Description Discussion

Both Vowell and Brad Manning describe their fathers.  Examine words Manning and Vowell use to convey their feelings of distance from their fathers and also in their feelings of closeness.  After commenting on their use of words, discuss some words that you would use if you were to write an essay about the relationship you have with your father.  Tell us what these words say about that relationship.

Narration Discussion

Reminders: As you respond to your class’s post, review the expectations for thoughtful, valuable, and timely communication outlined in the “Discussion Forum Rubric.”  Additionally, even though you are only responsible for responding to your assigned topic, we will use all four posted topics in our class discussion; prepare accordingly.

 Huttmann presents two opposing ideas of God’s role in human life and death.  For the member of Phil Donahue’s audience, only God can decide to stop someone’s life; anyone who tries to make that decision is “play[ing] God” (par. 2).  For Huttmann, in contrast, sustaining life artificially is “meddling in God’s work” (par. 11).  Reflect and respond: Although Huttmann presents both sides, how does her essay convince you which side to take, or do your own personal beliefs prevent you from considering her position?