The Collected Works of Billy the Kid by Michael Ondaatje
Even though she was afraid of this notorious outlaw the first time they met, it did not stop Sallie Chisum from showing compassion to another human being.  Apparently, it was Sallie who nursed Billy the Kid back to health following his accident.  She could have easily turned him over to the authorities but chose to be a humanitarian instead.  She not only showed such kindness to humans but those in need in the animal kingdom as well.  It seemed as if her door was always opened to all who were in need.

Paris to the Moon by Adam Gopnik
From the beginnings of the story I have a connection to the author since he references his childhood taking place in West Philadelphia.  He’s remembering the weather forecasts being given for the tri state area and highs and lows in Atlantic City.  This information draws the reader in especially if you’re familiar with the landmarks he’s referring too.  My mother grew up in South Philadelphia but had relatives in West Philadelphia who she would often visit.  Atlantic City is another place I’ve personally visited and those forecasts for the tri state area are still given everyday on all the local TV channels.  My parents also tell about stories of the opening of EJ Korvettes at the Audubon Shopping Center in the 1960’s.  The author writes of his shopping experiences at EJ Korvettes in Cherry Hill also during the 1960’s.  As the reader, with having a personal connection it helps to draw you into the story. 

A Narrative Life by Gian Pagnucci
“Living the narrative life is about embracing the stories that make us who we are” (Pagnucci 68). These memories or cherished stories from our past help shape us into the individuals we are today. No matter how big or small, our stories follow us throughout childhood into adulthood. They help us gain a better understanding of who we truly are. I do believe that throughout my experiences growing up it has had a profound impact on me. My actions or decisions are based upon what I was taught at a young age, which has been carried over throughout the years. I have even learned from mistakes I have made.  Though they may not have been the best decisions, it has however taught me a lesson to consider for the future. The stories we choose to express are a direct result of how we perceive ourselves in everyday life. They express the meaning of our identity and how these memories have shaped us, inside and out, good or bad.  

It is said that it is also important to preserve our memories. Though some of us say that we’ll never forget, however, sometimes you do. It just slips your mind. While getting older you tend to drift away from certain people so you don’t see them as much. After all we hang onto memories with others because they affected us one way or another. When jotting down stories it helps you recollect these memories that were once considered lost. Overall, it is important for storytelling. It describes you as a unique individual and how you’ve become who you are based on your experiences you’ve overcome. As Pagnucci stated, “Living the narrative life, then, means learning that who you are is all about the stories that form your life” (71).

A Native Hill by Wendell Berry
In “A Native Hill,” Berry discusses how individuals not only connect with family history and experiences but also how nature can be intertwined. Each individual has a history that has shaped us with guidance from our past experiences. They have created us into the individuals we are today.  It also holds true when speaking of your ‘hometown’ where you grew up. I’ve come to realize that no matter what everyone takes pride in regards to where they are from. It is the place that you consider ‘home’ in which you’re safe and content. The physical environment remembers you of not only enjoyable experiences but hard ones as well. Despite where you may be, your hometown will always hold tremendous value and memories.

For example, my brother Chris (who is in the United States Air Force) had gone away for a six-month deployment in Iraq. When he came back he was shocked at the fact how much had changed since he was gone. From just simple things around the house, to a new development that was build or the even the new super Wawa in town. He was in complete amazement by the changes he had missed. Once open areas of land had just vanished in such a short period of time. 

On a more recent note, down the street from my house is considered Haddon Heights Park.  In the next few years my town has approved for new townhouses to be built which means taking away from the parks. The parks that I once ran around with my brothers or even sledding will soon no longer exist. Or even the endless nights just roaming around throughout the parks thinking we were cool hanging out with friends. It is very upsetting to realize how nature is truly not considered. Seems everywhere I look contractors are building on once was considered open lands filled with mother nature.