By Mizan Muhammad
In examining my mother’s experiences, three main themes emerged: embracing change and seeking new opportunities, fostering community and shared responsibility, and grappling with hometown pride in the context of urban realities. These themes highlight our ability to adapt, the significance of social bonds, and the complex relationship individuals have with their hometowns. My mother grew up in the projects of Newark, did exceptionally well in school and was accepted into science high. When she started to do track she was also good at that and was able to get many offers from colleges just based off of that even though her academic achievements were also very attractive. She ended up going to Northeastern, got her degree, started her own independent school and has been very successful in real estate since.
It seems as if when you come from a place that usually has a negative connotation about it you become very defensive and insistent on proving those people wrong. While different people have alot of contrasting perspectives on Newark, the people who tend to come from there are less likely to mention its faults. I decided on interviewing my mother because she grew up in Newark and has always shined a positive light on the city. Despite how good she speaks about Newark she still ended up moving away, because I think even though she speaks greatly about the city she knew deep down in order for her and her potential children to have a better life she needed to leave. I learned alot from interviewing her and researching topics that I’ve found in her interview.
The theme of embracing change and seizing new opportunities for personal growth emerges as a central motif in the interviewee’s narrative. This theme reflects the inherent human capacity for resilience and adaptation, as individuals navigate various life circumstances in pursuit of greater fulfillment. It encapsulates the idea of being open to change and actively seeking out opportunities that resonate with one’s values and aspirations. In recounting her career journey, the interviewee shares her experiences of transitioning between different professions. She recalls her time at Merck as unfulfilling, citing the solitary nature of the work as a deterrent. This dissatisfaction prompted her to explore other avenues, leading her to become a paralegal to assist her brother’s legal case. She remarks, “I worked at Merck for two semesters and didn’t not like it. Very boring. I’m a very active social person, and I was in an office by myself, so it wasn’t something I wanted to do.” In (Locke, A) they describe how work dissatisfaction can prevent you from working at a place even if they were paying well.
The interviewee’s quote highlights her readiness to embrace change and pursue opportunities that offer greater fulfillment. Her decision to transition from pharmaceuticals to law exemplifies her proactive approach to seeking personal and professional growth. By recognizing the limitations of her previous roles and actively seeking out alternative paths, she demonstrates resilience and a willingness to move forward in pursuit of a more satisfying career. Understanding and embracing the theme of embracing change and seizing new opportunities carries profound implications for personal growth and fulfillment. The interviewee’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining adaptable and open-minded in the face of life’s challenges. By actively pursuing paths that align with our values and aspirations, we not only foster personal growth but also pave the way for a more fulfilling and rewarding future. As the interviewee’s story demonstrates, embracing change can lead to unexpected opportunities and ultimately contribute to a more meaningful life journey. The theme of fostering a sense of community and collective responsibility emerges prominently in the interviewee’s account.This theme speaks to the innate human need for connection and belonging within a broader social context. It underscores the importance of supporting and uplifting one another, as well as actively participating in communal efforts aimed at improving the well-being of others.
In her reflection on community engagement, the interviewee emphasizes her active involvement in various organizations dedicated to service and support. She describes her membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated and the Nation of Islam, highlighting their service-oriented focus. She elaborates on her commitment to community involvement by stating, “I’m part of a lot of community organizations. I’m a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Incorporated and a member of the Nation of Islam, and we are so service-based oriented. We’re always doing things, feeding those who are food deprived. We’re giving out clothing. We are reading to children. I do free tutoring sessions. I’m always found helping those that need help.” The interviewee’s quote underscores her deep-rooted commitment to fostering a sense of community and collective well-being which is shown as something that tends to be in people who come from community based backgrounds (Nasar ,L, et al). Through her active participation in community organizations and service activities, she embodies the principles of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility. Her actions reflect a genuine desire to contribute positively to the lives of others and create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and cared for.
The theme of fostering a sense of community holds significant implications for societal cohesion and individual well-being. The interviewee’s dedication to community engagement serves as a powerful example of the positive impact that collective action can have on addressing social challenges and nurturing a sense of belonging among individuals. By actively participating in community initiatives and supporting those in need, we not only strengthen the bonds of solidarity but also cultivate a more inclusive and compassionate society. As the interviewee’s testimony demonstrates, fostering a sense of community is not only a moral imperative but also a source of fulfillment and purpose in our lives.
Sources
Locke, Edwin A. “Job satisfaction and job performance: A theoretical analysis.” Organizational behavior and human performance 5.5 (1970): 484-500.
Nasar, Jack L., and David A. Julian. “The psychological sense of community in the neighborhood.” Journal of the American Planning Association 61.2 (1995): 178-184.
McDowell, Chris, ed. Understanding impoverishment: The consequences of development-induced displacement. Vol. 2. Berghahn books, 1996.