Portfolio 1: Who is Jesus, Really

 I think Jesus taught about change. Whether it be a change of opinion, or a change of actions. Jesus taught to change people's opinon of others, to let go of stereotypes. He taught this through his Good Samaritan Parable. In the Parable citizens thought highly of as upright people- a priest and a rich man (Levite) ignored the helpless man. But a Samaritan-a person not regarded as honorable, helped the beaten man. Jesus taught
by example of how to change actions. When society was banishing 
taxcollectors, Jesus invited one to eat with him.  He accepted Mary Magdelene as a follower despite her past as a prostitute, a profession regarded as the most unholy. Through his acceptance of her, Jesus taught that repentance is effective. Jesus taught  that instead of acts of banishment and ignorance to act with acceptance. 
I believe that I am trying to be a follower of the teachings I just described. I am trying to change my stereotypical opinions of others, especially since this summer. During a trip to LA, I met this kid named Andy. Andy was from a place I can't remember the name of, but he told me it's in the middle of nowhere.Andy told me a story about a time he was called a hick just because he came 
from a small town. Andy is the furthest thing I've met from a hick. When being honest with myself, I know that I am one of the people that assume, if you live anywhere near the south, you have certain beliefs which usually don't coincide with mine, and I title them "hicks". But since I met Andy, I try my best to no longer do that. I am also trying to change my indifferent actions towards others, mainly by taking interest in their life.