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Jesmede Michel

Professor John Daily

LIT1000

05 February, 2023

My name is Jesmede Michael and I was born and raised in a small community in the

southern part of the United States. As a young boy, I was always interested in music and sports,

which have remained a big part of my life to this day. I enjoy playing the piano and singing, as

well as participating in track and field events. These activities not only bring me joy, but also

provide a sense of escape from the challenges I face in my daily life.

One of the biggest challenges I have faced is the danger of a single story. Society often

has limited perspectives about people of color and these misconceptions can lead to

misunderstandings and judgments about who I am as a person. Growing up, I struggled with the

reality that many people assumed things about me based on my race and background, without

truly getting to know me.

Like my peers Caden Henao and Torrin Andrews, I have had to work hard to challenge

these stereotypes and show the world my true self. Caden shared his experience of moving from

New York to Florida and having to adapt to a new environment. He spoke about how he took

control of his own story and used criticism to grow as a person. Torrin, on the other hand,

discussed his journey as a student athlete and how his single story as a driven and focused

individual has sometimes led to him being perceived as cold or selfish.

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In reading my peers' posts, I have been reminded of the importance of embracing our

unique stories and experiences, and using them to challenge the limitations imposed upon us by

society. Through our shared experiences and individual journeys, I believe that we can grow and

support each other in our quest for self-discovery and personal fulfillment. I am eager to continue

this conversation and learn from my peers as we navigate the complexities of our experiences

together.

In conclusion, the dangers of a single story about oneself can be damaging to one's

mental health and self-esteem. As individuals, it is important to understand and acknowledge our

own emotions, as well as the thoughts and opinions of others, in order to grow and become better

versions of ourselves. In the same vein, it is also important to actively seek out multiple

perspectives and broaden our horizons to better understand the world and others around us. By

sharing our stories and experiences, we can work towards breaking down the harmful stereotypes

and societal norms that limit our potential and happiness. By embracing our individuality and

being proud of who we are, we can create a more accepting and diverse world.