Analysis of Abi-Maria Gomes (original Ta Keo Tribe).
Following Episode 1 (posted in the wrong place last week): While Abi-Maria is this season's potential powder keg, I really hope she can avoid the pitfalls of her abrasive personality long enough and show a genuine improvement in her self-awareness, which could take her far into the game. I am interested to see if she can build meaningful relationships regardless of whether they can advance her cause in the game, as doing so might help her to escape elimination at critical moments. Seeing her accomplish this and go far in the game might be the best display of redemption by any of the Second Chance cast. She can certainly achieve this faster by winning and sharing a reward for her team.
Following Episode 2: The editors of this episode certainly captured Abi-Maria's abrasive personality, as she bluntly interrupted conversations, dropping proverbial bombs in them solely for the purpose of stirring the pot. Yet they also captured the restraint she continues to show in navigating these social pitfalls. In the end, she managed to garner approval from everyone except Peih-Gee, and like Peih-Gee, her best strategy is to employ the same one utilized by Sandra Diaz-Twine, the only two-time winner of Survivor, which is to be a loyal alliance member who is always willing to offer an additional vote and will only stir the pot when people hesitate to talk strategy, usually a clear indication that those people have you in their crosshairs.
