I'll admit, I was not totally drawn into the readings of Winthrop and Smith. Neither was able to convince me to join their "team." It wasn't until our class discussion that I was really able to appreciate each author for their own perspective. Sometimes all I need is to listen to other interpretations and opinions.
If I was forced to pick a side, I would have to go with Smith. As much as I would love to believe in the community that Winthrop spoke about, my realist side kicks in. I think Winthrop had some good ideas when it comes to people helping people and taking care of one another. When I think about Winthrop, I think about the ideal not the reality. It is reality that some people will achieve more than others, and some people will work harder than others.
Because of the realist in me, I could understand and appreciate what Smith had to say. At times I felt he came off as being pompous, but other times I felt he was just being sincere. People who work hard should be rewarded, and I don't necessarily think they have to share what they earn. It would be nice, but let's face it, some people expect to be successful without having to do the work. Smith recognizes that the "American Dream" only comes from hard work and that work makes it that much sweeter.
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