The little things in life

Although Frederick Douglass experienced many hardships while he was a slave, I want to take a moment to discuss the limited, but still profound, happiness and hope he had through this journey. One of Douglass's first documented experience of his happiness was when he received his first pair of trousers, and I believe this gift had heavy symbolism in it. In my opinion, the trousers represent the first object that allowed Douglass to comprehend a better life, one that is away from the inhumanity of slavery. The next experience of hope that he encountered was when Mrs. Auld started to teach him how to read. It was because of this that later on, Douglass was able to slowly teach himself how to read and write through the book "The Colombian Orator" as well as through his peers. Through the book, Douglass was able to realize the power that the abolitionists were gathering, and further open his eyes to the world. Mrs. Auld beginning to teach him how to read was a turning point, and  in all honesty, I believe Douglass's experience through slavery may have been a lot worst without her. As for his peers, it seems odd to me how willing they were to teach, or even talk, to him. I mean it's a very nice thing to do, but odd considering the times that Douglass was living in. Nevertheless, as the novel goes on, Douglass learns the power of teamwork when he tries to free himself and his fellow slaves, and through his description of them, it is clear that he truly loves them as people. In my opinion, I believe this teamwork may have been a factor for him writing this book. By having this connection with his fellow slaves, and loving them in the way he does, Douglass realized how much he wants to help everyone escape and be heard, rather then just himself.  Am I right in this belief or do you think I am just reading in to it a little too much? And do you believe Mrs. Auld teaching Douglass how to read was a turning point in his life, or do you think another factor in the novel was?