Whitaker's poignant words and moving story, delivered with a relaxed sense of purpose, were inspirational. His frank, balanced, and at times very emotional re-telling of the story resonated deeply with all present. Mark's struggle to find his identity in many respects: racially, religiously, as a child of divorced parents, and in wanting to be a good parent are universal struggles. Questions asked buy members of the audience after Mark's talk reflected this.
“Interestingly," Mark commented at one point towards the end of his talk, "the stuff I was ashamed of [in my story] is what people are really interested in; that is what is relatable, as opposed to the exotic/romantic narrative of my parents as a bi-racial couple. I discovered that what you see in a story like this depends on who you are--different people respond differently to the characters."
"I wouldn’t wish my childhood on anyone; but I learned
resilience, stoicism. As a defense, I became a bit of an observer, which
probably led to my career in journalism. I wanted to have a family and make it
work."
In speaking directly to this year's school-wide theme, Mark expressed being convinced that
it is the adversity and setbacks in life that make you stronger, that build your
character. Parents, he said always want to naturally protect their children from these; but they can be the avenues to discovery, learning, and strength.
“I thought I had
learned from my parents’ mistakes and was making a better life. But I realized
just how much support I did get from my extended family on both sides. I
realized how much I had drawn from extended family and the communities that
supported us, especially the traditions of love of learning and writing that were on both
sides of my family. I felt rooted, connected to a deep family story. ”Mark Whitaker's visit was sponsored by the Saint David's Committee on Community, chaired by Mill Harris and Sally Connolly.
Mark's visit Wednesday night was made possible through the generosity of Dorothy Faux, Co-chair of the Saint David's School Alumni Parents Council.
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