Comments on: When the poinsettias were white

By: Leigh Jacoby

Leigh Jacoby — Thu, 20 May 2010 20:07:37 +0000

This is a beautifully detailed story about colonialism and defiance. It reminds us that stories are a powerful tool of resistance. Both the mother’s story about the poinsettias (it occurs to me that there is irony in the name “poinsettia” since it is a flower which is native to latin America and bears the name of the American ambassador to Mexico who “discovered” it)and the story itself offer an alternative to the point of view which sees the Spanish as “civilizers.” I agree with the person who thought it would be a great story to discuss in a classroom!

By: D.Duarte

D.Duarte — Wed, 12 May 2010 17:56:14 +0000

Sad….but interesting. I liked the portrayal of seeing it through the child’s point of view. It would be a great discussion story.

By: Edwin Aviles

Edwin Aviles — Tue, 11 May 2010 01:41:21 +0000

excellent story, I love the way the true meaning of being civilized was conveyed. I was born and raised in Guatemala and was also told the story about Spaniards coming to make us better, but the reality is that they came to steal out treasures. I was once in Barcelona sharing dinner with a former girlfriend’s family and was asked by her father if I had any Indian blood in me. I was quick to answer, “I am 100% Indian, and a Mayan warrior but never a thief or a killer”, there was silent at the table and the father silently changed the subject and probably learned a lesson.
Great article and would like to see more of your writing published.

Good job.