In the novel “The Other Wes Moore” the author also named Wes Moore describes the lives of two boys who despite their similarities take on two totally different life paths. As these two boys enter adult and take on their life paths the similarities between these two boys decrease more and more. Wes who just like Wes 2 was originally facing problems deciding what to do with his life is now on his way to becoming a rhodes scholar and decorated veteran while Wes 2 faces a court room on accomplice and robbery charges and eventually life in prison. The reader can begin to look back on the lives of these young men and determine what had the most influence on their lives today. The title of Part 2: “Paths Taken and Expectations Fulfilled” directly applies to the major life choices of Wes and Wes 2 and the idea throughout the novel that people do "what others expect of" them.
As children Wes and Wes 2 were intelligent, loving, funny, fatherless, and had mothers who wanted the best for them. But as time went on it was proven that it is only a combination of good choices and positive surroundings that lead to success. Wes and Wes 2 most likely took on different life paths because of the difference life choices they made. Wes eventually decided to take education seriously while Wes 2 dropped out. Wes only had to be responsible for himself while Wes 2 was not careful and early on carried the responsibility of children. Wes and Wes 2 knew they had to be smart and lead and honest life but Wes fortunately never got involved in drugs while Wes 2 wasn't strong enough to stay away. In comparison to Wes, Wes 2 who was recently releases from prison after only 6 months (very short for what he could have served) carried the rules of the streets with him and eventually dropped out of high school. Both Wes's got a second chance to get their lives together, but the two parallel biographies determined whether they took advantage or not. Wes 2 didn't have very high expectations for himself, excepted being arrested as routine and when he was angry reacted strongly and without thinking. Meanwhile Wes was finally beginning to understand that he had to live an honest life and think before he acts.
In the end, the next three chapters show how “Choices and Second Chances” are only beneficial if a person understands how important they are. Many people need the help of a positive environment or people around them to make these decisions. This is shown through the differences between Wes and Wes 2. Both boys had potential to be great but will become very different people as a result of this difference.
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