To Kill a Bear

In one of my classes, we were discussing commitment and bonding in the story, Bluffing, by the Canadian writer Gail Helgason.
In the story, the two main characters come across a grizzly bear. They face it together but one runs aways and we were later discussing which character was more committed to their relationship. With this, there was brainstorming and sharing of understandings of bonding and commitment.

One of my students wanted to share a story he heard. He didn't go into the details but said that a father and a son can kill a bear but not two friends. He said since there was a stronger bond and commitment between the father and the son, they would not abandon each other but the friends may only think about themselves and render themselves vulnerable to an attack. So, a father and son can kill a bear but not two friends.

I never heard the story/saying before but I felt its message was very augmenting to the values that enrich our lives.
I am very happy that I have students like this boy. His name is Nono Jimmy and he is a bright boy.    

Comments

  1. James PaillyMarch 7, 2014 at 11:32 AM

    What an interesting story. You have a very bright student there.

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousMarch 7, 2014 at 7:37 PM

    That was a really good argument. Interesting post and more than that - thoughtful. Nice to see you back after a long time, Nobu sir. Hope you are keeping fine. Take care and happy weekend.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. NobuMarch 13, 2014 at 11:24 PM

      Its nice to be able to write. Thank you Langa

      Delete
  3. PaSsuMarch 9, 2014 at 4:48 AM

    Why is "Bluffing" put at the very first? ha ah ah
    You really know how to make kids think and get creative. I love what you are doing. I often wish to be an English Teacher, except after exam...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. NobuMarch 13, 2014 at 11:33 PM

      Thank you Passatsheri, for reading and commenting because I know you are encouraging me to write more often. Thanks

      Delete
  4. Lynda R Young as Elle CardyApril 3, 2014 at 5:06 PM

    Ha, I love the story.

    ReplyDelete

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