My journey this year to realize my “white identity” has been like a roller coaster ride.  At times I have been very passionate about my beliefs, other times I have felt very guilty and somewhat embarrassed by statements I have made.  Yet, I know that I have a long way to go and that I am still growing and changing.  I had mixed feelings about going to see Paul Gorski.  Would I be hearing the same rhetoric of all the multi-cultural chapters I have read?  Would I be made to feel further shame because I was white?  Or would I be transformed in my beliefs and begin my journey as an advocate for children around the world?  None of those things happened for me!  I was validated in my beliefs and experiences in many ways by what he described as my “socialization”.  My eyes were opened with his quiz and its relation to the distribution of wealth.  I was appreciative of his “what can I do now” strategies.  I was saddened to learn that I was not part of the middle class where I thought I belonged, but rather working class! 

     I think Paul Gorski has a serious and thoughtful message to share.  He was able to do it in an eloquent, passionate, and entertaining manner.  I would have liked to have heard him speak in a smaller forum.  I’d also still love to hear Ruby Payne speak and be able to compare the two opinions.  I’m sure the two together would make for an interesting debate!