Andrew's Dilemma: Obligation vs. Desire

Introduction:
In the extract "Birth" from Chapter 2 of the NCERT Solutions for Class 11 English, Andrew finds himself torn between his obligation and desire. This dilemma arises when he is invited to a party by the Anglicist missionary, Reverend Stephen. Andrew is a devout Christian and feels obliged to attend the party due to his religious beliefs. However, he also desires to spend time with his family and celebrate his son's birthday.

Obligation to Attend the Party:
1. Andrew's religious beliefs: Andrew is a devout Christian and has a deep sense of duty towards his faith. He believes that attending the party organized by the Reverend is his obligation as a committed Christian.
2. Pressure from the community: The invitation from the Reverend is significant as he is a well-respected figure in the community. Andrew feels obligated to attend the party to avoid any negative consequences or judgment from the community.

Desire to Spend Time with Family:
1. Importance of family: Andrew values his family and cherishes the time spent with them. He desires to be present for his son's birthday celebration and create lasting memories with his loved ones.
2. Limited time with family: Due to his busy work schedule, Andrew does not get many opportunities to spend quality time with his family. He feels a strong desire to prioritize his family's happiness and be with them on this special occasion.

The Conflict:
1. Moral conflict: Andrew finds himself torn between his obligation to attend the party and his desire to be with his family. He understands that attending the party might make him appear more committed to his faith, but it would mean missing out on celebrating his son's birthday.
2. Emotional dilemma: Andrew experiences conflicting emotions as he wants to honor his religious obligations, but he also wants to fulfill his role as a loving father and husband. This conflict creates a dilemma within him, causing distress and confusion.

Conclusion:
Andrew's dilemma between his obligation and desire highlights the internal struggle he faces. The extract brings to light the complex nature of decision-making when faced with conflicting responsibilities. This conflict between obligation and desire is a relatable theme that explores the challenges individuals face in balancing their various roles and responsibilities.