A moral is a short statement that summarizes the main message of a fable or tale. For example, “Slow and steady wins the race” is an example of a moral statement. Select two of the stories or poems in this unit and write moral statements for each. Explain how each relates to the story or poem.
"I Want to Be Miss America" by Ju.lia Alvarez:
"About Russell" by Rita Williams-Garcia:
1) Moral statement for "I Want to Be Miss America" by Julia Alvarez: "Beauty is not determined solely by physical appearance, but by embracing one's cultural heritage."
Explanation: In this story, the main character imagines herself winning the Miss America pageant and becoming the epitome of beauty. However, as she grows older, she realizes that beauty is not just about conforming to societal standards but also about embracing one's own heritage and cultural identity. The moral statement highlights the importance of self-acceptance and the celebration of diversity.
2) Moral statement for "About Russell" by Rita Williams-Garcia: "True friendship arises from understanding and supporting one another, regardless of differences."
Explanation: In this poem, Russell is a boy who is initially misunderstood by others due to his different interests and peculiar behaviors. However, the narrator takes the time to understand Russell and realizes that true friendship comes from looking beyond superficial differences and accepting others for who they truly are. The moral statement emphasizes the value of empathy, acceptance, and the ability to appreciate uniqueness in others.