Touching Spirit Bear Transformation Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #7

The only person to speak in Cole's defense was Garvey. "I don't know what-all happened on the island," he said. "But there has been a change in Cole; of that, I'm sure. Whatever we decide to do, I hope this change is allowed to continue." (15.5)

Only Garvey and Edwin seem to believe Cole has changed after his near-death experience and that he might be reformed after all. They're even more confident in him than his parents are. Though to be fair, his parents aren't exactly his biggest cheerleaders.

Quote #8

Again, Cole knew he was lying. He had slept poorly because he had considered making a canoe instead of a totem. Taking a deep breath, he lifted the hatchet and began striking the center of the log. Again and again he hacked, until a deep groove circled the log. With each blow, he felt his anger disappearing. (21.17)

If Cole wants to truly change, he has to fight against all his usual instincts and take away the temptation to run away from all his problems. So he hacks up the log so he can't even contemplate escape.

Quote #9

"I started making a canoe, but I knew that was wrong, so I cut this deep groove so I couldn't try again. When I started carving the eagle, I finally slept good." Cole ended by telling about the eagle dance and what he had learned. "Are you mad at me?" he asked. (21.37)

Even though Cole was tempted to run away, he's still changed considerably, especially since he's willing to tell the truth and admit his mistakes to Edwin. He's not trying to cover up his bad parts anymore.