Hi, need to submit a 1500 words essay on the topic Reflection Journal on My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok.Download file to see previous pages... Chapter 2 focused on Asher’s first educational exp

Hi, need to submit a 1500 words essay on the topic Reflection Journal on My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok.

Chapter 2 focused on Asher’s first educational experience and the earliest recollection that art was considered a waste of time from the Sitra Achra, or the Other Side, more commonly known as forces of evil (Chapter 1, 3). The chapter likewise proffered challenges of Asher’s father, Aryeh, as he decides to work in Europe to be more instrumental in assisting the Jewish people. I learned new terms that necessitated appropriate definitions in the text for greater understanding by the readers. However, the author opted its use in more regionalized or localized manner to enable the readers to envision and somehow put oneself in the shoes of the main characters in the story. Cultural norms and traditions depicting how Asher and his family and people live were manifested and learned through intermittent examples, such as attendance in the mikveh, where men purify their bodies in a pool. Likewise, there were frequent mentions of Ribbonno Shel Olom, a term synonym with Master of the Universe or the Supreme Being, in antithetical contrast to Sitra Achra, or the Other Side. What I found most surprising about what I have read this week was the extent by which other prominent people influence a nuclear family’s life and decisions. As indicated, the profound influence of a Rebbe, a spiritual leader, a mentor, a guide, in relevant phases of their lives, was actively sought prior to making important decisions. Another puzzling idea is the significance of Rebbe’s role in providing guidance and direction to the characters’ life and in decision making process. At one point, it seems that Asher’s father solicited the Rebbe’s advice regarding the fate that Asher must be directed to in terms of molding him. However, several incidents attest that Asher’s mother refused a Rebbe’s assistance because she believed a Rebbe was instrumental in her brother’s death. Further, Asher’s father refused to listen to the Rebbe’s intercession to support his artistic inclinations. Finally, Asher himself declined to listen to a Rebbe’s recommendation for him to take Russian classes. On the other hand, what I found most difficult about what I have read this week was the way the Asher’s father, Aryeh failed to support his artistic talent and even put his work at the top of his priority, more than his family. The short story on Asher Lev is actually an inspiring piece of literary work by Potok that aims to send the message to readers to pursue one’s dreams and be honest to follow one’s interests in life, especially if these talents move people towards appreciating values in one’s life. In the story of Asher, there have been several instances that indicate relevant characters in the story who remained unsupportive and challenged his capabilities as an artist – particularly in the person of his own father. The role as a father is generally and predominantly known to be a supportive and encouraging figure to encourage children to excel in their own craft and interests in life. However, contrary to what is universally accepted, Asher’s father remained unsupportive and openly objected to Asher’s endeavors – even indicating that these are pagan activities. The role provided a challenging task for readers to evaluate one’s personal values and beliefs, as against those that are being imposed by other people, whether directly or indirectly influencing and trying to control the direction of one’s life. In the end, one’s destiny is really molded by one’s personal decision and should not be blamed nor accounted to others.