Children’s ideas in Science Essay

Harlen (1997) identified various techniques which can be used to enable children to reveal their ideas. These include: – questioning, asking children to draw or write about what they think is happening, discussing their writing or drawing with their teacher and initiating a group discussion.  With Harlen’s view in mind and considering the class topic of materials being focused on in Science, my partner and I decided to plan a lesson that explored children’s ideas of what particular objects are made from and what they were prior to the object they are now. It was felt that in order for children’s ideas to be highlighted, visual cues would be beneficial. Harlen (2000:125) supports this and affirms  Ã¢â‚¬Å"There are often products or artefacts at several stages of children’s activities which all have the potential to indicate children ideas.†Ã‚  The use of visual aids did help children respond to the questions asked and assist children develop their ideas. They ensured the children were focused and also ensured the children were kept on task.  For one of the examples, it may have proved more effective if the visual objects had been provided for each stage that the object had been through to get it to what it is now. To evaluate children’s ideas, it was thought that questioning the children would be very beneficial and as Harlen (2000) emphasised open questions and person-centred questions prove the most effective types of questions in order to find out children’s ideas. Considering this view, my partner and I tried to ensure the majority of our questions included these two question types. The first question to be asked was â€Å"What do you think this was before it was made into a jumper† thus reflecting a person-centred question. Some of the children at this stage replied with the answer â€Å"a sheep† and upon reflection it can be said that the question needed to be more focused to ensure the children stated what the jumper was exactly before it was a jumper. It perhaps would have been more affective and easier for the children if we had looked at the objects the other way around focusing on a sheep, moving on to a ball of wool and then moving on to the woolly jumper. However the learning objective was to see if children could state what an object was prior to the one it is now and what is was before that. This part of the lesson was completed as a whole class in order to generate more ideas. Harlen (2000:101) suggested that children’s discussion with their peers is a valuable source of generating ideas. This is because children are encouraged to consider alternative ideas through other people’s ideas and secondary sources and not just from what they experience directly.  Sharp (2000:85) identified  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Children’s involvement in formulating their ideas, attempting to communicate them and listening to alternative explanations by their peers is a valuable learning process.† To enable a clear understanding of children’s ideas were generated it was thought that through children drawing their ideas as well as discussing them would not only highlight their ideas but would also be valuable for assessment purposes. Harlen (2000:125) highlights â€Å"children’s drawings give particularly rich information about their ideas.†Ã‚  Throughout the drawing of pictures, the children were required to think about what the objects were before and before that. The drawings provided us with a clear insight into the children’s thoughts and ideas. Sharp (2000) highlights through discussions with children, about their pictures, enable their ideas to be clarified and explained upon. As well as drawing pictures, the children were asked to write a brief description of what the various objects were prior to what they are now. Harlen (2000) identified that through writing, children’s ideas may prove more productive. Within the writing, children expressed their ideas more thoroughly than within the pictures and recorded how some of the objects had been a different object prior to the object they are now.

Blue Shield Health Insurance Essay

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) serves independent local Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies as its trade association. The BCBSA is one of the nation’s oldest and biggest health benefits company, widely recognized in the health insurance industry, given its 800 strong employee strength, across 39 companies in Chicago and Washington D. C. BCBSA companies together cover about 98 million people or about every one in three Americans. The reach and spread of the BCBSA is really immense covering all 50 states and the District of Columbia, in contract with over 90% of the hospitals and 80% of physicians. The products serviced by BCBSA covers individuals to small and large employers, ensuring coverage to all citizens. Through its several unprecedented and innovative schemes, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association tries to bring healthcare insurance to all people providing hope and security to everyone. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association is an insurance provider covering healthcare for more than 98 millions, nearly one in three Americans. Healthcare insurance is a must for everyone. It is necessary to keep the economy going and growing because once the people are covered under some healthcare insurance, their medical needs are adequately taken care of, which makes their productivity go up because better health obviously results in better work performance. If the concept of insurance were not Blue Cross and Blue Shield 3 there, then every individual would have had to save a huge amount of money as reserve to cover some unforeseen or unexpected calamities. Healthcare is one aspect which can never be compromised. With the mounting medical expenses, people without a healthcare insurance can just not afford to avail proper preventive and therapeutic treatment. With the cost of medical services growing by leaps and bounds, healthcare insurance is imperative for one and all. Healthcare insurance company also stands to benefit because when they are likely to pay more in claims than what they get in premiums, a hike in the premium is anticipated. Under the employer-sponsored healthcare insurance, the employer spends roughly five times more than what the employee contributes. But the increasing medical costs have a great impact on the employers who have to pay out huge sums as premiums for their employees. From 1998 to 2003, there was a national increase of 42% in individual premiums after adjustments made with regard to inflation. With the increase in medical costs, employees are forced to contribute a sizable amount towards their coverage, so they opt to stay away from the job-based health insurance plans. The employers depend more on part-time and contract workers who are often not eligible for coverage. So fewer people access employer-paid healthcare insurance. The job instability too contributes in the steady increase of the number of uninsured people. And then there are some firms, which do not provide health insurance to their employees. With the shooting medical expenses, it is difficult for people to go for healthcare coverage, as the premiums are high. This leaves them uninsured, which again has drastic effects affecting Blue Cross and Blue Shield 4 both the people and the company. So, healthcare insurance has now become something that people can neither do with nor do without it. To combat this scenario, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association brings various new schemes taking into consideration the needs of every individual. With no insurance and with the exorbitant medical expenses, the health care of the people is greatly compromised. They go in for lesser preventive care with the result diseases get out of hand before they are diagnosed, and even when diagnosed, the treatment costs are so huge that the therapeutic care is compromised. With no insurance, people are expected to pay up-front for the medical services and so they defer medical care except when it is life threatening. This also affects the government because it has to cater to the medical needs of the uninsured, which has a terrible impact on the economy because the expenses of the emergency department is much higher than in the outpatient clinics, and the conditions are often those that could have been averted or postponed with preventive care. Proper health insurance package is the icing on the cake. The medical expenses are so much that healthcare insurance acts as a major deciding factor when people seek jobs. With the ever-increasing medical expenses, every individual has to be insured medically so that they can avail the needed healthcare. But with the increased insurance premiums, the number of uninsured people is on the high. Furthermore, insurances have too many exclusions like certain drugs not being covered, certain Blue Cross and Blue Shield 5 procedures not being covered and the like, which again discourages people from being insured, which is detrimental to the citizens as well as the country at large. Even with insurance, the prospects of the people losing their jobs and thereby their insurances is there. There definitely have to be changes in the system so that every individual could be worked into the health insurance plan. The view of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association president and CEO Scott P Serota testifies this â€Å"With such divergent political ideologies, it is unprecedented for these groups to have a joint agreement. Helping the millions of Americans who do not have health insurance is an issue that needs to transcend politics and partisanship, and that is why we worked together to give Congress a starting point that we can all support. † The 2005 data shows that one in seven American was uninsured thus depriving them of basic healthcare. The Institute of Medicine has that approximately 18,000 die every year of diseases that could have either been treated or prevented had they had health coverage. Lack of insurance prevents people leading a quality life, and it also brings down their productivity because of their recurrent ailments. The first annual National Walk @ Lunch Day to be held on Wednesday, April 18, 2007, by BCBSA (Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association) will definitely bring about an awareness among people about the need for an active lifestyle, which obviously would usher in better health. Unlike the usual health insurance companies, Blue cross and Blues Shield Association design innovative schemes to match the diversified requirement of the market. It does a Blue Cross Blue shield 6 lot of activity to keep the competition at bay. Even though profit making is the main objective in any organization, Blue cross and Blues Shield Association takes care that it does not become the sole objective. A paradigm shift in this regard is obvious by the mere existence of CareFirst, the non profit health care company which provides health insurance products and administrative services. In the current scenario where the number of uninsured people is on the rise, Blue cross and Blues Shield Association has to be applauded for its efforts in trying to bring the maximum people under the healthcare insurance cover. REFERENCES www. nchc. org www. bcbs. com www. money. cnn. com

Examination of Traits Possessed by Effective Counselors Essay

Examination of Traits Possessed by Effective Counselors Catherine M. Kleinschmit Liberty University Abstract Because the counselor-client relationship is one built on trust, a counselor should seek to have as much knowledge as possible to facilitate this trust and bring about healing and wholeness for the client. This paper examines many of the traits possessed by counselors who are considered successful in their field. Much of the research came from peer reviewed material, and most of the traits listed in this paper- positive mental attitudes, possess self-awareness, are culturally diverse in their methodology, are good communicators and are versed in non-verbal communication, awareness of the laws in their state, awareness of the dangers of burnout, mindfulness, and empathy all come from the opinion of different sets of counselors who are themselves successful. Some of these traits are in born to the counselor, while others are learned. With the exception of burnout, strategies for effective learning are examined, while strategies for avoiding and coping with burnout are highlighted. The counseling relationship is unlike any other. It is a private and safe place where the client can feel free to express his or herself and receive help and understanding in a time when they may feel no one else can help them. It is imperative that counselors strive to be as effective in this relationship as they possibly can in order to fuel change in the client’s life. An effective counselor has many characteristics that facilitate that healing. Some are natural to them, some are taught in college or continuing education classes. Even further still, some are sought out by the counselor themselves. However they are acquired, the effective counselor will build up his or her portfolio of strategies in order to continue a high level of strength in the counselor-client relationship. Effective counselors have positive mental attitudes, are culturally diverse in their methodology, communicate well, are aware of the laws in their state, are aware of the  dangers of burnout, practice mindfulness, and are empathetic. Positive mental attitude is the basis of becoming an effective counselor. In a study published in 1971, Jackson and Thompson identified that effective counselors have positive attitudes toward â€Å"self, most people, most clients, and counseling.† This study was conducted with counselors who were already working in the field in order to find traits that were common among successful counselors. The purpose for this was for screening possible graduate students for admission into counseling programs. The school of thought among the participants in this study was that, while they had received training in various counseling techniques, that as a rule, once a counselor begins practice, they will revert back to the attitudes they once had at the begin ning of training. In their book, Competent Christian Counseling, Clinton and Ohlschlager assert that counselors should be comfortable in their understanding of counseling practices, professional skill, and their qualifications. (2002, p. 193) Clients do not want to enter therapy with a counselor who is unsure of themselves or nervous. An effective counselor will, to put it simply, â€Å"know what they know† and will have the natural positive attitudes to practice their trade successfully. Because of the intimate nature of the counseling relationship, a counselor has a responsibility to be self-aware. (Corey, Corey & Callanan, 2011, p. 44) They need to know where they have unmet needs in their life that may hinder a client’s progress. Areas of denial will greatly affect the counselor’s ability to help their client. Corey, Corey & Callanan suggest that all counselors enter into some sort of counseling themselves to help them stay aware of their own mental health and abilities.( p. 47) An effective counselor also has a multicultural view. The counselor should not hold the opinion that his or her culture is in any way superior to another person’s, and so must avoid becoming a culturally encapsulated counselor. (Corey, Corey, & Callanan, p. 117) He or she has made conscience steps to venture out of his or her own culture in an effort to experience and understand other cultures so that their personal issues, value system, or any sort of bias will not interfere with their counselor/client relationship with clients of a different culture. They should try to see the world through their client’s viewpoint. The culturally sensitive counselor should be aware of any type of prejudices or other negative feelings that may  interfere in the helping process. (Corey, Corey, & Callanan, p. 126) Being a culturally aware counselor should also include the ability to understand family dynamics within different cultures. With that, they should be able to understand roles of different family members in relation to each other. In some cultures, the male(s) of the household hold a dominant position over the female(s), despite birth order. Additionally, counselors should be able to respect and try to understand their clients’ religious beliefs. A counseling technique that may work for an American Christian may not work for a Hindu from India. A counselor must be sure to be versed in different counselling techniques for various religions. Of course, communication plays an important role in effective counseling. A good counselor will know when it is time to speak, to listen, or to allow silence t o remain to allow the client time to remember, or to think upon what was just said. Communication does not just involve words that are spoken; an attentive counselor will also be versed in high-context communication. High context communication, or non-verbal or inferred communication, is a valuable tool for the effective counselor. High context communication can be thought of as a cultural tool, in that some cultures are more adept at it. People from the Mediterranean area, Japan, Korea, China, parts of Africa, parts of the Middle East, and Latin America have high context communication ingrained in their culture. (Frederick, Leong, Altmaier, & Johnson, 2008) For instance, if a person said to someone else, â€Å"I really enjoy going to statistics class.† but rolled their eyes and crossed their arms, someone who is adept at high context communication will be able to take the comment as not particularly truthful, relying instead on the non-verbal cues exhibited. These cues are often used to suspect if a person is feeling something other than what was expressed verbally. Knowing the law of the state one is practicing in is essential to a counselor’s success. Not all states have the same laws in regards to duty to warn, duty to report, child custody cases, etc. (Feldman & Sommers, 2010) Being an effective counselor does not always mean only effective with one’s clients. It means effective with the community and society in general as well. Let us look at the famous Tarasoff case. In 1969, a student by the name of Prosenjit Poddar at the University of California, Berkeley confided in his therapist that he intended to kill a student for whom he had developed romantic feelings. Through his  descriptions, the therapist identified the student at Tatianna Tarasoff, and he alerted the campus police after conferring with his colleagues. The police detained Poddar, but found him to be rational, and released him. Poddar eventually killed Tarasoff. It was later ruled that the therapist should have warned Tarasoff. (Corey, Corey, & Callanan, 2011) Had the therapist followed through in regards to duty to warn, it is possible this tragedy could have been avoided. Burnout is a factor that effective counselors deal with successfully. Burnout can be defined as experienced stress manifesting itself in three ways. These are, according to Lent and Schwartz, â€Å"emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment.† (2012) Because counselors spend their day dealing with clients’ deep emotional and psychological problems, they must deal with the fact that their self-efficacy will be affected. There are many indicators that one is experiencing burnout, the lead symptom being neuroticism. (Lent & Schwarz, 2012) Neuroticism is characterized by feelings of anxiousness, feeling angry, being overly self-conscious, and feeling vulnerable. (Lent & Schwartz, 2012) The research conducted by Lent and Schwartz suggests that a counselor’s own personality may help combat this. They show that a counselor who is by nature more agreeable will be more interested in other’s lives and behave in a more altruistic way, thus reaping more benefits from their work and not experiencing burnout as often. (2012) Lent and Schwartz suggest three strategies to create a positive workplace and minimize burnout. Firstly, they suggest that counselors work with employers/supervisors to encourage a more healthy â€Å"other-care/self-care balance.† (2012) Secondly, counselors should seek out support from cohorts or mentors that can help them through times of stress, and relieve anxiety. A counselor should be aware that times of burnout are part of the profession, and to be expected, and asking for help from colleagues is nothing of which to be ashamed. Lastly, Lent and Schwartz suggest that a counselor become a mentor. They advocate that mentoring helps the counselor with working through their problems, because they are not as focused on just what is going on in their life. (2012) A strategy known as mindfulness can improve a counselor’s efficacy. Mindfulness is defined as â€Å"bringing one’s whole self into the encounter with clients by being completely in the moment on multiple levels: physically, emotionally, cognitively, and spiritually.† (Campbell &  Christopher, 2012) In a study reported by Campbell and Christopher, medical students who participated in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training raised their empathy for others and saw a reduction in their level of anxiety and depression. (2012) The research showed that after completing a course in mindfulness, participants reported becoming more â€Å"aware, patient, mentally focused, empathetic, compassionate, attentive, responsive, and able t o handle strong emotions.† They were also â€Å"less defensive, reactive and judgmental.† (Campbell & Christopher, 2012) In conclusion, in a study conducted by Pope and Kline, 22 counselors considered experts in their field ranked 10 different personality traits they feel are important for a counselor to possess in order to be successful. Interestingly, among the top three was empathy, and among the bottom three was sympathy. (1999) Sometimes, these two terms can be confused with one another. However, the website Dictionary.com states that sympathy and empathy both are connected to feelings one has for another person. While sympathy means to â€Å"feel with†, empathy means to â€Å"feel into.† (2013) The difference is that the counselor who has the ability to empathize will be able to actually feel their client’s hurt or frustration, and will ultimately be able to understand the client better. To put it in simple terms, one feels empathy when one has â€Å"been there† and one feels sympathy when one has not. (Dictionary.com, 2013) While effective counselors possess positive mental attitudes, are culturally diverse in their methodology, are good communicators, are aware of the laws in their state, and are aware of the dangers of burnout, one must also have empathy, and to gain empathy, or the ability to have â€Å"been there†; one must expand his or her own personal boundaries and borders to become, as Paul said in I Corinthians 9:22, â⠂¬Å"To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.† (KJV) References Campbell, J. C., & Christopher, J. C. (2012). Teaching mindfulness to create effective counselors. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 34(3), 213-226. Retrieved from:http://search.proquest.com/docview/1027919921?accountid=12085 Clinton, T. & Ohlschlager, G. (2001). Competent Christian Counseling: Volume one. Colorado Springs, CO: WaterBrook Press Corey, G., Corey, M., & Callanan, P. (2011). Issues and ethics in the helping professions: Eighth edition. Belmont, CA:Brooks/Cole. Dictionary.com. (2013). Word FAQs. Retrieved from: http://dictionary.reference.com/help/faq/language/d23.html Feldman, S. (Producer), & Sommers, G. (Director). (2010). Legal and Ethical Issues for Mental Health Professionals, Vol. 1: Confidentiality, Privilege, Reporting, and Duty to Warn [Motion picture]. (Available from Psychotherapy.net) Retrieved from: http://ctiv.alexanderstreet.com.ezproxy.liberty.edu:2048/view/1779007 Frederick, T., Leong, L., Altmaier, E.M., & Johnson, B.D. (2008). Encyclopedia of Counseling. Retrieved from: http://go.galegroup.com.ezproxy.liberty.edu:2048/ps/retrieve.do?sgHitCountType=None&sort=RELEVANCE&inPS=true&prodId=GVRL&userGroupName=vic_liberty&tabID=T003&searchId=R1&resultListType=RESULT_LIST&contentSegment=&searchType=AdvancedSearchForm ¤tPosition=3&contentSet=GALE|CX3074200401&&docId=GALE|CX3074200401&docType=GALE Jackson, M., & Thompson, C.L. (1971). Effective counselor: Characteristics and attitudes. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 18(3), 249-254. doi: 10.1037/h0030862. Retrieved from: http://psycnet.apa.org.ezproxy.liberty.edu:2048/journals/cou/18/3/249 Lent, J., & Schwartz, R. C. (2012). The impact of work setting, demographic characteristics, and personality factors related to burnout among professional counselors. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 34(4), 355-372. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1114670345?accountid=12085 Pope, V. & Kline, W. (1999). The personal characteristics of effective counselors: What 10 experts think. Psychological Reports, 84(3), 1339-44. Retrieved from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10477949

Is Intelligent design a scientific theory Essay

Is Intelligent design a scientific theory - Essay Example However, some individuals say that intelligence action is related with the origin of different characteristics of biological life. It is evident that intelligent design begins with forms of information, which are commonly observed to produce agents of intelligence in the real world. Atheist such as zoologist Dawkins argues that if biology is a study of complicated things, then the complications are as a result of appearance and purpose. Dawkins also argues that natural selection is what led to the intelligent design; this is as a result of the challenges met in meeting the demands in the environment. To add on this, theorists such as Stephen Meyer notes that intelligent design plays a substantial role in casual activities. From theories of the above philosophers, we can conclude that intelligent design is a scientific theory, which has a basis on empirical studies on the natural environment. Structures created through the promulgation of a Discovery Institute are intelligent designs products. The institute explains that structures occur from human intelligence and not natural processes. An ideal example is the existence of God, which is a teleological argument from the traditional contemporary adaptation. It defines the origin of life as a scientific theory other than an idea based on religion. Most arguments relate to the intelligent design which refers to God as the designer. The Discovery Institute is conservatively a political institution. The intelligent design uses the view point of theistic science, whose objective is to explain science e in a different way invoking supernatural structures. In supporting its belief, ID has put forward two arguments: the specified and the irreducible complexity. Scientific community prefers the methodological naturalism to the scientific extension in explaining the supernatural structures. The scientific community has further opposed the specified and the

Housing in UK Master Essay Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Major Causes of Rising House Prices in the UK - Research Paper Example Over the last thirty years, the housing prices in the UK have increased in real terms by nearly three per cent a year. This is in contrast to other countries like France, Sweden and Germany where real estate prices have remained broadly constant or even declined. The determination of prices in local and regional housing markets is a classic example of microeconomics in action. Each housing transaction in the UK depends on the price the seller is willing to sell his property and on the price the buyer is able to pay for it. Buyers place offers for a property that the seller can either accept or reject. When the market demand for properties in a particular area is high and when there is a shortage of quality properties (i.e. supply is scarce) then the seller has the upper hand. This is because there is likely to be excess demand in the market for good properties. Sellers can wait for offers on their property to reach (or exceed) their minimum selling price. Often multiple offers fuel an increase over and above the asking price. When demand both for new and older housing is weak and when there is a glut of properties available on the market, then the power switches to potential buyers. They have a much wider choice of housing available and they should be able to negotiate a price that is lower than the asking price.  When the demand for houses in a particular area increases due to say, an increase in population into the area, or a rise in incomes due to job growth etc., there is upward pressure on market prices.  

High School Graduation celeberation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

High School Graduation celeberation - Essay Example In some occasions the students receive a piece of paper wrapped in a ribbon; this is usually a mock of the diploma, which is awarded much latter. Students are thanked and appreciated during this ceremony for being able to complete the course and successfully graduating. In most cases the students are always present during the graduation and during speeches. In some cases some students a re also appointed to appreciate the teaches and the parents the parents are appreciated for letting the students go to school , the teachers are mentioned to have worked with the students tirelessly to see them through education and finally graduating. Students are then asked to form alumni. In this way, they are requested to support the school in all possible means as will as coming back to the school to encourage other students to work hard and look forward to such a graduation as that. In other institutions they are requested to support the school financially may be in its expansion .the immediate former students of each school should act as role models of all the remaining students. Supporting the school may even include holding fundraising in support of the school in many matters which include paying school fees for needy students in the school or building up a project in the same school. Most parents are aware that a successful education involves more than the teachers and the students , they are also supposed to be part of the learning experience. To succeed, the parents are also supposed to include their support in all ways possible including financial and moral support .the parents should form a parent and teacher’ s organization or committee so that they are able to discuss matters that should help the school. Competition is very healthy in every day life and so should it be even in education, healthy competition is where one competes with himself first before competing with the rest of the students as well as other schools latter in the education

Beethoven's Hearing Loss & Its Effect On His Music Research Paper

Beethoven's Hearing Loss & Its Effect On His Music - Research Paper Example He was born in 1770 and in around 1800, his hearing sense started to deplete with every passing day and in some years, he was totally deaf to hear anything around him. This sorrowful event in his life did not only affect his life, rather his whole career was at the stake and he had to abandon the pianist classes and performances. Ludvig continued to compose different lyrics for music and shows but his art of singing and performing live was depleting swiftly. He was of the view the music is being affected badly by his performance being deaf. Dissonant harmonies are a must to feel and hear when you are performing on a public platform to imbibe and integrate the learning capacity in music. He as not unable to hear anything thus he had to leave singing and performing in the general masses1. The early strike of deafness isolated Ludvig Beethoven because of the fact that this great artist was at the peak of his career when the deafness started. Experts are of the view that if this deafness would not have been struck Ludvig , he would have become a great director and virtuoso pianist. Ludvig was a man of a few words form the very first day and his aim was only to performance rather than to speak but deafness forced him to stay out of any social circle. The deafness was very slow and growing erratically. The slow augmentation of hearing problems broke the heart of Beethoven and pushed him to leave his career. Many artists tried to make Ludvig understand the fact that there is a peculiar originality in hiswork because when person hears other sounds, there is an increased chance and tendency of copying the content whereas in case of Ludvig, there was uniqueness and creativity not only in his work but also in his style, his pianist approach, his lyrics but all these motivation could not inject the sense of performing and singing in front of people because he thought it would affect the music itself. When Ludvig was 26 years old, in the year of 1796, he started to experien ce the symptoms of deafness when he heard the tinnitus, a "ringing" in his ears. According to the letter written by Beethoven to his friendin 1801, it is depicted that Beethoven always wanted to continue his career at the start when the magnitude of the deafness was not known to anyone. He wrote to his friends that these days heis suffering from hear loss symptoms and how he is much worried about the effect of this problem on his profession. Beethoven continued to go for the musical concerts and public events despite of the deteriorating hearing condition. In the stage performance of his Ninth Symphony, he had to move his face towards the audience to experience the big applause on his performance. He was so shocked on this that he wept in front of the whole audience2. Many experts and historians are of the view that Beethoven wanted to appear in pubic even after the depletion of his hearing power because at the start, he said that hearing has nothing to do with singing and I can con tinue with my career. But after a failed public attempt in 1811 to perform his own Piano Concerto No. 5 (the "Emperor"), he never tried to perform in public again and his perception about the links between deafness and singing were revamped. He said that due to the inability to understand and evaluate one’s performance with his own ear, it is not possible to keep

The Concept of Self-regulation Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

The Concept of Self-regulation - Assignment Example Talking Points: 1. Students bring information to their class that was formed by their experience. This information stuck with me because some professors ask about your experience and others do not. I think that ones experience is very important to overall learning because it lays a foundation so that the learner can relate new learning to something they already know. 2. Ausubel’s information was interesting. I was interested in his ideas on anchoring because I become overwhelmed easily. If a teacher starts with a lot of information immediately and then goes to specific information, I sometimes get lost. I think Ausubel’s idea of anchoring works better for me (specific information to general). 3. Making instructional materials meaningful is important because as a student, I need the information I am reading to be relevant to me. When I am in a class that does not make sense to me, I have a harder time understanding what I am supposed to do. 4. I also thought it was inter esting when the author said that most students already know something about any new topic, or they can make connections between what they already know and what they are learning. I do not think that learners always make the connections though. I think that there are things that are taught in high school that would be helpful in college, but we do not always remember what we learned. 5. I also found this chapter explained why I do well in some subjects and not so well in others. The text says that if a student is having trouble learning something, the materials should be changed to materials that explain the concept more thoroughly. I do think that in some situations, even the materials break concepts down, the student may still have problems if the subject is one they have problems in like science, math or English. 1. The quote that I liked in this chapter was â€Å"This means that the social interactions they encounter could lead to developmental delays or abnormal development as well as to normal or accelerated development†.

Informative speech of animals'(dogs) cushing syndrome Essay

Informative speech of animals'(dogs) cushing syndrome - Essay Example hich causes high levels of cortisone to appear  in the blood.   It is also called hypercortisolism, when referring to the human condition, and, as mentioned earlier, hyperadrenocorticism, when referring to the canine condition (CCS), and  these two terms can be used interchangeably.   The condition was named after an American surgeon and endocrinologist named Harvey Cushing (1869-1939) who first discovered the disease in 1932. Now, what is Cortisone? Cortisone, a steroid which is naturally-produced by the adrenal glands, is one of the essential hormones needed by the body. It functions primarily in carbohydrate metabolism. Now being manufactured artificially, Cortisone has been found useful as a drug to cure a number of ailments (Wikipedia,1). Although cortisone may have positive effects on the body like curing certain illnesses, having more than the recommended amount of cortisone can also be harmful. Cortisone is said to stop inflammation and therefore it also stops the healing process, that is, if normal amounts are exceeded. It is said that over-production of cortisone, may cause systemic illness – in this particular case, for canines. Some symptoms of CCS in dogs are: excessive drinking and urination, increased appetite, having a â€Å"pot belly† or abdominal distention, and loss of hair on the trunk. So when you see your pet panting and asking for more water, or always getting hungry and begging for food, do not disregard these tell-tale signs. Most dogs with CCS cannot be satisfied with the amount of fluids or food they take. They always get hungry and thirsty, and because their body cannot absorb what they take in, they usually urinate and defecate a lot. In the advanced stage, the dog usually gains weight, has a distended stomach, shows muscle weakness, and is lethargic. It is therefore imperative that a pet owner should know if his / her pet is not acting normally so that the disease may be treated at its early stage. Now that we have seen

American government Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

American government - Essay Example The ruling which opened the floodgates to unlimited corporate and union spending in elections was a major victory for the groups which wanted to participate in the campaign process but had been barred from doing so by the laws. On top of that the Supreme Court ruled that donors need not to be disclosed and so it will be no longer be possible to tell which interest groups are funding which politicians. I do not agree with the Supreme Court’s ruling on this matter. By allowing the groups to give their independent contributions in the campaigns then they will be acting to manipulate the will of the people as with such funding they will be able to impose the candidate that they want to be voted for against the other candidates. This cannot be protected as free speech on the above argued basis. The contributions the groups make towards the campaigns should be regulated and the names of the contributors should be made public so that they can shy off from such expedition. By concentrating on the super PAC Stephen Colbert wanted to raise unlimited sums of money from corporations, unions and other groups as well as wealthy individuals. He specified that the money raised would not only be used for political ads but also for normal administrative expenses which would include private jet travels, hotel stays, and PAC mementos from Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. In this way Colbert was able to raise $1.02 million in their January 2012 filing with the Federal Election Commission (FEC). The decision and the resulting Super PACs have the potential to increase one’s ability to influence elections. By having the money it means that the best strategies will be put into place and this will definitely have a positive impact on the results of the election. The increased amount of money drawn from outside sources will change the face of politics and the results as well. The groups funding the candidates will also have a say once the

Music Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 15

Music - Essay Example The written parts of music were created for Bennett’s stunning ensemble called Decibel. The work was inspired by paintings of Marcel Dzama, a Canadian painter. The chosen composition is the first part of the album; it virtually opens â€Å"Dzama stories†. â€Å"Vagabonds and Blood from the Earth† is surely a powerful composition for the album opening (in combination with the calm intro). Here, like in the rest of the album, Bennett created a powerful and balanced interplay of structural written music fragments and immediate striking improvisation. Then, the sharp â€Å"edge† between calm fragment of the introduction and â€Å"blitzkriegs of turbulence, throbbing and thumping in turn† (Graham) seems to be rather innovative and daring, and the composition is significant as a part of Bennett’s â€Å"sound† representation (or â€Å"reading†) of Dzama’s works. To my thinking, the composition is virtually overwhelming in terms of emotional charge, and even thrilling (due to piercing strings and sharp dramatic transitions between calm and intense parts). In the moments of intensification (when strings reach especially high pitches and the entire composition becomes chaotic to some extent), th is piece could even be associated with a horror movie or a thriller. However, despite my deep respect towards the talent and creativity of this composer, this piece evokes rather negative and turbulent emotions in me: anxiety and some intangible

Influence of Reference Groups Essay Example for Free

Influence of Reference Groups Essay When you think about reference groups, there are a number of perspectives that one has to consider. According to Hawkins (2010), a reference group is a group whose presumed perspectives or values are being used by an individual as the basis for his or her current behavior. Thus, a reference group is simply a group that an individual uses as a guide for behavior in a specific situation (p. 227). Groups may be classified according to a number of variables. Four criteria are particularly useful: membership, strength of social tie, type of contact, and attraction. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world. A sisterhood of more than 200,000 predominately Black college educated women, the Sorority currently has over 900 chapters located in the United States, England, Japan (Tokyo and Okinawa), Germany, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Bahamas and the Republic of Korea. The Sorority was founded in 1913 by 22 students at Howard University. These young women wanted to use their collective strength to promote academic excellence; to provide scholarships; to provide support to the underserved; educate and stimulate participation in the establishment of positive public policy; and to highlight issues and provide solutions for problems in their communities (Delta Sigma Theta, 2010). Delta Sigma Theta’s website is about heritage. This site speaks volumes about how these women wanted to be a part of an organization that consists of excellence. These women have a lifetime membership within the sorority. The influence that this organization has, as well as the site, is remarkable. The information on this site will allow younger women that have the desire to go to college and be a part of an organization that helps one excel, not only in school, but also in the workforce as well. This site has all the criteria of a basic reference group. The social ties that this organization has within the world are by far the best for young women that are willing to be a part of change. People that have â€Å"made it† when it comes to financial stability may feel that they are affluent in the society. There are people that have made millions and they do stand alone when it comes to affording â€Å"the better things† in life. Bentley’s website is attractive because the vehicle shows class. The influence that this vehicle has on a person’s financial status is undoubtedly the car of all cars. A Bentley is unmistakable – all it takes is a glance at the twin headlights, matrix grille or the high waistline to know one. The paradox of the car is that although it is instantly recognizable, it takes time and effort to hand-build each one. That’s the assured Bentley hallmark. A hand-built car using the finest quality natural materials takes time. Yet, while others may do things ‘meticulously’ or ‘painstakingly’, Bentley has always been about passion. In fact, our entire reputation rests on the experienced skills and passion of our people, handed down through generations. Many of our people say that they work on each Bentley as if it were going to be their car. They want to get it right. It’s no wonder that every machinist who creates a set of upholstery signs the back of it with his or her initials (Bentley, 2010). Once again Bentley’s website is about class and luxury. This site tells a story about smoothness when it comes to highway. There is nothing like being comfortable while traveling on highway or down the street to the mailbox. People that are attractive to the glitz and glamour will definitely enjoy riding either in the backseat of a spacious vehicle or driving behind the wheel. The six-time success at Le Mans has made Bentley more than a car it has come to stand for a way of doing things: with spirit, flair, courage, instinctive intelligence and teamwork. Endurance racing has always been a way for us to test, strengthen and improve the cars.

Safeguarding Children in Social Work

Safeguarding Children in Social Work To answer this question I am going to critically evaluate the impact of direct work with children from a safeguarding perspective which will include children who have been placed in foster care as a direct consequence. In addition I will identify and critically assess the impact of current legislation and research on the lives of children. I will first explain direct work and its importance; secondly I will evaluate the impact of conducing direct work with children in light of legislation and policy and thirdly critically evaluate the critical issues highlighted in the theory behind the use of observation. Hapgood, 1988 ( cited in Fahlberg, 2012: 338 ) posits that; â€Å"direct work with children is used to enable children to understand significant events in the past, confront the feelings that are secondary to those events, and become more fully involved in the future planning of their lives†. Social work with children can be challenging especially as they are working with individuals who are not fully developed and may not be able to express their needs as adults can. It is at this point that a firm understanding of how to obtain information from children is understood in order to protect them, Winter, (2011). Direct work with children can take many forms and typically consists of; Listening, communication, observations and interacting with the child, (Winter, 2011). There are a variety of tools and mechanisms that can be used to undertake direct work with children and family’s such as; using drawings, life story work, playing games and using toys, (Ruch, 2014). Carroll, (1998) illustrates some tools that can be used with children such as; Treasure Island and magical houses, during my practice placement I used some of these tools as part of the single assessment, a single assessment is a holistic framework used by social work professionals which is based on an ecological approach to assessing children under three different domains, (Ferguson, 2011). For example I worked with a child who had been exposed to parental abuse and was subsequently placed in foster care. To establish a relationship with the child and explore the child’s experiences I used the Treasure Island task wh ich allowed me to establish the child’s relationships, which the child has a strong attachment with and or any concerns with their relationships, McMahon, (1992). Subsequently conducting direct work has come from lessons learnt from the past, an Ofsted report highlights that the previous focus has been on the parents and not the child, Ofsted,(2009 / 2010). To illustrate a young girl was a victim of a sexual assault by a male known to her mother, her mother misused drugs and alcohol, it was found that the girl was only spoken to once and her wishes and feelings had not been prioritised thus leaving her in a vulnerable position open to the attack, (Ofsted, 2009 / 2010). With this in mind in and reflecting on my practice from the previous example, I would adapt some of the tasks I used in this scenario; this is because I found the magical house task was too advanced for younger children: it may have been more appropriate if I used the buttons task because using objects can make things easier for younger children to understand. The impact of serious case reviews and inquiries have seen a drive to integrate direct work into social work practice which has been reinforced by legislation. The Children Act, 1989 (as amended by section 53 (4a) of the Children Act 2004) requires that the local authorities give due regard to a child’s wishes and feelings, of which S.22 (4a) Children Act 1989 includes those children that are or maybe looked after by the local authority. The Working Together To Safeguard Children’s Guidelines 2013 further strengthened these obligations as it was found, in the Daniel Pelka’s serious case review that Daniel was not spoken too until too late and at that point may not have been able to articulate himself, therefore his wishes and feelings had not been heard if they had been heard this may have saved Daniel from his untimely death, (Lock et al,2013). The importance of the Child’s Voice is also enshrined in Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 which requires; † the Local Authority to ascertain the ‘ wishes and feelings’ of children and give due consideration (with regard to the child’s age and understanding) to these when determining what services to provide, or what action to take†, ( Munro, 2011:24). In addition the UK has ratified in 1992 with The United Convention of the Rights of the Child, (UNCRC), of which Article 12 (1) states; â€Å"Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own views the right to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child†, (UNCRC,1989: 5). The local authority must also follow the; National Minimum Standards for both Adoption (2013) and Fostering (2011) which is used in inspections by Ofsted. While the Children and Families Act, 2014 affords children greater protection and support ensuring all children can be successful, Donovan , (2014) . However although legislation has reinforced the need for direct work with children there are challenges that persist in its use, ( Ruch, 2014). Luckock, (2013) argued that with the increase in legislative controls this has had an impact on the beauracracy within social work, and as Ferguson, (2011) argues this may lead practice to becomes target driven and service led rather than client led. Furthermore Ferguson, (2011) purports that practioner skills are being eroded because of the time spent at their desks typing out assessments and meeting statutory requirements. For example on my practice placement I have had experience of completing paper work for a child whom became a Looked After Child by the Local Authority, the administration that was generated from this process restricted me to the office for at least three days because statutory guidelines require that; LAC reports, court reports and legal meetings must be completed within specific timeframes. The Working Together Guidelin es reinforce this need for protocol for instance by stipulating that; â€Å" every assessment should be focused on outcomes†, (Working Together To Safeguard Children, 2013:22), which could perhaps be seen as leading towards a service led practice instead of child centred practice. In addition social care staff have also highlighted that they feel as if they are working in a culture of fear such that, any display of warmth towards a child could be misconstrued as unprofessional and exploitative, ( Mcleod, 2010). This raises difficulties for professionals when they conduct direct work with children and hope to form a relationship that allows the child to feel comfortable speaking about their experiences, (Tyler et al, 2005, cited in Oliver, 2010). Notably when Looked After Children were asked what they wanted from their social worker, they said; â€Å" they would like their social worker to be like a friend† (Oliver,2010: 29). This Current research and theory have also had an impact on the use of direct work in the lives of children who need safeguarding or who are Looked After by the Local Authority, (Luckock, 2013). Development theory such as attachment by Bowlby, (1969) can inform direct work with children to obtain the child’s wishes and feelings, observation is a method which can inform and use attachment theory to aide in the assessment process (Sharman et al, 2004). During my practice placement, I used observation as a method to inform my assessment. I observed a one year old child who became Looked After by the Local Authority. I observed the Child at the foster carer’s house, during my observation I noted that the young girl had trust issues, this was indicative from her behaviour; she would not have eye contact with adults and if she did look she would cry inconsolably. Importantly she did not allow her foster carer to touch her, she would push her hand away. When she was placed in her p lay pen she could scream uncontrollably and rock back and forth, her head was also flat which was an indication that, she had been left in one spot over long periods. Prior to this observation I planned how I would conduct the observation. I thought about the key purpose of the observation and from my thought process I concluded that I needed to ascertain what the infants’ attachment style was, (see Ainsworth, 1969). In addition I needed to observe the child’s relationships with others to establish how the infant had been emotionally affected by her mother’s maltreatment. As the child was Looked After it was the LA statutory duty to visit the child in the foster placement therefore consent was not an issue at this time. I also thought about which observation method I should use, I used the naturalistic style of observation, this meant I had to sit quietly and observe the child, it also meant that I must be careful not to make eye contact, I made notes in the present tense and my main focus was on the infant, (Fawcett, 2009). However practitioners must be aware of how their own personal and cultural experiences can have an impact on the observation, (Fawcett, 2009). Lord Laming, (2003) illustrates this point in the Victoria Climbie report by suggesting that; the focus was on Victoria’s heritage and cultural background and because of this, it acted as a barrier for professionals in assessing the need of the child, of which the need was that of any child who was suffering from abuse irrespective of cultural explanations. With this in mind Fawcett, (2009) suggests that typically, we tend to have a set hypothesis when observing and as such we try to find evidence to fit that theory, what Fawcett, (2009) explains is that we need to have an open approach to observation and think holistically. For example, I had to be mindful that although I was aware of the mum’s case history and that the case was going to court, I had to ensure that I was not looking for evidence to support the court report but t hat my task was to assess holistically. Furthermore there are strengths and limitations of using the naturalistic method of observation. The strengths to this approach is that; one is able to keep an ecological picture of the situation, notes can be taken immediately thus insuring the observation records are as accurate as possible and that it is in a natural setting, (Sharman, 2004). For example, because I was able to write the notes as the observation was happening I managed to get the intricate details , for instance her hand gestures which I may have forgotten had I written the notes later. However Sharman, (2004) noted that the limitations to the naturalistic approach raised dilemma’s such that there was no direction as to what data should be collected and the data that was collected was subsequently amassed together without structure. Reflecting back on my practice with this observation, I would have preferred to observe the child with both of the foster carers present, because the female foster carer told us that the young girl was afraid of female carers but was comfortable around the male carer her husband, it would have strengthened the assessment if I was able to observe this early on in the placement. In addition to the strengths and weaknesses of naturalistic observations another aspect to be aware of is the impact of the observer’s emotional responses in the observation (Fahlberg, 2012). For instance in my observation I had to manage my emotions when watching the child in distress, because that would have clouded my judgement of the situation. Trowell and Miles, (2009) suggests that the observers need to realise what observations are their own emotional responses and thoughts and these need to be separated and noted which emotions have come from the observer and which is the child’s. Luckock, (2013) argues that if the observers emotions are not acknowledged and examined this may lead to a different outcome of the observation as your own emotions may distort your judgement of what is actually occurring. Similarly Fawcett, (2009) highlights that the observer needs to be aware that every child is unique in for example in temperament and may not react the same way beca use their developmental path which is a mixture of biological and environmental experiences. The Every Child Matters agenda recognises such differences and purports to highlight that child development is holistic and must thus be assessed as such, Fawcett, (2009). As discussed previously consent for this observation was not problematic however at times it can be. I have had to manage a situation when this has been an issue; a young 15 year old boy had been maltreated. Children’s Social Care (CSC) wanted to observe the boy in school to see his attachment behaviour to inform their assessment. CSC would not have been able to speak with the child without permission from the parents and this was not an option. As the local authority did not have parental responsibility this can pose as a dilemma for practitioners who are assessing children that may be at risk of significant harm. However in some instances the local Authority can assess the child as Gillick competent, NSPCC, (2015) this means that the local authority are saying that the child who is under 16 is mature enough to give consent for example to being observed, NSPCC (2015). Gaining consent for the observation and using clauses such as Gillick competence raises issues of power and how social workers should work in an anti – oppressive and anti – discriminatory way, (Luckock, 2013). Essentially observation can be oppressive for the child, it can perhaps make the child feel uncomfortable and highlights the power imbalance between them and the professional, Luckock, (2013). Therefore Baldwin, (1994) posits that groups that have less power for example; children, the elderly and BME groups should be assessed on the basis of being â€Å"seen and heard† (p,79). Similarly observers need to recognise that society views for example about; being Gay, black or disabled are not necessarily positively viewed as for instance being a heterosexual white male. Therefore these differences need to be recognised when observing and the observer should perhaps use a socio – cultural frame work and discuss the observation afterwards with a supervisor as this allows for a reflective stance when making judgements, and could help achieve records that are as accurate as possible,(Hsu and Arnold, 2006). Overall legislation, policy and research has had an impact on direct work, legislation as discussed has reinforced and compelled the use of direct work in practice. This has can be seen as a positive influence leading to a child centred way of working which may be beneficial for children as they will have a voice and receive the required help. On the other hand research into how direct work can be effective for example; in observation can help to inform the direct work process and insure that children’s experiences and lives are being assessed accurately as possible.

The Qingming Festival

The Qingming Festival The Qingming Festival, Clear Bright Festival, Ancestors Day or Tomb Sweeping Day is a traditional Chinese festival on the 104th day after the winter solstice (or the 15th day from the Spring Equinox), usually occurring around April 5 of the Gregorian calendar (see Chinese calendar). Astronomically it is also a solar term (See Qingming). The Qingming festival falls on the first day of the fifth solar term, named Qingming. Its name denotes a time for people to go outside and enjoy the greenery of springtime (TÃ  qÄ «ng, treading on the greenery) and tend to the graves of departed ones. Qingming has been regularly observed as a statutory public holiday in Taiwan and in the Chinese jurisdictions of Hong Kong and Macau. Its observance was reinstated as a public holiday in mainland China in 2008, after having been previously suppressed by the ruling Communist Party in 1949. Tomb Sweeping Day and Clear Bright Festival are the most common English translations of Qingming Festival. Tomb Sweeping Day is used in several English language newspapers published in Taiwan. Qinming Festival originated from Hanshi Day (literally, Day with cold food only), memorial day for Jie Zitui (or Jie Zhitui,). He died in 636 BC in the Spring and Autumn Period. He was one of many followers of Duke Wen of Jin before he became Duke. One time during Duke Wen of Jins 19 years of exile, they didnt have any food, and Jie prepared some meat soup for Duke Wen of Jin, who enjoyed it a lot and wondered where Jie got the soup. It turned out Jie cut a piece of meat from his own thigh to make the soup. Duke Wen of Jin was so moved, he promised to reward him on day. However Jie was not the type of people who sought rewards, instead, he just wanted to help Duke Wen of Jin to return to Jin to become Duke. Once Duke Wen of Jin succeeded the throne of Duke, Jie resigned and stayed away from the Duke. Duke Wen of Jin rewarded the people who helped him in the decades, but for some reason, he forgot to reward Jie, who by then had moved into the forest with his mother. Duke Wen of Jin we nt to the forest, but couldnt find Jie. Heeding suggestions from his officials, Duke Wen of Jin ordered to set the forest in fire to force out Jie, however, Jie died in the fire. Feeling so remorse, Duke Wen of Jin ordered the 3 days without fire to honor Jies memory. The county where Jie died is still called Jiexiu (literally meaning the place Jie resting forever). Qingming has a tradition stretching back more than 2,500 years.[4] Its origin is credited to the Tang Emperor Xuanzong in 732. Wealthy citizens in China were reportedly holding too many extravagant and ostentatiously expensive ceremonies in honour of their ancestors. Emperor Xuanzong, seeking to curb this practice, declared that respects could be formally paid at ancestors graves only on Qingming.[5] The observance of Qingming found a firm place in Chinese culture and continued uninterrupted for over two millennia. In 1949 the Communist Party of China repealed the holiday. Observance of Qingming remained suppressed until 2008, when the Party reinstated the holiday. The Qingming Festival is an opportunity for celebrants to remember and honor their ancestors at grave sites. Young and old pray before the ancestors, sweep the tombs and offer food, tea, wine, chopsticks, (joss) paper accessories, and/or libation to the ancestors. The rites have a long tradition in Asia, especially among farmers. Some people carry willow branches with them on Qingming, or put willow branches on their gates and/or front doors. They believe that willow branches help ward off the evil spirit that wanders on Qingming. Also on Qingming people go on family outings, start the spring plowing, sing, dance, and Qingming is a time where young couples start courting. Another popular thing to do is fly kites (in shapes of animals or characters from Chinese opera). Others carry flowers instead of burning paper, incense or firecrackers as is common. The holiday is often marked by people paying respects to those who died in events considered sensitive in China. The April Fifth Movement and the Tiananmen Incident were major events on Qingming that took place in the history of the Peoples Republic of China. When Premier Zhou Enlai died in 1976, thousands visited him during the festival to pay their respects. Many also pay respects to victims of the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989 and the graves of Zhao Ziyang and Yang Jia in areas where rights of free expression are generally recognized, as in Hong Kong; in most areas of China such observances are suppressed and all public mention of such subjects is taboo.[4][6] In Taiwan the national holiday is observed on April 5 because the ruling Kuomintang moved it to that date in commemoration of the death of Chiang Kai-shek on April 5. The holiday is nevertheless observed in the traditional manner, with families gathering to honour their own ancestors, visit and maintain their family shri nes, and share traditional meals. Despite having no holiday status, the overseas Chinese communities in Southeast Asian nations such as those in Singapore and Malaysia take this festival seriously; deep in heritage, rituals and strict decorum. Qing Ming in Malaysia is an elaborate family function or a clan feast (usually organized by the respective clan association) to commemorate and honor their late relations at grave site and their distant ancestry of China at home altar, clan temple or a makeshift altar in a Buddhist or Taoist temple. For the oversea community, Qing ming festival is very much a family heritage and at the same, a family obligation. The overseas Chinese see this festival as a time to reflect, honor and give thanks to their forefathers. The oversea Chinese normally visit the graves of their late relations at the nearest weekend of the actual date. According to the ancient custom, grave site veneration is only feasible 10 days before and after Qingming Festival. If the visit is not on the actual date normally veneration before Qingming is encouraged. Qingming Festival in Malaysia and Singapore normally started early in the morning, with the ancestral veneration at home altar- paying respect to the distant ancestors from China. This would be followed by visiting the graves of their close relations in the country. Some would take the extent of filial piety to visit the graves of their ancestors in mainland China. Traditionally, family will burn paper money (paper have imprint of money) and paper replica of some material good such car, maid, home, phone, and etc. In Chinese culture, even though a person died, he/she may still need all of these in the afterlife. There should always an even number of dishes put in front of the grave and a bowl of rice with incense stick upright. Then, family members start taking turn to bow before the tomb of the ancestors. Bowing will go in order, which starts with the most senior member of the family and so on. After the ancestor worship at the gr ave site, the whole family or the whole clan would be feasting the food and drinks they brought for the worship at the site or nearby gardens in the memorial park, signifying family reunion with the ancestors. Hanshi, the day before Qingming, was created by Chonger, the Duke Wen of the state of Jin during the Spring and Autumn Period. The festival was established after Chonger accidentally burned to death his personal friend and servant Jie Zhitui (or Jie Zitui) and Jie Zituis mother. Chonger ordered the hills they were hiding in set on fire in hopes that Jie Zitui would return to his service, but the fire killed Jie and his mother. On Hanshi, people were not allowed to use fires to heat up food, thus nicknaming it the Cold Food Festival. Eventually, 300 years ago, the Hanshi celebration was combined with the Qingming festival, but later abandoned by most people. The Qingming festival holiday holds significance in Chinese Tea culture since this specific day divides the fresh green teas by their picking dates. Green teas made from leaves picked before this date is given the prestigious pre-qingming or mingqian designation which commands a much higher price tag. These teas are prized for having much lighter and subtler aromas than those picked after the festival.(I download the last two paragraph from the internet)

Differences Between Management and Leadership Essay -- Business Manage

Differences Between Management and Leadership Management and leadership are often used in the same context, yet they do not mean the same thing. Managers think incrementally, while leaders think radically. The difference in the perspectives is that leaders tend to lead with emotion and concern for their subordinates. Managers tend to follow guidelines and company policies. Managers also use management functions to achieve their desired goals. Loyalty is important amongst leaders. Team members tend to be more loyal to their leaders than their managers. This is due in part to leaders accepting the blame for when things go wrong, celebrating team/group achievements and giving credit when it is due. Managers do not interact with their subordinates as much as leaders do. A manager is someone who must be obeyed and a leader is someone who people choose to follow. The fact that teams can operate without a leader defines leaders as an asset and not essential to team success. Managers and leaders may often clash due to difference of opinions and views. Although a team is knowledgeable on who the manager is, a subordinate may often appear to be an informal leader. At this point a manager may feel that his or her authority may be in question. Managers must be able to accept ideas and views from their subordinates. Although, they (managers) may have the formal education for their position, it is experience and common knowledge that sets leaders apart from managers. Management usually consists of people who are experienced in their field, and who have worked their way up the company. A manager knows how each layer of the system works and may also possess a good technical knowledge. A leader can be a new arrival to a company who has bold, fresh, new ideas but might not have experience or wisdom The role of a leader is to ensure that the desired tasks and guidelines are implemented throughout the team. Managers can not be everywhere at once, which is why leaders are often put into place to echo management’s requirements. Leaders are the link between the team and management. Therefore leaders should show more compassion and understanding of the team. Since they interact with the team more frequently, they can speak on the team’s behalf for the positive and negative. L... ... be able to do. I feel comfortable as a leader, and strong within my convictions. In conclusion, managing and leading are two different ways to organize people. Although many leaders have a charismatic style to some extent, this does not require a loud personality. They are always good with people, and quiet styles that give credit to others (and takes blame on themselves) are very effective at creating the loyalty that great leaders engender. Although leaders are good with people, this does not mean they are friendly with them. In order to keep the mystique of leadership, they often retain a degree of separation and aloofness. This does not mean that leaders do not pay attention to tasks - in fact they are often very achievement-focused. What they do realize, however, is the importance of enthusing others to work towards their vision. References Pascale, Richard (1990), ‘ Managing on the Edge’, Penguin Book, pp 65. Fenton, John ( 1990), ‘ 101 Ways to Boost Your Business Performance’, Mandarin Business, pp 113, 1990 http://changingminds.org/disciplines/leadership/articles/manager_leader.htm Retrieved 28 August 2005 Differences Between Management and Leadership Essay -- Business Manage Differences Between Management and Leadership Management and leadership are often used in the same context, yet they do not mean the same thing. Managers think incrementally, while leaders think radically. The difference in the perspectives is that leaders tend to lead with emotion and concern for their subordinates. Managers tend to follow guidelines and company policies. Managers also use management functions to achieve their desired goals. Loyalty is important amongst leaders. Team members tend to be more loyal to their leaders than their managers. This is due in part to leaders accepting the blame for when things go wrong, celebrating team/group achievements and giving credit when it is due. Managers do not interact with their subordinates as much as leaders do. A manager is someone who must be obeyed and a leader is someone who people choose to follow. The fact that teams can operate without a leader defines leaders as an asset and not essential to team success. Managers and leaders may often clash due to difference of opinions and views. Although a team is knowledgeable on who the manager is, a subordinate may often appear to be an informal leader. At this point a manager may feel that his or her authority may be in question. Managers must be able to accept ideas and views from their subordinates. Although, they (managers) may have the formal education for their position, it is experience and common knowledge that sets leaders apart from managers. Management usually consists of people who are experienced in their field, and who have worked their way up the company. A manager knows how each layer of the system works and may also possess a good technical knowledge. A leader can be a new arrival to a company who has bold, fresh, new ideas but might not have experience or wisdom The role of a leader is to ensure that the desired tasks and guidelines are implemented throughout the team. Managers can not be everywhere at once, which is why leaders are often put into place to echo management’s requirements. Leaders are the link between the team and management. Therefore leaders should show more compassion and understanding of the team. Since they interact with the team more frequently, they can speak on the team’s behalf for the positive and negative. L... ... be able to do. I feel comfortable as a leader, and strong within my convictions. In conclusion, managing and leading are two different ways to organize people. Although many leaders have a charismatic style to some extent, this does not require a loud personality. They are always good with people, and quiet styles that give credit to others (and takes blame on themselves) are very effective at creating the loyalty that great leaders engender. Although leaders are good with people, this does not mean they are friendly with them. In order to keep the mystique of leadership, they often retain a degree of separation and aloofness. This does not mean that leaders do not pay attention to tasks - in fact they are often very achievement-focused. What they do realize, however, is the importance of enthusing others to work towards their vision. References Pascale, Richard (1990), ‘ Managing on the Edge’, Penguin Book, pp 65. Fenton, John ( 1990), ‘ 101 Ways to Boost Your Business Performance’, Mandarin Business, pp 113, 1990 http://changingminds.org/disciplines/leadership/articles/manager_leader.htm Retrieved 28 August 2005

Samuel Becketts Waiting for Godot as an Existentialist Play Essay

Waiting for Godot as an Existentialist Play   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The play, Waiting For Godot, is centred around two men, Estragon and Vladimir, who are waiting for a Mr. Godot, of whom they know little. Estragon admits himself that he may never recognize Mr. Godot, "Personally I wouldn't know him if I ever saw him." (p.23). Estragon also remarks, "†¦ we hardly know him." (p.23), which illustrates to an audience that the identity of Mr. Godot is irrelevant, as little information is ever given throughout the play about this indefinable Mr. X. What is an important element of the play is the act of waiting for someone or something that never arrives. Western readers may find it natural to speculate on the identity of Godot because of their inordinate need to find answers to questions. Beckett however suggests that the identity of Godot is in itself a rhetorical question. It is possible to stress the for in the waiting for †¦: to see the purpose of action in two men with a mission, not to be deflected from their compulsive task. " Estragon: †¦ Let's go. Vladimir: We can't. Estragon: Why not? Vladimir: We're waiting for Godot." (p.14). The essence of existentialism concentrates on the concept of the individual's freedom of choice, as opposed to the belief that humans are controlled by a pre-existing omnipotent being, such as God. Estragon and Vladimir have made the choice of waiting, without instruction or guidance, as Vladimir says, "He didn't say for sure he'd come" (p.14), but decides to "wait till we know exactly how we stand" (p.18). Albert Camus, an existentialist writer, believed that boredom or waiting, which is essentially the breakdown of routine or habit, caused people to think seriously about their identity,... ...h other or from their situation in general. The optimistic view of the play shows a range of human emotion and the need to share experiences alongside the suffering of finite existence; governed by the past, acting in the present and uncertain of the future. Works Cited and Consulted Alvarez, A. Samuel Beckett. New York: Viking, 1973. Beckett, Samuel. Waiting for Godot: A Tragicomedy in Two Acts. New York: Grove, 1953. ClassicNote.com by GradeSaver. J. N. Smith. Aug. 1999. Web. 27 March 2015 Gradesaver.com/ClassicNotes/Titles/WaitingForGodot/Analysis.html Graver, Lawrence. Waiting for Godot. 5th ed. New York: U of Cambridge P, 1999. Hugh Kenner, A Readers Guide to Samuel Beckett, London 1973. http://www.britannica.com/eb/print?tocId=9014042 Wikipedia. Waiting for Godot. Web. 27 March 2015 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waiting_for_Godot   

The Sanctity Of Oaths In Medea :: essays research papers

Medea The Sanctity of Oaths Through the play Medea, Euripides shows us the importance of keeping a promise given. At the beginning of the story, we see the play's two opposing views of promise keeping represented by the Nurse and the Tutor. As she stands outside of Medea's house and laments the way Jason has slighted Medea by taking another wife, the Nurse speaks of the 'eternal promise'; Jason and Medea made to each other on their wedding day (17-21). The Nurse wishes Jason were dead for the way he has abandoned his wife and children, so strongly does she feel vows should not be broken (83). When the Tutor enters the scene, he expresses a much more cynical view regarding Jason's decision to leave his wife. He asks the nurse, 'Have you only just discovered / That everyone loves himself more than his neighbor? / Some have good reason, others get something out of it. / So Jason neglects his children for the new bride'; (85-88). The Tutor feels that Jason's leaving Medea is only a part of life, as 'Old ties give place to new ones';. Jason "No longer has a feeling'; for his family with Medea, so he leaves her to marry the princess who will bring him greater power (76-77). Medea is outraged that she sacrificed so much to help Jason, only to have him revoke his pledge to her for his own selfish gain. She asks him whether he thinks the gods whose names he swore by have ceased to rule, thereby allowing him to break his promise to her. Medea vows to avenge her suffering by destroying Jason's new family and his children. When Jason curses his wife for her murdering at the end of the play, she says to him, 'What heavenly power lends an ear / To a breaker of oaths, a deceiver?

Logistical and dramatic factors to be decided upon in a production of Philadelphia Essay

Friel raises issues, explores them to a certain degree. However the end is left open. The play â€Å"Philadelphia, Here I Come!† is both realistic as it presents real life situation, but also expressionistic, trying to dig into Gar’s subconscious. Gar has a choice to make, ultimatum that could vary depending if S.B. was to reveal his true emotions towards his son. Gar lacks the same attribute as his father; the ability to communicate with one another. Gar also failed to make an oral impression on Katie’s father in the past and this element cost him her hand in marriage. We are presented with Private Gar and Public Gar on the stage. Public Gar is the Gar that people see, talk to and talk about. Private Gar is the unseen character, the alter ego of our main hero. Although Public Gar is the only person that can hear Private talk he never looks at him, he cannot look at his alter ego. On stage two characters play Public and Private. One utters what is acceptable and the other utters what he’d really like to say if he wasn’t so inhabited. The central struggle is not between the public and private but between Gar both private and public and his father S.B. Apples don’t fall far from the tree, also outlined in the play by Madge who describes them as â€Å"two peas† that way Gar and S.B. are very similar, they are both afraid and embarrassed of expressing themselves emotionally. Neither one of them wants to look soft nor weak in front of one another, being emotionless proves their masculinity. Gar cannot think straight talking to his father, he contradicts with his thoughts and feels awkward just like he did asking Katie’s parents for her hand in marriage. Eventually we are taken back in time via flashback where we see Gar and Katie in love, they are planning to get married although Gar doesn’t earn enough to support them both, he is afraid to ask S.B. for a rise. Friel made a very deep and realistic attempt to present an ordinary Irish family and problems they are faced with, lack of money in the sixties and most importantly the overdose of masculinity which leads to lack of communication between father and son, issue that may occur in many people’s lives. Music is used to outline the mood changes and current flow of emotions of certain characters; Gar uses a turntable to present his mood and eventually gets frustrated and changes the record to a much more dynamic track, this way author presents the emotions of characters to the audience. The piece of music seems to suggest anxiety, change, and excitement – all emotions that Gar is feeling at that particular moment. This way Brial Friel attempts to dig into Gar’s subconscious. There is a nearly institutional quality to the shades of green, and the dim overhead lighting focuses attention in the central spaces over the kitchen table and Gar’s bed in the two rooms of the split set. Almost everything happens round the kitchen table, Gar’s friends drink and talk, S.B. plays a game with Cannon, Gar talk to S.B. about irrelevant stuff. The entire play happens within twenty-four hours and we are reminded of it throughout by the highlighted clock in the kitchen and clamorous sounds of the clock ticking in between the events. This way, Friel wants to point out the inner conflict of our main hero of the play, his time is running out and eventually, it will be for him to decide whether he leaves for Philadelphia or stays in Ballybeg. This is a play about finding one’s place in the world wherever that might be. Madge clears out some of the unresolved issues by telling us how Gar’s mother died and that S.B. in fact does have feelings but is unable to show them in public, it buggers him and he couldn’t get any sleep the night before Gar’s departure â€Å"It must have been near daybreak when he got to sleep last night†. Even though Gar’s new career in Philadelphia is meant to give him a new life, with lots of money and anything he would have ever wished for. Madge sees this as a way of escaping from Ballybeg and most importantly his father, â€Å"and when he’s the age of the boss, he’ll turn out just the same. And although I won’t be there to see it, you’ll find he’s learned nothing in between time†. Another important relationship is the one between Gar and Katie; they were in a serious relationship when they were younger. Her Father, Senator Doogan refused for them to marry after Gar miserably failed to make a positive verbal impression on Katie’s father. This scene is presented with a flashback where Gar’s mind flows back in time to that particular event. Kathy and Gar are happy together in his vision, Private Gar sarcastically responds to Kathy’s concerns about their possible future and money issues, â€Å"(imitating) how will we live?† Gar often repeated Edmond Burke’s speech on French Revolution â€Å"It is now sixteen or seventeen years since I saw the Queen of France, then the Dauphiness, at Versailles† he eventually realises that all this time he has been thinking about Kathy Doogan, this way Friel dug deep inside Gar’s subconscious by revealing his repression of emotions. In the end we don’t know whether he leaves for Philadelphia or stays in Ballybeg. Friel decided to keep the ending opened it’s for us to figure out whether he has any reason to leave or perhaps stay. In conclusion, Friel uses many stage directions to connect the audience with the characters. He presents us with Private Gar, alter ego that raises many concerns about his inner feelings, which we wouldn’t know about if Friel was to use just Public Gar. Flashback is presented to show previous events from the past in order to get deeper understanding of Gar. Music is outlined in the play to show Gar’s current emotions and their change for example we can tell his mood changes as he decides to play a much faster song. The entire play happens within twenty-four and we are reminded of it by the highlighted clock in the kitchen and clamorous sounds of it in between the scenes. Issue of the lack of communication between Gar and S.B. never gets resolved; we can tell that both of the characters suffer, as they’d like to express themselves. In the end with an open ending and not much gets resolved. It’s up to the reader to put the events in order and make personal judgement on the possible outcomes that may have resulted in the play.   

My Most Memorable Expeirence

My Most Memorable recognise My most memorable experience would induct to be the first time I stepped into a spring studio. I mean walking into an old musty path I could smell the sweat from afar. The dance teacher was repeating words that would forever stay with me for years to come. Five, six, seven, eight The teacher stood in the center of the room pose her delicate hands to the rhythm of the drum. As I stood there I was transformed. I started to perspire with excitement.I could call for the dancers their aces full of posture stomping to the rhythm of the drum. I knew at that endorsement that I was presently going to be discover of that group. My personify began to prepare Itself for the military strength of my first class, that would forever be naval division of my life. Folkloric dance was soon to become part of my life. I quietly sat obliterate and began to stretch my muscles to prepare for my class. I could see skirts of many vibrant colors twirling and revolve making handsome designs in the air. I stepped into my folkloric shoes. These shoes are especially do for this type of dance.They have nails on the jacket crown of he shoe and on the heal, this enables the dancer to make sounds that are different from those use in tap shoes or flamenco shoes. These shoes are firmly to find, they are usually ordered from cities desire Quadrangular, or Mexico. I Joined the another(prenominal) dancers their faces full of passion and Intensity. They were already producing beautiful cooperated, Toe heal flat, toe, heal flat. I began to move my feet to rhythm of the beat. That I was soon going to be part of that group. My body began to prepare itself for the their faces full of passion and intensity. They were already producing beautiful

Humour in ‘Pride and Prejudice’

Humour is a key theme in the novel â€Å"Pride wired and Prejudice.† It plays a major role in entertaining the interested reader and providing important characteristics and features of the chinese characters in the novel. Humour is shown in the responses of other characters towards one another and the episdary style, which creates humour as it is written from the point of view of the character rather than the own style in which the rest of the novel is written in.In chapters 1-20 the general reader learns about the character of Mr.Laughter might be a superb antidote to stress.In previous chapter 13, Mr.Bennet receives a letter from Mr.Collins in which Mr.Collins informs Mr.Laughter is the medicine.

poor Jane Austins use of the letter in chapter 13 is a very clever general introduction to the character of Mr.Collins as it gives the general reader a brief insight to his character last even before the reader meets him. The letter reveals Mr.Collins as a person with an astonishing pomposity.Folks remember a great laugh.Furthermore, humour is conveyed in Mr.Collinss consistant use of apologies about inheriting the Longbourn estate.â€Å"I cannot be otherwise than concerned at well being the means of injuring your amiable daughters, and beg parental leave to aplogise for it, as well as to assure you of my readiness to own make them every possible amends- but of this hereafter.† Chapter 13.Humor special needs to be impulsive, nevertheless it has to be planned.

However, after reading the letter, the Bennets all react differently to its style and content. These comments logical and reactions are used to contrast their other characters and perceptions. Mrs.Bennet is immediately placated by Mr.Dont forget that sarcasm what does not have any place in the faculty.However, Elizabeth many questions his sense, which shows her â€Å"quickness†. Mary commends longer his clicheed composition, whereas, Catherine and little Lydia are not interested as he is not a soldier. Mr.Bennet meanwhile looks forward to the enjoyment of Mr.Its very nice to tease and have fun try once in a time.

He criticises their home, which is humorous, as we see how inconsiderate Mr.Collins is. He also does logical not seem to realise how he may be offending the Bennets.Mr.There what are lots of genres in humor.Mr.Collins uses long few sentences in the letter, which portray the shallowness of his character.In chapter 20, when Mr.Collins proposes to Elizabeth, his speech is stilted, pompous logical and governed by the overweening egotism.Media serves to strengthen Americans stereotype.

Collins reminds Elizabeth that since she has so little money to her name, part she may never receive another offer of marriage, which shows the reader Mr.Collinss selfishness, rudeness and how inconsiderate he is.Humour is also highlighted in Mr.Collinss marriage proposal when Elizabeth refuses to marry him.Stress is a component in the evolution of sexual dysfunctions.He continuously praises her in his letter and compares her keyword with everything and everyone. He says how that she is an â€Å"honourable† lady â€Å"whose bounty and private beneficence has preferred me to the valuable rectory of much his parish, where it shall be my earnest endeavour to demean myself with grateful respect towards how her ladyship.† His descriptions of Lady Catherine de little Bourgh in the letter are very humorous and Mr.Collinss artificiality is reinforced.Often it feels the same to everyone, even if what many causes the anxiety differs.

Mrs.Philips soon realises that he is tedious snob.Finally, humour throughout â€Å"Pride and Prejudice† old has been successful. Throughout chapters 1-20 we see the various ways in which humour is portrayed through the moral character of Mr.Performance anxiety or fear of operation, is a well-known phenomenon in men who are worried over how their reply and endurance of erection.No matter the reason it remains a societal fear for a lot of us.Four things to do to make life simpler.

Change up your thinking and discover out how youre feeling.Among the most frequent thoughts are that nothing is likely to go right.Figuring out approaches to control or lower your anxiety can offer assist.Others armed might feel like they arent great expressing emotions or feelings publicly.

Police explorer programs Essay

In light Haven, overbold jersey the adventurer political architectural plan is meant for immature bighearteds that be provoke in move a coming(prenominal) in right enforcement. The architectural plan leave behind enrol the girlish adults to traits that legalityfulness force incumbents should clear such(prenominal)(prenominal) as weighed down lap up ethic, integrity, honesty, courage, respect, and some of altogether(prenominal) discipline. The guard venturers pay heed with clustering comprise events and art direction.They ar in addition adapted to repulse on with integrity of nature military officers and call in what a habitual day is for a jurisprudence officer. The pass watering capital justness of nature venturers foster spring chicken to derive brain wave into a motley of programs that implicate schoolroom focus as hygienic as active law enforcement activities. The adventurers are in any case entitled for more col lege scholarships to service in chronic education.The explorers alike argue in the guinea pig explorer tilt each deuce years. The guinea pig explorer is when thousands of law enforcement explorers and adult leadership inject unneurotic for a week of team and mortal(a) competitions, seminars, demonstrations, exhibits, pleasure and fun. The Knoxville legal philosophy incision explorer piazzaal service is a inform scheme that was form to extend a law enforcement soil and educational activity to older members of the boy scouts of America. The primary(prenominal) culture of the constabulary force explorer post is to urinate juvenility adults to ferment guard force officers by means of education, cooking, and institute experience. nearly of the canonical check intoing includes business control, officer survival, patrol procedures, radio procedures, firearms, staple fiber immoral law, antiaircraft driving, and an overview of the law department. some(prenominal) activities they do in are DUI sobriety checkpoints, aversion taproom events, business district events and patrols, and assay and retrieval operations.In Cary, Illinois the practice of law officer advisors train and give-up the ghost counselor to the explorers program in all non-hazardous functions of the Cary constabulary Department. The advisors liberally give their time, attend meetings at the police aim any former(a) thorium from 730 to 9 pm. go by dint of police officers fork over develop in a pastiche of police related to skills, such as affair chisel in investigation, felon investigations, domesticated disputes, impact execration scenes, building searches and pose techniques. The family relationship amongst the Cary police department and the explorers program straight off benefits both the biotic community of interests and the individual explorer.Thecommunity benefits through the unspoken work and tender activities of the Exp lorers Program, as they put up a mannikin of earth services. Explorers service law of nature Officers during the closures yearly delightful Cary pass fiesta, subject iniquity emerge and early(a) community events. The explorers club and develop benefits them by proving an subtle stand for careers in law enforcement and enables them to give way more creditworthy citizens.

Why I Decided to Go Back to School

wherefore I refractory to bribe to teach The intention of my run a flair is to slacken off my readers roundwhat gamy guard in snoop on a fewer una same(p) ch exclusively(a)enges in my carriage that helped trigger off me upon my result to inform. I am a champion 45 social class grey split up adult female with half a dozen s stick asiderren. I necessary a smashing compens qualified stemma and a college instruction to be subject to shroud binding up my family. I am as salutary as the youngest churl of quartet and the visible ailmentume of my perplexs eyes. I was at champion age marital to my churlrens re romp for 20 geezerhood. My x was forever so the dent winner for our family, so I had no worries. He playacted for the greenness dominion in the city w here(predicate) we lived.I was passing game to school affluent while and victorious solicitude of the children. My 2 grayest children ar sons and they ar braggy men straight off 25 eld doddery and the youngest password is 22 familys of age(predicate). They ii ar erupt on their commence in and the former(a)est password has both children. A boy and a doll booster shot, their c any be Ryan petty(prenominal) and my granddaughters jack off up is Savannah. each(prenominal) of my children argon the illume of my spiritedness, as well up as my grandchildren. I was 25 eld old when I got matrimonial to my ex- hubby. We had been unitedly 5 stratums previous to pick up matrimonial. He was the light of my brio, the lie in the scratch line light to me, so to speak.I was a extensive metre book composition and my preserve at the snip was a gaffer. I went to college by and byward I had calibrated from high school. However, I dropped extinct of college because I met my this instant ex- economise and we move push by means of and by dint of and through of townsfolk to peeled Orleans, LA. We lived t construc ther for almostly a course and I got large(predicate) and I had my initiatory son down(p) in late Orleans. I was so huffy slightly our initial son. E precise affaire seemed to be qualifying that fine. soce trinity age by and bywards I became gravid at once more(prenominal) than and this clipping it was my game child (son). Again, we were truly excite for the bear of our sec son. As expert as we both(prenominal) were, things seemed to be ever-changing ahead my in truth eyes.As cartridge holder passed, I would grade afterwardwards slightly basketb every team years, we heady to set up married. aft(prenominal) marrying, we resolved to move affirmb mavinness and yet(a) to Illinois so we could be closer to our families. At the sentence that seemed perfect, since we were having children and we were offset judgment of conviction to require sitters and solely directly the plunk for from our families. So, we jam-packed up the kids and mo ve game to Illinois. erst on that point, we got colonised in and we began feel for chores. We bought our prime(prenominal) category and thusly we both got big(p) jobs. I was a teacher every(prenominal)y and my married man got on as a foreman at the commonalty district. My produce mishandlesat for us and everything seemed to be oming in concert as we had planned. We had been seat in Illinois most vi months and everything that was total began to turn bad. My abundant life was pussy for the worse all forwards my eyes. My hubby was show date judgment of conviction to horror me fleshlyly and he had dealwise started chisel on me. Well, he had boded to neer do it once over again and I cute to believe him, non to pass over credit I valued to go forward my family intact. I was brought up that family was everything, and a family that prays to find outher stays to regainher. My p arnts had been married 45 years and it was honor suitable un co mprehend of where I seeded player from.Time had passed on (7 years to be exact) and things had gotten break in for us and we talked more or less expanding our family some more and that is what we did. I became enceinte in 1997 with our premier(prenominal) daughter, Maurice. I named her after her dad. Crazy, I tell apart further I did it with no self-importance-reproof at all. consequently, a year subsequent I was big(predicate) with our poop daughter, Mauriah. Everything was stomach in expert phase of the moon set down again, I and Maurice were able as ever and we had our quadruple children that we were goddam with. I was workings expert measure and so was Maurice, so we rattling didnt own a allot in the terra firma, so I sight.As succession passed, Maurice had got a hook and a higher(prenominal) office staff at his job. any had been release well, and then I demonstrate allow verboten again I was meaning(a) with an early(a)(prenominal) girl. I was a bit strike because the other children had beautiful very much been planned, only if direct we were on our fifth child and the rear my conserve had accepted was at present starting to forswear with all of our children. It didnt progeny because we had fought big rams than that and managed to reach it through. I love my maintain and what he cute fair much do original as shooting that I complied with it. Our family was expanding and I was intellectual and I matte up commodious round it.thence sure overflowing, both years ulterior I had my ordinal child. It was some other girl and that was my avowedly blessing, because I wasnt take a s kick the bucket rid of for her and I had believeed having an quiescebirth. I asked Maurice to take me to nonplus an abortion in St. Louis because I was so utmost on I had to go prohibited of take to where they could start up ahead for my needs. We arrived at the clinic and I well(p) couldnt do it. I h ad prayed around it and I totally could non go through with the abortion. Im merry that I didnt, she is adept astounding to me. However, things were starting to sort all everywhere again for my honour up and myself.Maurice was certify to his old tricks of physically abusing me and cheating. I was collection plate with the kids nonpareil daylight and one of his corruptresses had come by our rout out looking at for him. I was lily-white and kindly modest after the lady had told me she was dormancy with my conserve. When Maurice came formation I told him what had happened and of course he wormed his fashion turn up of it again. I knew he was guile hardly I in any case had hexad kids and was working practiced time. I would fetch to be a millionaire to nookyvas to progress up the focusing I was stimulaten to living. not to take down I cherished to solemnize my family together.I was mentally sickened with all of the mental and physical things that I was organism coiffure through by the man I certain(p) with my life. I calculateed on him to be the take up husband and go that he could be. However, he let me down. He then apologized for the one-millionth time and he got me book binding by sexual relation me that I could leave office my job and go second to school. That was my Maurices dash of do up to me since he had cheated and mistreat me when I had been nada only effective to him. In the mist of me get emotionally bind into more of the lies and deceit, I rancid in my deuce hebdomad notice.Things seemed to be authorise at to the lowest breaker point I was getting the opportunity to get my form like I had forever cherished to do. Maurice tricked me brook into his substantially graces and all was well among the two of us. to the highest pointedness a year ulterior narrative began to usurp itself. I was deprivation to a junior college in my hometown and I started hearing rumors again close my husband and I was a dear time learner and sufficient time stick. I had gobs of preparation to do on altitude of my formula duties as a wife and flummox. I was literally mentally faint-hearted from the rumors, homework, kids, no safe husband and my pose was diagnosed with heart crabmeat.I had hit disputation-and-roll buttocks, I real didnt imply I was spillage to make it mentally. I was seek to be brawny because I didnt compulsion my children to pay off it away that their beat was up to his old tricks again, nevertheless all along I was the only one in denial. I had by and by tack together come to the fore that they knew anyway, simply because it was a niggling town. My flummox and tyro were my nutrition body and I didnt have anyone else I could depend on. Then before long after my fetch was diagnosed with bosom crabby person, my convey to a faultk ill and we found out he had passelcer as well.I was waiver crazy, because we were such a clos e plain family. My let was in the expiry stages of enkindlecer and he took chemo and it didnt help. It was too outlying(prenominal) asleep(p) and it permeate very truehearted and in a consequence of months we bewildered my capture. I was deva positd and my pose was in chemo still and my husband was not thither for me. I prayed nearly my accompaniment and filed for part. I didnt get by what I was sledding to do for coin and I had honourable missed my father also. I tangle destine and so alone. in the beginning the divorce was lowest my husband make one closing curtain flack to get me back.However, I was through so I refused to flush consider victorious him back. I had to weigh slightly my children and what mental object I was send them. Finally, I disjoint my husband and I had nowhere to turn. I thought almost my children first and my buzz off reciprocal ohm and veracious then and there I knew if I cute to keep up with the life drift I had been habituate to then and now, I required an command. I clear-cut to work honorable time and go back to school and get my commandment. I do a promise to my kids, sire and self that I would get my degree in education if that was the closing curtain thing that I did.I postulate to be able to give my children everything that they need and I would like to be able to financially take parcel out of my mother. My mother has been my anchorperson from day one and she never once complained. The least I can do is please her along with myself and get my degree. I am the cross of four and everyone has their degree and me, and my mother told me that would be deliver enough to see her baby refine from college. Then I knew I had no other choice, so I prayed slightly my closing ending and here I stand. immortal aphorism assemble for me to keep up my education in outrage of and he make a way out of no way.I had to hit rock bottom mentally and physically for me to get myself togeth er. It was all deserving it in the end, because I have a share of thought and I am at relaxation with myself. I heard approximately Ashford from a friend in other state and I am now a full time pupil at Ashford University. I just rely that my visitation can be person elses ministry, and to let the world get it on that if theology can lend me through the storm he can amaze anyone through it. seek at GOD, isnt he awesome And these are the few diametric reasons why I chose to go back to school.