“Changes”

Your environment around you changes constantly and the people change with it. Did you ever think your life could change in a minute? In Johnny Tremain, Johnny’s fatal flaw of burning his hand results in him seeing the world from a compassionate perspective. Johnny had a wonderful life until he burnt his hand his life completely changed.

Johnny begins to realize he was to help others and show compassion for them. While Johnny was in the Lampham’s kitchen with Isannah and Cilla, “He was pretending not to give the limes to the little girl. He was going to put them back into his pockets, but she knew they were for her. She wrapped herself about him, hugging him, kissing him on the front of his shirt.” (Pp. 61-62) He begins to care about others and be less self-centered. He also loves Isannah and she loves him regardless of an injury. After burning his hand, Johnny learns to become less selfish and loving towards others.

Mr. Lapham teaches Johnny to lower his pride and become more humble. Mr. Lampham talks to Johnny about the Lord’s liking, “Because God doesn’t like pride.’ Johnny sounded sulky. ‘Do you think God would like you?’ ‘Not especially.’ Dusty was first to snicker. ‘What dos God like?’ ‘Humble people.’” (p. 17) Before Johnny burnt his hand his prid was standing in the way of him being humble. Mr. Lampham thinks that Johnny reading the Bible will make him more modest and less confident about himself. By studying God’s word he becomes meeker and not as arrogant.

Through the event of burning his hand, Johnny transforms from a pompous boy to a demure man. Through all of these changes, Johnny aids people and supports Rab through many difficulties. Lake a caterpillar changing to a butterfly, one can see the true colors in Johnny.