Week 10: Reading Diary- The Day I Questioned Reality

A long time ago, my brothers and I were living in the forest.  We enjoyed the woodland creatures as well as the fresh plants and meats available for our consumption whenever we got hungry.  One day, a Brahmin found us though and was in desperate need of help.  He told us that his staff and kindling were taken.  He was on his way to make a sacrificial fire and out of the blue, a huge buck took it.  The Brahmin was elderly and frail, so we agreed to try and help.  My brothers and I ran after the deer for hours.  It’s large graceful bounds outpaced our shorter strides.  Our bodies had been conditioned by living in the forests, but we were not ready for this kind of physical challenge.  We tried our best to beat the deer and save the brahmin’s belongings- after all, if we caught the deer, we would have a dinner out of the meat. After a couple hours, we gave up.  We lost sight of the deer and were far from the area of the forest we typically reside in.  Luckily, we all stumbled upon a river flowing into a lake with cool, crisp water.  My brother Nakula was the first to find the lake so he took a drink first.  I’m not sure what happened, but he died on the spot.  It was horrifying.  My brothers and I were talking and then when we looked back up, Nakula was on his side and had stopped breathing.  My conclusion was that maybe he ran to hard and his heart had given out.  It was extremely sad.  Before we could carry his body back to bury it, the rest of us still needed water.  Sahadeva was the next to take a drink.  He made some sort of weird hand motion as if he was shushing someone but no one but us were there and we certainly weren’t talking in memory of our brother.  Crazy enough, he died on the spot as well.  I could not believe my eyes.  I was extremely distraught but also couldn’t really believe what was happening.  Arjuna and Bhima took a drink at the same time and they, as well, died from some mysterious force.  I was extremely upset and didn’t know what to do.  My body was crying from fatigue and my heart was broken by this point.  I went to get a drink and heard a voice.  I talked to the voice out of curiosity.  Sure enough, it turned out to be my father Yama.  My whole world was turning upside down at this point…my brothers came back to life…and I remain very confused.

Large deer.

(Source:  Wikipedia)

Author's Note:  When I read this tale in the book, I could not even begin to put into words the emotions that would have been felt throughout this whole experience.  One minute, the brothers are chasing a deer together and the next minute, all but one are dead.  Thus, I wanted to try and explain the thoughts that may have accompanied this scene.

Buck, William (1973).  The Mahabharata.

Week 11: Reading Diary A/B

The monkey and the crocodile story is fun to read- simple language and it reminds me of stories I read when I was younger.  The crocodile is so not smart though.  I enjoy the cunningness of the monkey and at the end how he was still on alert even though the crocodile claimed to leave him alone in the future.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-monkey-and-crocodile.html

Again, the turtle is very clever- I really like these stories.  On a more superficial note, how could the king think the turtle is a demon?  I could see if the boys had never seen one they’d be scared but the king?

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-how-turtle-saved-his-own.html

The poor turtle.  I understand that too much talking can get one in trouble, but I also dislike how talking is somewhat portrayed as foolish.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-turtle-who-couldnt-stop.html

I love how all these stories are so simple and easy to read yet make good points.  The man should have known better than to treat his ox harshly maybe in an attempt to look more manly in front of many men.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-ox-who-won-forfeit.html

As this story exemplifies, working together is so crucial.  I have seen this commonly on sports teams- if there’s quarreling or drama, the team falls apart.  Also, being a part of the RA staff, we have to all work together to keep things running smoothly and then the job is easier and more fun.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-quarrel-of-quails.html

This story is so true and so relatable.  Gossip gets spun out of control.  Whether or not the story changes, the original source may be terribly inaccurate and before long, many people are shocked/scared for absolutely no reason.  It’s good to verify some things before believing them and the lion does a good job of showing how important that is.  I also found it fitting that the lion was one to verify since he seems to run the show in his environment.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-foolish-timid-rabbit.html

I don’t really get the moral of this story- if you work too hard, you’ll be taken away from where you want to be?

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-kings-white-elephant.html

Again, the point of this story is not entirely obvious- be clever and catch wrongdoers?  I’m not really sure but the story was entertaining nonetheless.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-girl-monkey-and-string-of.html

Reading Unit home page:  http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/myth-folklore-unit-jataka-tales-babbitt.html

What a sad story.  At least the daughters had it right.  I think it’s sad the mother thought the goose wanted something from them at first.  I wish the goose came back to show her what she had done although the mother may have not recognized the goose at all if it looked like other geese.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-golden-goose.html

Another sad tale- that’s too bad.  I hope the gardener didn’t get fired over this incident.  At least the intentions of the monkeys were good even though their actions were bad.  I wonder if monkeys are supposed to be not very smart in the culture although Hanuman was very smart.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-stupid-monkeys.html

I don’t like how the lion was so ungrateful.  The woodpecker was very smart though to prop the lion’s mouth open in the event that the lion decided to eat the woodpecker.  The lion sounds awfully full of himself though to assume he does so much for the woodpecker.  I mean really, what does he do?  Not try to eat him every day?  It’s not like the lion could even get food for the woodpecker since their diets are so different.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-woodpecker-and-lion.html

The wolf is sly- his perspective was not stealing but saw the fish as compensation for settling an argument.  Sneaky….

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-otters-and-wolf.html

Based off of this story, I take back my previous idea that maybe monkeys were considered not as intelligent since in this instance, the chief monkey was very wise and was rewarded greatly for it.  That’s nice the king kept his promise- what a nicer, happier tale.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-how-monkey-saved-his-troop.html

What a nice story.  I like how they all worked together.  It would have been perhaps a little bit nicer if they were friends long before they were needed since it sort of seemed somewhat odd that their friendship would have formed right before.  Also very odd a lion is in the same environment as the other creatures (mostly the turtle).  However, I liked how they had one another’s backs- that’s so nice.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-hawks-and-their-friends.html

Again, a sad story- I applaud that the wolf tried to get better and stronger.  I hate that the story seems to say that one should be afraid of failure because everyone will fail at some point but it will lead to more successes (usually).

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-foolhardy-wolf.html

The poor parents of the lion- they must be so sad.  This is a bit of a jump but I feel like this is what can happen in life and specifically college- some people fall into peer pressure and make friends with who they are told not to and really end up hurt from it.  Of course, it can happen any stage of life but college gives freedom that oftentimes results in bad decisions.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-lion-in-bad-company.html

Cute tale of friendship (no pun intended)- this was a great story to end on.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-elephant-and-dog.html

Week 9: Famous Last Words

Hey, everyone! So my last week has been a whirlwind (as usual).  I got through the last of my midterms which was good.  However, that has kept me from writing with that much quality.  Unfortunately, all of my assignments have been done pretty last minute so I’m hoping to work ahead as much as I can while midterms are out of the way for a little bit.  Anyways, I have been particularly impressed with the quality and the creativity of all the storybooks I’ve read.  I actually am very much looking forward to reading the new stories over the coming week because they are so interesting and add so much to the reading we have already done for the class.  Also, looking at other people’s storybooks has shown me the neat things people can do with formatting and colors and how it can add to the story and set the tone. 

As for other parts of my life, my week was good.  I was so relieved when my exams were over and spent all day Thursday (after my exam) meeting with my residents over various things.  On Friday, two of my classes were cancelled so after my one and only class that day, I ran some errands, got lunch with a friend, and had a girls’ night.  We went wedding dress shopping, ate dinner at Tarahumara’s, and watched a movie while eating ice cream.  It was a wonderful way to spend the night and then my fiancé got back in town Friday night which was great as well.  Today (Saturday), I slept a lot and am now waiting to go on rounds with my co-RA.  This past week has been really good and I’m sort of sad to know that the fall semester is drawing to a close (or at least it seems that way) since it’s my last year at OU.  Boomer Sooner!

Cute baby pineapple for your personal enjoyment

 (personal photo, May 2014)

Week 10: Reading Diary B

This last part of the story was really confusing to me.  Thus, I’m very glad there’s a reading guide to clarify things for me.  To start, I’m glad someone is finally getting the peace and justice thing right – however, that is merely a wish and Duryodhana knows that but still plans on being aggressive and wants to abduct Krishna.  I wanted to laugh when Duryodhana realizes he can’t take him captive – thank goodness.  Someone cannot do something as terrible as they want to.  Krishna is also divine so even if Duryodhana was able to abduct him, there would probably be some pretty severe consequences for abducting a divinity.  So really, Krishna was almost doing him a favor by not being abducted.  Anyways, Bhishma obviously doesn’t get the memo and wounds Krishna.  I wonder why Arjuna shot Bhishma – I feel like Krishna is more than capable of fighting his own battles.  For sure, it was helpful for Krishna but if I was Krishna, I would want an opportunity to show off my powers in an attempt to get people to realize they need to leave me alone.  Skipping forward, is Bhima a vampire or what?  Drinking blood is super nasty and was destroying the body not enough.  That was very disturbing to read.  The ending is sort of unexpected and crazy.  It surprises me that Krishna is killed.  He’s a divinity—can he really even die?  Also, it was in such a not epic way and was a little crazy.  I guess maybe it’s better to go out not in a violent battle but in peace, but I’m just really surprised that a divine being would be killed by a misconception.  To me, it was unexpected.  In conclusion, I liked this book but found it a lot harder to follow along than the “Ramayana.”  Also, I’m a sucker for love stories and heroes and like justice so reading this was a bit harder since there wasn’t much love if any (depending on how you see it) and there were lots of curses and I didn’t feel there was a lot of justice.  However, I definitely respect the work as a whole and just because it is not my favorite, that doesn’t mean it isn’t an admirable piece of writing (which it is).  I am planning on reading the D2L readings for my other reading diaries to help change it up and hope I find them more interesting.

Week 10: Reading Diary A

I think it is so not smart that Durodhana decides to make a royal camp near the Pandavas for the mere reason mock them.  One, he fell into peer pressure if Shakuni convince him to do it and two, I feel like it’s so stupid to make more enemies than necessary.  I mean really, if I were him, I’d try to keep as much peace as possible.  When he gets kidnapped, I feel bad for him but at the same time, maybe it’s good for him to learn to not assume so many of the others are weak and couldn’t cause havoc.  It’s super creepy with the voice and the lake thing.  For one, if that happened to me, I would assume that I was going crazy/was in desperate need of water and would ignore the voice.  If I were in their shoes, that would have resulted in death.  I’m surprised Yudhishthira actually does answer the voice.  Also, I’m surprised he didn’t yell at the voice – after all, his brothers are dead! I mean what kind of person would remain calm after that.  Anyways, I’m glad Yama brings them back but I would at least be a bit frustrated with my dad if he killed me.  Sure, he brought them back to life but still, that’s a little extreme.  It is really frustrating that the king and queen wanted to exile Draupadi for the mere fact that she was the victim of rape.  That’s a terrible thing in it of itself and now she is having to pay the consequences?  I understand that the king and queen are probably shaken up by the aggressive acts in the kingdom but still, I feel as if they are not really being reasonable at this point.  I also wonder why Draupadi wanted to remain in the court.  If I was in that position, I would want to get away from a place with such terrible memories.  Honestly, I don’t really like this book as much as I liked the “Ramayana,” since it seems so sad and depressing.  I just feel like everyone gets cursed or something terrible happens to them and then they must pay for it.  I wonder if this is considered to be as classic as the “Ramayana” and if so, that’s really strange to me since it’s so dark.   I wonder what lessons people are supposed to get out of this book and would be curious to find out.  

Week 9 Storytelling: Young Love

I’ve always dreamed of what my future wife would be like.  She’d be beautiful of course.  After all, I am the king of Hastinapura – I deserve the very best.  However, I want there to be more to our relationship than superficial things.  I want there to be love.  Not some arranged sort of love some kings have, but a love that would have occurred regardless of my position as king.  For this reason, I want to fall in love not as a king but as an ordinary man.  Therefore, whenever my future wife and I meet, I know she will love me for me and not for my power.  However, this is easier said than done.  You see, everyone in the kingdom knows who I am, especially all the women.  I can’t simply disguise myself because they would all see through the disguises.  For this reason, I must go on the outskirts of town where the hard-working and unexpecting women reside.  I decide to leave in the morning.  The next morning, I have the guards drop me off on the riverbank.  As I walk, letting me feet run through the water, I notice a woman all by herself.  As I look closer, I do not recognize her face and do not know if she is even a part of the kingdom.  All the better.  I give myself a mental pep talk as I approach her and then I start a conversation with her.  We talk about the weather, the beauty of the land, and our favorite things to do.  Our eyes connect and I feel all warm and happy inside.  She wraps up the conversation and turns to leave.  On a whim, I ask her to be my wife since I do not want to let such a special woman escape from my vicinity.  Interestingly enough, she agrees.  I can hardly believe my luck.  Part of me wonders if something is wrong with her, but I smile and push those thoughts aside.  I become very excited and then, she asks me to promise one thing- that I would never tell her to do anything differently or have her change what she does.  Thinking back to tales I’ve heard of power-hungry husbands, I feel like that may be why she requests this and oblige of course.  As we return to the castle, we talk some more and I grow to love her more and more. 

Author’s Note:  I wanted to add more information than the book did about this.  I think the woman was deceptive but the king was also very naïve.  He wanted a wife too badly to see through some of the red flags.

Narayan, R. K. (1978). The Mahabharata.

A river - may resemble the one the king met his wife at.

(source:  Wikipedia)

Week 9: Reading Diary B

Why is the minister cunning?  I feel like that's so contradictory... I think it’s good that Bhishma and Vidura push Dhritarashtra towards making peace.  For one thing, it’s a good thing to do – having enemies isn’t good and oftentimes, tension can be resolved by simply communicating.  Two, in this world, people all over are being cursed so if he wants to avoid worse things happening, this may be a good first step.  Also, I think it’s really strange that it was frowned upon to kill a deer, but now someone is being rewarded for burning down a forest full of birds and animals so that Agni could consume the animal fat as he chose.  I think that’s pretty confusing- either it’s not acceptable to kill animals or it is (in their culture).  I suppose in today’s world, we are split on that but in terms of punishing/cursing someone, I feel like there should be a more definite answer so someone would know what he/she was getting into.  I think that it’s wise that Draupadi doesn’t use all of her wishes up – she basically asks for things to be in the state they were before the gambling, and she doesn’t ask for anymore.  I think this is smart because it helps avoid an unnecessary war.  I find it slightly strange that Draupadi is not criticizing Yudhishthira for being forgiving when before it seemed as if she was really trying to make peace when she didn’t overstep her bounds on her wishes.  As for the whole mantra, I feel like that’s totally unfair to be able to say some magical words and automatically get weapons and have an advantage over one’s enemies.  I’m glad that Arjuna is actually blessed out of the initial curse – I feel like there’s so much war, death, and deceit in this story it’s nice to see that every once in a while, some people have good stuff happening.  

Week 9: Reading Diary A

I feel like Santanu should have almost expected something crazy to happen when the woman said she will have freedom to do whatever she wants if she marries him – just saying.  Also, poor Santanu- he seems to keep falling for women who cause him more trouble than good.  In a way, maybe it’s not so bad because maybe it’s a plot devised by the gods and he needs to be with these women to have sons with certain characteristics, but I still think it is pretty unfortunate for him.  It’s kind of Bhishma to step down from the throne for the sake of his father – I wonder why he was so willing to do it.  Solely out of love for his father or perhaps he was scared to have the throne all to himself?  Either way, it must have been a little bit more comforting to have other brothers since his father probably scared him a little bit about the risk of only having one heir with all the danger that comes associated with being the heir.  I feel really bad for the Ambika, Ambalike, and the servant who were forced to sleep with someone, especially when they didn’t know the person and they were scared of him.  I hate that their kids have to live lives at a disadvantage because of their mothers’ states upon conception (except for the servant’s child, of course).  I also think it’s rather unsmart for Dhritarashtra’s wife to be blind with her husband – it’s loving, of course but I feel like she’s not going to be able to help her husband in that state and she probably won’t even be able to take care of her own self.  It’s pretty terrible either way but man, these families seemed to be cursed pretty harshly.  I also find it really unfortunate that Panda is also now cursed.  Sure, he shouldn’t have shot a deer (especially in that situation) but really, he didn’t know it was a celestial being.  It surprised me that there was, in this story, a good thing that happened- Kunti had a son with the sun god and the son was rescued.  Yeah, it wasn’t good to send her son down a river in hopes that nothing would kill it, but the son was taken in by a couple which was very nice and unexpected.  More exile- why?  Being liked by the people you are ruling isn’t a bad thing at all- it’s actually a great thing! Sure, I understand being jealous but he is being helpful.  

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Week 8: Famous Last Words

This past week has been a whirlwind- between a massive midterm and studying for my 2 for this week, time flew by.  I had rounds (I’m an RA) Thursday night which went pretty late so I slept in Friday and got a lot of work done.  Besides excessive studying, I got to plan more wedding stuff which is nice.  We have a venue pretty much nailed down and are just waiting for final details to be worked out.  My writing for this class this week hasn’t been anything too special- it was mostly in the form of comments and such, but it was cool to see other people’s storybooks.  There were some really creative ideas out there- I am so impressed by the class! Once I get through this week, I will have a little bit of room to breathe since I will be able to work more on projects and hopefully get ahead on this class and not have exams in the immediate future.  Enrollment starts soon and that’s a bit crazy- I have really enjoyed this class and may take Mythlore with Professor Gibbs as well.  Hopefully I will be able to actually do classwork when she opens the class the week before because for this semester, I was in the middle of biochemistry and RA training when the class was opened so I was too busy to work on it.  Anyways, I’m hoping to get some good feedback on my second storybook story so that I can modify it and maybe even get my third story done before the next round of exams come.  This class has more work than I anticipated, but I enjoy the flexibility and option to work ahead/do extra credit when other classes get crazy and take away time from this class.  Have a good week everyone!

Cute puppies brighten my day so hopefully this cutie will brighten yours :)

(personal photo, April 2013)

Week 8: Reading Diary- Self Assessment

I feel like my reading diaries have been okay so far.  I always look over the reading diary instructions every week to make sure that I do them correctly and haven’t forgotten anything.  Of course, it’s always possible I overlook something, but I’m fairly sure they adhere to the instructions provided.  All my reading diaries are about the same length.  Towards the beginning, the author’s note was pretty short but then they got longer as the semester progressed.  I don’t have any tips for other students- they are all doing great jobs! My posts are pretty short but always meet the minimum number of words.  I do include images and have not done any quotes- that’s a great idea though!  I feel like I’m putting in good effort and I always do the reading, but I am simply not very creative so my posts are not too interesting. I’ve been really impressed by my classmates’ posts though.  For this reason, I’m trying to pour in extra time into my storybook.  For this class, I remember some of the reading such as the main points, but not all of it.  I remember more from Narayan than from Buck.  For my other classes, most of the information is put into lecture slides and I focus more on that than textbook reading.  As for reading strategies, it helps to have a summary to go off of first (which you have provided) which helps me keep track of the context and what to look for.  That’s been very helpful and helps me make sure that I understand the major plot points even if I don’t remember all of the small details.   On another note, the summaries provide me big events and sometimes I choose to capitalize on the details for my storytelling post because they are just that- small, barely mentioned points in the story that have a lot of room for creativity.

Week 7: Storytelling Post: Sita's Thoughts

I could hardly believe it- one minute I was stuck in Ravana’s lair with him begging me nightly to become his goddess and the next minute I’m in Rama’s arms one again.  I am afraid that this is all a dream and I’ll wake up to realize that I have simply fallen asleep and none of this will be real.  The longer that I am with Rama, the more it sinks in that he truly has rescued me and I’m on my way back home.  It’s been nearly fourteen years since I have seen my home and I long to smell the baking bread, the touch of clean clothes, and the warmth of a bubble bath.  I keep on looking over at Rama- I certainly hope my eyes are not failing me- I’m so incredibly beyond excited to be back with him.  Anyways, on our way back home, Rama shows me the way he had come.  We pass by Jatayu’s burial place and I can’t help but shed a few tears for the great sacrifice he had made in an attempt to save me.  Such heroism deserves to be rewarded but instead he was rewarded with a grave and eternal rest.  We also passed by where Rama had met Hanuman- wow, I can’t even begin to imagine what my rescue mission would have looked like without- would there even have been a rescue?  Surely my husband Rama would have found a way.  Anyways, we continue on our way back and I can’t help but feel the excitement building within me even more- so many exciting changes are about to take place, and already have.  I wonder how Bharata has handled the kingdom- it’s hard to belief fourteen years have already passed…

Author’s Note:  I have seen other people’s storytelling posts and am continually impressed by the variety of styles.  While some seem unattainable, I thought that I could at least try and write my story in first person.  I wanted to write from Sita’s perspective because she goes through so much yet remains so in love with her husband which is quite impressive.  I really enjoyed writing from the first person point of view because so many personal thoughts can be added in that can add lots of insightful details.  It’s very sad what Sita will eventually go through, but I enjoyed writing what I think might have been some of her thoughts as she undergoes this stage in her life.

Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana in exile in the forest 

(Source:  Wikipedia)

Bibliography:  Buck, William (1976). Ramayana: King Rama's Way

Week 7: Reading Diary B

I wonder if it was an emotional time for Rama as he shows Sita where they passed through along their way to rescue her- past the site where they had to burn Jatayu’s body, where they met Hanuman, etc.  Wow, it’s crazy to think how different this story would have turned out if they hadn’t met Hanuman.  It’s cool that Sita is now pregnant, but it is so maddening what Rama does.  For one, he bases his action to kick Sita out based off of the gossip of the townspeople.  Two, he doesn’t even talk to Sita about this- he goes completely behind her back to abandon her after all the trust, hope, and love she had put in him.  Three, he knows this will most likely result in her death and is entirely okay with it.  Rama is definitely not one of my favorite characters anymore.  It’s very strange that Rama doesn’t want Sita anymore but has a statue of her at the festival- very creepy and weird.  Maybe he regrets his decision?  It was very brave of Sita to come back to Rama and try to prove her innocence.  Perhaps, this would be a good place in the timeline for my storybook to “happen.”  Anyways, it’s very strange she’s taken into the ground and man, would that not be scary at all?  Poor Sita- dragged away again unwillingly.  Sure, it’s a nicer supernatural being this time but still, very scary.  It’s sort of extreme the extent of repercussions that Kala wants to be instilled if anyone messes up the meeting between him and Rama.  I wonder if the hermit would actually do all that he’d say or if he’s just trying to be scary.  However, with this sort of book and characters, I wouldn’t put it past them.  It’s so sad that Lakshmana has to die.  He has been such a hard-working, sacrificial, obedient, kind person this whole story and now he has to die for this? It just doesn’t seem right.  The end of the book is very strange.  I think it’s weird that Rama can die but Vibhishana can’t.  I thought Rama was an incarnation of Vishnu so would that not make him immortal?  Anyways, well-written novel, it just seems very weird to me (in all honesty) but probably that’s only because these aren’t stories I grew up on- I’m sure people from outside my culture would think stories I’m used to are very weird as well. 

Week 7: Reading Diary A

I know Ravana has been quite cocky throughout the story, but really- he’s even cocky to time which I feel like sort of rules all.  He’s being really unreasonable.  I think he’s in the middle of a power-hungry trance and can’t really break free.  Other people in the story such as the monkey Hanuman fought had one warning, but Ravana has had so many and he still is just as confident as ever.  I’m starting to think that this isn’t just about Sita anymore and maybe is about a lot more.  The fight scene was definitely extremely intense.  With all the arrows flying and detail, it was quite exciting.  However, I didn’t really get the whole green skin thing and the arrow that broke on Rama’s leg and then was thrown at Ravana?  Anyways, it still sounded very intense.  I think it must have been so discouraging for Rama to cut off Ravana’s heads and have them grow right back.  I’m not really sure what Rama would have been thinking or feeling at this time, but he is a warrior through and through so I’m sure he kept his “head in the game” and stayed focused because oftentimes willpower/mindset is what will get you beat over any physical strength/ability battle.  I think it’s neat that Buck added in his own part of the story and that Ravana even begs for Rama to take Sita back.  Quite a turn of events- I’m surprised that Ravana stoops to that level.  I could see him mentally accepting defeat but writing it in a letter to his enemy is a step past that.  I also find it interesting that Vibhishana makes the plans for Ravana’s funeral even though he betrayed Ravana in a way.  I guess he still cared for Ravana even though he didn’t necessarily approve of his actions.  Poor Mandodari- it must have been so difficult for her to endure that loss, but at least she had Maya to comfort her.  However, a loss is a loss and that must have been really painful.  I’m glad Vibhishana is in charge of Lanka now, though.  Hopefully he doesn’t become corrupted by the power and instead rules the kingdom for good although that’s against his innate nature in a way.  I’m glad that Agni testifies for Sita in terms of her faithfulness and am sad that this will not be good enough in the future (but maybe Agni could be a witness/testifier for my storybook).

Week 6: Famous Last Words

Wow- so the week has drawn to an end and so much has happened in such a short amount of time.  Last weekend, I was home.  That Sunday, I completed the Buffalo Wild Wings challenge and my boyfriend became my fiancé (HE PROPOSED)!!! It was so romantic and sweet.  The whole week I’ve been on Cloud 9 and have had trouble focusing on schoolwork as a result.  I really want to plan my wedding and do all sorts of fun wedding stuff, but I also have been trying to get myself to still focus and be a good student and RA as well.  I got to hang out/grab dinner with several friends this week which was really nice- I was planning to hang out with them this past week anyways, but then I got engaged and we had that much more things to talk about.  The week has flown by and unfortunately schoolwork has caught up to me.  I have 2 exams tomorrow and exams the weeks following this one.  I’m also an alcohol peer educator so I’ve been busy giving sessions for that to freshmen and transfer students as well.  My Pinterest board has gotten larger this week as I tack on “wedding” pins.  I also am very scatter-brained and excited as you can probably tell.  This coming week I am looking forward to having another event for my floor (we’re doing a mixer with the guys) and catching up further on schoolwork.  I can’t believe September is already over- I’m in disbelief as I look through my planner and school is full-swing and I just can’t get over that.  I’m so excited but also sad since it’s my last year at the University of Oklahoma.  I’m definitely doing all I can to make this year count.  Have a great week guys!

This cutie was waiting for me when I went home last weekend 

(personal photo, March 2014)

Storytelling for Week 6: Sita's Hope

My heart feels like it is slowing to a stop. With every passing day in this place, I feel closer and closer to resolving my life to an eternity of loneliness.  I can’t bear the grief any longer.  First, I was taken away from my husband- I was only trying to be kind to an old man, and this is what I get?  I don’t understand how this is fair.  Now, Ravana tries to continually seduce me day after day.  This causes his wives to loathe me as they want his attention and are jealous that I get his flirty behavior night after night.  Anyways, I miss my husband way too much to even look at another man!  I wish these women would understand that.  This stress is taking such a toll on my health.  My body feels weaker by the day- the food is scarce and doesn’t taste any good, but it doesn’t really matter anyways.  After all, I seem to have lost my appetite after I was taken away from my dear husband and the fortress of our marriage.  Whether my loss of appetite is from fear, grief, or disgust stemmed from Ravana I do not know, but what I do know is that I will not lose hope that my husband will come to rescue me.  Rama is the most capable man I know and I would not doubt him for the world.  In fact, he has the strength equivalent to a thousand men and his love for me surpasses any sufferings as does my love for him.  Does he think about me often?  Is this as painful for him as it is for me?  I hope he is in good health and is safe.  Sure Lakshmana is taking good care of him.   I oftentimes resort to comforting myself with this thought since my husband’s well-being is more worrisome for me than my own.  I truly do love him and want the best for him.  Hopefully, he will make it here sooner rather than later so that I can emerge out of this terrible place and resume my role as his loving wife.

Author’s Note:  I chose to write in first person because I think it provides a powerful look into someone’s mind and thoughts.  This passage isn’t really in the story, but fits in because it describes what Sita may be thinking as she undergoes this stressful time in her life.

Bibliography:  Buck, William (1976).  Ramayana:  King Rama's Way

Sita in a flame

(source:  Wikipedia)

Week 6: Reading Diary B

I think Sugriva has some wide words and ideas when he’s trying to convince Rama to stay strong for if he doesn’t, he won’t be able to get Sita back at all.  I wonder why the monkeys had to carry Lakshmana and Rama.  At first, I thought maybe it was to keep them from growing weary, but I thought Rama was supposed to be nearly invincible so he probably wouldn’t grow weary then.  It’s neat to see both monkeys and squirrels come together to aid Rama.  Skipping forward, I though Vibhishana didn’t want to fight her own people, but he broke the disguises of Sardula and Sarana- guess that doesn’t count which is good because that’s a very useful thing to be able to do.  I think it’s ironic that even the giant Kumbhakarna even tells Ravana to just let Sita go and avoid war with Rama.  I sort of wanted to laugh at Ravana when his cover was completely blown after he tried to convince Sita that Rama was killed.  Prahasta definitely messes up that plan for him, but I’m sure Sita is very shaken up upon realizing that Rama has arrived and is definitely going into a very dangerous situation that could cost him his life.   It’s nice that Trijata consoles Sita and tells her that Rama isn’t really dead- I wonder why she wanted to comfort Sita.  I thought she was on Ravana’s side- maybe she empathizes for Sita or maybe she thinks Ravana is being absurd and wants to save Sita any pain she can.  Or, maybe she expects Ravana to lose and wants Sita’s favor so Trijata would possibly be spared in the event that Rama was going to kill everyone in Lanka.  Regardless, poor Sita must be experiencing a roller coaster of emotions and I can’t imagine how she must be doing.  She’s probably very anxious.  Skipping forward, it’s particularly cruel that Indrajit conjures a fake Sita and kills her in front of Hanuman.  That must have been both upsetting and scarring for Hanuman to witness and also very defeating because he has worked so hard to keep her alive and now he thinks she’s dead.  I can’t imagine what that would have been like and I wonder if Hanuman’s first instinct would be to tell Rama or to not tell him in fear that he would throw Rama off and he would get killed because his grief would overtake his ability to keep himself safe in battle.

                                                     

Week 6: Reading Diary A

I love the description of Lanka island- green hills, warm white sand, aloe abundant in the lushness of the land… However, the descriptions turn to be not so pretty when describing the Rakshasas and it’s disgusting that Ravana’s wives are all strewn about all over one another sleeping on the floor- they deserve better.  Also, how can each Rakshasa daughter desire him- he has twenty heads! That would disgust me.  Also, his wives aren’t exactly treated super well so I don’t understand why anyone would want to marry him.  I also think it’s weird this whole time that Hanuman chose to disguise himself as a cat- were there lots of cats around or why would that help him blend in any more?  Jumping forward, I wonder why Ravana has drums go off in his room every morning and why there were female demons serving as guards rather than males.  I would have figured he would have made as many females as possible his wives.  I really admire how Sita keeps her composure when talking to Ravana and doesn’t falter or even entertain the things he offers.  She even calls him out a couple times and he loses his temper.  He must have looked absolutely mad and terrifying when his eyes whirred around and he had a fit.  I feel bad for Queen Mandodari because she no longer gets Ravana’s attention like she used to and this must be hard on her as well.  It makes my stomach turn to think the rakshasas wanted to eat her.  I wonder if they were just trying to scare her or if they actually wanted to.  It’s pretty weird that Hanuman refers to Sita as “mother.”  It’s sweet though that he reassures Sita and answers her questions.  He even offers to take her home at that moment.  I wonder why she says no.  Perhaps she doesn’t believe him.  When Ravana wants to cut off Hanuman’s head, I think it’s very noble that Vibhishana refuses to do so.  Not only because morally it’s wrong, but he also knows the laws and knows that’s simply not fair in the face of the law.  And, ohhh karma- Hanuman doesn’t feel the fire, but he is able to set fire to Lanka.  I admire Hanuman for also rushing back where he was just attacked- he thought she would be burned in the fire for sure, but he went on the slim chance she was alive and she was.

Week 5: Storytelling

He trekked onward, gazing over his shoulder as his sandals gathered dust around his toes.  Angst filled thoughts filled his head.  On his way to see Rama, Bharata had high hopes that Rama would return to Ayodhya.  Bharata had all sorts of reasons why Rama should return- the people loved him, everyone wanted him as king (except for Kaikeyi of course), Bharata didn’t feel ready for the role…the list dragged on and on.   If those reasons weren’t enough, Bharata thought that he would return for the sake of his wife, Sita- she isn’t one to fair the wildnerness especially well and Bharata was sure it wouldn’t take Rama long to see that.  However, Bharata’s hopes were quickly dashed as he sat down and spoke with Rama.  Rama did not seem in distress and neither did his wife.  In fact, Rama showed no ill-feelings toward Kaikeyi and respected her wishes with little emotion, not even anger.  Bharata could not believe it- Rama had no intentions of returning to Ayodhya, at least for 14 years.  Bharata was just as shocked to learn that even the people of the woods adored Rama.  Bharata made one last attempt and informed Rama in a matter-of-fact manner that he would rule for only 14 years (to the day) and would step down at that point- Rama better be there to pick up where he left off.  Bharata also made it clear that he would leave a pair of sandals next to the throne so it would be clear that Bharata was merely “filling in” for Rama.  With that being said, Bharata was on his way in no time- it was clear that Rama would not go against Kaikeyi’s wishes and come back with him.  Bharata walked back feeling defeated and overwhelmed.  It had been an unspoken decision between Bharata and his brothers that Rama would assume the position as king- none of the others were prepared for such a role.  Rama was the smartest, strongest, and most charismatic one of the bunch and people adored Rama upon just meeting him one time.  Bharata sadly reflected on the shoes he was going to have to fill- he already felt uncomfortable and inadequate in comparison to his brother.  Bharata knew the challenge was great and strategized on the best ways to present the news to the kingdom.  He debated whether or not he should tell them the reasons behind why Rama was gone.  Eventually, he decided against it since Rama would not want the whole kingdom to come looking for him in the forests.  Before long, Bharata arrived as his new kingdom and took a long deep breathe before he assumed his new role. 

The births of Bharata, Lakshmana, and Shatrughna.

(Source:  Wikipedia)

Author's Note:  I really wanted to write about this story because it's easy to think about how Rama and Sita may be feeling, but Bharata is going through major life changes as well that are easily overlooked.  Bharata is brave for taking on such a huge role (even though he didn't have much of a choice), and he's admirable for that.  The story didn't mention much about this aspect of the Ramayana tale, so I added a lot of details but didn't really change the plot line.

Bibliography:  Buck, William (1976).  Ramayana.

Week 5: Reading Diary B

Maricha is so wise- I admire how he is courageous enough to tell Ravana to not be so prideful and greedy since it can be so harmful.  Also, it's nice that he reminds Ravana that he was his wives at home who love him- he doesn't need to go after any more.  I think it's also kind that Maricha isn't too prideful and humbly uses an illustration from his own life of the power of having friends and doing right.  However, I find it ironic that Maricha is trying to persuade Ravana to do one thing (be good), and then Maricha helps Ravana in being deceitful- what's up with that?  And he does it so convincingly- he doesn’t do a so-so role-playing job- he does a very good job at luring Rama away and then imitating his voice.  When Maricha died, I was sorta sad because on one hand, I think his heart was in the right place but on another hand, he did a lot of evil as well.  However, I really like how detailed the description of the deer is- it certainly does sound enchanting and very desirable.  Quite beautiful, actually.  I can only imagine what it would have looked like.  I’ll have to try and google a picture.  Anyways, it really frustrates me that no one listens to Lakshmana- there will be another time no one listens to him and it’s hard to read because if others would just listen to each other, many problems could be avoided.   This frustration is very applicable to real life, too.  How many times are there when we don’t listen to someone for whatever reason.  There may actually be a time when hearing them out would do us a world of good.  When Ravana takes Sita, I don’t think this version of the story mentioned that he picked her up via the dirt under her.  Also, he touches her (grabs her around the waist)- does the whole consent/touching death curse not apply in this version?  Ohhhh…now I see the curse.  Also, I didn’t know Rama was supposed to be the king of the bears and monkeys and he can only have his one wife?  Good for him! I just didn’t know that.  Not sure if I skipped over it in the last book or if it’s truly a new detail that Buck put in.  Anyways, the Rishyamuka Hill seems really neat- I wonder if people would intentionally go there or how strict it’d be in terms of how much “bad” you have in you or if waking up rich is totally do-able.  

Week 5: Reading Diary A

Yeah, I’m definitely surprised that Kaikeyi thought that Bharata would be fine with her using her two wishes to put him on the throne instead of Rama and banishing him on top of that.  Bharata adores Rama and looks up to him- what does Kaikeyi think would have come of their relationship if she goes along and not only steals Rama’s crown but also his home and kingdom and has her son take his place.  I can’t imagine how Bharata would be feeling.  First of all, he must be overwhelmed with grief since his father died.  Next, he must be incredibly sorrowful since Rama is dead in a way- he probably won’t see him again.  And finally, he must be absolutely outraged with his mother for cooking up such a contraption.  However, I think it’s great that Kausalya knows Bharata is innocent and never asked for this.  She seems so well composed though which is really impressive.  It’s also nice that they came together to grieve instead of grieving independently- support systems definitely would help in situations such as these (I would imagine).  I also find it surprising that they burn bodies in this culture- I feel like most other cultures honor the body.  For example, the Egyptians put their kings’ bodies in a pyramid with all sorts of valuables…  Also, I think it’s a nice gesture that Bharata says he will only rule for fourteen years and will represent Rama by keeping his sandals by the throne, but I feel as if it’s very extreme to not rule one day past that.  Maybe Bharata is scared to rule and is caving from the pressure, but I think it’s more likely that he’s trying to make a stand.  Also, how is Rama expected to keep track of everyday up to 14 years to the exact day and remember his way back?  I feel like that’s a lot to ask/remember.  Skipping forward, poor Sita- being attacked by a big crow in the middle of the night.  I don’t get why Rama saw she was upset, smiled, and went back to sleep.  Also, I’m surprised he didn’t kill the crow. Why did the crow go after Sita in the first place? Anyways, Sita does not seem to get any breaks- she’s snatched up by a demon.  However, Tumburu is smart for taking Sita if that’s the way he is changed from a demon.  Also, I don’t get why Lakshmana had to build the house- I feel like Rama should at least help.  Lakshmana doesn’t even need to have gone with him and he did, so I feel like Rama can at least be especially nice and helpful to him.

Week 4: Famous Last Words

Wow, I can barely believe the weekend is almost over.  I have spent the majority of the weekend studying as I have several projects/exams all at once.  I had my molecular exam on Wednesday, I have microbiology exam on Monday, a formal lab report due that night, and a physiology exam on Tuesday.  Then, my capstone project is due the next week- whew.  At least once all of these things pass, I’ll get to take a breath and slow down for a little bit.  However, this huge series of exams has definitely shown me how I need to stay on top of things better.  However, on Friday evening I got to meet my mentor for Leadership Scholars which was very nice (and a break from studying).  She's an orthopedic PA and I want to be a PA so that's why we got paired together.  There was a big reception with appetizers and drinks, and it was neat to see so many well-accomplished people who attended OU (even some who hadn't) who all want to give back and mentor us.  I remember last year at this time, we had a formal dinner and I sat next to a judge and his wife, and he told me about some of the cases he had which were pretty interesting.  Anyways, I studied Saturday and watched the game as I studied (BOOMER SOONER)- you probably guess it.  Today, I went to Panera and now I'm back at my boyfriend's apartment and more studying.  I know, I'm boring, but just for this weekend.  Next weekend I get to go home, though, so I'm very excited for that!  I leave on Friday and one of the other RAs is going to watch over my floor in case something crazy happens so I don’t have to worry about that while I’m gone.  Also, while I’m there, not only will I get to see my family, but I will get to see my puppy and I'm so excited!

This is my puppy, Spartan (personal photo- March 2014)

Week 4: Storytelling- The Marriage of Rama and Sita

She could hardly sleep the night before as she practically pranced into bed.  Even her servants took notice of her particularly happy demeanor.  Her thoughts swam around in her head as she dreamed of her future husband.  Sita absolutely could not wait to become Rama’s wife.  She did not understand how he was so strong, kind, and simply wonderful.  She was puzzled- she suspected him to be the god of love, but the god of love has no body… However, she didn’t think too much about it because she was so excited.  She wondered what kind of food he liked, if he would be home much, how soon he wanted to have children (she secretly hoped that she’d have a son)… the list went on and on.  Although her mind was very much awake, her body was exhausted from the pre-marital preparations and she eventually fell asleep.  The next morning, as she sun shined softly on her face, she slowly woke up and then realized what day it was- her wedding day! She skipped downstairs where her servants were preparing her a meal.  As soon as she scarfed down breakfast, her maids dressed her in satin as she picked out which jewels she would wear.  Sita could not remember the last time she felt so nervous or so excited.  She had not seen her father that day but knew she would during the ceremony.  The hours flew by and before she knew it, Sita was standing next to her future husband and they joined hands in front of her father and the rest of the on-lookers.  Her father said the vows and the new couple repeated them with smiles on their faces.  Sita’s father was almost as excited as Sita was.  After all, he set up a challenge for any of Sita’s suitors.  The man he would allow his daughter to marry would have to string a bow and arrow.  As more and more suitors failed, Sita’s father grew concerned that the challenge was too difficult and also that Sita was becoming less desirable as she continued to age.  However, when Rama entered the scene, all that changed and for that reason, Sita’s father was one of Rama’s number one fans.  Back to the ceremony- the two finished their vows as they exchanged nervous smiles.  Although both were eager to start their lives together, they had not had the chance to really get to know one another yet and for that reason, they spent the next fourteen years together blissfully, getting to know one another better and better every day.

Rama and Sita's coronation

(source:  Wikipedia)

Author's Note:  I chose to write my story about Rama and Sita's wedding for a couple reasons.  For one, it marked a pivotal event in both of their lives.  Also, I really enjoy love stories and weddings fit right along with that.  Finally, from Buck's description, Sita spent quite a bit of time getting ready (or at least her servants did), so I wanted to describe more fully why and how she did.  I chose to tell the story in third person but placed lots of emphasis on Sita's perspective because as a female, I feel that I can relate to how she would maybe feel leading up to her wedding day.

Bibliography:  Buck, William (1976).  Ramayana:  King Rama's Way

Week 4: Reading Diary B

The day before Rama is made king, I think it’s a nice image to imagine Rama sitting there by his mom at the altar with the other queens.  She’s all dressed up and ready to go- so proud of her son.  I’m sure that must have been a sweet moment for the two of them.  As for the townspeople, it must have been such a wonderful time for them as well.  Not only was Rama such a great person to become king of them, but it was quite a celebration! I like how Rama, before he even became king, would grieve, hope, laugh, and celebrate alongside his people.  Also, it’s so fun that there was music playing, wonderful colors all over the town, and free food for all to share.  It’s also nice that all the sick people got to participate in the festivities as well!  I wonder if Rama’s dad was celebrated as highly whenever he was about to become king.  It is quite remarkable that Rama did not seem to be the least upset that he would be exiled for fourteen years- he was so obedient that he was almost emotion-less.  He was actually more concerned for his father who seemed very distraught. I’m also surprised the king lashed out (basically) on Kaikeyi’s command/wishes.  I don’t know how she doesn’t feel guilty.  It’s unfortunate she was convinced to do this.  Otherwise, I doubt she would have approached the king to use those wishes on her own.   It is so sweet and loyal for Sita to follow her husband into exile.  I don’t know if perhaps she simply doesn’t realize how hard it will be since she’s always been pampered, or if she is simply that loving.  Either way, it is a very nice gesture on her part and I also acknowledge Rama’s attitude in not wanting to put his wife through the danger by having her with him.  That was sweet of him to be prepared to be lonely as to not put his wife in danger.  It was also really neat to see that Sita treated those she left behind very well.  In fact, she ended up giving her servants full-salary until she would return.  Anyways, it’s neat to see (later on) that even people in the forest know and respect Rama (and Lakshmana).  It was very nice that Guha and his friends took in Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, and I like the fact that they take the time to engage Sita rather than merely talk to the men.  

Week 4: Reading Diary A

The way the book opens is pretty creative- I like it.  I’ve seen this format before in movies such as “The Princess Bride,” where it is a story within a story, but I haven’t seen it as much in books.  Upon describing Ayodhya, it is very enchanting.  I wonder if it really was supposedly that wonderful or if it was simply exaggerated upon description.  Since it’s a mythical place, it is definitely capable of being “perfect” since it’s not governed by the same natural rules our world is governed by.  When it mentions Sita, all I can think is “poor woman.”  After reading so much about what she went through, it is really sad to see her treated so poorly and see her want to drown both herself and her unborn son.  Rama isn’t as pure and blameless and the story leads on if he exiled her and lets this happen.  Skipping forward, Narayana is in this story?  Isn’t he the author of the last version of “Ramayana” we read?  I wonder if there is another person/supernatural with that name…  Satrughna had dark blue skin?  I feel like that’s a medical problem or maybe he’s just trying to describe with colors his personality?  Anyways, I really like the descriptions of Rama and Lakshmana- I feel as if they are described in great detail and provide a picture into the personalities of both.  In the last version of “Ramayana” we read, I felt as if we knew what Rama did/how strong he was, but I didn’t feel like I necessarily pictured him as a great person until he treated the monkeys so kindly, and then I understood why he was considered to be so great.  Anyways, I feel really bad for Trinavindu- being made pregnant by wandering onto someone’s land.  The story doesn’t mention this, but I wonder if there was a “shun” culture for those who were pregnant out of wedlock or no.  I don’t remember any uber formal marriages being mentioned for other characters besides Rama, but still I wonder.  Her dad seemed a bit shocked (as he should be), but I am not sure whether he is shocked as in disgraced or literally just completely caught off guard.  As for her son, I’m glad he’s so good-natured, but I wonder if the gift of generosity will eventually turn as a curse to him if he becomes a “push-over.”  I hate to think that way, but it seems as if other “blessings” in this book have turned out for the worst.  Anyways, when Ravana was born, is it superstition or something similar to turn left?  I find it interesting that that was the direction the dogs turned when chasing their tails.  Skipping forward, I don’t like that Buck didn’t spend as much time describing Sita and Rama’s first looks at each other and how he strung the bow to marry her.  It was mentioned so briefly that it didn’t describe how much she was infatuated by him.  With that being said, I’m surprised he essentially skipped over that part but chose to describe her in such detail when it describes her appearance on her wedding day.

Week 3: Famous Last Words

Whew- this past week has certainly flown by.  This past Saturday, my parents came in for the day so my boyfriend and I got lunch and dinner with them which was really nice.  It was also fun to see all the game-day stuff around OU and we stopped by a tailgate in the afternoon.  Sunday, I was originally going to buckle down and study, but my friend was really sick so I stayed with her to make sure she was doing okay.  Monday was really fun for a couple reasons.  One, it was my boyfriend and my 1.5 year anniversary, our group of friends had a massive water balloon fight and potluck, and my youth group had a pool party.  I studied a little bit that afternoon and then that night, so I caught up to some degree.  I also looked into some more physician assistant programs that I’d be interested in applying to after college.  I have this big spreadsheet on my computer of different requirements, deadlines, and preferences of the schools so I like to make sure it’s up to date every once in a while.  On Tuesday, I had rounds and desk duty.  Unfortunately, the fire alarm went off in Couch so everyone had to evacuate.  Thank goodness it was just a false alarm and no harm was done.  Wednesday and Thursday were not bad days by any means, just not too exciting.  However, I've really enjoyed most of my classes this semester- as of right now, all of them share common themes so it's cool to get different perspectives on topics from different professors.  Anyways, as for today, I got up early this morning because I had a nightmare last night so today has been a more productive day since I did homework before classes even started this morning.  I’m looking forward to relaxing a bit this weekend and also seeing my friend off tomorrow before she goes to England to do ministry.  As for the rest of my weekend, I imagine I’ll go to church and youth group on Sunday and then do lots of studying- I have some pretty big exams next week and the week after that, then projects due a week after that. 

This is a personal photo of my puppy from March 2012- 

I hope to be doing what she's doing this weekend (sleeping)

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Storytelling for Week 3: Abduction

Once upon a time, there was a simple yet beautiful wooden cabin in the woods which sat in a sun-lit clearing among the wilderness.  In the surrounding wilderness, rabbits sprung over twigs, butterflies flew with the soft breeze, and the crystal clear creek softly trickled in the background.  Inside the cabin resided Sita, Rama, and Lakshama.  The time was simple, but the love was strong.  One sunny day, Rama's beautiful bride Sita glanced outside the window to see a beautiful, delicate deer that glinted in the light as if it was made of jewels.  Sita was in awe and ran to her husband.  She cried, "Rama, honey, would you mind catching that sweet deer I saw outside my window?  It is exquisite and I must have it!"  In a loving manner, Rama replied, "Of course, honey."  However, Rama's brother Lakshama was very hesitant and suspicious of the light-footed and delicate animal they had seen.  He urged Rama to be cautious, but Rama disregarded his concerns saying, "My wife deserves the very best, and I shall provide the very best."  Rama instructed Lakshama to tend for his wife while he was gone and Lakshama promised to do so.  A couple hours later when the afternoon turned to evening, Rama still hadn't returned.  Sita was a bit more on edge and listened to every single thump in the forest as any of them may have been her husband returning with the sparkling deer.  When she heard his voice from the forest crying for help, her stomach turned upside down and she felt queasy inside.  She urged Lakshama to check on her husband and again, he was cautious and tried to focus Sita's attention on how strong and capable her husband was of defending himself.  Needless to say, Lakshama ended up leaving the cabin to make sure Rama was not in peril and while Sita was alone, an elderly man wandered upon her cabin.  Sita was very hospitable to the man and invited him inside and offered him the meat she had freshly cooked over the fire and offered him a glass of cool water from the stream.  He graciously refused but began to talk about a powerful, handsome young man who would make her a goddess if she would come with him.  Sita refused and felt increasingly insecure as this stranger was trying to take her away.  The elderly man eventually gave off his true identity and Sita was shocked! The elderly man turned out to be Ravana and he scooped her up by the dirt under her feet (he cannot touch her against her consent or will perish on the spot due to an ancient curse) in hopes that she would eventually forget her husband and fall for him instead.  

The Deities of Sita source: Wikipedia

More Information about Sita

Author's Note:  I chose this story because of the drama- epic displays of love and deceit all compacted into one story.  I think there's several contrasting things- the beauty of the deer and the ugliness of the deceit exemplified by Ravana.  Sita's loyalty to her husband is definitely highlighted and is to be commended.  I added more detail to the story but did not want to take away from the qualities highlighted by the story so I didn't add any new events.  I did, however, add my own dialogue.

Bibliography:  Narayan, R. K. (1972) The Ramayana. 

Week 3: Reading Diary B

I'm glad Hanuman realized that the first woman he found was not Sita.  It was also good, in a way, for him to see Sita refuse Ravana's advances so he can testify first-hand to Rama about it if need be.  As for Sita, it's good she trust Hanuman, but if someone had my husband's ring, I would think that person killed him.  However, thank goodness Hanuman found her when he did or she may have committed suicide.  I wonder why Hanuman did not just try to take Sita back then and there.  Perhaps it was because he knew he couldn't successfully rescue her so he would rather not make it worse for anyone and instead wait for Rama and the others to try to rescue her- there would then be a much greater chance for success.  Skipping forward, when Rama listens to Hanuman about whether or not to protect, I really appreciate that Rama listens to Hanuman.  First of all, it shows that he values everyone's opinion regardless of whether or not they seem "qualified" or not.  Also, it shows that Rama is open-minded and not prejudiced.  To the others, it may make Rama look somewhat foolish for listening to a monkey but on the flip side, Rama looks at the ideas themselves, not who they are necessarily attached to.  I think if people in today's world acted more like Rama did in this instance, we would all be better off.  Also, it's definitely an added bonus that Vibishana was able to inform Rama of Ravana's troops/weapons so that they would be more prepared.  On another note, I think it's nice that Rama sent a messenger as a heads up to Ravana that he was coming and it wasn't too late to make things right, but I can't recall a myth/story from history in which that ever worked out... During the battle, I wonder why one of Ravana's women, Trijata, tried to encourage Sita in the fact that her husband wasn't dead.  Do Ravana's women despise him?  And if so, wouldn't Ravana have died because of the curse that kills him upon touching women without their consent?  Later in the battle, one of Ravana's sons reminded Ravana that he had "Brahma's gift of invincibility"- really?  I don't recall that.  However, I do recall Hanuman's brother having that or at least something similar.  I see that his heads/arms grow back, but he still gets weaker.  I think it's strange that he has the power of invincibility but is not completely invincible.  Maybe a more accurate term to describe his powers would be the power of healing.

Week 3: Reading Diary A

Jumping back into the story, I think it's a little absurd that Ravana thinks that eventually Sita will give consent and he would be able to touch her without instantly dying.  I don't think that by abducting her he has given her any reason to trust him further.  It's so ironic that Ravana claims that it's too unfair for him "to confront a mere human being," but he has no problem abducting an innocent woman against her own will.  After Ravana defeated Jatayu and he carried Sita off on his shoulder, why didn't he die?  I would assume Sita would not give consent to be carried off by Ravana...?  Skipping ahead, I wonder why Rama felt "an instinctive compassion" towards Sugreeva as soon as he laid eyes on him.  Regardless, perhaps Sugreeva mentioned his own exile as a way to console Rama and show him that he's not alone in his suffering.  After reading Sugreeva's story, I feel really bad for him.  Like Lhakshmana, he had the right idea in mind and was heavily persuaded by others to do differently and then faced negative consequences as a result.  It's nice to see how Hanuman and Sugreeva are going to help Rama- is this only because Rama is helping them as well?  I wonder why Rama's mission gets priority considering if Sugreeva leaves the mountain he will supposedly be killed right away.  Oh, never mind. Hanuman says on the next paragraph that tey will vanquish Vali first. The description of Vali as he hears the call for battle is frightening to some degree.  Is he in the form of a human or what?  He sounds massive! Oh, he's a giant monkey...duh.  During the fight when it mentions the god of death (Yama)- was he actually there/watching from afar or is this meant to be more figurative?  The last exchanges between Vali and Rama are quite moving- I sympathize for Vali in a way but also understand Rama's side of the story.  I hate that another wife (Tara) will be without a husband now.  I'm glad that by the end, Vali and Rama come to some sort of understanding.  Any death is sad, but it is better that it was made in a peaceful way at the end regardless of the initial stimulus to death.  Skipping forward, upon describing the end of the rainy season, it refers to a "rare creeper known as vanji"- what is that?  I don't know...  Then, Rama makes so many threats...would he actually destroy every monkey in the world or is he just saying that?  I certainly believe he's capable, but I also hope that he would know better than that.

Week 2: Storytelling- Love at First Sight

Ever since Sita was a little girl, she dreamed of the man she would marry.  She had always hoped for a tall, strong man with dark hair and sparkling eyes.  However, her idea of a dream man seemed less and less possible as her father set the bar really high for any guy who would want to marry her.  Her future husband would have to have the strength of one thousand men and find his way to her- it was not as if she could scour the world for the strongest man on the planet but instead, he would have to wonder into her town.  Additionally, the chances of such a man also being charming and good-looking were very slim.  However, one day, she laid her eyes upon a handsome man of beautiful stature and a body any supernatural being would want.  Sita was completely caught off guard as she could not remember the last time she had swooned over a man so much.  As Sita and Rama gazed into each other's eyes for a brief second, time seemed to stand still.  It was if the world around them seemed to melt away as they soaked up each other's gaze.  Her longing gaze was cut short as she lost sight of him.  Sita gushed to her maids, "He was so perfect- tall, broad shoulders, and kind eyes- I have never seen someone like that in my entire life!"  Her minds sweetly asked, "When will you see him again?"  Their innocent questions had pure intentions, but Sita suddenly realized she didn't even know his name, much less where he lived, and her chances of meeting him again seemed bleak.  Unfortunately, it seemed like fate would never allow them to meet again.  Sita felt ill at the thought of such a charming man being dashed away by the chaos of the world.  As she climbed into bed, she wept her heartbreak away as her maids remained oblivious to the obvious attachment she felt to a man she didn't even know.  Meanwhile, Rama met Sita's father and completed the strength challenge- a prerequisite to having his daughter's hand in marriage.  When Sita heard a man completed the feat, she could not be happy thinking about someone, other than the handsome gentleman she laid eyes on today, spending the rest of his life with her and the handsome fellow she had seen that day being betrothed to someone else.  Luck seemed to be on Sita's side and soon enough, she married the handsome man of her dreams and had a beautiful wedding.

Love and Romance

Author's Note:  I really enjoy love stories, so I wrote about how Sita and Rama fell in love.  I think it's so beautiful how when they met eyes, they were both blown away and how amazing it was they found each other once again and got married.  I wanted to convey what Sita may have been experiencing in this brief excerpt of her life and I wrote it in third person so I could include other details I may have otherwise been limited from.

Bibliography:  Narayan, R. K. (1972) The Ramayana.

Week 2: Reading Diary B

As I said before I wrote the other reading diary, I apologize if my thoughts are scattered.  I will write in my blog as I read so I may jump through the story a little bit.  For starters, I think it's sad that the king hates his wife so much for using the two wishes against his son.  I cannot blame him for being upset, but I hate to see a wedge driven into a relationship, especially that of a husband and wife.  I appreciate the fact he respected his word- that says a lot about his character.  I can't believe that the wife feels the need to exile Rama completely though- seems a bit excessive to me.  The obedience of Rama is quite commendable- he obeyed "without question."  I think it's a bit strange the wife expects the whole town to be offended if the king didn't keep his word- I bet they would see more the trickery and evil intentions by the wife misuing a wish/"boon."  I think it's sweet Sita and Lakshmana went with Rama- did Lakshmana choose to or did he have to?  Later, when Rama left Chitrakuta, I feel as if it was very sweet that he didn't want to detract from Bharatha's rule so much that he left the proximity of Ayodyha so he wouldn't be a reason people didn't listen to/respect Bharatha's rule.  Skipping forward, I think it's interesting how the sister of Ravana felt so love-sick from seeing Rama with Sita that she shut herself into a cave.  I mean, really? She's supernatural anyways- is there not a supernatural, good-looking male for her?  It's a bit crazy how supernatural beings are awestruck by the beauty of humans, and I don't understand how Ravana plans on making Sita his queen if he can't even touch her without consent.  I can't imagine he'll be able to convince her to love him and then he'll be faced with impending death.  I feel really bad for Lakshmana- the whole time he is making really good points about not following the deer and not leaving Sita and when they don't believe/listen to him.  It reminds me of somehow we, as humans, may disregard what someone has to say because the person may not seem as important, but they may make a really good point and we are too prideful or do not consider their words and may suffer as a result.  I wonder what happens to Lakshmana and hope he ends up okay in the long run.  I'm sure if Rama knew he left Sita unattended, he would be extremely upset.  I wonder why Sita felt like it was safe to let an old, creepy man into her home with all of this fishy business going on at the same time.  It's very sweet of her, but I'm not quite sure how she was not suspicious or nervous.  I can't blame her for passing out when Ravana lifted her up by carrying the soil underneath her feet, though.

Week 2: Reading Diary A- The First Part

I apologize if my thoughts are all over the place for this reading diary, but I will do my best to remain cohesive as I record my thoughts throughout the reading.  One of my first thoughts when starting this book is that it's really impressive how the sage had such "complete mastery over his bodily needs."  In today's world, whenever we want something, we can pretty much get it.  Information is instant, food is everywhere, and there's usually air conditioning close by if it's hot or a room with heating close by in the cold.  It's hard to imagine a world without the luxury of having everything at our fingertips.
Later, when Rama questioned the location of Thataka, I wonder if he asked out of fear or if he saw a challenge of finding/defeating her.  Perhaps if I read along farther I will find out...  I think it's a little crazy how he killed her so fast.  I'm surprised no one else had done it if he had done it so easily.  I also think it's interesting how Rama did not acknowledge what Viswamithra said about how Rama alone could have helped him protect the area while they performed the sacrifice.  Rama simply asked about what's to come. Jumping ahead to Ganga's story, I'm guessing that the belief system present holds to the idea that time will pass and eventually earth will end on its own without any sort of rapture or one huge natural disaster?  Later, when Ahalya turns to stone, I feel like her husband was a bit rash.  I'm glad she had a way out though.  I think it's crazy how Rama was picked/chosen for all these things and neither of his brothers had any of this "responsibility."  Why him?
For Chapter 2- "The Wedding"- how is it that there is no one in Kosala to receive charity?  Also, Sita's dad wants to suggest marriage of his daughter to Rama?  For arranged marriages, I thought it was more like the hopeful-husbands-to-be would "apply" in a way to marry the girl?  It looks like the other princes of the land tried to do so, but I wonder what about Rama made Sita's dad go so crazy for him...  Also, is a lotus flower supposed to symbolize something?  I'll have to look that up.  I want to say I've read a different epic with a lotus flower in it and it put the hero to sleep?  Another random thought- I think it's interesting they have "professional announcers."  It later says that "the couple's first meeting [was] at the conclusion of the wedding ceremonies."  Let me just say, I could not even imagine that.  I suppose couples back then honored marriage vows more regardless of whether or not they knew one another before the ceremony or not, but it would be so crazy to spend the marriage getting to know someone as opposed to getting to know someone via dating.  One of my friends may end up in a situation similar to this- her parents strongly support the culture of her home nation and are trying to get an arranged marriage for her.  Her sister already went through it and is happy with her new husband, but my friend is more like me- not really sure about the whole thing.  It's a tricky situation and for the fathers who arrange a husband for their daughters, I hope they truly get to see the kind of man the suitors are before they set up their daughters with a man for the rest of their lives.