"She (Ruth) was struggling to become someone else, and maybe felt the pressure more than the rest of us because, as I say, she'd somehow taken on the responsibility for all of us" (page 130).
Throughout the story, Ruth has been trying to be someone she's not. It's just part of Ruth's character to appear greater than she truly is. Perhaps she is secretly insecure with herself, but Ruth just finds the urge to show everyone that she is the best. I, personally, am very annoyed with this character. Yes, her character is essential to the basic plot of the story line. Yes, the person Ruth is has formed Kathy into the character she is in the story, but I just feel that Ruth just needs to tone it down a little bit. Ruth needs to be herself, and maybe my realization of Ruth's personality is an indication that "being oneself" is a central theme to the story.
When I reflected on Ruth's character, the one thing that popped into my mind was that she was trying to prove to be someone she wasn't. In my mind, this is very prevalent in today's society. So many people think that they are not good enough, so they come up with lies to impress other people. Others just physically try to change themselves for the rest of the world, girls especially. Anorexia, cutting, depression, bulimia: all of these matters are extremely prevalent in today's world. We just feel like we are not good enough. After hearing this song though, my life was changed. I fell in love with this song instantly. I am a victim of wearing layers of make-up and just "trying to make the mirror happy." For a very long time, I just felt that I wasn't good enough for anyone. I thought I would never find someone that would make me believe that I'm beautiful. But after hearing this song, I realized that I am missing the message. I am God's, and I don't need to change myself for anyone because He makes me beautiful. I wish that I could explain this idea of "being yourself" to Ruth. Life would be so much easier for her.
I've noticed many students blogging about their distaste for Ruth.
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