My opinion is that I find stories about rapes and kidnappings as well as any other story that involves someone hurting interesting. I’d say “Picking cotton” is the same. My greatest fear is that I will be kidnapped. Or held against my consent and made to do things that I normally wouldn’t. First, I didn’t think that Jennifer would have not been hurt in “Picking Corn”. Second, I thought she was a young college student. After learning that Jennifer had not only been raped by a stranger, but also was a university student, it made me less excited about my first year on my independent. It’s not a good thing to hear about as you prepare to move away for the first time. This kind of stuff happens in College! I was made more aware of the dangers that come with being away from my sheltered home life.
Jennifer Thompson’s “Picking Cottom” was written in a slightly different manner. She told it first, through Jennifer’s perspective. The story was told from her perspective, and it was exactly as she saw it. Next, Ronald Cotton was the protagonist of the next chapter. The book was written in a way that allowed all the characters to have their say. I liked being able see how Jennifer dealt with the rapes and questions, as well as what Cotton actually did. The story of Jennifer and Cotton was told by both. So we could not limit our views to just one person. Jennifer and Ron could each tell their own story. Each of them was able to tell their story in a unique way.
The story was descriptive, both in regards to what occurred during the actual rape itself and also what followed. Jennifer was trying to convey to us what happened. The reader could truly understand Jennifer’s feelings after reading the account. The reader could truly feel the fear, disgust, and humiliation she experienced. Jennifer felt terrified, but remained calm. It is inspiring to see how she distracted him and kept herself safe. I can imagine how difficult it would be to remain calm, not shout and “fight” the attacker while kicking. Jennifer has shown me how to better deal with a similar situation.
Ronald Cotton was forgiven by Jennifer in “Picking Cotton”. This happened after 11 years behind bars. It is inspiring to see a man forgiven completely in this story. I would find it difficult to understand how someone can let go after losing 11 years of their life. It would take me a long time to forgive someone for taking a large part of my childhood away. Especially if the punishment was not deserved. This story was emotional, suspenseful and inspiring. This is an inspiring story. Even though you might never forget the lesson, forgiving others is always a better option. If you forgave others, it would be easier to make new friends and lead a happier lifestyle. Ronald Cotton was able gain a lifetime friend by forgiving. You decide if your life will be filled with grudges and anger, or if you’ll learn to forgive.
