Carry It Forward: Kite Runner

I think the most powerful message from Kite Runner is not to run from your past. The whole story centralizes around how to preserve memories, how to bury memories, and how to create memories. Even the form, memoir, references the significance of memory in one's life.

In this past reading, chapters 13-15, the nature of memory has been further investigated. As Amir continues to try to forget that winter in 1975, his memories repeatedly resurface. For example, on page 171, it reads, I remember wishing Rahim Khan were there. And I remember wondering if Hassan too had married. This passage supports the idea that no matter how hard he tries, and no matter how happy he is with his present life, Amir will be ultimately unsuccessful with his efforts to escape his painful past.

To me, this concept was almost reassuring. Of course, like anyone, I have had my fair share of mistakes. I have hurt others, and others have hurt me. Though I, like Amir, have tried countless times to conceal my past, I have never fully done so. Kite Runner has helped me realize that it's okay to be ashamed of things you have done, and it's okay to relive the hurt you endured. I've determined that healing cannot occur without facing the obstacle. In the future, as more monumental events occur in my life, some that are bound to cause distress, I will remember this message. I will accept that I may never forget, but I can forgive. I can move on without letting go.