Adolescence Is the Unhappiest Time in Most People’s

Enders Game Essay Example for Free

Enders Game Essay In a world very different from our own, one with outsiders and space travel carries on a six-year-old kid from Earth. His name is Ender Wiggin and he is a long way from the common. He is a â€Å"third† implying that he shouldn't be brought into the world because of birthing limitations. Through the thought of the administration, his folks were allowed to have a third youngster. Because of his boss aptitudes, he is picked to go to fight school so as to battle the buggers. During the time spent turning into an innovator so as to spare the Earth, Ender is controlled by Valentine, the instructors and Colonel Graff. This makes him a superior trooper by confronting numerous snags as an individual and making him independent. Valentine is Enders multi year old sister, whom he adores without a doubt. Later on in the book, she controls him with the goal that he would be resolved to spare Earth. She herself was fooled into controlling Ender by Graff, and later thinks twice about it. Valentine controls Ender by thinking of him a letter that Graff had persuaded her to do. â€Å"Ender, the Bastards wouldn’t put any of my letters through till now. I more likely than not composed a hundred times however you probably thought I never did. Well I did. A few people may feel that in light of the fact that you’re being a trooper you are presently a coldblooded and hard individual who likes to hurt individuals, similar to the marines in the video, however I realize that isn’t valid. You are not at all like you-know-who. Perhaps you appear to be mean however you’re not tricking me†¦ All my affection turkey lips, Val. Don’t compose back they’ll presumably sikowanalize your letter (Card, pg. 150). Valentine is controlling Ender by causing him to accept that he isn't care for Peter, which is Ender’s biggest dread. She realizes that by doing so he will trust her and will have the option to concentrate on winning. Ender nonetheless, doesn't trust her since he understood that if the educators didn't leave the remainder of her letters alone sent, at that point why this one? He realizes she is attempting to pressure him into accepting that he dislike Peter. Valentine additionally persuades Ender to not return to Earth. She reveals to him that Peter has huge designs for him; he has been hanging tight for this open door his entire life. â€Å"He had plans for you, Ender. He would freely uncover himself when you showed up, going to meet you before the recordings. Ender Wiggins more established sibling, who likewise happened to be the incomparable Locke, the draftsman of harmony. Remaining close to you, he would look very develop. What's more, the physical similarity between you is more grounded than any time in recent memory. It would be very basic for him, at that point, to take over† (Card, pg. 312). Valentine lets him know Peter’s designs yet Ender doesn't appear to comprehend. He accepts that whichever way he has just gone through his time on earth being someone’s pawn. Subsequent to conversing with Valentine, he had at long last chosen to leave with her. He says, â€Å"I am not going for you. I’m not going so as to be representative, or on the grounds that I’m exhausted here. I’m going on the grounds that I realize the buggers superior to another living soul, and aybe on the off chance that I go there I can comprehend them better† (Card, pg. 314). At last, Valentine likewise controls Ender by meeting him at a lake and urging him to keep on going to fight school. â€Å"If you attempt to lose then it isn’t your flaw. However, in the event that you don’t attempt and we lose, at that point it’s all your flaw. You slaughtered us all† (Card, pg. 240/241). Valentine convinces Ender that it is best for him and the world to keep taking on to win the conflict. She reveals to him it is significant for him to in any event attempt as opposed to not attempt by any stretch of the imagination. In the event that he attempts, at that point nobody will say anything since he put forth a valiant effort. Nonetheless, on the off chance that he doesn't attempt by any means, at that point everybody will accuse him realizing that he could have accomplished more t planet Earth. Valentine is somebody critical in Ender’s life and by controlling him she helped Graff control Ender further. All through the book, the instructors around Ender are continually controlling him. They conclude that by controlling Ender, it will be best for him over the long haul. One point would be the point at which the educators chose not to reveal to Ender that he was really battling the buggers. Ender you never played me. You never played a game since I turned into your adversary. Ender, for as long as hardly any months you have been the fight leader of our armadas. This was the Third Invasion. There were no games, the fights were genuine, and the main adversary you battled was the buggers (Card, pg. 296). Nobody had disclosed to Ender that he was really battling the buggers at their home planet. They didn't let him know so he would feel no weight. This lead to his triumph over the buggers yet at the same time Ender was disturbed. The instructors had controlled Ender and driven him excessively far. The grown-ups are relying upon the PC to disclose to them when they are pushing Ender beyond what he can deal with. You can’t be not kidding about this calendar of fights. † â€Å"Yes I can. † â€Å"He’s just had is armed force three and a half weeks. † â€Å"I let you know. We did PC recreations on likely outcomes. Also, here is the thing that the PC assessed Ender would do. † â€Å"We need to show him, not give him an apprehensive breakdown† (Card, pg. 173). The truth of the matter is they have just gone past his cutoff. The grown-ups were by giving him beyond what he could deal with. For instance, he was once given two fights in a single day during his time at Battle School. Ultimately, the educators control him by never helping him in hazardous circumstances. Each time Ender was bothered the instructors would not support him thus he would battle alone. â€Å"If the instructors were permitting that to turn up on legitimate report, it was evident they didn’t plan to rebuff anybody for the frightful little conflict in the fight room. Aren’t they going to isn't that right? Don’t they care what goes on in this school† (Card, pg. 117). Ender was baffled and confounded with respect to why the educators were never there when he was in a difficult situation. He figured out how to never depend on the grown-ups to come and salvage him. These three focuses made him a superior fighter since t made him more grounded, progressively autonomous and that helped him plan for the genuine fight. Graff’s goal of controlling Ender was to keep him on target. He needed Ender to just have the option to depend on himself and no one else. Graff needs Ender to utilize his knowledge to assist him with escaping an unpleasant circumstance. The main case of how Graff controls Ender is by changing his armed forces frequently. He sends Ender from Salamander to Rat, Rat to Phoenix and from Phoenix to Dragon. â€Å"Ender shook his head. It was the dumbest thing he could consider, to advance him ow. No one got advanced before they were eight years of age. Ender wasn’t even seven yet. Also, launchies generally moved into the militaries together, with most armed forces getting another child at the equivalent time† (Card, pg. 69). Ender was burnt out on exchanging armed forces frequently. It was just when everything was settling down, when he made a couple of companions and had gotten over the way that he was not with Valentine they choose to move him. Colonel Graff likewise controls Ender into going to Battle School. â€Å"You won’t miss your mom and father, very little, not for long. What's more, they won’t miss you long either Well nobody needs a third any longer. You can’t anticipate that them should be happy. Yet, your mom and father were a unique case† (Card, pg. 21/22). Graff talks with Ender alone and tells his how his family’s response would be. He raises the past about his folks life and that having a â€Å"third† was such a disfavor for them. He reveals to Ender that miss them a little yet soon he will disregard them and they will do likewise. Moreover, Graff additionally ensures that Ender doesn't get any help from the educators when he is in issue. He likewise helps Ender become distanced from the different launchies. â€Å"Ender Wiggins must accept that regardless of what occurs, no grown-up will ever, ever step in to help him in any case. He should accept profoundly of his spirit that he can just do what he and different youngsters work out for themselves. In the event that he doesn't accept that, at that point he will never arrive at the pinnacle of his ability† (Card, pg. 202). Graff plays with his brain, intellectually causing him to accept that his educators will never be there to ensure him. He makes Ender accept that he could just rely upon himself.

37 Inspirational Quotes to Conquer Any Negativity in Your Life

37 Inspirational Quotes to Conquer Any Negativity in Your Life What is Negativity?Though this question can be answered in many different ways, here is a very simple answer. Simple but comprehensive. It covers all the aspects of negativity.This answer not only gives a definition, but also shows you where you end up if you allow negativity to run your life.Negativity is a barrier. A big barrier.Barriers prevent access. They stop you from going where you want to go. They tell you that you have gotten to the end of the road. So what should you do? Turn back. Why? You can no longer continue with your journey. It won’t be a success.Unfortunately, there are many such barriers on the path called life. It also happens that barriers like negativity are more on the paths which lead to the best destinations. Be it happiness, wealth, peace of mind, a great career, success in business etc.All these destinations are good and just because they are good, the path to them is full of barriers.Negativity however, is a special kind of barrier. Whereas you may find a barrier on a road that is undergoing construction, it is never the case with the barrier called negativity.The road under construction will become better and accessible after some time. But the path blocked by negativity will become worse and still remain blocked.Why?First, that path will not be used by anyone, save for a few. As a result, it will soon grow weeds and probably turn into a thicket. Those who seek to walk it later will have extra work to do.They will have to clear the way before walking it. Such is the norm for roads less traveled.Secondly, being a barrier, negativity poses as an authority. Every authority seeks to be respected. If this authority is respected by many, it becomes difficult for someone to disrespect it.Negativity will speak with authority as it tells you why you can’t go past it. And if many people obey it, why not you?Either way, things have to change. Sooner or later. Someone will come along and challenge negativity. Either through a face-to-face confrontation or by simply ignoring it and taking the path blocked.This person will have to be bold. And determined.Could that person be you?WHY NEGATIVITY EXISTSNegativity flows from people who have issues they have not fixed. It may be that they’ve never had the chance, don’t know how to or simply don’t want to. For those who don’t want to, it is because fixing the problem requires some work which they are not comfortable doing.They may have to go deep into their past to deal with the cause of problems. If the past is painful, they may not want to take this route. Maybe the effort required is just too much, so they think, and decide to maintain the status quo.At this point, it will be important to clarify something about negative people. This will also help you keep things in the right perspective.Negative people are in need of help. Their negativity comes from something buried deep within. Unless that thing is dug out and dealt with, they will remain trapped in their nega tivity.This means they will continue producing negativity and affecting more people. Maybe your siblings, parents, cousin, spouse, children, the list is endless. There are many people out there who are vulnerable.So, since they need help, it would certainly be a good thing to get it. And if you can, go ahead and offer it. For example, if you are a psychiatrist, you can be of great help to them.The problem comes when you are friends with these people and you are still struggling to rise above your own situation.When you are starting your journey to success, you cannot afford to be around negative people. What you need is supportive and inspiring people. Negative people will simply suck passion, energy, creativity, confidence and everything else they can, out of you.Now that you know this, exercise some boldness, deal with negativity and achieve your goals.Since negativity expresses itself in many ways, here are 37 inspirational quotes to help you when it crosses your path.1. “Nobod y can make you feel inferior without your consent.” â€" Eleanor RooseveltIf you feel you cannot do it, achieve it, manage it, then you have made a decision about it. You think it is because someone told you so? No. It is because you believed the lie.You agreed with them about what they said. Now you are living out what you believed.If you allow people to talk you down or out of your goals, then they will. But you have the option of not allowing them to do that. If you’re down because of what someone said, just know that you allowed it.To break this, make the opposite decision and assure yourself that you can do it.2. “The person who says it cannot be done should not interrupt the person who is doing it.” â€" Chinese ProverbWhy exactly should someone make you doubt your abilities? He may know you from your childhood.But if you have decided to pursue your goals, and he’s surprised, then he doesn’t know you well enough. If he did, he would know that you could do it.This is a reminder about a very important thing to do when a negative person tries interfering with your goals. Just tell him to mind his own business. Anyone coming to feed you with talk of impossibilities is not worthy of your time.3. “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.” â€" Nido QubeinMany negative speeches center on your current situation. They will present facts and all the necessary statistics to show that you can’t go far. In fact, you can’t go anywhere. You better settle where you are and be content with life.Have you ever heard of successful startups which began with no money? Ever heard of successful career changes which happened long after the “right” time to make career decisions?Your current situation is where you take your first step from.4. “We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.” â€" Abraham LincolnSuccess starts in your head. More specific ally, your mind. What you decide to see matters and shapes your perspective. Your perspective determines how you act or respond to challenges.In the case of this quote, do you see a thorn bush or a rose bush? Either way, there are roses and thorns.If you see a thorn bush, you won’t go near it. You won’t get the roses and definitely won’t enjoy their smell.If you see a rose bush, you’ll be cautious while going for the roses, but will still go for them. Your eyes will be fixed on the roses and you may probably not be pricked by the thorns.5. “Letting go of negative people doesnt mean you hate them. It just means that you love yourself.” â€" AnonymousAs a barrier, negativity thrives on lies. Lies you have believed which cause you to be held back by them.This quote seeks to correct one of the lies you have believed. A good reason why you tolerate negative people is probably because you think leaving them means you hate them.Whereas they may even have told you this if they no ticed you withdrawing from them, you need to just do thatâ€"leave them.If you don’t, then the love you are showing them will soon be unavailable for yourself and others. This is because negative people suck everything out of you, including life itself.Do yourself a favor. Show yourself some love and walk away while you still can.6. “Negative people can only infest you with discouragements when they find you around Just get lost and get saved!” â€" Israelmore AyivorThis is simple practical advice that is sure to work. You want to achieve your goals? Just stay away from the wrong company.It doesn’t take much of an effort really. You know them and their habits. You also know that they somehow look for people to infect with their negativity.Stay away from the places they frequent. Make yourself busy (doing something important). As long as you are unavailable, you’re safe.7. “All negativity is an illusion created by the limited mind to protect and defend itself.” â€" Ambika WautersAn illusion is something that doesn’t exist, though it seems to. For the negative person, this comes from the source of issues built up within them.They accepted a lie about their abilities and as such, hold onto limiting beliefs so as to defend the reason why they can’t move forward.When such people see you move forward, their wrong beliefs get challenged.Unfortunately, instead of breaking those beliefs and facing their fears, they allow themselves to be crippled by them. To avoid guilt and condemnation, they will endeavor to convince you that it’s not doable.8. “Stop allowing other people to dilute or poison your day with their words or opinions.” â€" Steve MaraboliYou are solely responsible for how your day turns out.From the moment you wake up, you start crafting your own day. For example, when you go to work, you carry your version of the day around. However, there are some opportunities for others to also chip in.If you meet someone who hasn’t decided to ha ve a good day, they will naturally want to spoil yours.Don’t wait for it to happen then start complaining. Anything contrary to what you planned out should be rejected. Do this and you stand a chance of finishing the day happy.9. “Dont let negative and toxic people rent space in your head. Raise the rent and kick them out.” â€" Robert TewReasoning out negative thoughts happens in your mind. These thoughts have been put there by people. You have actually allocated those people some room in your head from where they speak.Anyone who has access to your mind is powerful. Watch the below short video to understand this. Simple discouragement can make you fail even in what you’re good at. 10. “An entire sea of water cant sink a ship unless it gets inside the ship. Similarly, the negativity of the world cant put you down unless you allow it to get inside you.” â€" Goi NasuRemember the great Titanic? Very big, luxurious and hailed as unsinkable, until the unthinkable happened. It sank.It could remain afloat with four of its sixteen watertight compartments flooded. But the collision with the iceberg made six compartments flood. Meaning it took in more water than it could hold.Don’t fool yourself that you can move while entertaining negativity. You can only take in so much and you’re better off not putting yourself to the test. Don’t allow negativity into your life. At all.11. “STAYING POSITIVE does not mean that things will turn out okay. Rather it is knowing that YOU will be okay no matter how things turn out.” â€" UnknownOf course fighting negativity does not mean you have become unrealistic. The unexpected always happens and everyone experiences such moments. It is part of life. The difference is in your response.If you’re a positive person, you will quickly bounce back after an unfortunate turn of events.The negative person will have to wait longer, if at all he will bounce back. He will have to go through long pity parties, lose some more sl eep, be overly stressed and maybe even go through depression.Choose your path now and have some control of the future.12. “Negativity is cannibalistic. The more you feed it, the bigger and stronger it grows.” â€" Bobby DarnellYou have had your share of experience with negativity. If you’ve been keen enough, you’ll have noticed that negativity takes a toll on you. It leaves you emotionally and psychologically drained.When you allow it to run your life, you are actually feeding it. It however turns the table on you and starts feeding on you.Give it some minutes and you’ll notice your whole body being involved, slowly making you tired. Give it enough time and your whole body will have no strength.Not to mention that you will have wasted time too.13. “People who project negativity typically have low self-esteem. They feel badly about themselves, and their negativity is simply a reflection of those feelings.” â€" Hendrie WeisingerHere is a quote which helps you understand t he root of the problem. Negative people have issues they haven’t taken care of. Since they haven’t developed themselves, they are jealous of the progress you make.Whatever words they speak to you, just know that they are expressing their dissatisfaction with their own lives. Understand that and you will have an easier time keeping the effects of their comments and advice at bay.14. “Some people cant function without negativity because bringing down others makes them feel better.” â€" AnonymousThis is mediocrity at its best, and negative people always end up living mediocre lives. Negative people get comfort from the “fact” that things can’t be done.As a result, the more the people who can’t do those things, the better. This shows them that the problem is not with them but with the situation.As such, when they spot you moving forward, they will try to pull you down so as to sustain their beliefs.15. “Do not allow negative people to turn you into one of them.” â€" AnonymousThis is one of the goals that negative people have. Consciously or unconsciously, they try to recruit others into their club. This is their way of feeling comfortable. They become uneasy seeing someone else doing what they cannot do.You should not blame them for what they are doing. You have the ability and power to change the outcome of your life. So take charge and stay on the right path.16. “It is never too late to be what you might have been.” â€" George EliotAfraid that you have lost the opportunity you had? Thinking that you could have made it if you made the right choice during your teen years? Thinking you’re now too old to achieve your goals?Your mind is as good as you let it be. Whether seemingly young or old, your age should not hold you back.Once you decide you want to achieve your goals, you will find ways of improving your mind and it will cooperate with you. Believe in yourself. Decide that you can do it. Decide to do it then go for it.17. “Fall seven times and stand up eight.” â€" Japanese ProverbSuccess never comes without some failures. Why? If it did, then you wouldn’t know how to maintain it.You would not have learned enough lessons to teach you how to handle success. Or how to navigate through the challenges of living with success.You need to have experienced shortages in money to know how to budget; betrayal by friends to know that you can’t trust everyone with everything; faced enough opposition to know how to fight so as not to lose your success.Therefore, failing is not an end in itself but a necessary stepping stone.Treat failures as opportunities to learn through experience. And no matter how many times you fail, you can still rise up. Remember to focus on your goals.18. “When the world pushes you to your knees, you’re in the perfect position to pray.” â€" RumiFor the determined soul, there is no giving up. And the truth is, no situation is bad enough. You can turn any situation to work in your favor.When you’re down, it’s not an opportunity to cry but to pray. At some point, things will get beyond your human strength; that will be the best opportunity to seek God.Praying does not mean you’re weak, it means that you’re smart. Smart enough to know that you need God to help you, especially if you’re going after a big goal.19. “If a person finds negative people in his life, then he needs to mend his own nature than that of others, for his own basic grounding decides the level of acidic or toxicity surrounding him.” â€" Anuj SomanySome things happen so naturally that you don’t get to notice them. You only notice the results. If you are wondering why there are always negative people around you, you may need to check yourself first.Your genes and environment contribute to how you relate with others. As such, your disposition may be what brings negative people around you. One way this happens is when you’re too nice to people.Afraid of hurting them, you tolerate them and end up hurting yourself. Watch the below video to know what to do about it. 20. “Sensitive souls draw in the negativity of others because they are so open.” â€" John GrayThis may surprise you, but it’s true. You see, negative people are everywhere, but they concentrate on certain people.If for example you are an empath, you’ll notice that you have had many experiences with negative people. It’s not a coincidence. Negative people are attracted to empaths because of their sensitivity.Negative people desperately need love and attention, though they cannot admit it. Sensitive people like empaths can easily detect this and are always open to offer it.Since empaths have huge reserves of compassion, negative people feed on this as they give out what they have. The result?The sensitive person grows weaker because while he sought to help, the patient never really wanted help. He just wanted a soft landing without the work required to make changes.If you are a sensitive person, look out for signs of negativity and learn how to stay safe.21. “The more you dwell on what you dont have, the more you get what you dont want.” â€" UnknownThis could be taken as a definition of negativity. Focus on the wrong thing and that’s what you get.Ask any entrepreneur who never had enough money to start his business. It is never about what you don’t have but what you have. If you sit all day thinking of what you lack, you won’t move.The truth is, you have whatever is most important. Do you want to start a business? You don’t need money, you just need an idea. The resources are all over and you will get them.22. “Worry and negativity are a misuse of your imagination.” â€" AnonymousWorry and negativity are just perceptions of the reality. For example, you may have a great voice. That’s the reality. Negativity will however tell you that you can’t sing because you’ve never been recognized for your voice.Do you see the disconnect from reality?Whether you’ve be en recognized before or not, that doesn’t change the fact that you have a great voice.Do all musicians have the same voice? No. Yet they are successful in their own right. Stop using your imagination on worst case scenarios and imagine the success. Imagine the fame. Imagine the inspiration you will give others.There are better things to imagine, not the false realities which cause you fear and anxiety. Break free today and become what you’re meant to be.23. “Every day you must unlearn the ways that hold you back. You must rid yourself of negativity, so you can learn to fly.” â€" Leon BrownWhatever number of years you have lived on this beautiful earth, your mind has taken in some negativity. Although your mind cannot fill up like a computer hard drive, it sure needs cleaning before saving new, more useful information.Unlearning the wrong things is necessary if you are to learn important things. When you unlearn, you create room for what you want to learn.After deciding what you want, destroy what tells you that you can’t achieve it. Fight it then replace it with the new information. The truth that you can achieve your goals.If a voice plays back all the facts that prove you cannot make it, tell it that you can and remind it of your special talent.Does it tell you that you don’t have experience? Even those who have it were never born with it. You are too old to do it now? Determination will see you through. Talk back to that voice and soon, you will dominate it.24. “Negativity is the enemy of creativity.” â€" David LynchIf you’re negative about your goals, you can never see how to achieve them. Achieving your goals needs you to be open minded and creative so as to come up with solutions.Rarely will your mind generate solutions if you’re trapped in negativity. Creativity will simply not work, unless it is showing you new ways in which you cannot succeed.25. “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” â€" Prov 4:23 (NLT)It is in your heart that your dreams and visions are generated and housed. If you want to find your life’s purpose, check with your heart, not your mind. Your mind is just a tool, albeit a powerful one, to help you act out what is inside you.This wisdom from king Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, tells you how best to live a worthwhile life.Your life is precious and the essence of it flows from your heart. Guarding your heart saves you many problems. You will avoid unnecessary betrayals, disappointments and other setbacks.This does not mean you close yourself up and be scared. It means be careful who or what you allow into your private space. It is in your private space that you craft your success.26. “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” â€" ConfuciusEvery person has a unique path in his quest for success. A common tragedy that befalls many starts when they compare themselves to others.You may see others go fast. But do you kn ow what they are really chasing? Maybe they decided to achieve a small milestone then drop out of the race. Is that what you also want?Be comfortable with the pace you’re going at. Of course, go faster where possible. But don’t condemn yourself when you don’t go as fast as you think you can.27. “No matter how valuable you are and your ideas, fools will certainly play both of you down, so exclude yourselves from the inflammatory environs of fools.” â€" Michael Bassey JohnsonIt is not an insult to refer to those who cannot see and respect your value as fools.Fools generally do not know the value of what they have; be it friends or their own strengths. This is why they misuse what they have. And one of the most misused resource in the hands of fools is time.If a fool knew the importance of time, for example, he would understand that you needed to succeed yesterday. He would then either help you or simply stay out of the way. And if he also wanted success, he would consult you .But what does he do instead? He idly tries to talk you out of your dreams. His speech is full of harmful pessimism punctuated with facts which point in the wrong direction. Keep off his company.28. “When someone tells me no, it doesnt mean I cant do it, it simply means I cant do it with them.” â€" Karen E. Quinones MillerIt’s important to understand what some messages really mean. This helps you stay positive as you will not bear any unnecessary burdens.If someone does not believe in himself, that should not make you stop believing in yourself.This actually helps you weed out potential problems. You now know that they are not willing to put in the effort to succeed. This tells you that you cannot trust them with any part of your goals.If for example you’re starting a business, such people would not be ideal partners. Not even good employees.29. “Negativity may knock at your door, but that doesnt mean you have to let it in.” â€" AnonymousOpportunities to indulge negativi ty abound. The number of people who gave up on their dreams are more than those who pursued and achieved theirs.Therefore, negative advice, comments and opinions will always be floating around. It’s your job to ensure they don’t gain entry into your life.If they do, you won’t be able to achieve your dreams. Watch the below video for more on this. 30. Life is too short to spend in negativity. So I have made a conscious effort to not be where I dont want to be.” â€" Hugh DillonYou need to make this decision. It is for your own good.It also shows that you value yourself and if you do, then you will want to keep the company of negativity away. Love yourself and pursue what will bring joy and meaning to your life.31. “RememberWhoever is trying to bring you down is already below you.” â€" Ziad K. AbdelnourIs someone trying to pull you down? They are just being jealous that you rose above them. This is despite them having the opportunity to decide to also rise.But because you h ave decided not to settle for mediocrity, you have to keep soaring.Understanding this truth will enable you know the direction you will head if you allow negativity to rule your life. With the power to make choices, make the right one. Keep rising and moving till you get to your goals.32. “The difference between stumbling blocks and stepping stones is how you use them.” â€" UnknownOn the path you have taken towards greatness, challenges will show up. What will your response be?Will it be that the challenges are too many? Will you be getting tired of overcoming them? Doing this will empower thoughts of giving up.Instead, be positive and look at those challenges as opportunities to develop more strength. With more strength, you stand better chances of achieving your goal.Do you even realize that the past challenges are the ones which enabled you get this far?33. “If someone tells you, “You can’t” they really mean, “I can’t.” â€" Sean StephensonPeople will always try to project their inabilities onto you. When they try doing something and they fail, they assume that everyone else can’t.Worse still, they try to ensure that no one succeeds so that they are proven right. This way, it remains true that they haven’t succeeded because it’s impossible.When you understand that they are merely expressing the inabilities they have embraced, you will have an easier time moving forward. You will not be bound by their negative perspectives.34. “If you hear a voice within you say ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint and that voice will be silenced.” â€"- Vincent Van GoghNothing beats negativity like giving it hard evidence proving it wrong. It gets silenced and starts respecting you immediately, even if it doesn’t want to.The best way to get this hard evidence is by tackling your fears.This also has the added benefit of building up your mind. If you consistently tell off negativity by doing the opposite of what it expects, you become mo re courageous. It will then be easier to overcome challenges.35. “You cannot control what happens to you, but you can control your attitude toward what happens to you, and in that, you will be mastering change rather than allowing it to master you.” â€" Brian TracyThe issue is not what happens, but how you respond to what happens.When you have a positive attitude towards the situations you are in, then you stand a better chance of attaining success. A positive attitude helps you see the opportunity in every situation.This gives you a head start in making the changes required for a better outcome. If you are negative, you will spend more time grumbling about the situation.You will end up being forced to change and the direction to go will be forced on you too.36. “You only have control over three things in your life â€" the thoughts you think, the images you visualize, and the actions you take.” â€" Jack CanfieldThough only three, these are very powerful things to be able to control.What you think, you create. The images you visualize, are closer to being achieved because you have now seen the end result. Now what remains is acting accordingly.And that also is in your hands.37. “If you accept the expectations of others, especially negative ones, then you never will change the outcome.” â€" Michael JordanThere is only one reason you have decided to take action about your lifeâ€"to change things for the better.You are the one who knows what change you want. You define it, work towards it and achieve it. When you allow yourself to live as per people’s expectations, you will be trying to live their lives.Allowing their expectations to direct you means you abandon your goals and start pursuing theirs.You will only become miserable because you’ll be seeking their approval. Let them pursue their own expectations. As for you, pursue yours and see your life change. Then you can enjoy the results.CONCLUSIONThere you go, champion. You have the power in you r hands. By now, you should have already decided not to give negativity your attention.Recognize it, ignore it and move forward. And do you know what the beautiful thing is? Soon enough, negativity will either have to change its opinion or remain forever silent.

`` Fist, Stick Knife, And Gun `` - 1266 Words

In every city there are neighborhoods that struggle with the issue of violence, crime and aggression. These neighborhoods have also taken on the names of slums and ghettos. The same areas where children are faced with growing up too fast because of the violence, crime and drug trafficking that has taken over these communities. Not only do these children and young adult face with these issues, they are also faced with the reality that in these disorganized neighborhoods, there is a breakdown of the traditional family therefore they must learn and master the code of conduct and or the rules of the streets in order to survive. Not to mention learning the demands of socially regarding displaying appropriate behavior when they are outside of the disorganized community. In the book, Fist, stick knife, gun, the author shared his experience of growing up in a society in which he needed to learn the code of conduct that regulated what was fair and unfair when it came to surviving and protecting himself throughout his childhood. Not only did Canada learn how to fight mentally and physically and where there is no social control. Early on in Canada’s life, he had come to realize that because he had lived in an area that consisted of poverty and crime. Through Canada’s encounter with the police regarding someone stealing $10.00 from the family, and the fact the police had done nothing to protect his family. At that time he had learned that if you do the right thingShow MoreRelatedFist Stick Knife Gun Essay1524 Words   |  7 PagesJen Jeffrey Juvenile Justice and Delinquency October 21, 2001 Critique of Fist Stick Knife Gun The Book Fist Stick Knife Gun by Geoffrey Canada is a biographical account of his childhood in the south Bronx. He and his 4 brothers were raised by only their mother. She would survive on no more than ten dollars a week. He moved several times as a child until finally landing on union avenue, the place were many of his life lessons were learned and at times applied. He learned about the rankingRead More Critique of Geoffrey Canadas Fist Stick Knife Gun Essay1506 Words   |  7 PagesCritique of Geoffrey Canadas Fist Stick Knife Gun The Book â€Å"Fist Stick Knife Gun† by Geoffrey Canada is a biographical account of his childhood in the south Bronx. He and his 4 brothers were raised by only their mother. She would survive on no more than ten dollars a week. He moved several times as a child until finally landing on union avenue, the place were many of his life lessons were learned and at times applied. He learned about the ranking process of kids on union Ave. and how the onlyRead MoreAnalysis Of The Book Fist Stick Knife Gun By Geoffrey Canada Essay2179 Words   |  9 Pagesthoroughly convincing. His Book Fist Stick Knife Gun, is a great explanation of violence and poverty in late 20th century here in America’s inner cities. Of how he changed from a timid and frightened child into a young man who could hold his own in a fight in the streets, is written in a believable way. Canada actually learned the way of the streets because he grew up in the streets. All of his experiences first started when he was a child when he and his friends used their fists to settle disputes and toRead MoreThe Importance Of Teaching A Past Lesson836 Words   |  4 Pagesand students alike to understand how classroom interactions can become more meaningful. In addition to my lesson analysis, I have also included a lesson plan and its subsequent reflection. The lesson provided was an opening lesson for my Fist, Stick, Knife, Gun Unit. The intention was to lead with high levels of engagement in order for students to buy in to the upcoming Unit. In the past, my principal and new teacher mentor has suggested videos and co-operative learning strategies that will allowRead MoreI Am An Active Participant898 Words   |  4 Pagesstudents witnessed uproar after the death of Freddy Gray. While coming up with a Unit Plan, I knew it had to be relevant to what my students are currently experiencing. After conferencing with several teachers, I finally decided to teach Fist, Stick, Knife, Gun. Our Essential Q uestion for the Unit is, Where does violence come from and how can we stop it? Acknowledging what my students are going through rather than sweeping it under the rug appeals to the part of the standard that requires teachingRead MoreA Very Thoughtful Look Into Inner City Violence And The Rules Surrounding It1718 Words   |  7 Pagesis thoroughly convincing. His Book Fist Stick Knife Gun, is a great explanation of violence and poverty in late 20th century here in America. His story of how he changed from a timid and frightened child into a young man who could hold his own in a fight in the streets is written in a believable way. Canada actually learned the way of the streets because he grew up in the streets It first started when he was a child when he and his friends used their fists to settle disputes and to gain a reputationRead MoreEnding Of Huck783 Words   |  4 Pagesinto the forest, the boys had found a huge stick pile. Huck then took out his pocket knife and said â€Å"well?... Let’s get to carving.† So then all the boys proceeded to carve out wooden knifes, spears, rings, and small animals while singing. That’s when Tom said â€Å"hey, we could carve wooden guns and play cowboys and Indians!† All the boys agreed to this proposition, and so that’s exactly what the boys did for the next 45 minutes. All boys had their own wooden guns that they all made individually, and thenRead MoreRacial Profiling by Police Essay1669 Words   |  7 Pages Brent Staples’ essay, â€Å"When the Paranoids Turn Out to be Right,† acknowledges the issues of racism and racial profiling committed by police. In â€Å"Fist, Stick, Knife, Gun,† Geoffrey Canada also expresses views on this issue when he asserts that police fail to protect and serve individuals in poor neighborhoods. Staples contends, â€Å"Among the day-to-day acts of discrimination that shadow African Americans, none are more stressful or dangerous than those committed by police, some of whom treat black peopleRead MoreGeoffrey Canada and the Harlem Childrens Zone Essay1672 Words   |  7 Pagesand kept them privy to the civil rights struggles that their community was facing (AE, 2011). Growing up in Harlem was challenging. Early on, Canada knew that there was a ranking order in the South Bronx. He highlights this in his book, Fist, Stick, Knife, Gun: A Personal History of Violence in America (1995). Canada tells a story about how his two older brothers were playing at the park one day. The younger of the two boys, took off his jacket. A boy at the playground threatened the Geoffrey’sRead MoreEssay on Freedom Riders1426 Words   |  6 Pagesbut the bus got away until about six miles down the road. The mob caught up to the bus and surrounded it until Ell Cowling, a police officer, pulled out his gun and badge and the Klansman backed away. Someone from the mob had thrown a flaming device into a bus window and the bus went up in flames (Garrow 2). Two highway patrolmen fired their guns to scare the crowd and make them leave so the passengers could safely get off the bus. Only twelve riders were taken to the hospital to be treated for smoke

Addiction And The Family Addiction - 2026 Words

Addictions and The Family Addiction has been an aspect in the family atmosphere for centuries. The majority of treatment options have focused on the addict and how to help them and not dealing with the issues that the family members are facing as well. When families are faced with a loved one dealing with an addiction they go through physical challenges such as possible abuse, social challenges, emotional distress such as depression, and financial hardships. In the article Family Systems Theory: A Unifying Framework For Codependence, Prest and Protinsky quote C. Whitfield â€Å" The compulsive and addictive behavioral patterns in which these people are engaged seriously affect the lives of three to five people with whom they are closely†¦show more content†¦The biological factors that reasearchers say might influence addiction are genetic factors. Researchers have contributed genetics as a cause since there is â€Å"hereditary biological differences that make some individu als either more or less susceptible to drug dependence than others† (U.S Congress, Office of Technology pg. 6). When there are biological influences involved in addiction, and there is one or more family members that have suffered from addiction there could be the possibility of a genetic deposition for addiction. Psychological factors that could contribute to addiction are; depression, death in the family, and the need to take risks. In the commentary by Roozen et al. Involving Families in Addiction Treatment – The Way Forward he states that â€Å"Research has shown consistently that family members living with an active addiction problem suffer stress that can be severe and long-lasting and are frequent users of the health-care system, presenting with physical and psychological stress symptoms.† (Roozen et al. pg. 105). In our current society people are under more pressure and stress from not only personal problems but work and social issues as well. These issue s may cause people to start using some sort of an addictive substance in an effort to feel normal. A death in the family can be unbearable for some individuals and they will

Crime Statistics Comparison Free Essays

Crime statistics endeavour to provide statistical measures of crime in societies. They provide a point of analysis and comparison, allow countries to form long-term patterns and trends and can help to develop and reform criminal justice policies as well as being more meaningful than raw numbers. Using the countries of Bahrain and the United States as a comparison point for the following issues which surround crime statistics such as biases, agendas and general influences like education and religion; this essay will be focused around analysing the statistical factors and wider influences which can allow a country to have low or high crime rates. We will write a custom essay sample on Crime Statistics Comparison or any similar topic only for you Order Now Crime Definitions Definitions of what exactly constitutes being a crime differ not only across countries but even across states. This can be an issue with statistics as in order to measure and compare crime consistently crimes need to be classified and placed into groups of similar offences. While murder is a crime recognized and agreed upon by most nations, what makes up a homicide may be more challenging and then even simply just a ‘crime against the person’ can vary widely. This often means that what makes up a crime for many offences can vary throughout jurisdictions. This is a problem when categorizing offences for international statistical comparison. An example of this is the way that laws differ state to state within the United States, while ‘offences known to police’ is a statistic seen as quite a high representative figure of the offences, a lot of researches see that no official measure can ever come close to the actual amount of criminality that exists in any form in society (Archer, 1984) Definitional problems are concerned with whether or not crimes have equivalent meanings between nations, which in most cases a lot of crimes seem not to have. Countries most often vary in behaviours which can sometimes be seen as coming within the space of the law. So for any kind of comparison of crime rates to work at all, it is crucial that the definitions of crimes and the categories they are placed in are similar. The next issue with definitions is that even the different organizations that compile crime statistics differ within their own definitions. Interpol for example defines murder as: Any act performed with the purpose of taking human life, excluding abortion but including infanticide (and including attempts). Kalish, 1988) While the World Health Organization (WHO) does not distinguish between intentional or unintentional homicides but does not include attempts under this organization attempts fall under a separate legal distinction(Kalish, 1988). And again, the United Nations have a different definition for homicide: Death purposely inflicted by another person, including infanticide. (Kalish, 1988) Due to major issues with the above topics across all countries, due to definitional and categorical differences, crime statistics can differ significantly. In Bahrain, crimes against the individual are ranked in relation to the seriousness of the offence, murder, attempted murder, murder by error, assault, threatening and others. In the United States, offences are not classed separately, but into broad categories which are homicides, robberies and assaults. Bahrain does not report rape as a single category and in response, no reports of rape have been sent to their criminal investigation unit (Ministry of Information, 1985). Reporting Issues The quality of the way crime is reported is likely to be influenced by a wide range of practices and techniques in different jurisdictions. For example in Bahrain, individual police departments participation in reporting crime rates is compulsory, but neither the numbers of convictions or the final outcome of cases are reported, whereas, local police departments in the United States are under no obligation to report back crime rates from their areas as participation is voluntary (Newman, 1993). Honesty or dishonesty of police who are involved in the collection and compilation process of statistics (Adler, 1983) and the manipulation of the data compiled for political reasons – which will be discussed later – are some other examples of things than can influence the quality of the crime that is reported. In the United States for example, every case involving multiple offences by the same person that are compiled by police, the statistic noted down is only in relation to the most serious offence that has occurred (Reichel, 1994). Underreporting is an influence on the reporting of crime as it affects basically every area and any data that is compiled by police. In many occasions and for many different reasons people do not report offenses they are victims of or that they witness. There is a ‘dark-figure’ of crime in both Bahrain and the United States, there have been no victimisation studies conducted in Bahrain to date, but on the opposite side, the victimisation surveys that have been conducted in the United States show higher crime rates than the Uniform Crime Reporting System shows (Federal Bureau of Investigation, 1981-1987). Another reason there are issues with extremely low or quite high crime rates is the issue of political influences. Police may exaggerate statistics in their areas to draw funding to their area for upgrades and to gain more police numbers, or even down the crime statistics to reflect success of their force, to show the people of the country and the world that they are doing their job correctly and well. The government can also do the above, by altering the statistics, they can create a sense of fear in there people to gain votes through public advertising that they will combat the high rates of crime in certain areas, or downgrade the rates to adhere to international requirements, to attempt to get the country placed on the ‘best of’ lists within international media as a way to gain tourism by showing they are a safe place to visit. Wider Influences: Bahrain is a country which operates on all levels in relation to the teachings of the Qur’an. This makes up the fabric of life for the Bahraini people, the influence of the Islamic religion can be seen in the economic, political and social pathways of life within the culture of the country. In Bahrain, religion is the most important structure. The Islamic religion opposes wrongdoing in all its forms and that any wrongdoing can lead to the downfall of society. The teachings of the Prophet attempt to get rid of all forms of crime before it happens by influencing the individuals who follow the religion. Acts against the law therefore is not only a crime against society in the eyes of Bahraini people it is also a violation of the principles of God. In Bahrain there are even ‘moral police officers’ who regulate the dress and public behaviour of citizens (Helal, 1991). As the Qur’an provides the basis for society, it also provides the base for which laws are made. All laws however have major influence from the Western cultures, apart from marriage, divorce and succession which all fall under the Shari’ah. Souryal, 1988)Therefore religion is a major influence in relation to everything, right down to helping explain the low crime rate in Bahrain. Citizens are able to speak directly to the ruler of Bahrain for a few days each month this allows the people to feel that they are in touch with their government as they are able to voice their concerns directly (Helal, 1991). Therefore crimes against the state are less likely to be committed as people feel as if they play a greater role than just an individual in a wider community. Souryal (1988) has noted in his studies that since firearms, drugs and alcohol are all banned, the opportunity for violence is reduced. Ontop of this, the way the law is applied to Muslim offenders acts as a deterrent to the Bahraini citizens. The penalty for committing a crime is harsher if the offender is Muslim and has committed an offence against a Muslim, the Islamic penal code is also enforced against non-Muslims in the country. Some punishments that can be given out include amputation, stoning, flogging and death which can be executed in public (Moore, 1987). The influence of education within Bahrain is a major factor that can be related back to the low crime rate of the country. Islam religion is tied tightly into the education at all levels in Bahrain, and education is compulsory for all children living in the country also (Helal, 1991). The United States however has a separation between church and state, which is not the case in Bahrain. Within the United States, there is a separation of powers, it is a multicultural society which also makes it multi-faith, to base all laws on just the one religion within the United States would most likely cause more crime rather than decrease the rate. Within the United States alcohol and firearms are legal once of a certain age, therefore the high crime rate within the country can be related back to the availability to things that aid criminal acts and violence. Education within the United States changes in relation to the age of compulsory education, it ranges from between 14 to 18 (State Compulsory Attendance Laws, 2007). Religion is not taught within all schools due to the adversity of religions within each state and the country as a whole. There are schools which focus on specific religions, these however are private schools and advertise that they do these teachings (Religion in Schools, 2004). The major difference between the two countries, other than the rate of crime, Bahrain’s crime rate being quite low compared to the United States, is the issue of religion within not just the country, but as the basis for all the laws and the way the entire community of Bahrain lives their life. In conclusion, there are so many reasons by which crime statistics can be altered due to not only issues with reporting and recording, but definitional issues and wider societal influences. It is not until recently that any one organization has attempted to compile and compare cross-national crime statistics, for this to be done however, organizations need to find a way to combat the above issues outlined. The United Nations have pushed for a standard level of classification of offences and the collection of statistics across continents which would set out minimum standards for the collection, analysis and presentation of the statistics. (Vetere, 1977). This is just one way we can start to remove bias and definitional errors. The true rate of crime is impossible to compare or even start to determine. The amounts of crime reported demonstrate that there is a major difference between the two countries in terms of crime rates. The Islamic religion within Bahrain lays the foundations for life and can be seen woven into critical social areas within the community, all in which can create the basis for crime to become a realty; within Bahrain however, due to the tight influence religion has on one’s conscience, it has the opposite impact (Helal, 1991). The United States has the separation of church and state, therefore fewer values are shared throughout the country, which allows for breaks within society and these can be seen as the basis for crime to be committed, therefore raising the crime rate rather than lowering it. It would be simply ridiculous to implement the way Bahraini society is run into the United States(Helal, 1991). But the influence that the combination of church and state within a country like Bahrain has on the Bahraini people is simply just one way in which can be shown to keep crime rates low. References http://www.edweek.org/ew/issues/religion-in-schools http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0112617.html How to cite Crime Statistics Comparison, Essay examples

Virtual Reality Essays (269 words) - Virtual Reality, Simulation

Virtual Reality Virtual Reality is interactivity in such a way that the user actually feels immersed in the world that the computer creates. Special clothing, headgear and equipment, depending upon the application. The clothing contains sensors that record the users movements and immediately transmit that information back to the computer. For example, to walk through a virtual reality simulation of a house, you would need garb that monitors the movement of your feet, hands and head. You would also need goggles that contain video screens and also audio attachments and feeling gloves so that you can be immersed in the computer feedback. Virtual reality also provides benefits in educational, scientific and business work. Japan has just put it to work in its department stores. The stores sell kitchen appliances called Virtual Kitchen. The prospective buyers bring their kitchen layouts to the department store, where trained staff enters a copy of the design into the computer. The customers then don the appropriate equipment and suddenly find themselves in their own kitchen. These appliances can be tried out in various sizes, colours and locations. They can also test the opening and closing of the cabinet doors and drawers. They can place their existing table and chairs into the picture so that the scene will be very realistic. They can walk around and discover and feel the ambiance of the new kitchen. With this technology, the customer is able to buy with a great more deal of confidence What Are Its Uses Virtual Reality is used: 1) In surgery system to view the virtual brain with superb three dimensional reality. 2) To simulate fatigue of cancer patients 3) In some electronic games 4) To stimulate construction designs 5) In amusement park attractions.

What Is Class Rank What Is a Good Rank

What Is Class Rank What Is a Good Rank SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Have you heard of class rank but aren’t sure what it is? Maybe you want to know why class rank is important or how you can figure out what a good class rank is. And, by the way, what is a good class rank? We have answers to all these questions! Read on to learn what class rank is, how schools calculate it, and how it’s important for your future. What Is Class Rank? Class rank is a way to see how your academic achievements measure up to those of your classmates. Your class rank is determined by comparing your GPA to the GPA of people in the same grade as you. So, if you are a junior and your high school has 500 juniors, each of them will receive a number, 1-500, with the person who has the highest GPA ranked #1. If there are 500 people in your class and your class rank is 235, then 234 of your classmates have a higher GPA than you, 265 classmates have a lower GPA than you, and you are in the top half of your class. Class rank is reevaluated each grading period, whether that is semesters or trimesters at your school. So, every time new grades are added to transcripts, class rankings are updated and your rank may go up or down. How Do Different Schools Measure Class Rank? All class ranking methods involve assigning each student a number based on how their GPA compares to that of their classmates. However, there are several different ways to measure class rank. There are two main types of class rank: weighted and unweighted. Unweighted class rank determines your rank by using your unweighted GPA. Unweighted GPAs are measured on a scale of 0 to 4.0 and do not take into account the difficulty of your courses. Weighted class rank determines your rank by using your weighted GPA. Weighted GPAs usually range from a scale of 0 to 5.0 and do take the difficulty of your courses into account. So what does this mean for your ranking? If you have taken honors or AP classes, your weighted class rank will likely be better than your unweighted class rank, even if you didn’t receive A’s in all those courses. This is because more challenging courses are given a higher weight (usually a 5.0) when calculating GPAs. For unweighted class rank, a person who takes regular-level classes and receives straight A’s in them will have the same unweighted GPA and class rank as a student who took all honors and AP classes and got straight A’s in them. For unweighted GPAs, every A, no matter how difficult the course, counts as a 4.0. Some high schools provide weighted class rank, some unweighted class rank, and some provide both rankings. To learn more about unweighted vs. weighted GPAs read our guide on the topic. Your class rank also determines your class percentile. If your school does not list your percentile, it is easy to figure out. Divide your class rank by the number of students in your grade, multiply by 100, then subtract that number from 100. For example, if there are 600 students in your grade and you are ranked 120th, then you are in the 80th percentile because (120/600)*100=20, and 100-20=80. You are also in the top 20% of your class. Why Is Class Rank Important? Besides letting students know how they stack up against their classmates, class rank is used for several other reasons. #1: College Applications Class rank offers a way for colleges to see how your academic achievements compare to those of your classmates. For example, if you attend a high school that gives very few A’s and you have a transcript with mostly B’s and C’s, this may make your GPA lower than the average applicant's GPA. However, admissions officers will see by your high class rank that you were one of the best students in your grade, and this will strengthen your application. Conversely, if you have straight A’s but only took easy classes or went to a high school that gave many A’s, you may have a great GPA but your class rank will not be particularly high because a lot of your classmates received the same grades you did. Your class rank helps colleges put your GPA into context and gives them more insight into your academic abilities. Some states offer high school students guaranteed admission to state universities if they have a certain class rank. For example, Florida students are guaranteed admission to at least one in-state university if they are in the top 20% of their graduating class. #2: Scholarships Some scholarships require applicants to have achieved a certain class rank or percentile (such as top 25% of your class) in order to be applicable. Like colleges, scholarship committees may also use class rank as one criterion to judge a student’s academic abilities, along with GPA and standardized test scores. #3: High School Honors Some high schools award honors to graduating seniors who achieved a certain class rank, such as top 10% or 25% of their class. There are also honors for those at the very top of their class rankings. The graduating senior who is ranked #1 in the class is honored as the valedictorian and often gives a speech at graduation. The person ranked #2 is the salutatorian of the class. Why Do Some Schools No Longer Use Class Rank? Although class rank has long been used by colleges to help judge students’ academic skills, only about half of US high schools currently provide class rank. There are several reasons more and more schools have stopped using class rank. Some schools believe that students who just miss important percentiles, like top 10% or 25% of their class, may be unfairly disadvantaged for scholarships and college admissions. For example, a student in the top 11% of their class may have a GPA very similar to a student in the top 9%, but may not receive certain scholarships or college offers because they aren’t in the top 10% of their class. Some also feel that class rank doesn’t promote teamwork and cooperation because it makes students too competitive with each other as they vie to improve their class rank. Some schools also believe that providing class rank encourages students to take easier classes to boost their ranking, instead of challenging themselves and taking more difficult classes where they may not get an A, but may learn more. There are also schools that no longer assign a rank to each student, but only provide broad percentiles. These percentiles may divide the class into quarters and show if a particular student is in the top 25, 50, or 75% of her class. This lets you know roughly how well you are doing compared to your classmates, but you won’t know your exact class rank. Some schools also only use percentiles to designate which students are in the top 10% or 15% of their class and don’t provide percentiles for students below that cutoff. Because fewer high schools are including it on transcripts, many colleges are giving class rank less importance when they review college applications. Instead of using class rank as a critical admissions criteria, some colleges instead focus more other components of a student's transcript such as GPA or the rigor of the classes taken. You won't need to search too hard to find your class rank. How to Find Your Class Rank In order to find your class rank, first check your most recent report card or high school transcript. Your class rank should be there, usually near the bottom of the page. You should be able to see what your class rank is and how many people are in your class. Your school may also provide your percentile, as well as indicate whether your ranking is weighted or unweighted (or it may provide both). If you can’t find this information, or don’t have access to your report cards or transcripts, stop by the school office or ask your guidance counselor. They should be able to give you your class rank. If your school doesn't provide class rank, they may still be able to give you a percentile estimate. If you're interested in learning this information, try asking something like, "I would like to learn my class rank so I have a better idea of my chances for getting into college. If you can't provide my exact rank, could you tell me what rough percentile I fit into?" How to Find What Percentile You're In Many schools will list your percentile along with your rank, but if your school doesn't, it's easy to figure out. Use this formula: (1- (your class rank / number of people in your class)) * 100 = your percentile If a student is ranked 78th out of 600 people in her grade, she'd plug in those numbers and get: (1- (78 / 600)) * 100 = 87 So, she'd be in the 87th percentile. Remember, percentiles show how many people you're ranked above, so a higher number is better. Being 87th percentile means that her class rank is higher than 87% of her classmates' class ranks. By subtracting 87 from 100, you can also see that this student's class rank puts her in the top 13% of her class. What If Your School Doesn't Include Class Rank? Only about 60% of high schools still use class rank, so if your school doesn’t provide class rankings, you are not alone. Some students worry that if their school doesn’t provide class rank, it will hurt their chances of getting into college. However, this is not true. When a high school doesn’t provide class rank, colleges simply look at other information, such as GPA, high school transcripts, and standardized test scores to judge a student’s academic ability. As mentioned above, because fewer high schools provide class rank, it is becoming less important for college admissions. How far away are you from a 4.0? Use our easy GPA tool to pinpoint how well you have to do in future classes to get your GPA up to that magical number. What Is a Good Class Rank? So now that you know what your class rank is, what's a good class rank? This answer depends on a lot of factors, including your high school and where you hope to go to college, but we can still give some general answers. If you want to attend college, your minimum goal should be to have a class rank that puts you in the upper half of your class. So if you have a class of 500, you'd want your rank to be 249 or higher. You can certainly get into colleges with a lower class rank (especially if you go to a highly competitive high school and/or magnet school), but being in the top half of your class is a good baseline goal to aim for since it shows colleges that you're an above-average student at your school. If you want to attend a more competitive college, you should aim to have a class rank that puts you in the top 25% of your class, or the 75th or higher percentile. For Ivy League and other top tier schools, a class rank in the top 10% or 5% is a good goal to aim for. Remember though, that colleges take many factors into consideration when they look at college applications, and your class rank is just one piece of the puzzle. Having an overall strong applicationwith high grades, a transcript showing you took difficult classes, strong letters of recommendation, and dedication to extracurricularsmatters much more than just your class rank alone. Recap: What You Need to Know About Class Rank Class rank is a way to compare a student’s grades to those of her classmates. Students are given a number ranking based on their GPA. Class rank can be weighted, unweighted, or only include percentiles. Class rank is one criteria colleges use to determine an applicant’s academic abilities. Some high schools no longer use class rank due to growing concerns that it causes students to take less challenging courses and puts students who are just outside certain percentiles at an unfair disadvantage when applying to colleges. Your class rank can typically be found on your high school transcript or report card. If your high school doesn’t include class rank, it won’t negatively affect your chances of getting into college. Universities have many other criteria, such as your GPA, essays, and standardized test scores, to help make their decision. What's Next? Wondering what else colleges look for on your transcript? Check out our guide on what information a high school transcript includes and why it's important for college applications. Want to improve your class rank? Read our guide on different strategies to raise your GPA in high school. Wondering how strong your GPA is? Learn what a good GPA is for college. How far away are you from a 4.0? Use our easy GPA tool to pinpoint how well you have to do in future classes to get your GPA up to that magical number.

Magnetic Reversal of the Earths Poles

Magnetic Reversal of the Earth's Poles In the 1950s, ocean-going research vessels recorded puzzling data based on the magnetism of the ocean floor. It was determined that the rock of the ocean floor had bands of embedded iron oxides that alternately pointed toward geographic north and geographic south. This  was not the first time such confusing evidence had been found. In the early 20th century, geologists had found some volcanic rock was magnetized in a manner opposite to what was expected. But it was the extensive 1950s data that prompted a widespread  investigation, and by 1963 a theory of the reversal of the earths magnetic field was proposed.  It has been a fundamental of earth science ever since. How the Earths Magnetic Field Is Created The earths magnetism is thought to be created by slow movements in the liquid outer core of the planet, which consists largely of iron, caused by the rotation of the earth. Much the way  the rotation of a generator coil creates a magnetic field, the rotation of the liquid outer core of the earth generates a weak electromagnetic field. This magnetic field extends out into space and serves to deflect solar wind from the sun. The generation of the earths magnetic field is a continuous but variable process. There is a frequent change in the intensity of the magnetic field, and the precise location of the magnetic poles can drift. True magnetic north does not always correspond to the geographic North Pole. It also can cause the complete reversal of the earths entire magnetic field polarity. How We Can Measure Magnetic Field Changes Liquid lava, which hardens into rock, contains grains of iron oxides that react to the earths magnetic field by pointing toward the magnetic pole as the rock solidifies. Thus, these grains are permanent records of the location of the earths magnetic field at the time the rock forms. As new crust is created on the ocean floor, the new crust solidifies with its iron oxide particles acting like miniature compass needles, pointing to wherever magnetic north is at the time. Scientists studying the lava samples from the bottom of the ocean could see that the iron oxide particles were pointing in unexpected directions, but to understand what this meant, they needed to know when the rocks formed, and where they were located at the time they solidified out of liquid lava.   The method of dating rock through radiometric analysis has been available since the early 20th century, so it was an easy enough matter to find the age of the rock samples found on the ocean floor.   However, it was also known that the ocean floor moves and spreads over time, and it was not until 1963 that rock aging information was combined with information about how the ocean floor spreads to produce a definitive understanding of where those iron oxide particles were pointing at the time the lava solidified into rock.   Extensive analysis now shows that the earths magnetic field has reversed about 170 times over the last 100 million years. Scientists continue to evaluate data, and there is much disagreement over how long these periods of magnetic polarity last and whether the reversals happen at predictable intervals or are irregular and unexpected. What are the Causes and Effects? Scientists do not really know what causes the reversals of the magnetic field, although they have duplicated the phenomenon in laboratory experiments with molten metals, which also will spontaneously change the direction of their magnetic fields. Some theorists believe that magnetic field reversals may be caused by tangible events, such as tectonic plate collisions or impacts from large meteors or asteroids, but this theory is discounted by others. It is known that leading up to a magnetic reversal, the strength of the field declines, and since the strength of our current magnetic field is now in steady decline, some scientists believe we will see another magnetic reversal in about 2,000 years.   If, as some scientists suggest, there is a period during which there is no magnetic field at all before the reversal occurs, the effect on the planet is not well understood. Some theorists suggest that having no magnetic field will open the earths surface to dangerous solar radiation that potentially might lead to global extinction of life. However, there is currently no statistical correlation that can be pointed to in the fossil record to verify this. The last reversal occurred about 780,000 years ago, and there is no evidence to show that there were mass species extinctions at that time. Other scientists argue that the magnetic field does not vanish during reversals, but merely grows weaker for a time. Although we have at least  2,000 years to wonder about it, if a reversal were to occur today, one obvious effect would be mass disruption to communications systems. Much the way solar storms can affect satellite and radio signals, a magnetic field reversal would have the same effect, though to a much more pronounced degree.

Sociology - What is the difference betweex sex and gender How is this Essay

Sociology - What is the difference betweex sex and gender How is this distinction made - Essay Example Sex was â€Å"nature† and gender was â€Å"nurture†. In the language of Sociology, gender roles replaced sex roles, as gender represented more accurately than sex the social construction of identities and roles dividing societies into women and men. Sex and gender were interdependent, but clearly distinguished. Gender was social, thus variable and subject to change, while sex represented the essential and unchanging physical differences in human reproduction. An implicit causal link existed between sex and gender (Acker, 1992; Wilson, 1989). Feminist sociologists (e.g. Rossi, 1984) who took a biosocial view of gender, saw gender behaviour at least in part, as physiologically determined. They posited a clear distinction and a causal link between sex and gender. However, Acker (1992) states that variations in actions and feelings among both men and women, as well as similarities between women and men seemed too great, to permit the tracing of behaviour to biological differences. On the other hand, according to Butler (2005: 48), â€Å"because gender is fundamentally a way in which we make sense of ourselves as embodied creatures, no investigation of gender can allow itself to be carried too far off from the body. Gender reminds us that our bodies are not merely tools that we use to various ends. Our bodies are ourselves; their gender has a meaning and a value that is not merely instrumental†. In current usage gender is theorized as a basic principle of social structure and cultural interpretation (Scott, 1986; Acker, 1988). According to Unger (1979), gender refers to the traits and behaviors considered characteristic of and appropriate to members of each sexual category. These may be physiological, biosocial or environmental. In explaining gender as a constitutive element of social relationships, Scott (1986) emphasizes that â€Å"gender operates in multiple fields, including culturally

Political system Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Political system - Essay Example The process boosts the degree of loyalty. The Iranian Shia authorities question the Saudi’s regime legitimacy. The Saudi rule prioritizes its position as superior to Iran with the maintenance of its economic, security sectors and protection of the GCC monarchies. The situation is evident in the recent riots in Bahrain (Gilley 64). Political marginalization by Islam may become impossible due to the pressure on the Islamic community by their regimes. The political regimes intend to consolidate Islam legitimacy triggering a direct response to the regime. The unifying force of Islam was demonstrated in Middle East by the rising state opposition that poses a serious threat to state security. The situation made Islam a major opposing force and significant political challenge. Oil is the key contributor to the economy of Saudi Arabia whose revenue majorly contributes to state building. Construction of Saudi Aramco, an excellent national oil champion is evidence of the contribution of oil in state building. Oil has led to the establishment of a modern capital market, reforms in labor policy and the surge of foreign investors into the country. The liberalizing economic reforms changed political and social structures of the oil-rich state (Herttog 53). The Saudi Arabian kingdom has a robust public infrastructure that has created an attractive investment climate for investors. Furthermore, the kingdom has invested in architecture. Secondly, it has invested a lot of money in key industries around the world. As a result, it has emerged as a key regional and economic player (Herttog 53). The Saudi Arabian regime has leveraged its oil resources to attract powerful international allies. In addition, it plays a major role in the Middle East region. However, the need for oil has prevented its key allies such as the United States from criticizing its poor human rights record and ill treatment of

Hard Times :: Dickens Hard Times Essays

Hard Times In this paper I would like to discuss the possibly affects that this book might have had on the world, the time around Charles Dickens, and the fact that Charles Dickens paid close attention to the world around him. Charles Dickens, born Charles John Huffman Dickens, was born on Feb. 7 1812 in Portsmouth where his father was a clerk at the Naval Pay Office. Four years later his family moved to Chatham and then later moved to London. In 1824 Charles Dickens father went to Debtor's Prison. In 1833 Charles Dickens published his first story "A Dinner at Poplar Walk". In 1838 one of Dickens most popular stories, Oliver Twist, was published in three volumes. In 1851 Charles Dickens father passed away. Next in 1861, another Dickens classic was published, Great Expectations. On June 9 Charles Dickens dies, at the age of fifty-eight. And was buried in Westminster Abbey. This is the Penguin Classics version of Hard Times by Charles Dickens that has be en edited by Kate Flint, who also added the introduction. I was unable to find any information about the editor, other than her name. I believe that Charles Dickens books, this one included, have had a great affect on the world. Not only in the fact that some of the books that he has written are considered to be classic or in the fact that some of these books are required reading in many high schools through out the U.S.. But also in the fact that I believe some of his books had an influence in the way the some of the laws in his time where formulated. The way that Charles Dickens go about doing this is by writing about the social problems within the government or just problems with the way that thing are being done in general. One example that I have found was in chapter 11, page 77, and footnote number 8. The line says "I ha' coom to ask yo, sir, how I am to be ridded o' this woman." When you look at the footnote it says that this line in the book is speaking of a problem that was quite common during Charles Dickens time period. The problem that this line speaks of is that it was all but impossible for a person who was of lower class to get a divorce.

Elements of Religious Traditions Essay

The term religion can bring up mixed emotions in people. Many people have different religious views and their traditions usually follow that religion. Religion is very vast and there are many different forms, views, traditions, and beliefs within each religion. Certain religions are monotheism, some are polytheism, and others are pantheism. Each religion encourages relationships with the divine, sacred time, sacred space or the natural world, and relationships with others. Relationships with the divine According to Molloy (2010), â€Å"All religions are concerned with the deepest level of reality, and for most religions the core or origin of everything is sacred and mysterious† (p 7). Each religion often calls the sacred by name such as Divine Parent, Great Spirit, the Divine, and the Holy to name a few (Molloy, 2010). Monotheism is a term that means belief in one God (Molloy, 2010). Polytheism is the belief in many Gods or Goddesses; the multiple Gods may be separate or a multiple manifestation of the same sacred reality (Molloy, 2010). Pantheism is the belief that the sacred as being discoverable within the physical world, in other words nature itself is holy (Molloy, 2010). Recently there are people who tend to deny the existence of any God or gods which is described as atheism (Molloy, 2010). Relationship with Sacred Time According to Molloy (2010), â€Å"Our everyday lives go on in ordinary time, which we see as moving forward into the future. Sacred time, however, is the time of eternity†(p 43). Many people have different names for this measurement of time such as the Artic people refer to it as â€Å"distant time†, Australian aboriginals refer to it as â€Å"dream time†(Molloy, 2010). Although there are many different names for sacred time they all refer to the time of eternity and each religion has a different theory on sacred time. Some people believe that sacred time is cyclical and returns to its origins for renewal. Others feel that by recalling and ritually reliving the deeds of the gods and ancestors (Molloy, 2010). Indigenous religions even structure their daily lives to conform to mythical events in sacred time which creates a sense of holiness in their daily lives (Molloy, 2010). Certain religions strongly encourage a relationship with sacred time and others tend to not worry about sacred time. Christianity for instance knows that someday Christ will return to earth however most Christians do not center their lives on waiting for this day. However some Christians live everyday as if it will be the day He returns and strive to be worthy in His eyes when that day does come. Relationship with Sacred Space or the Natural World Just like ordinary time there is also ordinary space. Sacred space refers to the doorway in which the other world of gods and ancestors can contact us and we can contact them (Molloy, 2010). Sacred space is often considered the center of the universe where powers and holiness are strongest; where we can go to renew our own strength (Molloy, 2010). In certain native religions sacred space is a mountain, great volcano, or other striking natural site. In Australian aboriginal religions Uluru (Ayers Rock) is their sacred center (Molloy, 2010). Sacred space can also be constructed into a certain shape, special building, or a boundary. For some religions, sacred space is often in the form of a church where people go to worship, pray, and learn about God; some churches are even built extremely tall to be â€Å"closer† to God. Critical Issues What should we study in order to properly understand religions? What attitude should we have when we study the religions of others? How can researchers be objective? These are just some of the complex questions that researchers should ask before attempting to study religions. Some of the issues in the first century included inability to travel, incomplete scriptures, or the translation they depended on were not accurate (Molloy, 2010). One of the main critical issues when studying religion is forming a prior opinion that can create a bias on the research. If a Buddhist is studying Christianity his opinion could be bias because of his own personal opinions on religion or a preference of his own beliefs versus the other. Conclusion Religion is sometimes defined as to join again. According to the common dictionary the word religion is defined as â€Å"a system of belief that involves worship of a God or gods, prayer, ritual, and a moral code† (Molloy, 2010 p 5). Within each religion there are specific beliefs, traditions, and values. Many religions encourage the relationships with the divine, sacred time, sacred space or the natural world. It is also crucial to identify critical key issues when studying religions. Whether someone worships one God, many gods, goddesses, or denies any existence of God or gods it is important to look inside each religion with an open mind. References Molloy, M. (2010). Experiencing the world’s religions: Tradition, challenge, and change (5th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Reflexive Spanish Verbs With an Indirect Object

Spanish often uses reflexive verbs  in a way that seems unfamiliar to English speakers. And they can seem downright indecipherable at when they are in sentences include two object pronouns of a single verb, a phenomenon that is unheard of in everyday English unless those pronouns are connected by and or or. Here are three examples of sentences that include two object pronouns that have different grammatical functions (that is, that arent joined by a conjunction such as y or o). Translations given arent the only ones possible; alternatives are explained below.) Se me rompià ³ la taza. (The objects are se and me. My cup got broken.) ¿Se te olvidà ³ el tomate? (The object pronouns are te and me. Did you forget the tomato?)La espiritualidad es algo que se nos despierta en cierto momento de nuestra vida. (The object pronouns are se and te. Spirituality is something that awakens for us at a certain time of our lives.) Why Two Objects Are Used You may have noticed that the three translations above took different approaches—but that none of the translations are literal, word-for-word ones, which wouldnt make sense. The key to understanding these sentences grammatically is to remember that the se in each of these cases is part of a reflexive verb, and that the other pronoun is an indirect object, one that tells who is affected by a verbs action. Basically, a reflexive construction is one in which the subject of a verb acts on itself. An example in English would be I see myself (Me veo in Spanish), where the person speaking is both seeing and being seen. In Spanish, however, it is possible to think of a verb acting on itself even when we dont translate it that way in English. This can be seen in the first example, where the most common definition of romper is to break. So we can think of romperse (romper plus the reflexive pronoun se) as meaning to break itself, (The translation to be broken might also be used.) The other pronoun, in this case me, tells us is affected by that breaking. In English, we might translate the indirect object me as me, to me, or for me. So a fully literal meaning of the sentence might be something like The cup broken itself to me. Obviously that doesnt make much sense. So how do we translate such a sentence. Normally, if a cup breaks and it affects me, its probably my cup, so we could say My cup broke or My cup got broken. And even I broken the cup would be fine if that fit the context of what happened. The other sentences can be analyzed in the same way. In the second example, olvidarse typically means to be forgotten rather than the literal to forget itself. And if the forgetting of the tomato affects you, you are probably the person who lost it, and the the translation given. And in the third example, despertarse usually means to wake up or to awaken. Without the nos in the sentence, we could could think merely of spirituality waking up. The for us is used to clearly indicate who is a beneficiary of the verbs action, although awakens us could be used. Note how in all these sentences, the se is placed before other pronoun. Se should not be placed between a verb and any other object pronoun. Other Sample Sentences You can see how this pattern is followed with the other sentences. Again, the translations given arent the only ones possible: Estoy agradecido no se me ocurrià ³ antes. (Im grateful it didnt happen to me sooner.) ¡El cielo se nos cae encima! (The sky is falling on us!)Pedid y se os darà ¡. (Ask and it will be given to you.)Que se te moje el telà ©fono mà ³vil es una de las peores cosas que puede pasar. (Getting your cellphone wet is one of the worst things that can happen to you.) Key Takeaways The reflexive pronoun se can be used along with indirect object pronouns that indicate who is affected by the action of the reflexive verb.Se is placed before the indirect object pronoun.Sentences using se and an indirect pronoun can be translated in at least three different ways.