Chapter 2

2

Symbolism and Personal Example 

      Reading this chapter, I was surprised at Shackleton's courageousness and self-sacrifice, but at the same time, I respect his great skills as well. When Endurance was crushed by ice, he was convinced that sledge march could not be accomplished without discarding every single unnecessary stuff. However, he realized that everyone was having trouble with throwing away their personal belongings. This selection was also difficult for Shackleton, but as might be expected as a great leader, he himself set the example. Throwing away a gold watch, a gold cigarette, and golden sovereigns which might be valuable in his country, but worthless in that circumstance. His action represented what was essential for their up coming journey and made his clews stand together to accomplish their goals. What he did was just throwing his belongings to the ground, but this has huge impact on his clews. Whatever the action he did, it needed to be vivid and memorable. 

Regarding similar harsh situation happens to me, I do not think I am able to spearhead being an example as Shackleton had done. I hope I can be, but it is super difficult and there are not many people who can do it.