Why does Kiyoshi believe Obaban is a substitute for his mom?
Kiyoshi believing that Obaban is a substitute for this mother has everything to do with their culture and the superstitions that exist and taught in that culture. Kiyoshi’s mother has deep beliefs in the superstitions in her culture that influence her behaviors and decisions in her life. These beliefs are passed along to her children. She has strong beliefs why her life has turned out like it has. “She thinks she’s been chosen for someone else’s punishment”. (23)
This punishment seems to be relieved as another superstition comes into play as her “Hawaiian mother” (22) passes away. Kiyoshi’s mother is thankful that Kiyoshi had retrieved Obaban for a visit and that she was able to see her before the end of her days. She believes that this is a turn in her bad luck she has experienced her whole life. Although Kiyoshi is happy that the bad news was not regarding his mother, he felt guilty since it was about the sroke of Obaban. He then realizes that this event is the substitute for his mother still being alive. It was looked on as a happy event since Obaban was older and it was the more natural thing to happen.
Hi Mandy -
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading about some of the superstitions Kiyoshi's mother believed in. I wonder why his mother believed in them, but his father did not?
It was odd reading Kiyoshi's mixed emotions about Obaban's death. I wonder if it's bad luck to be pleased someone died within their superstitions, even though the only reason he was happy is the "bachi" took Obaban instead of his mother.
Thank you,
Sarah Baker
Hi Mandye,
ReplyDeleteSusperstitions and beliefs are amazing to me. As I read more into this book, I can see how Kiyoshi and his family aren't just living on Hawaii, but they are also living with their ancestors on the island, and with their ancestors they brought with them from Japan, in the form of these beliefs. I can imagine Kiyoshi thought he was supposed to feel guilt about Obabans death, but since he believed his mother was spared, he felt joy.
Thanks
Hi Mandye,
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing on how people’s beliefs can affect their daily lives and I am amazed on that how it can truly effect on their health. When someone believes in something so strongly that it really can take a toll on their overall health is amazing. One does have to realize that the brain does have control over everything that goes on in ones body so it should be so surprising that your thoughts can affect on how you feel. I think it is just surprising when a person can just believe something that isn’t true or at least seem to be a silly superstition.
Michelle
I liked how you mentioned that superstitions are passed on to the next generation. This must of been an older tradition. Obanban having a stroke though was kind of tough for him because she was like a second mother. She was there for the family when she was needed. As time goes on I believe they will realize that you don't realize how good something is until its gone.
ReplyDelete