|
Jerry takes pleasure in making Simon feel excluded and
unwelcome in the school social cliques, all because of his own envy of
Simon's previously wealthy lifestyle. Jerry convinces himself and his
friends that treating Simon unkindly is for his own good, but it is only to
satisfy his own ego. Even the teachers are puzzled by the class's hostility
towards Simon, who is a quiet and thoughtful boy.
Jerry's exclusionary policy extends to group projects, where he makes sure
Simon is left out, forcing the teachers to intervene. Despite Simon's
family's financial downfall, Jerry still finds pleasure in tormenting him.
Jerry is revered by his classmates, being the captain of the school soccer
team, and is acknowledged as the leader in class.
Jerry's mother, who is a housekeeper in Simon's mansion, has always taught
Jerry to treat Simon's family with subservience. Each time she makes him do
so, Jerry's hatred towards Simon intensifies. Jerry feels that by excluding
Simon, he will prove to him that he is superior, even without all the
trappings of wealth.
However, Jerry's world comes crashing down when he finds out that he has not
met the minimum academic score required for a school athlete to remain on
the school team. Even though he is cocksure that his excellent performance
in the school tournament would make up for his poor results, his teachers
tell him otherwise.
Jerry realizes that he has no friends capable of helping him catch up on his
schoolwork, and his mother cannot afford a private tutor. His sense of
despair is heightened when Simon walks by, looking dejected. Jerry sees an
opportunity to use Simon's academic abilities to his advantage, proposing
that Simon stays back after school to help him. In return, Jerry would try
to bring Simon into the 'in' group.
To Jerry's surprise, Simon declines his offer, saying that he has other
things to do. Simon's response is ironic, given that Jerry had used similar
reasoning to justify his cruelty towards Simon. Jerry is left shocked,
realizing that he has not only lost his chance to improve his grades but
also that he has lost his sense of superiority over Simon.
The essay shows how cruelty and exclusion can have severe consequences.
Jerry's envy of Simon has led him to mistreat him, causing Simon to distance
himself from him, despite Jerry's attempts to make amends. Jerry's cruelty
also prevents him from making meaningful connections with his classmates,
who view him as a bully.
In contrast, Simon's refusal to help Jerry is not an act of cruelty but
rather an act of self-preservation. Simon knows that helping Jerry could be
detrimental to his own well-being, especially since Jerry has a history of
mistreating him. By refusing to help Jerry, Simon sets boundaries and
demonstrates that he values his own well-being.
In conclusion, the essay highlights the importance of kindness and
inclusion. The consequences of cruelty can be severe, leading to isolation
and unhappiness. On the other hand, acts of kindness can build bridges and
strengthen relationships. It is essential to treat others with respect,
regardless of their background or status, as this creates a more inclusive
and happier community. |
