Similarities Between Wes

Both Wes's share number of similarities based on their upbringing, family history, and the surrounding environment. Some can find the development of these two individuals with same oppoortunities in life shocking, but for some that is an every day struggle. The author and the imprisoned Wes had grown up at the same time, on the same streets, with the same name. They both grew up in fatherless families with working mother's and supportive grandparents. Both families had to make sacrifices down the road to ensure that their children will have prosperous future. Both mothers tried to keep their sons away from drugs, crime, and violence. Early in their lives both realize the dangers within their communities – gang wars, drugs, gun violence,
For example, the “bad” Wes had half-brother Tony who was drug dealer and had been “hustling” since age of ten. Tony gave Wes advices and educated him how to respond in certain situations. His mother was doing drugs as well, she had a stash of weed which Wes discovered while skipping school. There is no mention that author's mother had a drug problem or that she did drugs. She encouraged Wes to study hard and keep his grades up, and she even arranged a spot for him in a good school. While one Wes was skipping school, drinking, and being a corner boy, other was sent to a military school, far away from his neighborhood and the surrounding circumstances that might pull him into criminal activities. The difference is in responses that their families had once the grades started to slip and their behavior changed based on the influences from their peers. These comparisons show a tragic reality that young boys have to encounter on every day basis. They are looking for ways to fit in the society that is filled with criminal behavior. Comparisons show efforts or lack of efforts from the family and friends to do the right thing and stay out of trouble. I believe that parents play a huge role in development children, especially in