August 25, 2021
Week 1 QQC – Searching for Belonging

1) Review the Moreau FYE Fall 2021 syllabus. Which of the focus questions or objectives stated in the document stand out to you as particularly relevant to your life?

One focus question in the syllabus that particularly stood out to me was; "how can I grow as my most authentic self". Having moved away to a new country and environment only a few days ago, I think that it is extremely important not to compromise any of my beliefs or limit my personal expressionism in order to feel a sense of acceptance. Instead, to grow authentically through this journey I think that it is important that I surround myself with other genuine and open-minded individuals as well as remain open to exploration - academically, socially and in other areas of my life.  

2) Drawing from Dr. Brown’s commentary, submit a QQC Reflection to prepare for in-class discussion. View the “QQC Reflections” section of the syllabus for detailed guidance.

Question: How does society influence an individual's ability to attain a sense of worthiness and belonging?

Quote: "There was only one variable that separated the people who have a strong sense of love and belonging, and the people who really struggle for it. And that was, the people who have a strong sense of love and belonging believe they're worthy of love and belonging". I have selected this quotation from Dr. Brown's commentary because it provides a brief insight into how internal conflict and societal hierarchies work. In modern-day society it is a commonly accepted fact that self-worth is gained through the satisfaction and approval of others. This is exemplary through the number of "likes" an individual receives on social media, complements that others give to them, or if they adhere to the trending beauty standards. I think that it is important for society to change in this respect so that people stop relying on others to determine their feelings of self-worth or self-love, as they should come from within. 
 
Comment: Dr. Brown's Ted Talk allowed me to realize that I should work towards embracing my own vulnerability and using it as a strength as opposed to feeling embarrassed or weakened by it. The point made about vulnerability making people authentic causes the idea of vulnerability to seem much less frightening and even sparks a basis for connection since so many others are faced with the same feelings. It is now clear that feeling vulnerable is actually a sign of self-awareness and courage which will lead to an internalized worthiness and sense of love. Typically, being vulnerable would provide the thought that it is easier to be manipulated or controlled, but this new idea of vulnerability demonstrates the opposite in that if someone is vulnerable and believes that they are worthy, they will not accept being treated to a lower standard.