Quarter 3 Blog #15

In many instances, people everywhere are determined to overcome hardships, even when the odds are stacked against them. On www.mayinstitute.org, "Eight-year-old Jeff, who has autism, was recently honored by Georgia’s Council of Exceptional Children as one of the most improved students in his suburban Atlanta school. His mom, Mimi, marvels at the progress he has made and credits the professionals of May South for helping to change Jeff’s life. “May South has simply opened up many doors for our family,” she says." Here, a boy with autism improves greatly academically, although it was mainly due to his parents determination, Jeff became successful. The determination of his parents and his willingness to overcome his disability eventually lead to success. This idea of overcoming obstacles can be related to the novel, Breaking Dawn, by Stephanie Meyer. Within the novel, the main character, Bella Swan, lives her dream of becoming a vampire. Although odds are against both her survival and ability to be around mankind are against her, miraculously, she survives and gains the ability to have the self control to be around humans. This was only accomplished by the determination of both Bella and Edward. Bella wanted to become a vampire and Edward wanted to protect Bella, so as the story progressed, their bond to each other became each others strength. Overcoming odds can be very difficult, but in the end, it is worth the effort.

Works Cited for Quarter 3 Blog #15 :
"Overcoming the Odds". Success Stories. April 3, 2006. www.mayinstitute.org. March 25, 2009. http://www.mayinstitute.org/success/overcoming.asp