I certainly doubt it...

In Shanley's "Doubt: a parable", I have only encountered more difficulty on evaluating and analyzing my lifestyle. Although I try to be as unselfish as possible (which I greatly want to work on!), I still find myself attributing the messages and theories of all the pieces our class has read to my own habits rather than the nature of others. Consciously averting that habit of mine, I found "Doubt" to be relatable to many. It was said in the dialogue, by Father Flynn I believe (could be mistaken), that it takes much more courage to be doubtful than to be certain, for certainty is definite, while doubt is infinite.

Throughout the play, Sister Aloysius seems to be certain of Flynn's intentions. Although provided with no evidence, she remains confident in her convictions. However, in the final scene, she makes a remark to Sister James that she has doubts. I was able to relate this final scene, as well as my whole analysis of the play, to our class. Often times, one of us is certain we know the answer or have a valid response to an inquiry. We are almost always asked to show evidence. Without any evidence of our proclamations, they are only certain to us on an intermediate level, yet doubtful to others.

The questions of who I sympathize with most and who I admire most intrigue me. I sympathize with Sister James most, for she seems to be most like me, yet is criticized. If I were to uphold a teaching position, I would want my students to enjoy the class and be able to come to me with any concerns. I also want to please others to whom I work for and with. However, I admire Sister Aloysius most, for she is strong and intelligent. She sticks to her convictions without true evidence because it is what she believes and what she thinks to be right. If I could have the courage to model her behavior I would. However, all the others (Sister James, Mrs. Muller, Father Flynn) seem to either despise her or be frightened of her. So the question I ask myself is would I rather be able to have confident convictions and beliefs that can aid in pivotal situations, or would I rather be innocent in a cruel world to avoid all difficulties and wicked looks? Oh, I have doubts, I have such doubts.