"The hero's journey into the center of yourself"
How is this true for both Luke and Anakin (Darth Vader)?
This quote is true in many ways for Anakin and Darth Vader. In order for them to find each other, find the innner power of good, and become a true jedi and hero they had to look deep into their souls.
Luke Skywalker knew he had a father, but he had no way of finding out who he was without someone telling him. But, he was able to look into his heart through determination and passion and find out who his father was. When they went into war, Luke knew his father was on that ship because he could feel him. Same with Darth Vader, he could feel his son's presence and knew it was his son before even seeing him.
Once father and son were reunited, Luke had to ask his father to look into himself to find the good that was buried by the desire for power. Because Luke could feel the good of his father in his soul, he had faith that he would return. But, because Darth Vader buried the good inside of him so long ago, it took a lot of convincing and something huge for him to him to remember. When Darth Vader's master was killing his son, one of the reaons why he turned to the dark side, he was able to realize how lost his soul truly was. Once he overthrowed the Sith and returned to society he became a true hero, right before his death.
When Darth Vader overthrew the sith, everything he used to stand for returned. He stood up and helped the jedi he once betrayed. He made his deceased wife proud, by returning to his original righteous beliefs. He made his son proud, by meeting him and not only saving his life but by doing the good thing.
This movie was a battle between good and evil and in order for the good to win, Anakin and Luke had to look into the center of their selves. Once they were able to do that, good prevailed and they became heroic.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Star wars
Which archetype does Anakin/ Darth Vader fit? Why? Can he ever truly return to his society? Why or Why not?
Anakin/ Darth Vader fits many archetypes. He could be the hero as warrior, a near god'like figure who faces physical challenges everyday. Or he could be the Hero as lover, because his quest ends when he switches to the dark side to save his wife's life during child birth. Or some might refer to him as the Romantic/ Gothic Hero because he is a hero and lover with a dark side. But, the archetype that best describes Darth Vader is the Superheroic. Definition, Exaggerates the normal proportions of humanity; frequently has divine or super natural origins. In some sense, the super hero is one apart, someone who does not quite belong, but who is nonetheless needed by society.
Anakin fits this archetype because of his amazing jedi powers. He was the chosen one. He was the best jedi fighter, and he was the youngest. His society needed him in order to defeat the sith, without him all hope was lost. Yet, he didn't fit in with society because of his powers, even more so when he switched to the dark side.
Darth Vader will never be able to return to society because of his new appearence, past actions, and his change of heart. When Anakin decided to go to the dark side to gain more power he betrayed all the jedi, his entire society, and his wife, everything he lived for. Now that he has supposedly gained more power by turning to the dark side, the society he used to be accepted by and looked up to as the chosen one will never be able to trust him again.
With his new appearence, it will change the way the people view him, although his physical image should have no effect on his mental image it will change. Because he almost died and his body was destroyed, his master had to reconstruct his body by creating a robotic figure with a mechanical voice. A machine.
His betrayal of the jedi will never be forgiven. He will have to sacrifice himself to ever be accepted by society again. He changed sides because of the love he had for his wife, even though she was not in favor of it. The only way he would be able to return and live in society is if his wife was there to take him back, but becuase of her death it will never happen.
Anakin/ Darth Vader fits many archetypes. He could be the hero as warrior, a near god'like figure who faces physical challenges everyday. Or he could be the Hero as lover, because his quest ends when he switches to the dark side to save his wife's life during child birth. Or some might refer to him as the Romantic/ Gothic Hero because he is a hero and lover with a dark side. But, the archetype that best describes Darth Vader is the Superheroic. Definition, Exaggerates the normal proportions of humanity; frequently has divine or super natural origins. In some sense, the super hero is one apart, someone who does not quite belong, but who is nonetheless needed by society.
Anakin fits this archetype because of his amazing jedi powers. He was the chosen one. He was the best jedi fighter, and he was the youngest. His society needed him in order to defeat the sith, without him all hope was lost. Yet, he didn't fit in with society because of his powers, even more so when he switched to the dark side.
Darth Vader will never be able to return to society because of his new appearence, past actions, and his change of heart. When Anakin decided to go to the dark side to gain more power he betrayed all the jedi, his entire society, and his wife, everything he lived for. Now that he has supposedly gained more power by turning to the dark side, the society he used to be accepted by and looked up to as the chosen one will never be able to trust him again.
With his new appearence, it will change the way the people view him, although his physical image should have no effect on his mental image it will change. Because he almost died and his body was destroyed, his master had to reconstruct his body by creating a robotic figure with a mechanical voice. A machine.
His betrayal of the jedi will never be forgiven. He will have to sacrifice himself to ever be accepted by society again. He changed sides because of the love he had for his wife, even though she was not in favor of it. The only way he would be able to return and live in society is if his wife was there to take him back, but becuase of her death it will never happen.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Finding Nemo
In Finding Nemo there are two hero's journies. After reviewing the info on Archetypes- who are the heroes? What are their thresholds, trials, innermost cares? How are they each changed upon their return to their society?
The very enertaining and amusing kid show, Finding Nemo, also displays two heroic archetypes. Marlin and Nemo fit the archetype criteria to a tee. Marlin is a hero as a warrior, where as Nemo is a hero as a lover.
Marlin is inexperienced, and never travels into the deep sea because Coral, his wife, got ate by a baracuda. In order to prove his love to his son and not suffer another loss, he has to face his fear of the dark mysterious ocean. Along his jouney he encounters many deep sea monsters or sharks and whales. He has a short term memory loss fish, Dory, as a mentor helping him along his journey. He swims across the ocean just to find his son, Nemo, who was captured and put into a fish tank located in a dentist office in Sydney, Austraila. He learns along his journey that he needs to worry less of his son, because eventhough he has a small fin, he is able to care for himself.
Nemo is naieve and inexperienced, the monster he encounters is a boat that takes him away from his home which he never ventures from. Gill, is his old, wise, and strange mentor as well as his teacher. Nemo's threshold would be the fish tank, he wants to deperately escape with all the other fish and be released into the ocean. While he is trapped in the fish tank he goes through initiation, so he can become part of a different family and help the trapped fish escape. Then he risks his life twice by trying to stop the tank filter. The only thing he cares about is getting back to his father, who he realizes how much he truly appreciates and how much he loves. Before Nemo was taken away he told his father "I hate you," after his journey he apologized and learned a valuable lesson.
These two heroes experience more than they ever have before on their dangerous and courageous journey. Once Nemo and Marlin finally meet, they realize how much they take each other for advantage and their relationshship grows. Their relationship will never be the same.
The very enertaining and amusing kid show, Finding Nemo, also displays two heroic archetypes. Marlin and Nemo fit the archetype criteria to a tee. Marlin is a hero as a warrior, where as Nemo is a hero as a lover.
Marlin is inexperienced, and never travels into the deep sea because Coral, his wife, got ate by a baracuda. In order to prove his love to his son and not suffer another loss, he has to face his fear of the dark mysterious ocean. Along his jouney he encounters many deep sea monsters or sharks and whales. He has a short term memory loss fish, Dory, as a mentor helping him along his journey. He swims across the ocean just to find his son, Nemo, who was captured and put into a fish tank located in a dentist office in Sydney, Austraila. He learns along his journey that he needs to worry less of his son, because eventhough he has a small fin, he is able to care for himself.
Nemo is naieve and inexperienced, the monster he encounters is a boat that takes him away from his home which he never ventures from. Gill, is his old, wise, and strange mentor as well as his teacher. Nemo's threshold would be the fish tank, he wants to deperately escape with all the other fish and be released into the ocean. While he is trapped in the fish tank he goes through initiation, so he can become part of a different family and help the trapped fish escape. Then he risks his life twice by trying to stop the tank filter. The only thing he cares about is getting back to his father, who he realizes how much he truly appreciates and how much he loves. Before Nemo was taken away he told his father "I hate you," after his journey he apologized and learned a valuable lesson.
These two heroes experience more than they ever have before on their dangerous and courageous journey. Once Nemo and Marlin finally meet, they realize how much they take each other for advantage and their relationshship grows. Their relationship will never be the same.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Is it worth it?
Are all the risks in California such as earthquakes, heat waves, flash floods, volcanoes, wild fires, and random thunderstorms worth dealing with, just to live in the Golden State?
Last summer California alone experienced over eight hundred wild fires making national news on a daily basis. With so many fires, I had to spend most of my time in doors instead of swimming in my pool. Our community was trapped in doors, being forced to exercise inside, because it was almost impossible to breathe outside let alone exercise. Being located on top of the San Andreas Fault Line and having two volcanoes, California experiences multiple earthquakes every day. Some are worse than others, around 25-30 years ago the Capitol of the Golden State was destroyed from an earthquake. Buildings toppled, bridges collapsed, highways crumbled, and people were killed. Plus the weather is so unpredictable in California, one day it is eighty degrees the next day there is eight to twelve inches of rain flooding the rivers and drowning the valleys. Plus in the summer, it rains possibly once a month, and with degrees reaching 120 it is a necessity to have a pool or live next to water.
However California, is the Golden State, and is the best State to live in. I mean come on Arnold Schwarzenegger is the Governor. Even though California has some negative qualities, when you look at all California has to offer the negative becomes invisible. California, if it was a country by itself, the agriculture we produce here would make California the seventh country in the world for producing agriculture. With all the different climate zones, people are able to grow all sorts of vegetables and plants. I actually planted a garden last summer with watermelon, cantaloupe's, tomatoes, green onions, carrots, peppers, and cherry tomatoes, and that is just in my climate region. There are twelve or more climate zones/ regions in California. You are able to plant almost anything you want in California and have it grow, because of all the beautiful climates.
California offers the most amazing views in the world. In the summer the sky is pink around the mountain tops in the morning and bright orange, pink, and red as the sun sets. In the winter as I'm driving to school I can see that I'm surrounded by mountains and there are so many beautiful colors, numerous shades of blue for the mountain colors, with the whitest snow settling on the top, with many different colors of green because we have so many types of trees growing in our area. As I'm driving to work it's hard to pay attention to the road with the clear view of Mt. Shasta gleaming from the sun in front of me and to my right Mt. Lassen with a never ending view of the Cascade Mountain range. But this is just northern California where there are many cow fields and few buildings.
Travel a few hours south passing hundreds of rice fields, orchards, wildlife, and crop duster and you will run into Sacramento, our capital, and you will see sky scrapers and beautiful buildings and ancient artifacts and museums. Or you can go to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and visit Alcatraz, Pier 39, the San Francsco Zo, or the amazing Orpheum Theater. Oh there are so many things to do in the bay. Go to the Santa Cruz Board Walk on the beach, the Monterey Bay Aquarium or if you are daring enough go to a Raider's or A's game in Oakland. Plus we have the beautiful White beaches in California, such as Pismol by San Luis Obispo, San Diego, Santa Barbara. The San Diego Zoo, including a safari is a lot of fun and a great experience. Also we have Amusement Parks like Disney Land located in the second largest city in the United States, Marine World/ Six Flags, Great America.
California is home of the celebrities. Most movies are made in Los Angles. Most game shows are located in Los Angeles. We have Hollywood and Beverly Hills. That TV show Laguna Beach, was made in Laguna Beach, CA. House Wives of Orange County, guess where that is located. Also, Hugh Heffner's Playboy Mansion is in Los Angeles. Plus, famous singers come to perform many shows and concerts in California, at least once a month famous celebrities perform concerts with in three hours of my house.
California has great education opportunities. For example, Cal Arts, the college Walt Disney created to train animators and artists. UCLA and USC are top division schools and all their sports are televised. We have numerous junior colleges, private schools, and universities. We have 23 California State Universities and ten Universities of California. Including UC Davis where many medical discoveries and miracles are held.
California has so many beautiful missions reflecting the Spaniards located all along the coast that have been kept up throughout the years. We had the Gold Rush, and people still mine for gold, except now we have machines instead of pans. We have many Indian tribes and Casinos all over. I can't forget about the incredible redwood forest located on the north coast! Patrick's Point is where trees are so big cars can drive through them and you cant even see the tops. These forrest's are immense and the trees are more than ten feet wide.
California is the place to be, if you never have visited you should. Because I have lived here my whole life I can't compare it to any other state, but something tells me that there is no comparison. Sure California can be seen as a scary dangerous place to live, but your eyes aren't open if that is all you see.
Last summer California alone experienced over eight hundred wild fires making national news on a daily basis. With so many fires, I had to spend most of my time in doors instead of swimming in my pool. Our community was trapped in doors, being forced to exercise inside, because it was almost impossible to breathe outside let alone exercise. Being located on top of the San Andreas Fault Line and having two volcanoes, California experiences multiple earthquakes every day. Some are worse than others, around 25-30 years ago the Capitol of the Golden State was destroyed from an earthquake. Buildings toppled, bridges collapsed, highways crumbled, and people were killed. Plus the weather is so unpredictable in California, one day it is eighty degrees the next day there is eight to twelve inches of rain flooding the rivers and drowning the valleys. Plus in the summer, it rains possibly once a month, and with degrees reaching 120 it is a necessity to have a pool or live next to water.
However California, is the Golden State, and is the best State to live in. I mean come on Arnold Schwarzenegger is the Governor. Even though California has some negative qualities, when you look at all California has to offer the negative becomes invisible. California, if it was a country by itself, the agriculture we produce here would make California the seventh country in the world for producing agriculture. With all the different climate zones, people are able to grow all sorts of vegetables and plants. I actually planted a garden last summer with watermelon, cantaloupe's, tomatoes, green onions, carrots, peppers, and cherry tomatoes, and that is just in my climate region. There are twelve or more climate zones/ regions in California. You are able to plant almost anything you want in California and have it grow, because of all the beautiful climates.
California offers the most amazing views in the world. In the summer the sky is pink around the mountain tops in the morning and bright orange, pink, and red as the sun sets. In the winter as I'm driving to school I can see that I'm surrounded by mountains and there are so many beautiful colors, numerous shades of blue for the mountain colors, with the whitest snow settling on the top, with many different colors of green because we have so many types of trees growing in our area. As I'm driving to work it's hard to pay attention to the road with the clear view of Mt. Shasta gleaming from the sun in front of me and to my right Mt. Lassen with a never ending view of the Cascade Mountain range. But this is just northern California where there are many cow fields and few buildings.
Travel a few hours south passing hundreds of rice fields, orchards, wildlife, and crop duster and you will run into Sacramento, our capital, and you will see sky scrapers and beautiful buildings and ancient artifacts and museums. Or you can go to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and visit Alcatraz, Pier 39, the San Francsco Zo, or the amazing Orpheum Theater. Oh there are so many things to do in the bay. Go to the Santa Cruz Board Walk on the beach, the Monterey Bay Aquarium or if you are daring enough go to a Raider's or A's game in Oakland. Plus we have the beautiful White beaches in California, such as Pismol by San Luis Obispo, San Diego, Santa Barbara. The San Diego Zoo, including a safari is a lot of fun and a great experience. Also we have Amusement Parks like Disney Land located in the second largest city in the United States, Marine World/ Six Flags, Great America.
California is home of the celebrities. Most movies are made in Los Angles. Most game shows are located in Los Angeles. We have Hollywood and Beverly Hills. That TV show Laguna Beach, was made in Laguna Beach, CA. House Wives of Orange County, guess where that is located. Also, Hugh Heffner's Playboy Mansion is in Los Angeles. Plus, famous singers come to perform many shows and concerts in California, at least once a month famous celebrities perform concerts with in three hours of my house.
California has great education opportunities. For example, Cal Arts, the college Walt Disney created to train animators and artists. UCLA and USC are top division schools and all their sports are televised. We have numerous junior colleges, private schools, and universities. We have 23 California State Universities and ten Universities of California. Including UC Davis where many medical discoveries and miracles are held.
California has so many beautiful missions reflecting the Spaniards located all along the coast that have been kept up throughout the years. We had the Gold Rush, and people still mine for gold, except now we have machines instead of pans. We have many Indian tribes and Casinos all over. I can't forget about the incredible redwood forest located on the north coast! Patrick's Point is where trees are so big cars can drive through them and you cant even see the tops. These forrest's are immense and the trees are more than ten feet wide.
California is the place to be, if you never have visited you should. Because I have lived here my whole life I can't compare it to any other state, but something tells me that there is no comparison. Sure California can be seen as a scary dangerous place to live, but your eyes aren't open if that is all you see.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Nikki Catsouras Case
Should this family win their legal battle, or is this truly a free speech issue? If this had been one of your family members- how would you feel? Most news agencies would not show these photos- should they be allowed on the internet- or does the internet need to remain unfettered?
The Catsouras family should win their legal battle, but it would be next to impossible to truly get what they are looking for because unhumane photos being posted on the internet is something that will continue to exist. The dead, practilly decapitated body of Nikki Carsouras should have never been let into the public eye. If the two CHP officers, Thomas O'Donnell, 39, and Aaron Reich, 30, wanted to send emails to their relatives to encourage driving safety they could have easily sent them the pictures of the mangled porsche, with the hub cap being the only recongnized car part, and an overview of what happened, and it would have engraved a huge effect if not the same as the pictures of the teenager's body.
If the coroner would not even allow Nikki's parents to identify her body because of how distorted and ruined her body was, then why is it okay for those police officers to send pictures to anyone. The parents should be the only people who have a right to view their daughter's remains, no one else in the universe should have that right except for the people who have to do it as part of their job. As a part of their job, crime scene photographs of a deceased body should be kept confidential.
What happened to the Catsouras family, is not a free speech issue it is clearly harassment. If someone can be sued for something as simple as calling someone too many times or accidently brushing someone as they walk by in a crowded area, sending pictures of a girl with her head hanging out the window barely attached to her neck to her own father with obscene messages attached should be considered harrassment. Yes the Bill of Rights provide freedom of the press and freedom of speech, but when it is harming someone and costing them thousands of dollars to avoid, that is not protected by the constitution.
If this unfortunate circumstance had happened to one of my family members, I would feel obligated to leave the country. I would not be able to live every day of my life in fear of seeing and reliving the horrific accident that most people spend every day of their life trying to forget. It is unfair that this family is haunted every day of their lives of their beloved daughter's and sister's death.
Yes, suing has gotton out of control these days. People try to sue everyone for everything, including Mc Donalds for making you fat...wow, what has this country came to? Suing will not bring their daughter back, no matter what they do. But maybe for them it feels that if they sue they are preventing this from happening to other families. No maybe, they should not sue the whole Polie Department but they should definitely sue the people who leaked the photos, and if it was possible the people who sent the disgusting emails. They need to win something to prove that they can do something about this, to prove they still have control over their lives. I believe this is more of a mental law suit than anything.
Any photo of a deceased person (as deceased) should be deleted from the internet, there should be a law forbidding anyone to put a picture of the deceased online. No one should have the right to look at anyones dead body, the only reason humans do it is becuase of curiosity. How would you feel if your family member's decapitated head and mangled body was posted on the internet for everyone, all your friends, relatives, clients, employees, or even bosses to view. Clients like to research you and so do employers they can check your myspace or google you, but everytime they do this they will get thousands of sites showing their daughter or sister's accident. This unfortunate event should never happen to any family again. With all the new technologies we should know how to prevent this.
The Catsouras family should win their legal battle, but it would be next to impossible to truly get what they are looking for because unhumane photos being posted on the internet is something that will continue to exist. The dead, practilly decapitated body of Nikki Carsouras should have never been let into the public eye. If the two CHP officers, Thomas O'Donnell, 39, and Aaron Reich, 30, wanted to send emails to their relatives to encourage driving safety they could have easily sent them the pictures of the mangled porsche, with the hub cap being the only recongnized car part, and an overview of what happened, and it would have engraved a huge effect if not the same as the pictures of the teenager's body.
If the coroner would not even allow Nikki's parents to identify her body because of how distorted and ruined her body was, then why is it okay for those police officers to send pictures to anyone. The parents should be the only people who have a right to view their daughter's remains, no one else in the universe should have that right except for the people who have to do it as part of their job. As a part of their job, crime scene photographs of a deceased body should be kept confidential.
What happened to the Catsouras family, is not a free speech issue it is clearly harassment. If someone can be sued for something as simple as calling someone too many times or accidently brushing someone as they walk by in a crowded area, sending pictures of a girl with her head hanging out the window barely attached to her neck to her own father with obscene messages attached should be considered harrassment. Yes the Bill of Rights provide freedom of the press and freedom of speech, but when it is harming someone and costing them thousands of dollars to avoid, that is not protected by the constitution.
If this unfortunate circumstance had happened to one of my family members, I would feel obligated to leave the country. I would not be able to live every day of my life in fear of seeing and reliving the horrific accident that most people spend every day of their life trying to forget. It is unfair that this family is haunted every day of their lives of their beloved daughter's and sister's death.
Yes, suing has gotton out of control these days. People try to sue everyone for everything, including Mc Donalds for making you fat...wow, what has this country came to? Suing will not bring their daughter back, no matter what they do. But maybe for them it feels that if they sue they are preventing this from happening to other families. No maybe, they should not sue the whole Polie Department but they should definitely sue the people who leaked the photos, and if it was possible the people who sent the disgusting emails. They need to win something to prove that they can do something about this, to prove they still have control over their lives. I believe this is more of a mental law suit than anything.
Any photo of a deceased person (as deceased) should be deleted from the internet, there should be a law forbidding anyone to put a picture of the deceased online. No one should have the right to look at anyones dead body, the only reason humans do it is becuase of curiosity. How would you feel if your family member's decapitated head and mangled body was posted on the internet for everyone, all your friends, relatives, clients, employees, or even bosses to view. Clients like to research you and so do employers they can check your myspace or google you, but everytime they do this they will get thousands of sites showing their daughter or sister's accident. This unfortunate event should never happen to any family again. With all the new technologies we should know how to prevent this.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Michael Vick
Tell if you think Michael Vick, or any other sports figure who has been convicted of a crime, should be allowed to play again. Why or why not? BE SPECIFIC.
When sport stars are convicted of a crime or break the law, the judge always seems to be more lenient with their sentence because of their amazing talents and their wealthy amount of money. Michael Vick, the NFL Falcons quarterback, was convicted for his infamous Bad Newz Kennels where he hosted dog fights. The authorities seized fifty-one dogs from Michael Vick, and by July 20, 2009 he will be eligible to start playing football again. Because NFL as well as all sport stars are admired by children around the world, are part of the Make a Wish Foundation, and other organizations that help neighboring communities, part of their punishment should be banishment from all professional sport teams.
The Superbowl is the number one televised and watched program on television each year. Because there is as an average of two televisions in every home and many adults watch sports, children become exposed to sport teams at a very young age and they grow up around it. Some children are more involved with sports than others, most have a favorite team or even a favorite player. When their favorite player is convicted of a crime, and the next year or two years later they are playing again, what does this teach the learning, susceptible mind of a child?
The NFL has became more involved with communities and children throughout the years. They sponsor many activities in their off season and build play grounds and parks for children who don't have those advantages. They are always on commericals, most of the time there is a child in the commercial with them, and they are speaking to the kids and encouraging them "to get out there and play". Most of the wishes granted by the Make A Wish Foundation involves a child meeting his favorite sport player. Sport players have an extreme impact on a child's life. If a childs last wish is to meet a football player, how does this effect a child when that football is arrested?
An autograph means so much to a child and to some kids it means the world. Going to a football or baseball game should be a family activity, but now it's better for your childs safety to watch the game on television. Fans have been associated with violence in the last few years, as more and more players are convicted eiher because of DUI's, dog fighting, or violence. The professional sport teams have an impact on not only children but adults too. Adults should know better, but some people are so obsessed with sports, it can't be healthy.
Because sports play an extreme part of the American life, if NFL players such as Michael Vick break the law they should be banned and never allowed to play again. He had his fame and made his money, and took advantage of it by using it in a negative, immature way. He should not get a second chance. History repeats itself, he is untrustworthy and no famous sports star should be allowed a second chance, especially if they cause harm to others.
When sport stars are convicted of a crime or break the law, the judge always seems to be more lenient with their sentence because of their amazing talents and their wealthy amount of money. Michael Vick, the NFL Falcons quarterback, was convicted for his infamous Bad Newz Kennels where he hosted dog fights. The authorities seized fifty-one dogs from Michael Vick, and by July 20, 2009 he will be eligible to start playing football again. Because NFL as well as all sport stars are admired by children around the world, are part of the Make a Wish Foundation, and other organizations that help neighboring communities, part of their punishment should be banishment from all professional sport teams.
The Superbowl is the number one televised and watched program on television each year. Because there is as an average of two televisions in every home and many adults watch sports, children become exposed to sport teams at a very young age and they grow up around it. Some children are more involved with sports than others, most have a favorite team or even a favorite player. When their favorite player is convicted of a crime, and the next year or two years later they are playing again, what does this teach the learning, susceptible mind of a child?
The NFL has became more involved with communities and children throughout the years. They sponsor many activities in their off season and build play grounds and parks for children who don't have those advantages. They are always on commericals, most of the time there is a child in the commercial with them, and they are speaking to the kids and encouraging them "to get out there and play". Most of the wishes granted by the Make A Wish Foundation involves a child meeting his favorite sport player. Sport players have an extreme impact on a child's life. If a childs last wish is to meet a football player, how does this effect a child when that football is arrested?
An autograph means so much to a child and to some kids it means the world. Going to a football or baseball game should be a family activity, but now it's better for your childs safety to watch the game on television. Fans have been associated with violence in the last few years, as more and more players are convicted eiher because of DUI's, dog fighting, or violence. The professional sport teams have an impact on not only children but adults too. Adults should know better, but some people are so obsessed with sports, it can't be healthy.
Because sports play an extreme part of the American life, if NFL players such as Michael Vick break the law they should be banned and never allowed to play again. He had his fame and made his money, and took advantage of it by using it in a negative, immature way. He should not get a second chance. History repeats itself, he is untrustworthy and no famous sports star should be allowed a second chance, especially if they cause harm to others.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Stuck at Prom
Senior year students begin to get creative with choosing their prom dress, but how far does creativity go before it becomes weird? Since 2001 the Duct Tape club has been giving out 3,000 dollar scholarships to those who can make the best prom dress out of duck tape. Very few of the dresses and suits look like something a couple would wear to prom.
There are many advantages to having a duck tape prom dress. It is less expensive than buying a brand new prom dress, all you need to buy are a few roles of duct tape and possibly some paint and wire. No one else at the dance will have the same dress. It is very creative and neat, and can be supportive. Also, it might earn someone 3,000 dollars for college.
But, there are also numerous negativities about a prom dress made from ducktape. It would be very uncomfortable, especially if the owner of the dress enjoyed dancing. I imagine the duct tape on your skin would create a lot of perspiration. Plus the dress would be heavy, stiff, and hard to move in. It probably won't be as pretty as all the other dresses made from fabric. Plus when this trend ends, the picture will always be there. Duct tape is associated with red necks and some might refer to wearing a duct tape prom dress as trashy.
Because I'm not creative, love to shop, and am not much for standing out I would never wear a duct tape prom dress. I love to dance and am not one for sweating and feeling sticky. I love comfort and beauty and want my dress to express that.
There are many advantages to having a duck tape prom dress. It is less expensive than buying a brand new prom dress, all you need to buy are a few roles of duct tape and possibly some paint and wire. No one else at the dance will have the same dress. It is very creative and neat, and can be supportive. Also, it might earn someone 3,000 dollars for college.
But, there are also numerous negativities about a prom dress made from ducktape. It would be very uncomfortable, especially if the owner of the dress enjoyed dancing. I imagine the duct tape on your skin would create a lot of perspiration. Plus the dress would be heavy, stiff, and hard to move in. It probably won't be as pretty as all the other dresses made from fabric. Plus when this trend ends, the picture will always be there. Duct tape is associated with red necks and some might refer to wearing a duct tape prom dress as trashy.
Because I'm not creative, love to shop, and am not much for standing out I would never wear a duct tape prom dress. I love to dance and am not one for sweating and feeling sticky. I love comfort and beauty and want my dress to express that.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Immigrants
Based on the article and your own experience, what should be changed to help immigrant students assimilate? What could you change here to help an immigrant student assimilate?
There has been a sixty percent increase since 1995-2005 of english language learners in schools. This vast number plays a large role in the economy. Nothing should be changed to help immigrants students assimilate, except the fact that illegal immigrants should not be allowed in public schools. America is the land of opportunity, but some subjects require restraints.
Before entering a foreign country, it is necessary to be familiar with the country's language. Here in America, people are becoming billingual to be accustomed with the language of the foreigners entering their country. This act is the opposite of what it should be, even though it is good for people to become familiar with other languages, they should not be forced. Because many foreigners do not learn English before they arrive in America, this causes a demand for jobs. Making the government spend more money on education, but with all the budget cuts, this country can not afford to educate this vast amount of increasing immigrants. It is not fair to the teachers or the native born students to incorporate non-english speakers in their classrooms because it slows the learning process.
Many of the immgrant students do not want to be seperated from their english speaking piers, but students need to be in a classroom with other students who are on the same level. Every student is seperated based on their educational status, that is why there are AP, Honors, regular, basic, and below basic classes on a highschool campus. When statistics have proved that "it takes the average learner of English at least two years of study to hold conversations, and five to seven years to write essays, understand a novel or explain scientific processes at the level of their English-speaking peers." How is it possible to incorporate non-english speakers with english speakers in a four year high school? If immigrants do not want to be segregated when they come to school in America, they should learn the english language first.
Thus, America should not assimilate to the needs of immigrant students. Immigrant parents should not bring their children into this country, if they can't understand english. It's the parents responsibility, not the high schools or the country's.
There has been a sixty percent increase since 1995-2005 of english language learners in schools. This vast number plays a large role in the economy. Nothing should be changed to help immigrants students assimilate, except the fact that illegal immigrants should not be allowed in public schools. America is the land of opportunity, but some subjects require restraints.
Before entering a foreign country, it is necessary to be familiar with the country's language. Here in America, people are becoming billingual to be accustomed with the language of the foreigners entering their country. This act is the opposite of what it should be, even though it is good for people to become familiar with other languages, they should not be forced. Because many foreigners do not learn English before they arrive in America, this causes a demand for jobs. Making the government spend more money on education, but with all the budget cuts, this country can not afford to educate this vast amount of increasing immigrants. It is not fair to the teachers or the native born students to incorporate non-english speakers in their classrooms because it slows the learning process.
Many of the immgrant students do not want to be seperated from their english speaking piers, but students need to be in a classroom with other students who are on the same level. Every student is seperated based on their educational status, that is why there are AP, Honors, regular, basic, and below basic classes on a highschool campus. When statistics have proved that "it takes the average learner of English at least two years of study to hold conversations, and five to seven years to write essays, understand a novel or explain scientific processes at the level of their English-speaking peers." How is it possible to incorporate non-english speakers with english speakers in a four year high school? If immigrants do not want to be segregated when they come to school in America, they should learn the english language first.
Thus, America should not assimilate to the needs of immigrant students. Immigrant parents should not bring their children into this country, if they can't understand english. It's the parents responsibility, not the high schools or the country's.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Timed Write
A weekly feature of The New York Times Magazine is a column by Randy Cohen called “The Ethicist,” in which people raise ethical questions to which Cohen provides answers. The question below is from the column that appeared on April 4, 2003.
At my high school, various clubs and organizations sponsor charity drives, asking students to bring in money, food, and clothing. Some teachers offer bonus points on tests and final averages as incentives to participate. Some parents believe that this sends a morally wrong message, undermining the value of charity as a selfless act. Is the exchange of donations for grades O.K. ?
The practice of offering incentives for charitable acts is widespread, from school projects to fund drives by organizations such as public television stations, to federal income tax deductions for contributions to charities. In a well-written essay, develop a position on the ethics of offering incentives for charitable acts. Support your position with evidence from your reading, observation, and/or experience.
Offering Incentives for charitable acts has many pros and cons, depending on the circumstances. Sometimes this act can benefit everyone, while other incentives can be unjust to those who work the hardest. Buying your wages or grades is morally wrong, but offering a chance for someone deserving to get ahead when they are behind is only fair.
When talking about extra credit for students, students should get an opportunity to redeem or higher their grade, if they are a dedicated hard working student. Students get sick, get in car accidents, and have deaths in the family which cause school to be missed. School is not always a first priority, there is family and health which are extremely important to an individuals well being. Therefore, those students who miss school days not always have time or the ability to complete absent work, especially if they have a strict agenda with AP and college classes. These students should have other options, such as going to a play, bringing in cans for the Million Dollar Can Challenge which our local FFA hosted, or a bringing a jacket for the Jacket Drive hosted by the salvation army. All these charitable events the West Valley High School offers throughout the year as well as numerous other high schools and it's essential for those strong willed, busy students who are unable to have a perfect attendance record.
On the other hand, students who are deserving of the low grades they receive, should not receive the chance for redemption. Someone who shows up to class once a week and does not try and ceases to pay attention should receive no sympathy from teachers towards their grades. Their needs to be a limit on how much extra credit a teacher can put towards the grade book. If a student has a "C" average year round, and brings in cans or another form of charity, their grade should be bumped up no higher than a "B". Even though, this form of extra credit does not treat everyone equally, because it's based on how good of a student they are, it creates controversy and complaints. Because each student is not the same, each have individual needs and different subjects they excel in, their extra credit should work corresponding to the way each student works.
Sports and Occupations should not give incentives. Because someone is wealthy and can afford to donate money for a team or business corporation, does not give them the right to play or work above someone else who is more deserving. In the work field, how bosses rank their employees should be by the level of skill, dedication, and loyalty, not by how much money they have or how much they donate to charity. Coaches of sport teams can be greedy and corrupt, players who work the most throughout the year and players who do the most physically and mentally for their team deserve more playing time than a player whose father donated fifty-thousand dollars to the football team. These are the moral ethics, and whether business works like this or not, this way is only fair.
In conclusion, Incentives vary on many different levels. They should be used if needed in the education field, because students don't get sick leave an other benefits. They are forced to make up what they missed. Unlike most work fields where everyday is a new day, you don't have to make up anything. Therefore work should be solely based on skill and determination, as well as sport teams and other programs.
At my high school, various clubs and organizations sponsor charity drives, asking students to bring in money, food, and clothing. Some teachers offer bonus points on tests and final averages as incentives to participate. Some parents believe that this sends a morally wrong message, undermining the value of charity as a selfless act. Is the exchange of donations for grades O.K. ?
The practice of offering incentives for charitable acts is widespread, from school projects to fund drives by organizations such as public television stations, to federal income tax deductions for contributions to charities. In a well-written essay, develop a position on the ethics of offering incentives for charitable acts. Support your position with evidence from your reading, observation, and/or experience.
Offering Incentives for charitable acts has many pros and cons, depending on the circumstances. Sometimes this act can benefit everyone, while other incentives can be unjust to those who work the hardest. Buying your wages or grades is morally wrong, but offering a chance for someone deserving to get ahead when they are behind is only fair.
When talking about extra credit for students, students should get an opportunity to redeem or higher their grade, if they are a dedicated hard working student. Students get sick, get in car accidents, and have deaths in the family which cause school to be missed. School is not always a first priority, there is family and health which are extremely important to an individuals well being. Therefore, those students who miss school days not always have time or the ability to complete absent work, especially if they have a strict agenda with AP and college classes. These students should have other options, such as going to a play, bringing in cans for the Million Dollar Can Challenge which our local FFA hosted, or a bringing a jacket for the Jacket Drive hosted by the salvation army. All these charitable events the West Valley High School offers throughout the year as well as numerous other high schools and it's essential for those strong willed, busy students who are unable to have a perfect attendance record.
On the other hand, students who are deserving of the low grades they receive, should not receive the chance for redemption. Someone who shows up to class once a week and does not try and ceases to pay attention should receive no sympathy from teachers towards their grades. Their needs to be a limit on how much extra credit a teacher can put towards the grade book. If a student has a "C" average year round, and brings in cans or another form of charity, their grade should be bumped up no higher than a "B". Even though, this form of extra credit does not treat everyone equally, because it's based on how good of a student they are, it creates controversy and complaints. Because each student is not the same, each have individual needs and different subjects they excel in, their extra credit should work corresponding to the way each student works.
Sports and Occupations should not give incentives. Because someone is wealthy and can afford to donate money for a team or business corporation, does not give them the right to play or work above someone else who is more deserving. In the work field, how bosses rank their employees should be by the level of skill, dedication, and loyalty, not by how much money they have or how much they donate to charity. Coaches of sport teams can be greedy and corrupt, players who work the most throughout the year and players who do the most physically and mentally for their team deserve more playing time than a player whose father donated fifty-thousand dollars to the football team. These are the moral ethics, and whether business works like this or not, this way is only fair.
In conclusion, Incentives vary on many different levels. They should be used if needed in the education field, because students don't get sick leave an other benefits. They are forced to make up what they missed. Unlike most work fields where everyday is a new day, you don't have to make up anything. Therefore work should be solely based on skill and determination, as well as sport teams and other programs.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Stem Cell Research
Should States have the right to oppose the Federal Government on Stem Cell Research? Why or Why not? Use examples from article to support your stand!
States should be able to refuse the pursuance of Stem Cell Research, even if the newly elected President is encouraging and funding the scientific experiments. Because the country has never accepted a single embryo as a person, scientists believe that what they're researching and doing is perfectly acceptable. While, other religious and non religious citizens find stem cell research appalling and some go as far as to consider it murder. Because of all the differing opinions and views, not all the states should be forced to allow this form of embryo study.
A controversial subject such as Stem Cell research can worsen the economy during the recession, if not taken care of properly. When all the states are forced to fund and allow this process, will be when the citizens will start rebelling against their own country, the last thing the US needs. Therefore, certain states should allow it and certain states should ban it, so the people can choose what they want to support. The state of Georgia is trying to pass a bill that will ban the destruction of fertilized embryos, "which the legislation considers a person." The passing of this bill will prove that states have the right to oppose the federal government.
All states have different characteristics, different needs, different areas of focus, what would be right for the majority of the United States would not be right for the entire United States. Each state needs to follow the constitution and support the president, but should be able to annex certain laws that their state does not agree with.
States should be able to refuse the pursuance of Stem Cell Research, even if the newly elected President is encouraging and funding the scientific experiments. Because the country has never accepted a single embryo as a person, scientists believe that what they're researching and doing is perfectly acceptable. While, other religious and non religious citizens find stem cell research appalling and some go as far as to consider it murder. Because of all the differing opinions and views, not all the states should be forced to allow this form of embryo study.
A controversial subject such as Stem Cell research can worsen the economy during the recession, if not taken care of properly. When all the states are forced to fund and allow this process, will be when the citizens will start rebelling against their own country, the last thing the US needs. Therefore, certain states should allow it and certain states should ban it, so the people can choose what they want to support. The state of Georgia is trying to pass a bill that will ban the destruction of fertilized embryos, "which the legislation considers a person." The passing of this bill will prove that states have the right to oppose the federal government.
All states have different characteristics, different needs, different areas of focus, what would be right for the majority of the United States would not be right for the entire United States. Each state needs to follow the constitution and support the president, but should be able to annex certain laws that their state does not agree with.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Newspaper Publisher McClatchy cuts 1,600 Jobs
Newspaper Publisher McClatchy cuts 1,600 Jobs
By Michael Liedtke
What do you think will happen to the newspapers in the future? Where do you get your news? Why? Will you miss them if they are gone?
Because the Newspaper industry is getting hit hard with budget cuts, similar to numerous other industries in California, the price of the newspaper will continue to increase over the next few years and it will eventually cease to exist. There are many ways people can access the news, besides the Newspaper. There's always online news, the news is broadcasted on television throughout the day, in the morning hours the radio never fails to let the public know about the most recent updates. Thus, the newspaper is not a necessity and people will not waste their money on it.
My father realized this fact, about a year ago, therefore we do not receive the paper anymore. If something important comes out in the newspaper, such as a photo of me or an obituary notice we will purchase the paper for that day. Other than that, my family feels no need for the newspaper when we can watch World News and Local News on television plus the news in other specific areas online. The only thing I miss are the ads that would come out with the cute clothes, which I feel fine sacrificing if it saves my parents money. That's the way my Dad has always been, he believes in saving, he makes me put at least half of my check in the bank every pay day, and before the economy had this down turn he made me put all of my money in the bank which was later transferred to a mutual fund.
And I believe that this is what the rest of the country will begin to do; save their money. For some it's harder than others, but it seems necessary at a time like this. If this means cutting the newspaper from their lives then so be it, but no matter what happens our government needs to supply jobs for those who are laid off.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Death of the Dream
Based on the article, how likely is it that California will make a quick comeback? What does the writer feel needs to happen for California to survive and thrive? Do you agree or disagree with his reasoning? Why or why not? Be specific.
Due to the "Buffoonish governor" and "Neanderthal republicans" it will be a long and difficult recovery for the state of California. Joel Kotkin states that California has been able to recover from a recession before, but "the odds that the Golden State can reinvent itself again seem long." The fact that the past recession in the mid-1990s was built up by physical elements, such as the loss of jobs that were created from the Cold War, differs from the current recession we are in today, which could have been easily avoided. If not for the mortgage lenders making bad loans and people making erroneous decisions with their money the state's current predicament would not be as bad and our country might have been able to escape depression. Because Californian's don't thrive for the American Dream like they used to, their jobs are being taken by immigrants who live for the American Dream and will do whatever they can to live that golden life. These internal problems will take longer to solve than the external problems we faced twenty years ago.
California needs to "appreciate the nation of opportunity and aspire to make the California-and American- Dream their own." Instead of opening three of the same stores in one large city, the people need to build their businesses in "multicultural suburbs" and be creative. If your product is something the people need to survive they will buy it, you don't necessarliy need a lot of money to start your own business you should start small and work your way up. This is what Californian's need to do, instead of investing large profits in a large business cooperation that isn't guarenteed. Californian's have it too easy compared to past generations, everything they get is expected or handed down to them. Past generations built this state with farming, railroad, and waterway jobs. The Californian people today are just filling the jobs the state has for them. Only three percent of the state's budget is going to building railroads or waterways, compared to the twenty percent in the Pat Brown Era. Many immigrants are farmers, one of the most important jobs in California; agriculture. Farming is what the Golden State was built on, with one of the best climates for growing in the world farming is what needs to continue, yet their are numerous farms getting foreclosed daily. This is what's seperating the whites and "minority" ethnicities in the middle class. Many of the whites are descending to the lower class while immigrants are ascending into the middle class.
Californian's need to lower their standards, they can't keep expecting to get the perfect job. If we had no illegal aliens in California, and the citizens worked all the tough labor jobs, we would not be having a hard time finding jobs and having to lay off good people who deserve to work. If everyone in California wanted to live the American Dream we would hardly have a lower class. If you work hard enough for what you want you will recieve it, and immigrants are the best example. They may not have the nicest jobs in the world, but at least they are moving up in the world. Californian's need to realize that they are extremely fortunate to live in such a good place, a place of opportunity, and they need to take advantage of it, there are numerous ways to make money it just needs a purpose. The purpose in this case would be the "California Dream."
Due to the "Buffoonish governor" and "Neanderthal republicans" it will be a long and difficult recovery for the state of California. Joel Kotkin states that California has been able to recover from a recession before, but "the odds that the Golden State can reinvent itself again seem long." The fact that the past recession in the mid-1990s was built up by physical elements, such as the loss of jobs that were created from the Cold War, differs from the current recession we are in today, which could have been easily avoided. If not for the mortgage lenders making bad loans and people making erroneous decisions with their money the state's current predicament would not be as bad and our country might have been able to escape depression. Because Californian's don't thrive for the American Dream like they used to, their jobs are being taken by immigrants who live for the American Dream and will do whatever they can to live that golden life. These internal problems will take longer to solve than the external problems we faced twenty years ago.
California needs to "appreciate the nation of opportunity and aspire to make the California-and American- Dream their own." Instead of opening three of the same stores in one large city, the people need to build their businesses in "multicultural suburbs" and be creative. If your product is something the people need to survive they will buy it, you don't necessarliy need a lot of money to start your own business you should start small and work your way up. This is what Californian's need to do, instead of investing large profits in a large business cooperation that isn't guarenteed. Californian's have it too easy compared to past generations, everything they get is expected or handed down to them. Past generations built this state with farming, railroad, and waterway jobs. The Californian people today are just filling the jobs the state has for them. Only three percent of the state's budget is going to building railroads or waterways, compared to the twenty percent in the Pat Brown Era. Many immigrants are farmers, one of the most important jobs in California; agriculture. Farming is what the Golden State was built on, with one of the best climates for growing in the world farming is what needs to continue, yet their are numerous farms getting foreclosed daily. This is what's seperating the whites and "minority" ethnicities in the middle class. Many of the whites are descending to the lower class while immigrants are ascending into the middle class.
Californian's need to lower their standards, they can't keep expecting to get the perfect job. If we had no illegal aliens in California, and the citizens worked all the tough labor jobs, we would not be having a hard time finding jobs and having to lay off good people who deserve to work. If everyone in California wanted to live the American Dream we would hardly have a lower class. If you work hard enough for what you want you will recieve it, and immigrants are the best example. They may not have the nicest jobs in the world, but at least they are moving up in the world. Californian's need to realize that they are extremely fortunate to live in such a good place, a place of opportunity, and they need to take advantage of it, there are numerous ways to make money it just needs a purpose. The purpose in this case would be the "California Dream."
Monday, January 26, 2009
Obama v. Franklin Delano Roosevelt
In a well written essay, explain the major similarities and differences between FDR's & Obama's Inaugural speeches. Feel free to comment on similar happenings and circumstances, but also on similarities and differences in structure and content.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt the 32nd president of the United States of America was the only president elected to four terms in office, serving from 1933 to 1945. Barack Obama the 44th president, but the first president to be of African American descent spoke his inaugural address January 20, 2009. The two, short and to the point, inaugural speeches by Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Barack Obama are two of the most important speeches in US history. Both of these speeches were and are during economic hard times in America, as well as during War, and they were both watched by millions of people who had a desperate desire for change. As well as having similarities, there are also differences; the way the presidents' chose to incorporate the American People in their speech, they both had different ideas of how to repair the nation, plus the tone and mood differs between the speeches.
Both Presidents chose to take a stand in the United States, when our country was in crisis. The Great Depression occurring in the 1930's, the same time Roosevelt took office, was one of the biggest problems our country has ever faced. Now, the same disaster will occur once again if our country is left without correct guidance. In 2008 our country went into a recession, now in 2009 our economic standing is at it's lowest point since 1974. Obama now has the power, and it's his responsibility, like it was Roosevelt's, to bring our United Nation out of the economic hole we have buried ourselves in once again. Obama and Roosevelt have a larger amount of power then previous presidents, because the people want to be brought out of the recession and depression that have made their lives difficult. The people are willing to accept the decisions they make if it will help them, they need to act quickly though, especially Obama before it gets worse.
Roosevelt's tone of his speech was more militaristic and he came across more of a dictator than president, unlike Obama's speech which encouraged unity and help from the people of the United States. Roosevelt states "There are the lines of attack" and he doesn't fail to mention the military term "attack" numerous other times in his speech. He obviously thought that war would help the nation, and it did. Obama is going about this a different way, he is more for going "green". He believes that the American people need to work together to lower CO2 emissions and cut down energy costs. Obama points out that "each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet." Obama also gives something to the American people that Roosevelt failed to; Obama gives inspiration and hope he guarantees that the challenges America faces today "will be met." This is important people won't be able to do something that they believe impossible.
Just as Roosevelt had, Obama has the power and the ability to turn our nation around and save not only the United States economy, but the world's. Even though their speech has many differences, the country's economic status at the time of both their terms are considerably equivalent. For the good or for the better, change was inevitable when they were elected and that was deeply implied in the two speeches.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt the 32nd president of the United States of America was the only president elected to four terms in office, serving from 1933 to 1945. Barack Obama the 44th president, but the first president to be of African American descent spoke his inaugural address January 20, 2009. The two, short and to the point, inaugural speeches by Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Barack Obama are two of the most important speeches in US history. Both of these speeches were and are during economic hard times in America, as well as during War, and they were both watched by millions of people who had a desperate desire for change. As well as having similarities, there are also differences; the way the presidents' chose to incorporate the American People in their speech, they both had different ideas of how to repair the nation, plus the tone and mood differs between the speeches.
Both Presidents chose to take a stand in the United States, when our country was in crisis. The Great Depression occurring in the 1930's, the same time Roosevelt took office, was one of the biggest problems our country has ever faced. Now, the same disaster will occur once again if our country is left without correct guidance. In 2008 our country went into a recession, now in 2009 our economic standing is at it's lowest point since 1974. Obama now has the power, and it's his responsibility, like it was Roosevelt's, to bring our United Nation out of the economic hole we have buried ourselves in once again. Obama and Roosevelt have a larger amount of power then previous presidents, because the people want to be brought out of the recession and depression that have made their lives difficult. The people are willing to accept the decisions they make if it will help them, they need to act quickly though, especially Obama before it gets worse.
Roosevelt's tone of his speech was more militaristic and he came across more of a dictator than president, unlike Obama's speech which encouraged unity and help from the people of the United States. Roosevelt states "There are the lines of attack" and he doesn't fail to mention the military term "attack" numerous other times in his speech. He obviously thought that war would help the nation, and it did. Obama is going about this a different way, he is more for going "green". He believes that the American people need to work together to lower CO2 emissions and cut down energy costs. Obama points out that "each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet." Obama also gives something to the American people that Roosevelt failed to; Obama gives inspiration and hope he guarantees that the challenges America faces today "will be met." This is important people won't be able to do something that they believe impossible.
Just as Roosevelt had, Obama has the power and the ability to turn our nation around and save not only the United States economy, but the world's. Even though their speech has many differences, the country's economic status at the time of both their terms are considerably equivalent. For the good or for the better, change was inevitable when they were elected and that was deeply implied in the two speeches.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
A New Era Of Responsibility
According to President Obama's inaugual address, this is "a New Era of Responsibility," as nothing is so defining of character as "difficult times." In your blog, tell me what this refers to nationally, locally, and to you personally.
Because the world is caught in economic hard times, America is relying on the new president of the United States to bring them out of the depression and fix all the problems. When Obama say's that "This is a New Era of Responsibility" he's saying that not only he is responsible for bringing our country out of the recession, but the people of the United States of America have to work together and cooperate in order for our country to ever be the same super power it has been since World War II. If America is not able to revive itself, it will effect not only the people with in the country but everybody in the World.
Nationally, the United States is one of the most important countries in the world. Many countries rely on us to loan them money and help them out when they are in need. But, at a time like this all the countries are hurting and the United States can't afford to loan any money. With our government being unstable right now it makes us an easy target for other countries to attack. But they should realize how much they need us, and help us out. Our allies are hurting right now too, and our imports will be decreasing because not many people are buying and same with our exports so it's hard for the government to make money right now, because none of the tax payers have any money.
Locally, California produces enough agriculture by itself to be seventh in the world standing next to nations such as Russia, China, and Canada. With the economy like it is, farms are getting foreclosed everyday and the state of California is running out of money by the minute. If California doesn't get bailed out and they keep foreclosing farms because people can't afford to run them anymore and if the water shortages continue, many people all across the world will be without food. Hopefully Obama will loan us some of the money left in the national government to bail us out, because if California fails the world will have to make some extreme changes in the way they live.
Personally, this new era of responsibility affects me in many ways. My mom working at a school, may be out of a job. My dad's work has been doing cut backs and making sure they are not working more than sixteen hour days. I work at Eddie Bauer and the economy hasn't affected my job there yet. I may not be able to get the Cal Grant I was counting on, and my education may be cut back by the school not being able to afford having AP classes. This summer I made a garden and I probably will continue that, becuase fruit in the stores have gone up in prices. And of course it's my responsibilty to go out and spend the money I can afford to spend on marked down clothes to help the stock market and help all the cute stores I like from going out of business. I also have a mutual fund which has lost over six hundred dollars, so I have the choice of buying when it's low and praying I don't go bankrupt, or just waiting to see what happens with my money and hoping the stocks will eventually rise, so when I retire I will have a nice amount of money saved up.
Hopefully all of America, even the people who aren't hurting at the moment realize that they are responsible for helping the world's economy, it would be nice for the people who are filthy rich to donate some money to Red Cross, or I'm not sure if it is even possible in today's society but loaning some money to the government. Because sooner or later it will effect all of us, especially if California goes under. There's too much weight on the United States to let it's economy fail. And it's not only Obama's responsibility but each individual's.
Because the world is caught in economic hard times, America is relying on the new president of the United States to bring them out of the depression and fix all the problems. When Obama say's that "This is a New Era of Responsibility" he's saying that not only he is responsible for bringing our country out of the recession, but the people of the United States of America have to work together and cooperate in order for our country to ever be the same super power it has been since World War II. If America is not able to revive itself, it will effect not only the people with in the country but everybody in the World.
Nationally, the United States is one of the most important countries in the world. Many countries rely on us to loan them money and help them out when they are in need. But, at a time like this all the countries are hurting and the United States can't afford to loan any money. With our government being unstable right now it makes us an easy target for other countries to attack. But they should realize how much they need us, and help us out. Our allies are hurting right now too, and our imports will be decreasing because not many people are buying and same with our exports so it's hard for the government to make money right now, because none of the tax payers have any money.
Locally, California produces enough agriculture by itself to be seventh in the world standing next to nations such as Russia, China, and Canada. With the economy like it is, farms are getting foreclosed everyday and the state of California is running out of money by the minute. If California doesn't get bailed out and they keep foreclosing farms because people can't afford to run them anymore and if the water shortages continue, many people all across the world will be without food. Hopefully Obama will loan us some of the money left in the national government to bail us out, because if California fails the world will have to make some extreme changes in the way they live.
Personally, this new era of responsibility affects me in many ways. My mom working at a school, may be out of a job. My dad's work has been doing cut backs and making sure they are not working more than sixteen hour days. I work at Eddie Bauer and the economy hasn't affected my job there yet. I may not be able to get the Cal Grant I was counting on, and my education may be cut back by the school not being able to afford having AP classes. This summer I made a garden and I probably will continue that, becuase fruit in the stores have gone up in prices. And of course it's my responsibilty to go out and spend the money I can afford to spend on marked down clothes to help the stock market and help all the cute stores I like from going out of business. I also have a mutual fund which has lost over six hundred dollars, so I have the choice of buying when it's low and praying I don't go bankrupt, or just waiting to see what happens with my money and hoping the stocks will eventually rise, so when I retire I will have a nice amount of money saved up.
Hopefully all of America, even the people who aren't hurting at the moment realize that they are responsible for helping the world's economy, it would be nice for the people who are filthy rich to donate some money to Red Cross, or I'm not sure if it is even possible in today's society but loaning some money to the government. Because sooner or later it will effect all of us, especially if California goes under. There's too much weight on the United States to let it's economy fail. And it's not only Obama's responsibility but each individual's.
Friday, January 16, 2009
When would you consider it appropriate to break an "unjust law"? Use information from "Perils of Obedience" and "Letter from...Jail" to support your reasoning.
I believe it's okay to break an unjust law when it starts to go against your beliefs and self-morals. An unjust law is when you are causing pain mentally of physically to someone else or to yourself. The hardest part about breaking an unjust law, is going against everything you have been taught throughout your life to follow the rules and do what people tell you to do.
In the Perils of Obedience, people knew they were doing the wrong thing, but they continued to go against their own beliefs to obey an adult, who supposedly knew what he was talking about. Why would someone do this? They are scared of the consequences, they are scared of going against their childhood learnings to obey authority, they are scared of taking a stand and putting themselves out of their comfort zone. Humans have a certain level of comfort that they like to stay at, not many people venture out of their comfort zone. For some reason it's very difficult for humans to easily accept change and go against what they have been taught, even if it means doing something they consider wrong. Just like Martin Luther King was observing and writing about in his "Letter from a Birmingham Jail", the people know that the racial segregation is wrong and that all "people are created equal" but they continue to treat other people of different colors or ethnicity like gum that got stuck to the bottom of their shoe. The people are afraid to do the right thing! They were taught to be racist by their parents and that black people should be slaves, and now they are afraid of going against their teachings to do the moral thing. And the same for the black people, not many of them stood up for themselves. They were taught to respect the white people and not many will disobey that unjust law. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks are two truly loyal people who stood up for what they believed in and what they thought was the right thing. Sure they had consequences, but they weren't afraid they were willing to deal with the consequences rather than let themselves be sucked into the authoritative society like everyone else. Now they are looked up to, remembered and appreciated by millions of people, only because they did the what they thought was right.
That is when it's appropriate to break an unjust law, when you know what you are doing is wrong. And maybe you will be looked down upon at first, but so what as long as it makes you feel better in your soul for knowing you have made an honest decision. People who don't stick up for their beliefs are lying to themselves, they are selfish, unloyal, and dishonest people.
I believe it's okay to break an unjust law when it starts to go against your beliefs and self-morals. An unjust law is when you are causing pain mentally of physically to someone else or to yourself. The hardest part about breaking an unjust law, is going against everything you have been taught throughout your life to follow the rules and do what people tell you to do.
In the Perils of Obedience, people knew they were doing the wrong thing, but they continued to go against their own beliefs to obey an adult, who supposedly knew what he was talking about. Why would someone do this? They are scared of the consequences, they are scared of going against their childhood learnings to obey authority, they are scared of taking a stand and putting themselves out of their comfort zone. Humans have a certain level of comfort that they like to stay at, not many people venture out of their comfort zone. For some reason it's very difficult for humans to easily accept change and go against what they have been taught, even if it means doing something they consider wrong. Just like Martin Luther King was observing and writing about in his "Letter from a Birmingham Jail", the people know that the racial segregation is wrong and that all "people are created equal" but they continue to treat other people of different colors or ethnicity like gum that got stuck to the bottom of their shoe. The people are afraid to do the right thing! They were taught to be racist by their parents and that black people should be slaves, and now they are afraid of going against their teachings to do the moral thing. And the same for the black people, not many of them stood up for themselves. They were taught to respect the white people and not many will disobey that unjust law. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks are two truly loyal people who stood up for what they believed in and what they thought was the right thing. Sure they had consequences, but they weren't afraid they were willing to deal with the consequences rather than let themselves be sucked into the authoritative society like everyone else. Now they are looked up to, remembered and appreciated by millions of people, only because they did the what they thought was right.
That is when it's appropriate to break an unjust law, when you know what you are doing is wrong. And maybe you will be looked down upon at first, but so what as long as it makes you feel better in your soul for knowing you have made an honest decision. People who don't stick up for their beliefs are lying to themselves, they are selfish, unloyal, and dishonest people.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Great Gatsby Or not?
What is Great about Gatsby? What are your opinions of Gatsby now that you have finished the novel? How great was he and why?
Even though, Gatsby had many negative qualities and did a lot of bad things he is still considered Great. Because of Gatsby's strong love for Daisy, he left everything he knew behind him in order to find her and build up his financial standing in order to care for her. He's willing to change everything in his life for Daisy, because everything he has, he bought for Daisy. All of his decisions are based on what Daisy would want, Gatsby doesn't have his own opinion in the story. All he knows is that he wants Daisy and he's determined to be with her. Gatsby is a caring, loving, and determined man.
Gatsby is Great because he is the only man in the book who lets his heart guide him. Even though Daisy is in love with Gatsby she remains with Tom, even when Tom knows about her relationship with Gatsby. Tom says that he loves Daisy, or that he used to love her anyway, but he continues to have affairs with numerous different women. Nick's heart is confusing in the book, at the beginning it seemed he was in love with Daisy, but at the end he may have been falling for Jordan. Yet it's never too clear. So Nick as well as Jordan do not follow their heart because they are still single at the end of the novel. Gatsby is the only one who has true love, and it's for someone he can't have.
Gatsby is one of my favorite characters in the book. It seemed like he was the only one who represented a real person, even though his qualities were exaggerated. All everyone else cared about was money and materialistic things. Sure Gatsby had a lot of money, but he didn't care about the money he just wanted to impress Daisy. Gatsby cared about Daisy way more then he cared about himself. He wouldn't have became a bootlegger and risked getting thrown in jail if he didn't. He had nothing to lose.
Gatsby was a great man because he had good intentions, but if you take Daisy out of the picture he is nothing but a bootlegging scandal, like most of the other people on West Egg. He had no friends, he had no family that he associated with, he had nothing without Daisy. All he had was money to waste and spend for people to have a good time. But because he did all this for a girl, I believe it makes him a very Great man, because back then not many people would leave everything they have behind them just to be with their true love.
Even though, Gatsby had many negative qualities and did a lot of bad things he is still considered Great. Because of Gatsby's strong love for Daisy, he left everything he knew behind him in order to find her and build up his financial standing in order to care for her. He's willing to change everything in his life for Daisy, because everything he has, he bought for Daisy. All of his decisions are based on what Daisy would want, Gatsby doesn't have his own opinion in the story. All he knows is that he wants Daisy and he's determined to be with her. Gatsby is a caring, loving, and determined man.
Gatsby is Great because he is the only man in the book who lets his heart guide him. Even though Daisy is in love with Gatsby she remains with Tom, even when Tom knows about her relationship with Gatsby. Tom says that he loves Daisy, or that he used to love her anyway, but he continues to have affairs with numerous different women. Nick's heart is confusing in the book, at the beginning it seemed he was in love with Daisy, but at the end he may have been falling for Jordan. Yet it's never too clear. So Nick as well as Jordan do not follow their heart because they are still single at the end of the novel. Gatsby is the only one who has true love, and it's for someone he can't have.
Gatsby is one of my favorite characters in the book. It seemed like he was the only one who represented a real person, even though his qualities were exaggerated. All everyone else cared about was money and materialistic things. Sure Gatsby had a lot of money, but he didn't care about the money he just wanted to impress Daisy. Gatsby cared about Daisy way more then he cared about himself. He wouldn't have became a bootlegger and risked getting thrown in jail if he didn't. He had nothing to lose.
Gatsby was a great man because he had good intentions, but if you take Daisy out of the picture he is nothing but a bootlegging scandal, like most of the other people on West Egg. He had no friends, he had no family that he associated with, he had nothing without Daisy. All he had was money to waste and spend for people to have a good time. But because he did all this for a girl, I believe it makes him a very Great man, because back then not many people would leave everything they have behind them just to be with their true love.
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