Ming’s encounter with the teacher who was preparing for her
retirement was important because she helped him see the importance of his trip,
not only for himself, but also for others. She told him that there was a young
boy in her class that she was concerned about, but seeing Ming accomplish his
goals, even with his hearing impairment, gave her hope for her young student.
This encounter helped Ming understand that he can be an inspiration for others
and proves that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.
The encounter at the end of the film with the sculptor is
important to the development of Ming’s journey because the sculptor shares with
him that he makes the sculptures for himself. He does not think they are very
good, he tells Ming that he creates his art as an expression of his emotions.
Ming can relate to this because his journey around the island was for himself.
It was good for his growth as an individual because he accomplished a goal that
he made for himself.
