Values Continuum for Chasing Chaos by Jessica Alexander
Designate two different areas of the room “agree” and “disagree” with the middle of the room representing
“neutral.” Explain to participants that the purpose of this activity is to encourage discussion and be respectful
and open-minded of other opinions – the room is safe and confidential zone. The facilitator will read a
statement and participants will go to the space that represents their opinion (agree-neutral-disagree). Ask
everyone to raise their hands to explain their own rationale for their physical location. Move on to a different
statement when the discussion lulls. *To begin, read the example statement.
Example Statement: I really enjoyed reading this book.
Interpersonal Relationships
 Much like Jessica in Chasing Chaos, I would be willing to give up my relationships to become a
humanitarian aid worker.
 I could sacrifice my personal life for my career.
 It is possible to fall in love with someone who is from a different cultural background than you.
 Relationships made in the “field” cannot end well.
 It is possible to outgrow relationships that once meant a great deal to you.
Communication
 I believe you can have a relationship with someone even if you do not speak the same language.
 In Chasing Chaos, Jessica experienced many frustrations on the job and sometimes lashed out at the
people who lived and worked with her. If I were in her shoes, I would do the same.
 I think if you are working in a foreign country, you should be required to speak the same language as the
citizens.
Global Understanding
 I believe it is solely the responsibility of the country’s government to provide aid to disaster relief.
 I believe the media can impact how much aid is given to disaster relief.
 I had prior knowledge of the disasters covered in this book before reading it.
 After reading Chasing Chaos, I thought differently of how I could participate in relief efforts.
 Chasing Chaos opened my eyes to the difference in lifestyles around the world.
 After reading Chasing Chaos, I have a better understanding of how humanitarian aid works in other
countries.
 I think money can help speed up the disaster recovery time.
 I believe that the recovery time of disasters is faster in the U.S. than in other countries.
Ethics
 I would be willing to lie to the authorities to protect my family.
 I believe everyone has the duty to make a difference in the world.
 In the book, Jessica oversteps authority to try to save a baby with a potentially fatal diagnosis. I would
overstep authority to do what I believe is right if I were in a similar situation.
Self-awareness
 Chasing Chaos made me rethink my future plans.
 Chasing Chaos helped me to face challenges in my life.
 I think it is possible to become numb to the difficult situations that you see everyday.
 After reading Chasing Chaos, I am more willing to donate to disaster relief organizations.
 Chasing Chaos opened my eyes to the types of opportunities I have living in America versus those living
in other parts of the world.