A Straight Story

This week after watching some more of the movie the idea Borgmann stresses of using focal things and practices is becoming more apparent and visible. Some ways in which Alvin is using and practicing focal things and practices is by interracting with the environment around him. Instead of riding in a car and zooming by everything he is doing it his own way by taking a slow ride on his lawnmower and taking in every minute of it. He is appreciating everythign around him. He doesn't want to rely on anyone else to get him to his desitination. He says "I want to finish this one my own even if it seems impossible." Another way he is using focal things and practices is by talking to all of his people he is meeting along the way. He is interracting with them and staying engaged. The way he camps out every night and builds his own fires is another way. He doesnt sleep warm in a bed or doesnt have the easy access to cook things. He does it all without technology. Alvin also values the and appreciates the little things. He is a family man who appreciates the traditional idea of staying close to family and friends. Alvin is a perfect example of how Borgmann wants to reform technology.