Malcolm X 2

I just finished reading the first two chapters of The Autobiography of Malcolm X.  From the first two chapters, I am able to understand that Malcolm X had a hectic and chaos filled childhood.  I feel that the cruel experiences Malcolm X went through during his childhood made him the type of man he came to be.  One event that particularly leaves me awe struck is when Malcolm speaks with his English teacher regarding his future.  When Malcolm says that he is planning to become a lawyer, his teacher replies, "..A lawyer - that's no realistic goal for a nigger" (Haley 38).  This event leaves such a deep impression, because I am able to understand how bad racism has been engraved into the minds of the people.  Though Mr. Ostrowski is usually warm and cordial towards Malcolm, he is able to make such hurtful comments because he has been raised in an environment where it is considered natural.  It is remarkable how the mind of Americans have changed so much over a time period of less than a century.