Born a Crime by Trevor Noah and Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins shines a light on the fact that individualism should be valued over conformity.
In Trevor Noah’s story, Born a Crime, the author employs symbolism to illustrate the importance of valuing individuality and uniqueness over conformity. Noah discusses the ramifications he faces of his mixed-race ancestry, leaving him as an outsider in both South Africa’s black and white societies. Due to the risky, yet brave decision of Noah’s parents to marry outside their races, committing a crime. The consequences of this problem extend far beyond his own life, but to future generations to come. In defiance of societal expectations, Noah refuses to pick a side and instead decides to forge his own
…show more content…
Goggins describes how he courageously defied conformity and childhood obstacles to reach the highest mountain as an Ultra Runner, Navy Seal, and world-renowned motivational speaker, enriching the lives of millions of people around the world. Nonetheless, Goggins grew up in a difficult environment, with an abusive father and a lack of opportunity. Goggins endured severe trauma as a result of the constant whippings from his father. He witnesses his father berate and degrade his mom and brother, having sex with other women, and forcing the family to work long nights at Skateland, his father's business. At eight years old, Goggins’ mother finally gained the strength to flee from this hostile atmosphere, allowing Goggins a chance at a better future. Goggins shouts, "I'm not a victim. I refuse to be one. Yet I still have scars. I still have bad memories. I still have demons. But every time they rear their ugly heads, I beat them back with the tools I've learned over the years. I'm a f******-up mess of a human being, but I'm using my mess to make myself better, to help others be better. I'm no victim. I'm a survivor” (Goggins). Goggins's statement “I’m not a victim. I refuse to be one” depicts a powerful example of refusing to become a victim and choosing to confront one’s challenges to overcome conformity to promote personal growth and …show more content…
The authors describe their childhood struggles growing up in difficult environments dealing with discrimination, and having to overcome obstacles to achieve international success. In Born a Crime, Trevor Noah provides an insightful look into his experiences of growing up in a segregated and discriminatory South Africa as a child of a mixed race. Trevor Noah’s mere existence was considered a crime. Noah provides important details on how society was combative towards him. He learned to use defense mechanisms to achieve individualism and not conform to society’s beliefs about him. A rather similar experience to the book, Can’t Hurt Me written by David Goggins. Goggins chronicles his journey from a difficult upbringing and experience with obesity, child abuse, and racism. He discusses his incredible expedition to becoming an ultra-endurance athlete, Navy Seal, and famous motivational speaker. He stresses the importance of staying disciplined, maintaining mental fortitude, sticking to your true self, and not conforming to society. His story has had a profound impact on my life, allowing me to break free of my stress and anxiety while discovering individualism through participating in the activities that I love. In conclusion, Both of these stories serve as a reminder that you are not alone and provide