Introduction
“You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice” (The Foundation for a Better Life, n.d.). This well-known quote from Bob Marley rings true in the story “Peach Pie” by Elisabeth Stewart, which portrays the theme of the uncertainty of life and the importance of cherishing one’s time with family. The main character’s experience of caring for her father demonstrates her strength and ability to find joy in simple pleasures and appreciate the present. However, the story also explores the emotional complexities of caretaking and the role shift that can happen when a parent falls ill.
How the Text Is Connected to Society
The protagonist’s experience of caring for her father is relatable to many individuals who have had to become caretakers for their loved ones. The story emphasizes how difficult it can be for a person emotionally and physically. This is demonstrated through the descriptions showing the protagonist spending her summer caring for her father, cooking his meals, and doing his laundry.
These descriptions masterfully show the shift in roles that occurs between the protagonist and her father, with the protagonist now being the one in charge, “becoming an adult” (Stewart, 2021, par. 23). This shift represents a crucial moment in the protagonist’s journey to adulthood, as she now feels responsible for the person who had raised her. Making peach cobbler with her father is an example of a simple but joyous activity in which one can find strength and comfort during hardship.
Another important idea in the story and a part of the overall theme is related to being mindful and valuing the present moment. Having cooked the peach cobbler together, the characters eat it on the patio and watch birds, and the protagonist describes how she savors every moment of this simple activity (Stewart, 2021). By taking on the role of a caretaker, we can gain a newfound appreciation for the present and the small details we may have overlooked before. In the story, the protagonist’s caretaking experience has allowed her to see the value of living in the present.
Personal Experience from a Societal Perspective
Personal experience has also given me insight into the emotional burden of caretaking. When my friend’s grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, her daughter, my friend’s mother, became her caretaker. Witnessing the mother’s struggles to balance her own life with the responsibility of caretaking gave me a firsthand view of the challenges people face in these situations.
I saw my friend’s mother grapple with the complex emotions of the role, including the desire to monitor her mother’s well-being while allowing her some independence. The experience was emotionally draining for both my friend and her mother and caused significant stress for their family. However, similar to the protagonist in “Peach Pie,” my friend’s family found light and joy in simple pleasures, such as preparing meals and walking together. Overall, this experience taught me the importance of supporting caretakers in their roles and appreciating the present moment with our loved ones.
Conclusion
To conclude, Elisabeth Stewart’s short story “Peach Pie” delves into the universal theme of family love and its potential to provide support and comfort during difficult times. The protagonist’s actions reveal how cooking and building memories can foster a stronger bond among family members. Additionally, the narrative emphasizes the significance of valuing the moments we have with our loved ones. This theme resonates with me as I have also experienced the power of family love in times of adversity.
References
Stewart, E. (2021). The Winners of Our 2nd Annual Personal Narrative Contest. The New York Times. Web.
The Foundation for a Better Life. (n.d.). “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.” —Bob Marley. Pass It On. Web.