Top of the Heap!

Monday's Riddle opened up a great topic of discussion for our theme this week. When you take a look at the diversity of people, there are so many things that make us unique, as well as set us apart. But, there are quite a few traits that pull us together as human beings. Lizzy reviewed The Thing About Georgie by Lisa Graff, which told the story of a young man learning how to cope with dwarfism. Friday, we will be chatting with R.J. Palacio, author of the middle grade book Wonder. Auggie's story is a perfect example of a person's strength and determination despite great odds. One common thread between us all is the personality traits that we develop in the wake of being different. Today, we want to take a moment to share with you a couple of characters who really stand out among the pack and make the best of what they've got!

This week's top of the heap: Inspirational personality traits from characters that we love : ) 

Fairday: I have to shout out to Remus Lupin from the Harry Potter Series. Poor Remus, bitten by a werewolf when he was young, and then treated like a dangerous, walking disease by the rest of the wizarding world. He had no control over what happened to him, but he does have control over himself (when the moon isn't full, that is :). He takes every step to try to keep the monster at bay with the wolfsbane potion Snape brews up and patiently tolerates being singled out or turned away. He learned to accept his fate, along with the nasty glares and snide remarks made from those who think themselves better. In the end, because he was tolerant and kind, he had a great circle of friends and a loving family, despite the trials and tribulations of his nightmarish condition. So, here's to the nicest werewolf I know, Remus Lupin!
~ F

Tolerance: A fair, objective, and permissive attitude toward opinions and practices that differ from one's own. 

Lizzy: Lots of characters are unique and have some kind of obstacle to tackle. One of my favorites is Percy Jackson from the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. Percy has a lot to overcome; even before he finds out he is a demigod. Having ADHD and constantly getting kicked out of schools isn’t easy. It is almost impossible to make friends, teachers seem to have it out for him, and it is hard to concentrate. Does he give up? Does Percy spend his time complaining? No, he tries to make it work at each new school he is enrolled in. He thinks about what has gone wrong in the past and tries to learn from it and not make the same mistakes again. The reason that I like Percy so much is because he keeps on trying. Perseverance is a necessary trait in anyone who has to rise above the things that are holding them back. It is this trait that helps him to be such a great demigod once he learns who he really is, because he does not give up. He keeps trying and working towards his goal no matter what. Go Percy!  ~L

Perseverance: Steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.