boyfriend named Sam, a blond hair, blue eyed boy. However, I sadly think that their race would be an issue as they got older. Eventually, maybe as they started dating, it would become an issue for them to be dating people of a different race. Their parents recognized this and it influenced their decision to move to a city which was more diverse. It makes me so sad, and also angry, to think that one day they may not be allowed to date or be friends with someone because people will have a problem with their race.
I think that this shows that problems between races are learned and taught. If kids can be “color blind” then why can’t adults. As with many things in life, I think that adults could learn a lot from the simple and accepting way that children live their lives.
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Both of these videos were really touching, I'd elaborate more, but I think I would just be repeating the words of previous posts in slightly different language. So instead I'll leave the forum with a poem that speaks to me just as deeply as these two videos just did. I was introduced to this my Dr. Christopher Uhl. I was a TA last semester for his Bi Sci 003 course, which is a type of Environmental Science course that teaches far more than "textbook science." As I understand, Sam and Chris are good friends, and I have to say that I see a lot of similarities between the two — yet a world of differences. I want to leave you all with this, and sincerely encourage you to take Dr. Uhl's class in the Fall. If you appreciate this class at all, I'm confident that you can find something beautiful about Oriah's words:
The Invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer
It doesn't interest me what you do for a living. I want to know what you ache for, and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing.
It doesn't interest me how old you are. I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool for love, for your dream, for the adventure of being alive.
It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon. I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow, if you have been opened by life's betrayals or have become shriveled and closed from fear of further pain! I want to know if you can sit with pain, mine or your own, without moving to hide it or fade it, or fix it.
I want to know if you can be with joy, mine or your own, if you can dance with wildness and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes without cautioning us to be careful, to be realistic, to remember the limitations of being human.
It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me is true. I want to know if you can disappoint another to be true to yourself; if you can bear the accusation of betrayal and not betray your own soul; if you can be faithless and therefore trustworthy.
I want to know if you can see beauty even when it's not pretty, every day,and if you can source your own life from its presence.
I want to know if you can live with failure, yours and mine, and still stand on the edge of the lake and shout to the silver of the full moon, “Yes!”
It doesn't interest me to know where you live or how much money you have. I want to know if you can get up, after the night of grief and despair, weary and bruised to the bone, and do what needs to be done to feed the children.
It doesn't interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you will stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.
It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom you have studied. I want to know what sustains you, from the inside, when all else falls away.
I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.
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You know, sometimes I sit down and start thinking about the past for quite a while. As I mull through some of the good memories, the bad ones, and everything in between, there is usually a moment of realization that follows. I'm never going to be a kid ever again. Isn't that odd? Thus far (depending on your definition) I have been a kid for at least 50% of my life. That's a pretty sizable chunk! So, when I look at a video like this one and see the genuine care that little boy has for the other girl, it's a pretty cool thing. The longer that we as individuals are here on this Earth, the more and more conditioned we become toward its consistencies. Young children though are merely living on a whim. It's one of the most refreshing things you could ever experience, I'm sure. This young kid has absolutely no idea what the implications of dating a young Malaysian girl could be, and he doesn't care. He likes HER. Not her status, her nationality, her parent's bank account, but he likes HER. You know, the thing that really is a shame is that, we can't find anything remotely like that amongst American adults. It's almost like the thing to do nowadays, get married 2 or 3 times. We're witnessing completely unconditioned, unaltered love. How is it that we can let all of these "problems" with ethnicity and skin color get in the way of one of the most important things we have as humans? To deny someone the right to fall in love is to deny someone the right to life. It is unlikely that that little boy and that little girl will be around each other long enough to where they could take a serious shot at being together, but if they could, it would end in total devastation for both of them. Of course, this isn't any one person's fault or anything like that but this video really has to bother you. There's just something about their blissful naiveté that speaks infinitely louder than any words could ever hope to. In the end, that's really the only thing we're seeking: happiness. These two young kids, unbeknownst to them, are seeking pure happiness. Who is to deny them that right? When cultures begin to deny the happiness of its citizens, perhaps it is time to think about the place you live. Love and happiness are the only two basic human rights that require not one possession or dollar to obtain. So I ask, what is the sense in denying two people their rights to happiness and love? Especially since it affects others in absolutely no way whatsoever.
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I love watching and hearing stories like these two. I'd like to talk about the first video first, then I will get into the second video. This guy, Dan, has more kindness in him than most people could ever dream of having. What he did was genuine, to say the least. It would be considered a truly good deed if a person gave their kidney to a family member or a best friend. However, Dan took it to a whole different level. This lady that he says he "knew" for twelve years was a cashier at his local grocery store. He saw her maybe once a week for probably about five minutes and that was it. The extent of their conversations were probably asking each other how they were doing and then how much his total was for that given day. She didn't even know who his kids were. Yet, when he found out about her problem it doesn't even seem like he hesitated. He just thought, this lady needs a kidney and I have an extra one. In a world that seems to be struggling; seeing people like this really gives us all hope. Helping people out is contagious and it really makes people feel good about themselves. If everyone would just realize this, people would stop striving for wealth and start trying to go after something better then money or power. If everybody's goal in life was to try and help people out, we wouldn't have things like slavery, racism, or murder. People wouldn't fuck their associates over just to make a quick buck. I think we can all learn something from Dan when it comes to trying to be a good person.
Watching the second video, it really brought the inner kid out of me. I remember the days when life was care free and the most important things on your mind was playing with your friends or your first crush. Now it's not failing classes and how am I going to pay for this or that. I wish I could go back to those days just so I could enjoy that feeling again. The kid in this video can bring a smile to your face no matter how bad of a day you are having. At the end, when the girl says that she is his girlfriend, his face is priceless. He doesn't care about race or ethnicity. Those are the last things on his mind. And to answer the last question in that video; it's good to think that we could. However, our world is a long way from being able to accomplish that task.
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These two stories are both very touching; they really speak to the character of the human population. In this class we often look at the problems that we are dealing with in our world. The videos are a reminder that although we have a lot of problems that we have to deal with in the world there are still just as many people who are compassionate, loving, and caring.
Sam does a great job in class of making us think about what is and what could be. As I think about some of the topics he brings up I can’t help but to think about the what if’s. What if the world were as good and as loving and as tight as we all dream it could be. It is a what if so the chances of a utopian society are slim but still there is hope for a better world. These videos are examples of what should be happening all through the world. In the kidney video there is a white man who gives his kidney to an Asian store clerk. This shows a tremendous amount of compassion and respect. It is not everyday that someone is willing to give a kidney and on top of that it was basically for a complete stranger. These acts of colorblind kindness are what should be the goals of every living being on the earth. If everyone was treated with this same respect and compassion then the world would be perfect. Things will never be perfect though so really the best thing we can do at this point is change one thing out of our day to help someone else. I believe that we should all start to talk about and think about karma. It is real, no doubt about it. We all should be thinking about karma on a daily basis. Good Karma comes from doing good things like giving a kidney and even small things like helping someone carry their books. Building up good karma and doing good things are what get us ahead in life. By doing this we learn a lot about ourselves as well as learning about the person you just helped. The golden rule is basically karma without the karma aspect. Do things to others as you would want done to you. This is karma basically, just do stuff that isn’t mean and hurtful. As basic as it seems it is rare that any of us actually think about and follow this rule on a day to day basis. The greatest quote I ever read was, “Good things happen to good people” this quote couldn’t be truer. The better you treat your neighbors, friends, and acquaintances the better your life will be in the end.
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Wow! What great videos! I was so happy to see both of these videos posted. They are both so extremely uplifting and put me in such a happy mood. I had already seen the second video in class, but it was even better watching it again for a second time around. Both videos are ones that everyone should see.
The first video about Dan giving his kidney away to Myra, the grocery store clerk was very astounding. This is an amazing act of kindness; in fact, words cannot really express how kind that deed was. Personally, I do not think I would give my kidney away to a complete stranger, but I suppose the situation has never really come up. I feel that usually in places like grocery stores, the customers barely acknowledge the workers there unless they are paying or have a question. This can be understandable because people get busy and are sometimes very focused when they are shopping, but barely ever give the time of day to the employees, especially the cashiers.
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Dan and Myra both seem like such great and genuine people. Myra is such a great person for taking a mundane job and turning into a friendly atmosphere and make others feel great about life and wanting to do such great acts such as Dan. It was so great to see how appreciative Myra was for the deed that Dan did for her. No matter how she was feeling, she was always kind to the customers, and Dan knew her so well that he knew she was not being herself. While Myra may just be a cashier to some customers, to Dan, she is a life-changer and vice versa. With all of the horrible news that we hear about these days, I think that we should be becoming aware of the great stories such as these. It is stories that these that inspire others to do similar acts of kindness.
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And of course, the second video is so bittersweet. It is remarkably sweet to see the boy’s expression when he is with and talking about the girl that he likes so much. While it is very cute, there is a very important underlying message about being “color blind.” The world definitely would be a better and peaceful place is we all were colorblind towards races, just like these young children are. Everyday, people in love are being torn apart, judged, and tortured if they are of different races or backgrounds. It is really a sad thing to see. While this video was portraying young children and was a bit silly, we need to seriously consider the fact that this happens in reality. Like the first video, it was very inspiring and thought-provoking and more commercials and videos like these should be out there for the public to see.
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I must say it is nice to see some quality “feel good” stories, especially during this time when so many of us are over-stressing and worrying endlessly about our lives. The first video is quite a story (and as some have pointed out, a little extreme). To think that someone would willingly give their kidney to a complete stranger and undergo the risks of surgery and a life with one kidney is truly remarkable. It is a great example of how such a strong and necessary connection can be made with someone you barely even speak to. When I was in Paris this past winter break, I went to the same bar every night I was there for a “night cap” drink. I don’t speak a lick of French and the owner didn’t speak but two words in English. Yet some how, night after night we would “talk” for sometimes hours about the most random of events and topics through some convoluted and half assed form of communication. Watching this video made me think of that because it is clear that although this man knows the woman only through their interactions at the grocery store check out line, he has still established an amazing connection with her and one he views valuable enough to risk his life for.
The second video is very different than the first and yet still is very much a “feel good” clip. As many people have pointed out, the kid’s answers and reactions are just hilarious and he truly gives the video its strong impact. It is easy to watch the video and only think of the childhood love aspects of it, thus ignoring the actual message it is supposed to convey: those two kids should not be together for reasons far beyond their understanding. Videos like this provide us with some type of hope that grudges and prejudices will eventually fade out, and that people one day really will be able to live freely everywhere. However hopeless the reality of this may actually be, I am content with being ignorant to reality sometimes.
As somewhat of an aside to these two videos, I also wanted to comment on the AIDS story Sam presented to us at the end of class. The quote from the young boy who died from AIDS was truly remarkable, and as Sam said, is one that all of us could easily live our daily lives in accordance to. Amidst all the stress of finals week and the fates of our lives it is extremely easy to be overcome by the tasks we face. In my opinion, the best way for us to succeed is to operate as the young boy stated: facing the challenges that are in front of us right now, not looking ahead, and basically just giving it our best shot.
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Thursday’s class was pretty cool. Although staring at a random partner for minute after minute after minute was about as awkward as it gets, I thought the message was a good one. I liked how Sam constructed the class, allowing students to ask questions that had arisen throughout the semester but really didn’t fit into what we were talking about at the time. I think a lot of people got to know Sam better in that last class, and saw more of the person he is as opposed to the instructor (there is definitely a distinction). It was a great finish to an eye opening class.
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As I sifted through the comments, I noticed many people were saddened by the fact that the overall reaction to these stories was shock (sadness too of course, but shock that good people are out there). In response to that I just want to say that I know there are a lot of good people out there and that there are a lot of good people here at Penn State. The main thing we need to appreciate is that is doesn’t take a kidney donation to really be a “great guy.” Sure we were all amazed at how selfless that man was, but there are many great acts of selflessness happening right in front of us that we either take for granted or don’t even see. CNN made that man an international hero (to an extent), but not everyone’s story makes it to CNN and not everyone has the opportunity to act so courageously. If we all look more closely at the people around us, I think we would be surprised to see how many great people there actually are.
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I love watching and hearing stories like these two. I'd like to talk about the first video first, then I will get into the second video. This guy, Dan, has more kindness in him than most people could ever dream of having. What he did was genuine, to say the least. It would be considered a truly good deed if a person gave their kidney to a family member or a best friend. However, Dan took it to a whole different level. This lady that he says he "knew" for twelve years was a cashier at his local grocery store. He saw her maybe once a week for probably about five minutes and that was it. The extent of their conversations were probably asking each other how they were doing and then how much his total was for that given day. She didn't even know who his kids were. Yet, when he found out about her problem it doesn't even seem like he hesitated. He just thought, this lady needs a kidney and I have an extra one. In a world that seems to be struggling; seeing people like this really gives us all hope. Helping people out is contagious and it really makes people feel good about themselves. If everyone would just realize this, people would stop striving for wealth and start trying to go after something better then money or power. If everybody's goal in life was to try and help people out, we wouldn't have things like slavery, racism, or murder. People wouldn't fuck their associates over just to make a quick buck. I think we can all learn something from Dan when it comes to trying to be a good person.
Watching the second video, it really brought the inner kid out of me. I remember the days when life was care free and the most important things on your mind was playing with your friends or your first crush. Now it's not failing classes and how am I going to pay for this or that. I wish I could go back to those days just so I could enjoy that feeling again. The kid in this video can bring a smile to your face no matter how bad of a day you are having. At the end, when the girl says that she is his girlfriend, his face is priceless. He doesn't care about race or ethnicity. Those are the last things on his mind. And to answer the last question in that video; it's good to think that we could. However, our world is a long way from being able to accomplish that task.
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