Sample Thesis Statements
The adventures of the characters in Toy Story, especially Woody and Buzz, prove the truth in Morrie’s aphorism, “Love is the only rational act” (qtd. in Albom 52).
Thoreau's transcendentalist philosophies and actions of civil disobedience reflect Morrie Schwartz’s aphorism: "...you have to be strong enough to say if the culture doesn't work, don't buy it" (qtd. in Albom 42).
Bethany Hamilton is a role model who exemplifies the aphorism “Accept what you are able to do and what you are not able to do” through working over her obstacles and continuing to do what she loves- surfing (qtd. in Albom).
Rosa Park’s choice changed the world’s view on racism as she demonstrated, “The culture we have does not make people feel good about themselves. And you have to be strong enough to say if the culture doesn’t work, don’t buy it,” through her determination, bravery, and moral standards (qtd. in Albom 42).
J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series is a prime example of the aphorism “love always wins” because it displays love and its advantages throughout the series overall, but specifically in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows ( qtd. in Albom 40).
Through Breanna McMahon’s determination, understanding, optimism, and courage, she is able to endure a burden that will last a lifetime, while living out the aphorism “… if you really want it, then you’ll make your dream happen” (qtd. in Albom 47).
Scott Hamilton and The Scott Hamilton CARES Initiative for empowering, supporting, informing, and researching cancer are perfect examples of being unique and they both support Morrie’s aphorism, “Don’t assume that it is too late to get involved” ( qtd. in Albom 18).
From creating and endorsing organizations for the blind and deaf, Helen Keller has majorly affected the way disabled people are treated and educated. Morrie’s aphorism, “Sometimes you can’t believe what you see; you have to believe what you feel,” is portrayed in the life of Helen Keller as she developed a trusting relationship with her teacher Anne Sullivan and overcame obstacles from being blind and deaf (qtd. in Albom 61).
Through her relationships, charity work, and genuine sincerity, Princess Diana gave the aphorism “Find someone to share your heart, give to your community, be at peace with yourself, be as human as you can be” true meaning (qtd. in Albom 34).
Walt Disney embraced Morrie’s famous aphorism, “If you really want it you will make your dream happen,” as he influenced the thinking of many people by following his dreams in creating his own animation studio, making many famous movies, eventually starting a theme park based on his creations, and becoming very successful doing something he dreamed of and wanted to do (qtd. in Albom 47).