Why does Cole throw away his only proof that the Spirit Bear was real?

Why Does Cole Throw Away His Only Proof That the Spirit Bear Was Real?

In the novel "Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen, Cole Matthews is a 15-year-old boy who is sent to a juvenile correctional facility after severely beating a friend, Peter. During his stay at the facility, Cole forms a bond with a bear that he has named Spirit Bear. This bond helps Cole to come to terms with his past actions and to begin his journey towards redemption.

Throughout the novel, Cole and Spirit Bear have a series of encounters that are pivotal to Cole’s growth and development. However, there is one encounter that stands out in particular: when Cole decides to throw away the only proof that Spirit Bear is real.

The Encounter

The encounter takes place when Cole and Spirit Bear are out exploring the forest together. As they walk, Cole comes across a clump of fur that he recognizes as belonging to Spirit Bear. He is overjoyed and immediately picks up the fur, feeling a sense of excitement and wonder. However, as he holds the fur in his hand, he suddenly has a moment of clarity and realizes that the fur is a reminder of his past actions and the harm he has caused. He also realizes that he has been using Spirit Bear as an excuse to avoid taking responsibility for his actions.

The Decision

In this moment of clarity, Cole makes the difficult decision to throw away the fur, effectively destroying any physical evidence that Spirit Bear exists. This decision is significant because it marks a turning point in Cole’s journey towards redemption. By letting go of the fur, Cole is able to let go of his need to control and manipulate his environment. He is able to release his attachment to the idea of Spirit Bear and focus on his own personal growth and development.

Why Does Cole Throw Away His Only Proof That the Spirit Bear Was Real?

So, why does Cole make this decision? There are several reasons why Cole throws away the fur:

• Cole’s growth and development: By throwing away the fur, Cole is able to let go of his attachment to the idea of Spirit Bear and focus on his own personal growth and development. This decision marks a turning point in Cole’s journey towards redemption and is a key step in his healing process.
• Cole’s need to control and manipulate: Cole’s attachment to the fur is also a manifestation of his need to control and manipulate his environment. By letting go of the fur, Cole is able to release this need and focus on his own personal growth and development.
• Cole’s ability to accept responsibility: By throwing away the fur, Cole is able to accept responsibility for his actions and take responsibility for his own life. This decision is significant because it marks a turning point in Cole’s journey towards redemption and is a key step in his healing process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cole’s decision to throw away the fur is a significant moment in the novel "Touching Spirit Bear". This decision marks a turning point in Cole’s journey towards redemption and is a key step in his healing process. By letting go of the fur, Cole is able to release his attachment to the idea of Spirit Bear and focus on his own personal growth and development.