Week 7: Reading Diary A

RAVANA AND TIME

Malyavan was fortunate to be taken away before the impending battle. His story seemed very peaceful, and I think that he ended up somewhere very nice 

You definitely would not want to be in Ravana's army right now, especially with all of the bad omens showing up! Man, Jambavan is brutal! The way he kills them sounds very gruesome, indeed! Also, the corpses in the sea is also extremely creepy. The thought gives me the shivers! 

The names that they came up with for Ravana were quite humorous to me. This guy is not "the Defender of Love and Enemy of Hate", nor is he "the Protector of Heaven and the Guardian of the truth". He is literally like the complete opposite of those things! 

I was kind of surprised at how gentle Ravana was with Suka. Suka basically told him everyone blamed him and thought he was stupid for getting them into this mess, which is very true. Although Suka said those things, I think Ravana really appreciated his honesty and loyalty. Although Ravana clearly does not have good character, I like that he finally spared his people and chose to take on Rama alone. I also can't imagine him just dancing before the battle. What a funny sight! 

It's interesting to me how invincible Ravana believes himself to be, even after all that has happened! He goes around taunting Time, acting as if it has no power over him. Time will get us all someday, and Ravana's clock has just run out of time. Although it appears that Ravana overpowers Time, in the long run I think that Time will come out victorious.
I think that Indra's chariot definitely helped level the playing field. This is going to be such an epic battle! It really showed Rama's character that he displayed so much empathy and appreciation for his charioteer, Matali. I'm glad that Rama took the time to help him. I believe in Narayan's version, Ravana actually spoke everything, and there was not a letter. I think I like this version with the letter better though. It's interesting that he knew all along who Rama truly was, and still chose to go up against him. I almost forget that all of this story was supposed to be told by Lava and Kusa. The end of this chapter definitely sounded more like something that would be sung by them though.

PART THREE: THE DHARMA WHEEL
I thought it was sweet how impatient Rama became after the battle to see Sita! I also think that Vibhishana will be a wonderful king for Lanka. If anyone can turn things around there, it is him. Mandodari's story all kind of seemed a little confusing to me, like a riddle, but I am glad that her father took care of her.
I would have been so confused if I were Rama when Indra and Agni talk in all of these riddles about who he really is! I don't think he was ready for the truth just yet. I was happy to finally see Sita and Rama reunited, and this time Rama did force her to walk through fire or whatever that test was in the last book. Their reunion was very sweet.
I also thought the friendship that had formed between Vibhishana and Hanuman was really special. It was very lucky that Hanuman had been so trusting of Vibhishana the day that he had left Ravana and came to Rama's camp. I definitely would have wanted Hanuman as a friend as well. It was amazing that Hanuman was able to revive all of those that had died fighting for Rama. This chapter definitely ended on a happy note. I am very curious to see what happens in the last section of the book! I am especially curious to learn why Rama ends up sending Sita away, and also his reaction when he learns who Lava and Kusa really are! 

Pinterest Widget Tech Tip

Here is my Pinterest Board Widget for this class! Follow Taylor Haddad's board Indian Epics Portfolio on Pinterest.

Famous Last Words for Week 6

This week I was probably the world’s worst procrastinator. For the first time, I did not do a storytelling blog post, which I was kind of disappointed in myself about. I feel like I have earned enough points to make up for it though! For my storytelling post, I feel really good about my introduction, but I have not quite started my first story which I plan to do immediately after I finish this post! My first story is going to be the story of Tumburu/Viradha! I will probably go in order of how the characters were introduced in my introduction.

In my other classes, things haven’t been too busy! Biochemical Methods is still my hardest class! In lab, we have been doing chromatography which is actually pretty interesting. The concept is basically that you are able to separate a mixture on the basis of size or charge.

Outside of class, this week was my birthday! I turned 22 this Friday! On Thursday, I went to dinner and bowling with some of my really great friends! We went to Logan’s Steakhouse and Sooner Bowl. On Friday night, I went to the Phillip Phillips concert with my little. It was really good, but I didn’t know a bunch of the songs because I hadn’t realized that Phillip Phillips came out with a new album. His music is so relaxing though! On Saturday, I got off work to go to my oldest sister’s baby shower! She is now 31 weeks, almost to the safe zone! For her shower, my other sister and I got her a diaper bag. I’m so excited to meet my nephew, James Anthony in about 2 months! After the shower, my whole family went to Musashi’s. My favorite gift was the necklace that I got from my sister and brother-in-law that says “Aunt Taylor”. Overall, I had a really great birthday with awesome friends and family! 

Image information: Personal photo of my new necklace from my sister, Jessica

Week 6: Reading Diary B

THE NEW MOON (cont'd)
I thought it was interesting how much more detail this version of the Ramayana went into telling us how the troops crossed the ocean. Samudra, the Ocean Lord, appeared to be new character. Rama definitely seemed a little over aggressive at first with him. The little story about the squirrels and the mark on the back was also interesting.

THE BUILDING OF THE BRIDGE
It definitely makes sense that this book is so much longer than the previous book that we read. There was barely a mention of the building of the bridge in the previous book. I love how matter of a fact Vibhishana is when he speaks to Ravana. You can definitely tell how frustrated Vibhishana has become with his brother's foolish decisions. He finally reached his breaking point with Ravana. I was really glad that Rama accepted Vibhishana. Vibhishana is such an interesting character to me, because he was the brother of Ravana, but still chose to follow Dharma. He definitely proved himself when he caught Sardula and Sarana.
I love how Ravana gets caught in his lie about Rama's death. It was actually kind of humorous when General Prahasta came in talking about how Rama is crossing the ocean. I thought the idea of receiving what you believe to be your husband's head was very ghastly though. I can't even imagine how Sita must have felt before she realized that it was all an elaborate lie. Again, we get to see more of Trijata which definitely gave me more material for my storybook. She seems so kindhearted. It's so interesting how she can shape shift into whatever she wants! Malyavan was an interesting character. I really liked the idea that his devilish features faded, and I'm hoping to use that idea in my storybook.

THE SIEGE OF LANKA
The battle between Nala and General Prahasta was rather epic and intense. It seems that this version of the Ramayana is gonna talk about the battles in much greater detail which I like. It was really creepy what Ravana did with his dead. I thought it was very wrong, because he should have appreciated their loyalty and willingness to die for him.
I thought it was funny how Kumbhakarna immediately asked Ravana what he had done wrong and then just tells him in a matter of fact tone, well just give her back.  That would seem like the smarter solution, wouldn't it? It seems that he knows his brother well. I love how all of Ravana's brothers think he is an idiot. I don't know why Kumbhakarna fought for Ravana though, if he so strongly felt that Ravana was in the wrong. It must have been out of some loyalty to his brother. It was kind of sad how willing Ravana was to risk the lives of all of his warriors. Kumbhakarna's death kind of reminded me of the movie "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" where the character has each limb cut off one at a time, but somehow continues going, even saying, "'tis but a flesh wound",when his arm gets cut off. I thought it was nice to see a little bit of remorse from Ravana at the end of this chapter.

THE INVISIBLE WARRIOR
It definitely seems unfair that Indrajit can just go around being invisible in the battle. How is that honorable? Good thing they had Vibhishana on their side! It was really sad to see some of the characters we had come to care for die in this chapter, like Angada and Nala.
The part about Hanuman having to retrieve a plant in order to revive Rama and Lakshmana was new. I was surprised that they changed this part, because in the last book it just seemed like Rama and Lakshmana only looked dead, but were not. In this book, they actually die. I can't believe that Hanuman was able to pick up the mountain! What a crazy idea!
I did find myself liking Indrajit during his discussion with Rama, but then I really disliked him again when he cut that poor woman disguised as Sita in half. I feel like Ravana should feel incredibly guilty over Indrajit's death, because Indrajit didn't even think it was a good idea to continue fighting, but he did it anyway for Ravana.

Week 6: Reading Diary A

HANUMAN'S JUMP
What a terrible way to hear the news of your brother's passing! Poor Sampati! Jatayu was such a wonderful character, I was definitely sad when he died. It's so interesting how so many characters in this book have these supernatural powers, like Hanuman being able to grow large enough to just cross the sea in one giant leap. I also think it's interesting to meet characters in this book, that were not included in Narayana's retelling, like Mainaka. Her story kind of made me think of the new movie, Maleficent, with all the other people of her race getting their wings cut off. I think it would be interesting to retell Mainaka's story in my storytelling,
Sinhika sounded like such a terrible creature. The shadow thing made me think of Peter Pan. Her death seemed pretty gruesome. What a terrible way to die!
I thought it was weird how they described Lanka to be such a beautiful place. I would have thought it would have been dark and dreary since it is Ravana's kingdom. I couldn't help but think of Professor McGonagall from Harry Potter when Hanuman turned into a tabby cat. It was so weird how Lanka was both a city and a person, I was surprised at how diverse the asuras were described to be. Handsome, gruesome, pink, pale, dark, and anywhere in between!
How many beautiful wives can one man have! Goodness gracious! And he still feels the need to steal another man's wife? That's ludicrous!
It's was nice to see that Vayu, the wind god, was looking out for his son, Hanuman!

HERE I AM
I can't imagine how terrible things must have been for Sita! Hanuman's description of her is so sad. I love her attitude toward Ravana though! She has not given up hope on Rama and his ability to destroy Ravana! Those wives are terrifying! I think it's funny how they act like they're trying to be nice, but then threaten to "eat her up". Trijata was so kind and helpful to Sita! I'm so excited to include her in my storybook! I'm disappointed that her story is not longer than that, but she did save Sita! I love how Hanuman was so encouraging to Sita, and really lifted her mood. I'm sure she really needed that. I thought it was wonderful how Hanuman wreaked havoc on Lanka before he left!
Indrajit is such an interesting character. Definitely much different than his father! I thought it was interesting how he could take two such different forms.

THE NEW MOON
Vibhishana will be such a great character for my storybook! I love how he refuses to follow Ravana's orders in this chapter! Dadhimuska was not a very nice character! No one goes around kicking Hanuman, like he's better than him! I loved Hanuman's little pep talk at the end of the reading!

Google Search Tech Tip

I decided to search the classics subdirectory of the sacred texts website. I've always been interested in Homer's works, so I decided to search Homer specifically. I was surprised to learn that Homer's works were composed in the same period as the Ramayana. I read the Odyssey in high school and last year in Mythology and Folklore, so I decided to look into the Iliad of Homer. 

This is how the story begins:

"Sing, O goddess, the anger of Achilles son of Peleus, that brought countless ills upon the Achaeans. Many a brave soul did it send hurrying down to Hades, and many a hero did it yield a prey to dogs and vultures, for so were the counsels of Jove fulfilled from the day on which the son of Atreus, king of men, and great Achilles, first fell out with one another."

Week 5: Famous Last Words

         This week seemed to fly by for some reason! On Monday, I worked a double shift at work which was exhausting, but after that my week was really light! I was really worried about writing my storybook introduction last weekend, because I didn’t know if I would be able to write it as well as I wanted. After starting it though, I felt really good about it! The story really just started flowing. I think that I’ll definitely enjoy writing stories for it, and I hope y’all will enjoy reading them! I was really impressed by the story, The Time of a New King, by Jeremy Wiggins! He retold the story of when King Dasaratha passed and the messengers rode for Bharata. Instead of the messengers refusing to tell Bharata what had happened, they mourned with him. I thought that this made the story so much more emotional and touching.

            In one of my other classes, I had a nutrition assignment this week that asked me to do a nutritional analysis of an unhealthy recipe, and then modify it to make it healthier. I chose to analyze a banana bread recipe that has been in my family for years. To modify it, I substituted Splenda for sugar and fat-free sour cream for regular sour cream. I don’t know if that would still taste good though. I definitely will have to try it sometime and see if it is any good, because I’d really like to eat healthier. Also, if you use gluten-free baking soda, it really decreases the sodium content! In Biochemical Methods Lab, it seems that I finally got good data for once. It’s definitely one of those labs where you could do everything right, but still somehow get terrible data, so this week was quite an achievement. 


           Outside of school, I have started running again. Over the summer, I ran quite a bit, but when school started back up, my running routine was completely forgotten. Finally, I’m starting to get back into the schedule again, but it is so hard. The mental part of running has always been the hardest for me. It takes so much will-power to keep going when all you want to do is stop. I refuse to be a quitter though!

Image information: Quote about running

Web Source: Pinterest

Storytelling for Week 5: Asuras Anonymous

Author's Note: Hi everyone! After sending my storybook introduction to Laura, she suggested that I post my introduction for this week's storytelling and get some feedback on it since Tumburu/Viradha from this week's reading is the host of my storybook. My storybook is called Asuras Anonymous, and it is about all of the asuras who struggled to be good! Hope ya'll enjoy it! 

Here it is:

At a secret little building in Lanka, a number of asuras discretely shuffled in and took a seat.

After everyone had arrived, a heavenly character rose and spoke. “Welcome to this week’s meeting of Asuras Anonymous! I am delighted to see some new faces, as well as some familiar ones. Our hope is that these meetings can help encourage each of you to resist the demon within you and find your light. Through sharing with others that face many similar struggles, you will find that you don’t have to go through this journey alone. I understand that many of you have families that may not support your decision to be here tonight, that may not support your decision to follow Dharma and have good character. If this describes you, please know that you have a family here who supports your decision. Please, everyone, introduce yourselves and tell us what is on your heart. Everything that is said here, stays here. I shall go first.

“My name is Tumburu.”

“Hi, Tumburu,” the group echoed.

“I am a Gandharva. I hold these meetings because I was once cursed and found myself turned into an asura called Viradha. In this demon body, I was unable to resist my newfound evil, cannibalistic urges. Although I have now been freed from that life, I continue to struggle with guilt for the actions I committed while under this curse. I will share more about this later. Understanding the challenges that you are faced with, I feel that the best way I can help you is through these meetings. Thank you for being here. Whoever would like to speak, feel free to when you are ready.”

“Hi, my name is Mareecha, and I am an asura. This is my first time here.”

“Hello, Mareecha,” the group said welcomingly.

“Throughout much of my life, I have been surrounded by family who has only brought out the worst in me. My mother and father, Thataka and Sunda, led me down a wicked path, along with my brother Subahu. This path led to the destruction of both my parents. Soon after, my brother and I attempted to avenge the death of our mother, but I found myself brother-less instead. For a long time, I felt bitter and angry at the gods and the humans who killed my parents and brother, and I gave into my evil side. I regret that I have killed many people. After barely escaping with my life during one of my terrible episodes, I realized that there was a reason that my parents and brother were dead. Unless I wanted to end up like them, I must change my ways and live a better life in accordance with Dharma. I hope that my story, which I will share with you, can help each of you in some small way.”

“Thank you for sharing, Mareecha,” Tumburu said encouragingly.

“I’ll pass,” one asura said.

A few more asuras passed.

“I am Vibhishana, and I am an asura.”

“Hello, Vibhishana.”

“As you all probably know, my older brother is the demon king, Ravana. Oftentimes, I find myself torn between my loyalty to my brother and the ways of Dharma. I question if remaining in my brother’s presence is the best choice for my daughter and me. Sometimes, I think I may be able to make a difference in that position, because I may advise my brother. However, lately he has taken an interest in destroying the warrior, Rama. I worry that I may be forced to participate in his evil plans, and I am not sure I have the power to resist his requests of me. I come to these meetings, because they give me strength. I believe that I will really need that strength in the coming weeks as I share my struggles. Thank you all for listening.”

“Hi everyone, I am Trijata, and I am an asura.”

“Hello, Trijata.”

“I have been coming to these meetings with my father, Vibhishana. Although Vibhishana is my father, as a rakshasi in Lanka, I am forced to be a servant to my Uncle Ravana. As a servant, my uncle has made me do terrible things. I have held humans captive for him and stood aside cowardly while he has eaten innocent humans. I fear that a life in Lanka will force me to continue down this path. I hope someday to be taken away from this terrible place.”

“Thank you for being here today, everybody. You are not alone in your struggles. I hope to see you all again next week,” Tumburu said, closing the meeting. 

Image information: An image with a quote by J.K. Rowling 

Web Source: Pinterest

Bibliography: 
1. Buck, William (1976). Ramayana: King Rama's Way.
2. Narayan, R.K. (1972) The Ramayana.

Week 5: Reading Diary B

THE GOLDEN DEER
Ravana is so foolish for not listening to Maricha's advice. It is Ravana's foolishness that leads to his destruction, nothing else. I really liked that this story gave us more dialogue with Maricha than Narayan's version, because Maricha is one of my characters in my storybook! Although in this story, he still turns out to make the wrong decision, he really did strive to follow Dharma before Ravana approached him. I thought it was interesting what Maricha said about it being better to be killed by the better man. I don't think I agree with this, because in this case, it means that you are helping the more evil man succeed. I definitely found myself feeling sorry for Maricha.
Lakshmana was definitely more wise than Rama and Sita in this story. He sees through the illusion so easily. Although I like Sita, she is so stupid in this story! How could she not see through Ravana's plan! For both Rama and Lakshmana to be drawn away and then for some mysterious man to show up? Her gut instinct should be telling her that something is wrong with the situation!
I loved how bravely Jatayu fought to get Sita back. Although Jatayu was not a major character, I thought he was one of the most valiant characters in the whole book, and I felt very sad for his death.

HANUMAN
Ravana is such a crazy psychopath! I will kidnap you so that you will love me? How does that make any sense? Wouldn't that be great if what Indra said was true, that anyone who desires an unwilling woman burns himself. Rape is such a problem in our world, and I think men who think they can touch a woman when she resists should be punished to the full extent of the law. The story about Rambha was so incredibly sad. I felt so bad for her.
The story of Riksharaja was a little bit weird to me! What was the sex change after going into the water? And then after having babies, returning to a male? Definitely a strange story! Do Sugriva and Vali call Riksharaja, mom or dad? Just curious.
I thought Vayu's bonding with Hanuman was so sweet, especially after his mother abandoned him in that cave!
It was really interesting how Savari went into the fire to be returned to her younger form and taken away with Indra! It's like Savari was just waiting for Rama to fulfill her purpose in that life and could finally move on after telling him about Sugriva, Vali, and Hanuman.
I think that Rama was so sensitive to Sugriva's problems because he also had been separated from his wife. I wonder if that was not the case if he would have killed Vali the way he did. This chapter made me really sad, especially when Queen Tara killed herself after Vali was murdered. The way that Rama killed Vali definitely did not seem noble to me.

THE SEARCH
The imagery in this chapter is so incredibly vivid! It's amazing how descriptive this author can be. I didn't know that anyone could describe things so much.
I didn't realize in the last book how many people came to help Rama! It seems like all the different monkey species came to assist them, along with a bunch of bears!
The idea of a search party for the entire world seems so crazy to me! Searching the whole world for one person would be impossible!
What is with people being so willing to commit suicide and die?! I don't understand why everyone promises to end their life in this book if things don't happen at exactly the right time!

Week 5: Reading Diary A

BHARATA RETURNS
Bharata's dream, described in this chapter, was incredibly symbolic. It's like his subconscious could sense that something was wrong. It's amazing how strong human's intuition and subconscious can be in sensing when something terrible has happened. How ominous it must have been for Satrughna and Bharata when entering their city, but yet not knowing what had happened. I'm sure that there were so many different scenarios running through their heads!
I can't believe that Kaikeyi has the nerve to ask, "Why are you not delighted?", after telling Bharata that his father is dead and his dear brother has been banished! Is she mental?? Of course he is not delighted, that is his family, and he actually cares about them! What a terrible person, Kaikeyi is!
I like that in Buck's version, they give Satrughna a little more dialogue, I always thought it was weird how little he was involved in the story. I also like that in this version, everyone immediately trusts and consoles Bharata. This seems more appropriate because they all knew his character before he left, so why should they believe he would do something so out of character like they did in Narayan's version?
I thought it was interesting that Bharata was able to forgive his mother for her wicked actions. I did not quite expect that. I thought he disowned her permanently. I noticed that this part of the book deviated from Narayan's version. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Bharata was able to perform his father's pyre burning. I don't know how I felt about Kaikeyi being able to participate in mourning the loss of Dasaratha with his other two wives, because she caused his death. I thought she would have been banished.

THE SANDALS
How awesome would it be to have Viswakarman build your house and garden! I wonder if Bharadwaja will keep it that way after everybody leaves! Well I read a little farther,, and apparently not. Although I bet Bharadwaja prefers the simpler things. It's so true what Bharadwaja said about Kaikeyi. Although her actions seemed terrible, they were so necessary for the fulfillment of Rama's destiny.
I really loved this quote from Bharata:
"It is true, that nights gone by do not return, and every day shortens our lives. But I think some things endure. Surely love endures beyound our brief lives."
This is such a beautiful thought. While we may look at life as simply an hourglass that runs our leaving nothing behind, this is not accurate. We all leave something behind that remains, especially love.
I found the whole "walking into a fire and dying" sentiment to be a little dramatic! I mean at least give him more than a day to return!
I thought it was interesting how the sandals had a magical property to them.

PART 2: SITA'S RESCUE
It's crazy that all of the action of Rama's exile occurs only in the fourteenth year! I didn't realize that in Narayan's version.
That story about Ilwala and Vatapi was rather disturbing. How terrible and sadistic these two asuras are! I'm glad that they got what they had coming to them at the hands of Agastya.
I liked that the book introduced us to the Valakhilyas. It's nice to see who all Rama is protecting by destroying Ravana and his demon army. I like what they said about war being better than fear, especially when they are living out of fear of someone so powerful, but yet so cruel and immoral. It made me think of the current dilemma in the world with ISIS. People are living fear of these terrorists and I wonder if war would be better in this case.
The story about Garuda was interesting at all, but it definitely seemed quite drawn out when it did not contribute to the actual plot of the story at all. Based on the stories I have read, I don't know how much I like Indra. He kind of seems like he thinks he is better than he is. I liked Garuda though, especially since he went through all of that to free his mother!  
I actually already read the story about Viradha/Tumburu because he will be featured in my storybook! Although his story here is a bit short, I found him to be an incredibly interesting character! He must have felt so much guilt for the things he did while he was trapped in the demon's body!
This version was different in that Surpanakha did not even try to disguise herself. Lakshmana and Rama still try to be nice to her anyways, at least before she goes after Sita. Maybe I'm forgetting, but I don't really remember Khara in Narayan's version. It's not like he lasted long in this story either though!

Week 4: Famous Last Words

I think that this week was my best writing for this class! I wrote about Sita’s exile. I felt that this writing was especially strong, because my sister is pregnant like Sita, so I know of some of the fears that Jessica, my sister is experiencing. I tried to really capture the maternal instinct that Sita would have felt. For my storybook, I have chosen to write about some of the good asuras. Vibhishana, Trijata, Mareecha (not quite good, but he tried to be), and Viradha have made it into my storybook, Asuras Anonymous! I really considered doing a user’s choice storybook which I did last year, but I decided not to because I wanted to be able to focus on more characters. Asuras Anonymous is supposed to be sort of like Alcoholics Anonymous so I think it will be an interesting storytelling style!

In my other classes, I had my first test this week in Nutrition. It wasn’t too difficult, and I have really enjoyed the class. I definitely wouldn’t say I eat super healthy or anything, but through this class, I have changed my diet a little bit and really tried to add fiber into my diet and cut back on soda. I would like to cut out soda completely, but I just like it too much! I find that I am experiencing a little bit of Senioritis. Symptoms include severe lack of motivation, failure to study, and can lead to long all-nighters the day before assignments are due. My Senioritis has been especially severe in my Biochemical Methods Lab. I just really hate writing lab reports. I actually still need to write mine which is due on Tuesday at 1:30. You would think I have plenty of time, but I pretty much work all day tomorrow.

Outside of school, I went to a murder mystery dinner with my family and boyfriend. Austin and I were these young characters who were in love and engaged, but then we found out that our characters were first cousins, so that was awkward. Austin’s character was also only with me for my “family’s” money. Scandalous, right? All of the characters had these terrible secrets, and you would not believe how many of them were cheating on their significant others! It was a really fun night though, and I really enjoyed it! My dad’s character ended up being the murderer! Although, I had at one time pushed the victim down the stairs, so I was definitely a main suspect. If you want to do a murder mystery, there is one in Guthrie, OK at the Stone Lion Inn, and I would definitely recommend it! 

Image information: Personal photo of Austin and I from the Stone Lion Inn Murder Mystery (September 2014)

Image information: Personal photo of my father and I from the Stone Lion Inn Murder Mystery (September 2014)

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Storytelling for Week 4: Sita's Two Greatest Blessings

When Sita arrived in the forest, she became very scared. Although she was saddened that Rama would ask her to leave, she understood. She feared for the lives of her unborn children. When she found out that she had been blessed with two children, all of her concern was focused on them. She no longer thought of herself, only them. Before Sita had left Rama, they had chosen the names Lava and Kusa. 

As she thought about Rama, tears rolled down her face as she remembered their goodbyes. Rama, a strong warrior, had tears in his eyes as he held her tight. She felt so sad for him that he would not be able to see his sons grow up. Eventually, Sita found herself left alone in the forest, when a hermit came to her named Valmiki. She went with him and found many companions to dwell with and protect her. As the months passed, Sita's belly grew and grew, and her joy about her sons overwhelmed the melancholy she felt about Rama. Finally the day came for her sons to arrive. After a long labor, Sita held in her arms, two beautiful, perfect baby boys. Tears of joy flowed from Sita's eyes. 

Image information: Twin baby boys

Web Source: Telegraph

The boys grew up well. As soon as they could walk and talk, Lava and Kusa were helping all those around them. Sita was so proud of them Valmiki had become their adopted grandpa. They loved hearing his stories. Their favorite story was that of Rama, the brave, honorable warrior King, who could conquer all demons. 

One day Sita came to Valmiki.

"Valmiki, do you think it is time that they know who Rama really is?" Sita asked. 

"I do. I believe they are old enough to understand," Valmiki answered. 

Sita grew very nervous about telling Lava and Kusa. What if they resented their father for not being there while they grew up? How could they understand him sending me alone into the forest? Would they understand and still love him? 

Finally, Sita got up the courage and went to them.

"My sweet boys, I have something very important to tell you," Sita said, as she sat them down.

"What is it, our dear mother?" Kusa inquired.

"You know well of King Rama, right?" Sita asked.

"Yes! When I grow up, I want to be just like him!" Lava exclaimed. 

"He is a wonderful man to have as a role model. I want you to know that he is your father, and he loves you so very much." Sita told them.

Kusa and Lava looked at her in shock.

"Are you upset that I have not told you until now?" Sita asked them.

"No, of course not, but how could this be? Why has he been absent from our lives?'

After Sita explained what had passed, the children understood and happily accepted the news of who their father was. 

Soon after, the people of the forest heard word of the most magnificent thing that the boys had ever heard. Rama would be coming for a festival. All of those stories that Valmiki had told through poetry could be told to Rama. Kusa and Lava rehearsed for months. Everyday, their mother listened, often with tears in her eyes. They could not wait to see their father and tell his story through beautiful poetry,  

Author's Note: My oldest sister is now in her third trimester, so she kind of inspired this story. I added a lot more of Sita's feelings and maternal instincts as she went through her pregnancy and motherhood. Since she was raising the boys without their father, I wanted to address some of the problems she may have had while they grew up, like having to explain to them why their father was absent, although I'm not actually sure why he sent Sita away. In my story, I assumed that Rama had sent her away for a good reason, because I couldn't imagine him not having at least a pretty good reason for doing that. My story also added more to how Kusa and Lava were as they grew up.

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

Week 4: Reading Diary B

Week 4: Reading Diary B

THE TWO WISHES

I thought it was kind of funny how King Dasaratha asked for them to allow him to make Rama the King, but when they happily cheer yes, he becomes all upset that they’re so willing to let Rama become the King. Often, you hear of unjust or cruel kings in stories like these. I think it is amazing that the people of Ayodoyah love their king and his sons so much. It makes me think of the question, would you rather people fear you or love you. I think for Dasaratha and his sons, they would rather their people love them than fear them.

I find it so strange how Dasaratha’s three wives are so content with all being married to the same man. It just seems so unnatural and foreign to me. I also thought it was strange that the woman who was called Kooni in Narayan’s version is called Manthara in Buck’s version. I wonder why that is. After the description of Manthara, I’m rather surprised that she was able to have an influence over Kaikeyi. Kaikeyi was way too easily convinced to change her mind. While I still find it irritating that Kaikeyi forces Dasaratha to make Bharata king, instead of Rama, I now know that it is what was necessary for Rama to fulfill his destiny.

I also found the idea of an angry-room really funny! Maybe we should all have one of those, and the walls could just be covered with pillows for us to punch when we are angry!

It’s amazing how Rama is so carefree about the whole situation, he doesn’t have a bit of anger in him! It was also cool how the city was so loyal to him!

This author definitely uses much more detail than Narayan! I think this detail adds a lot to the story, but sometimes it seems so drawn out!

LORD OF THE WILD TREES

I thought Guha was an interesting new character. I like that there is some new content in this book, as well as the same plot from Narayan’s version. It also was interesting to learn more about Kaikeyi through Guha. She seems to have quite a bit of evil within her. How could she continue to ask him that of her when it would have brought his death! I’m glad he stood up for himself at least then.

Week 4: Reading Diary A

Chapter 1: Born as a Man

The first thing I noticed that was different about this book compared to Narayan's is that the whole book is a story within a story. The storytelling style is of someone telling the story of Ramayana to someone else. I also think it's interesting how Valmiki becomes not just the poet, but also an important part of the story. I like that this version of Ramayana gave us more background on Valmiki.

Now I'm really confused. Last I heard from Narayan's Ramayana, Rama and Sita were still together after Rama defeated Ravana. What could have happened to them to cause Rama to banish her and their unborn children to the forest! After everything she did for him and all the loyalty she showed him, I find that to be really terrible! It makes me sad that Lava and Kusa don't get to grow up with both of their parents, but I think it's wonderful that they will be told all about their father through Valmiki's poetry.

I wish Rama could know that those two boys were his son. I hope that the whole family is reunited by the end of the book!

I thought that the description of heaven after Ravana attacked really helped me better understand the gods' motives in sending Rama to destroy the rakshasas. It was so sad to hear Indra's account of what had happened to his home. I always thought it was weird that Brahma would give Ravana invincibility to the gods, so I am glad this book addressed that.

I have really enjoyed how this book has given us so much more background and explanation compared to Narayan's version. I thought it was really interesting to hear the conversation between Indra and Vishnu before Vishnu takes his human form.

I thought it was interesting how Dasaratha gave two servings of rice to Sumitra and she ended up having two sons.

Chapter 2: The Thorn in the World's Side

I thought the history of the creation of Rakshasas was really interesting, especially how they are conceived and born in one day and reach their mothers' age the day they are born. How crazy would that be! I'm not sure how I felt about the removal of all of the rakshasas from earth. It's not like they were all bad, just the human-eating ones. Why were they all forced out of Lanka City?

I think this chapter was really interesting to me because it explained how Ravana and his siblings came to be. It seems that this book will go much farther into Ravana's family, his siblings, wives, and children. Under Ravana's rule, the rakshasas are out of control! They have no honor or morals! I didn't even know of the Yakshas from Narayan's version, but I thought it was really sad when they were destroyed. I wish that Shiva had kept Ravana as a prisoner, it could have saved so many lives! Who cares if he can sing pretty? He is evil!

I hate to say this, but I have definitely found Buck's version to be much more difficult to stay interested in. I think this is likely because I cannot relate at all to Ravana, and that is all the story has been about so far. It's been frustrating how easy it is for him to go around conquering everybody because they just surrender to him. He doesn't deserve the power that he has. It is interesting, however, to learn how many of the gifts bestowed by Brahma, like the chariot given to Indrajit during the war against Rama, originated.

Chapter 3: Taste This Water

Finally, we get to hear about Rama! I think it's interesting how Thataka is not even in this chapter, only her sons. I also didn't realize that Sita was not born to a human mother! She's actually half-divine. I think it's wonderful that King Janaka informed Rama that "Sita has the final consent." That definitely isn't common in stories like these where women are just given away to men without any thought for how they feel. I liked that in their wedding vows, Janaka said,"Sita, love him well forever, walk with him as his wife and follow him like his own shadow forever." I thought that was really appropriate because she refused to be separated him when he was banished, instead walking with him and following him anywhere.

Week 3: Famous Last Words

This week was pretty good! I still haven’t finished my Storybook assignment, but I think I have a couple ideas for storytelling styles. My favorite storytelling post that I read this week was Jatayu and Sampathi by Austin Clanton. I really liked the storytelling style of a bedtime story that he used. I am considering using that style of storytelling for my storybook.  I felt decent about my storytelling post this week. I decided to fill in the gap about what happened to Sita while she was kidnapped by Ravana because I thought that was really important. 

I have felt decent about my other classes. Nutrition has been really interesting. It definitely has been making me want to eat healthier. It seems like vegetables are one of the best food groups out there, but variety and moderation are really important too. It seems like Biochemical Methods will be challenging this semester, but our professor keeps saying that the class gets easier after we get past the first couple of assignments. I also just really dislike labs and lab reports. They have got to be the worst thing about being a science major. I'm also taking tennis this semester, and it is from 11:30-1:10, which has been pretty terrible because it is in the heat of day. I've definitely come back dehydrated from that class a time or two. 

Outside of school, this week was pretty uneventful. I've been working on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturdays at the OU Tennis Club, and I'm still really enjoying that. I also am continuing to volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters this year, which I did last year as well. My little sister is so sweet, and I'm really glad to see her again after the summer! I went hope for part of the weekend and saw Guardians of the Galaxy with my family. I highly recommend it! It's a lot serious than most Marvel movies, but there is a lot of humor and touching moments, along with great music! 

Image information: Photo from the movie, Guardians of the Galaxy 

Web Source: Wired

Week 3 Storytelling: The Story of Sita's Fear

As Ravana carried her away, Sita saw Jatayu fall, and with him, her last hope.

“Eventually, you will grow to care for me,” Ravana said, half trying to convince himself.

“I will always hate you! I only care for Rama and you have taken me away from him! You will never have me!” Sita replied angrily.

For days, Ravana carried Sita over his shoulder. She kicked and screamed the whole way, dropping jewelry with her as a trail, but no matter what Ravana continued on.

After a week of this, Ravana and Sita arrived in his capital. There, he locked her away in a house.

“You will stay here, locked away, until you can appreciate the strong god you have in front of you, instead of longing for a man you will never see again,” Ravana said.

“No, I will stay here until Rama saves me from you!” Sita yelled, as Ravana slammed the door.

Many days passed, which Sita kept track of by carving tally marks in the wall with a sharp rock. Each day, Ravana would come to see her. First, he would appear in good spirits with gifts for Sita, but when Sita refused to look at him, he would become angry and leave.

One day, she decided to pretend to care for Ravana in order to escape. After faking pleasantries and accepting his gifts, Sita easily fooled Ravana.

“I told you that you would grow to care for me.” Ravana said proudly.

“You’re right! Once I forgot about that simple man, Rama, I could finally see how lucky I was to have the admiration of someone like you, so strong and handsome.” Sita said convincingly.

“”Now that you finally understand, I see no reason to keep you locked away. I will unlock the door so that you can join me and my siblings for dinner this evening.” Ravana replied.

Sita politely accepted his invitation and played nice with Ravana and his family.

Later that night, Sita sneaked out of the house and started running as far as she could from Ravana’s terrible city.

When Ravana came to visit her and realized she was gone, his scream could be heard all over the Earth. This made Sita run even faster, but it did not matter. However fast she ran, Ravana could run one hundred times faster. Ravana came after her and recaptured her within an hour.

Once they were back in the city, Ravana took her to the Ashoka Vana garden. This was no normal garden. Instead of red roses, there were black roses. Instead of gnome statues, there were terrifying gargoyle statues. On many of the flowers, thorns stuck out, dripping with poison. Within the garden, stood many demons. Ravana threw Sita, who wept desperately, onto the ground.

“Until I have vanquished your dear Rama, you will never feel safe again! I leave you with these demons.  May they terrify and frighten you every moment, until Rama is dead. Once I have killed him, we may have a chance,” Ravana said.

After instructing the demons to constantly frighten Sita, Ravana left and held up in his palace.

Sita remained in the garden, terrified for her life, with no way to keep track of the days. For what seemed like an eternity, Sita sat there in constant fear. One day, however, everything changed. She had finally decided that there was no point in living any longer and prepared to end her life, but then Hanuman appeared, and with him, new hope.

Image information: Hanuman approaching Sita in Ravana's garden

Source: Spiritual Messenger

Author's Note: For my storytelling this week, I wanted to feel in the gap of what had happened to Sita during her abduction. In Narayan's Ramayana, Sita is taken away after Ravana kills Jatayu, and then we hear nothing of her, except that she dropped jewelry along the way, until Hanuman finally finds her. I wanted to tell a story about how those months passed for her in Ravana's capital. I really like to use dialogue, so I narrated the story, with a focus on Sita.

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



Week 3: Reading Diary B

MEMENTO FROM RAMA

I was glad to see that Sita remained loyal to Rama, but it was really upsetting to see her frightened and imprisoned like that,wanting to end her life. I can't imagine how terrifying those months had been for her. I'm also happy that Hanuman was not killed by Ravana, because Hanuman has been so loyal and brave for Rama. He even wreaked havoc on Ravana's city.

RAVANA IN COUNCIL

I love how Ravana's commander-in-chief chastised him for stealing Sita while Rama and Lakshmana were away. That was such a cowardice move, and also a stupid move. It's also ignorant of them to continue to underestimate Rama and Lakshmana as simple human beings who can be easily defeated. Their cockiness will surely lead to their downfall. Vibishana is the only smart one in the whole council. He is the only one who realizes that Ravana is in a dangerous spot right now. Ravana really should have listened to him and released Sita. 

ACROSS THE OCEAN

I think this was definitely a difficult choice that Rama had to make. On the one hand, I do think Vibishana truly has a good heart, but that is not an easy thing to know for sure. Vibishana could be fooling them as a double agent, however, based on what I know, I believe that Vibishana came here because he believes in Rama and Ravana threatened to kill him if he stayed. Rama made the right decision in accepting him. 

THE SIEGE OF LANKA

For this chapter, I was imagining a battle in the Planet of the Apes movie. Ravana continues throughout the battle to be arrogant and brash. I was a little surprised that Rama let Ravana go when he could have defeated him. That was honorable, but I also think when someone is as evil as Ravana, maybe he doesn’t deserve the same respect that others do. I also thought about the difference between Rama and his brothers, who have so much respect, loyalty, and love for him, compared to Ravana and his brothers, who have no loyalty or respect for him and fear him.

RAMA AND RAVANA IN BATTLE

Finally, Rama and Ravana will face each other! I thought it was sweet that Rama protected Lakshmana from Mahodara. What an intense battle! It kind of reminded me of a duel in Harry Potter with them attacking and countering the attacks with what seemed like incantations. While I was glad that Rama came out victorious, there was something sad about Ravana’s death.

INTERLUDE

That was ridiculous! How could Rama be so cold after all she had been through, as though she asked to be away from him in a stranger’s house! This chapter definitely upset me. I thought Rama was better than that.

THE CORONATION

What a happy ending, even for Kaikeyi! Overall, I really enjoyed this book! It was so easy to read because the characters were so likable. It was amazing how many loyal people Rama had serving him, such as Bharata, Lakshmana, Sita, and Hanuman. All of those characters truly made the story. 

Week 3: Reading Diary A

So I just realized that the book I have is numbered differently, so I’ve already read the beginning of the assigned reading for this week. Last I read, Jatayu valiantly passed away.

VALI

The author has definitely set this chapter up to be dramatic and disappointing. It seems that Rama will make a terrible mistake in this part of the story. Although I have found Rama to be a very honorable character, even the most noble of people can make huge mistakes. This chapter very much reminds me of Planet of the Apes, as the monkeys are highly intelligent beings.

Sugreeva’s Story

Wow, what a terrible story! Sugreeva has suffered so much. The injustice of the situation upsets me. It’s amazing how a misunderstood situation can turn into something so much worse when people don’t give others a chance. It makes me angry that Vali would be so rash.

Dundubi’s Story

It sounds like Dundubi had a death wish! Also, how could two people duel for a whole year. It seems that Dundubi got his wish.

Finally, a mention of Sita! It seemed that Rama had all but forgotten her. He must feel terribly powerless since Sita came with him for his 14 years of exile, but he was unable to protect her. That is definitely something that is still common in modern times. For a man to be unable to protect the woman he loves from harm; it is one of the most terrible feelings he can have.

This was a really sad chapter. Although, it seemed that Vali was still in the wrong in the conflict with his brother, I feel that the conflict could have ended without the death of Vali, especially after seeing how upset Sugreeva was by the death of his brother. I do disagree with how Rama handled the situation by hiding and killing Vali. I do not think this was honorable or noble. Rama should have confronted Vali himself. In these epics, it seems that blood is spilled over conflicts that words could have solved. I wish that Rama had not killed Vali, but I do understand his tendency to help Sugreeva, especially after the story that he was told. There’s two sides to every story though. Each side is naturally biased.

WHEN THE WINDS CHASE

I really like that Rama advised Sugreeva to “not hurt anyone’s feelings, not even the lowliest.” I think that shows a person’s true character. There’s a quote that reads this:

Image Information: Quote by James D. Miles

Web Source: Flickr

I absolutely love this quote, and Rama’s words very much reminded me of it.

Rama is very moody in this chapter. It’s interesting to see how the weather affects his moods, just like for us. Rama’s words were overly harsh about Sugreeva. He would destroy every monkey in the world? I think that’s called genocide..

I was glad that Tara and the other monkeys were able to divert the situation when Lakshmana arrived. I really didn’t want there to be conflict there. I also got really worried when the search party almost gave up hope! I was glad to see that Hanuman realized his own powers, however I also appreciate the humility that Hanuman displays.