The Green caldron - University Library

May, 1962 15
to end where they started. We have a contribution to the world : youth. Youth
is introspective ; youth is incHned to plunge forward ; youth is tender-hearted
and youth is self-critical.
Self-criticism, if I may be critical, is our big problem. Russia says we
are wrong, and we smile and say of course we are. The world looks at us
askance and we cringe, apologizing for being powerful and free. We need
not apologize for being what we are; that's ridiculous. Our culture is what
it is, one being developed, the general tone of which depends on education
of every citizen ; our wealth is with us ; and our foreign relations are as good
as, or better than, could be expected in the circumstances. Our relations
with other countries are not perfect or even near it, but where in this world
is there not misunderstanding? In any area of human relations there are so
many choices of action that it is not possible to predict any safe, positive
outcome, America's critics within are too conservative or too radical ; her
critics outside should reappraise their own acceptance of responsibility
American citizens and political chiefs must be open-minded and responsible,
but not so eager to bear the blame for every international crisis. They aren't
all our fault.
TODAY
The Hunters
Jerry Boydston
Rhetoric 102, Theme 10
IS MONDAY, A PLAIN, COMMON, PROBLEM-FILLED
Monday. The weather is invitingly sultry with its soft, warm breezes
and bright sky, but here I am at my desk studying. The open windows
in my room let in just enough of this wonderful spring air to start my
memory working. I feel a strange compulsion to go outside and I struggle
to keep my mind on my studies. Thoughts from my childhood begin forming
in my mind, bringing visions of the fun that I had on days such as this
when I was about nine years old.
"Back to the chemistry," I say to myself. "This is no time for daydreaming."
After I read another paragraph, however, I find that my mind
is wandering again. I realize that the past is gone forever, yet I can't help
wondering what has happened to the "carefree days."
"Boy, that sure was a lot of fun," I mumble out loud.
"What was fun?" my roommate inquires.
"Huh? Oh nothing, just thinking out loud I guess."
;