When I was in high school, 1990-1993, there was an incentive program for honor roll students (all A's or A & B) and perfect attendance. One received free food coupons, movie passes, special lunches, etc. for doing well. I realize all student's are not straight "A" students, "A & B" students, and all may not even be able to attend school everyday; but all students should strive to do their best. I have not always been an honor roll student. In elementary school, I received resource help in reading. In junior high, I also struggled to do well, but I studied. I always turned in homework, I would do extra credit work, and above all I pushed to do my best.
I do and do not see a negative side. I realize because some may not be able to accomplish these goals it would appear to be unfair; especially, if one were truly doing their best. Also, something that could hinder a child from applying themselves, is an abusive or unstable home. In all reality, this is not the child's fault, but if the child were to be determined to make it in life they could push for the positive (good grades). Although, I believe most can accomplish these goals. One has to be willing to apply themselves and want to achieve.
The positive side, to this incentive program, is one has an opportunity to decide if the grade is worth the goal. Some are not willing to try unless there is a reward in the end. The good grade should be reward enough, but sadly for some it is not. I hope this program will help children achieve their goals and push those who may not have goals, to decide they want better for themselves.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Blog #9: Marijuana: Legal or Illegal
Personally marijuana is probably safer than other forms of medication. It is natural, unless someone adds a man made substance to it, the side effects are natural.
Do I agree one should alter their mind. No!, but what happens when alcohol is consumed, the outcome most often is worse. If medical marijuana is being used by patients who need it for comfort, to have an appetite and it is honestly benefiting them, sure. If the drug is being abused, taking away from needs of family members, or keeping one from a normal livelihood, then I would say it is not needed. Legalization of marijuana has become a sore subject at my house. I did not vote for the legalization of marijuana. My husband, who has lost his right to vote, was upset with me when he discovered this. I am no saint. I have had my experiences, but I also realized I wanted and deserved better for myself and my family. I do not believe marijuana makes one crazy, or effects ones driving ability; in fact it probably slows them down.
My issue is, like so many others things, it takes the place of a need. People will spend their last dollar on alcohol, cigarettes, or to get high; even if they do not have anything to eat, rent paid, or clothes on their backs.
Here is what I see, people are going to do what they want, legal or otherwise. If marijuana is legalized, it will be like buying a pack of cigarettes. If it is not , people will continue buying, smoking, selling illegally, and then be fined or go to jail when caught. One has to decide what is more important to them, abide by the law or take a chance and do what is illegal until it is legalized.
Do I agree one should alter their mind. No!, but what happens when alcohol is consumed, the outcome most often is worse. If medical marijuana is being used by patients who need it for comfort, to have an appetite and it is honestly benefiting them, sure. If the drug is being abused, taking away from needs of family members, or keeping one from a normal livelihood, then I would say it is not needed. Legalization of marijuana has become a sore subject at my house. I did not vote for the legalization of marijuana. My husband, who has lost his right to vote, was upset with me when he discovered this. I am no saint. I have had my experiences, but I also realized I wanted and deserved better for myself and my family. I do not believe marijuana makes one crazy, or effects ones driving ability; in fact it probably slows them down.
My issue is, like so many others things, it takes the place of a need. People will spend their last dollar on alcohol, cigarettes, or to get high; even if they do not have anything to eat, rent paid, or clothes on their backs.
Here is what I see, people are going to do what they want, legal or otherwise. If marijuana is legalized, it will be like buying a pack of cigarettes. If it is not , people will continue buying, smoking, selling illegally, and then be fined or go to jail when caught. One has to decide what is more important to them, abide by the law or take a chance and do what is illegal until it is legalized.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Blog #8: Women With A Voice
Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a woman of many words. She had a friend, Susan B. Anthony whom supported and helped her succeed in three areas: slavery, the right to vote, and religion. ?Stanton felt women should have a voice in making political decisions. She was the daughter of a lawyer and in turn married a lawyer. Elizabeth had an enormous respect for her gender; so much so, she did not speak the word "obey" in her marriage vows. Therefore, one is to believe she did not agree with slavery. It is amusing how a christian society believes in slavery, women not having a voice, and being told how to believe. This all sounds like slavery. I am Christian, but "slave" to God.
Stanton believed the same, I believe, but she wanted everyone to be treated fairly. God did plan for man to be our leader, but a godly man. Women, God made, to help man-support, love, and take care of them. Elizabeth's husband supported her ideas. She met her husband, Henry Stanton, while assisting fugitive slaves. Elizabeth was a pushing force and leader in trying to get support for women's rights. She would attend political, "man only," meetings; even if she was not invited. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her colleagues were not alive to see women's rights become possible. Because of them slaves are free, women can vote, and religion is a choice. We should speak what we believe and push for what is right until it becomes reality.
Stanton believed the same, I believe, but she wanted everyone to be treated fairly. God did plan for man to be our leader, but a godly man. Women, God made, to help man-support, love, and take care of them. Elizabeth's husband supported her ideas. She met her husband, Henry Stanton, while assisting fugitive slaves. Elizabeth was a pushing force and leader in trying to get support for women's rights. She would attend political, "man only," meetings; even if she was not invited. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her colleagues were not alive to see women's rights become possible. Because of them slaves are free, women can vote, and religion is a choice. We should speak what we believe and push for what is right until it becomes reality.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Blog #7: Phat with a PH or Is It Too Skinny
My opinion of anorexic and bulimic people is no different than overweight people, either one will die of health problems eventually. Neither is pleasant to look at. A person can be too skinny, and have bones sticking out, and the other can be too fat and have flab hanging. The difference is, are you dealing with an adult or a child. A child can be disciplined or made to eat, to a point. This article seems to be speaking of adults, people wanting attention. If you want attention become a healthy individual; one who has smooth skin, muscle tone, whose body has a figure,be pleasant to look upon. Or become an actor, singer, or someone who deals with the public on a day to day basis. Our bodies, even though we abuse them, do not belong to us. Our bodies were given to us by God. He gave us since to take care of them, so we may live long happy lives. I am overweight myself, so I really do not have room to talk, but I do understand the struggle of needing to take care of my body. It was a gift.
As far as a picture causing someone to become bulimic or anorexic, I hope not. I believe this to be a choice one makes for themselves. You have to love yourself for who you are not what someone sees or wishes you to be. Eat right, exercise, laugh and love as much as you possibly can, and most of all be happy with who you are, inside and out.
As far as a picture causing someone to become bulimic or anorexic, I hope not. I believe this to be a choice one makes for themselves. You have to love yourself for who you are not what someone sees or wishes you to be. Eat right, exercise, laugh and love as much as you possibly can, and most of all be happy with who you are, inside and out.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Blog 6: Books: Rated or Unrated
Children exploring life through books, and using or learning to use their imaginations is very important. Children gain knowledge by reading biographies and autobiographies, encyclopedias, maps, or any type of educational information. There are books written for all age groups, and yes I believe there should be a rating (G, PG, PG-13, R) on some. I also believe judgement by the parent should be made according to the maturity of the child. Some elementary students can read "Harry Potter" or even "Twilight." They are not going to understand parts, but they will understand the main story line. School libraries have a large assortment of books suitable for all ages. Parents need to be aware, if their child is using the public library or purchasing books, of the sexual content and possibly violence they may contain. I wouldn't want my teenage children reading "50 Shades of Gray". Teens have enough of this exposure through television. Children, I believe, are going to read what they understand and whatever is of interest to them. Unless a child has been abused or exposed to violence in some way, I believe they will choose age appropriate material. I hope children read to find adventure, hope, and love for what interests them in life. "It takes a village to raise a child," parents need to be a part of that village.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Blog #5: Thoughts on a real man
Hemingway shows a significant difference in Wilson and Francis. Wilson is told he is a great hunter. Who also leads clients on big game hunts. These hunts are to full fill something in the men they might otherwise feel they are lacking, or they could just simply be hunting for the hunt. Wilson, from the wives point of view, was seen as a very masculine strong man. They seemed to be drawn to him, or him to them. In my opinion, Wilson was a womanizer. He took advantage of men with unhappy wives, by keeping the men busy with the hunt while he visited with their wives.
Francis was a man trying to full fill his manhood. His wife was a woman who thought she should have men at her service. Margo used her husband for his wealth. Francis allowed his wife to lower his self-esteem. He felt so low, he needed something to make him feel strong again. Francis attempted to kill a lion and he did not have the heart to go through with the kill. Francis went on a second hunt, for buffalo, and was successful. The third hunt involved the lion again and had a successful hit, but the lion was still after him. Before Francis could finish off the lion, Margo hit Francis from behind.
In the end, the tables are turned, Francis was more of a man than Wilson. Francis decided to face his conflict with his manhood and try to prove himself to his wife. Wilson, on the other hand, betrayed his own manhood by consenting to the temptation of married women. My opinion of a self-sustaining man: is someone who is masculine, but understanding, strong but gentle, and serious but still able to have fun. This is my definition of a man.
Francis was a man trying to full fill his manhood. His wife was a woman who thought she should have men at her service. Margo used her husband for his wealth. Francis allowed his wife to lower his self-esteem. He felt so low, he needed something to make him feel strong again. Francis attempted to kill a lion and he did not have the heart to go through with the kill. Francis went on a second hunt, for buffalo, and was successful. The third hunt involved the lion again and had a successful hit, but the lion was still after him. Before Francis could finish off the lion, Margo hit Francis from behind.
In the end, the tables are turned, Francis was more of a man than Wilson. Francis decided to face his conflict with his manhood and try to prove himself to his wife. Wilson, on the other hand, betrayed his own manhood by consenting to the temptation of married women. My opinion of a self-sustaining man: is someone who is masculine, but understanding, strong but gentle, and serious but still able to have fun. This is my definition of a man.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Blog 4: A Real Man
Hemingway's Code Hero: a man who lives right, honorable, has courage and the ability to remain in control, no matter the situation. This is a description of the "perfect" man, but he doesn't exist. In Hemingway's story, " The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber," he describes two men: Francis and Wilson.
Francis is a man who has been run down by his wife. He has his own opinion but doesn't always voice it to her. Francis has let her have free rain to come and go do what she wants, and doesn't fear her leaving him because of his wealth.
Wilson is a rugged man. He leads large game hunts, and is there to take up the slack if a client isn't able to finish the job. This happened with Francis twice, and his wife witnessed the incidents. She thought him to be a coward, and decided to have an affair with Wilson. This, I believe, wasn't the first affair she'd had.
The story reads on, but I feel this is enough to say something about the character of these two men. Francis may have been a coward in the hunting field, but I would run from a lion. He remained faithful in his marriage, even though, circumstances were an issue. I've been in Francis' situation. A person has to decide what's more important, self or family. I chose my family. I feel situations in life make you or break you. You can let something horrible make you stronger and learn a life lesson from it, or you can let the situation break who you are and be miserable.
Wilson is arrogant. He believes he's the perfect guy to do his job, and if another man can't kill an animal without hesitation they are a coward. My opinion of Wilson, he's a coward. Any man, who knows a woman is married and proceeds to have an affair isn't worthy to be called a man.
Life has a funny way of paying us back for mistakes. I grew up with the saying, "the truth will find you out." Meaning, sooner or later, the truth will be known. To me, life's code (not necessarily man or woman) should be live honestly. If we are honest in every walk of life we can not fail.
Francis is a man who has been run down by his wife. He has his own opinion but doesn't always voice it to her. Francis has let her have free rain to come and go do what she wants, and doesn't fear her leaving him because of his wealth.
Wilson is a rugged man. He leads large game hunts, and is there to take up the slack if a client isn't able to finish the job. This happened with Francis twice, and his wife witnessed the incidents. She thought him to be a coward, and decided to have an affair with Wilson. This, I believe, wasn't the first affair she'd had.
The story reads on, but I feel this is enough to say something about the character of these two men. Francis may have been a coward in the hunting field, but I would run from a lion. He remained faithful in his marriage, even though, circumstances were an issue. I've been in Francis' situation. A person has to decide what's more important, self or family. I chose my family. I feel situations in life make you or break you. You can let something horrible make you stronger and learn a life lesson from it, or you can let the situation break who you are and be miserable.
Wilson is arrogant. He believes he's the perfect guy to do his job, and if another man can't kill an animal without hesitation they are a coward. My opinion of Wilson, he's a coward. Any man, who knows a woman is married and proceeds to have an affair isn't worthy to be called a man.
Life has a funny way of paying us back for mistakes. I grew up with the saying, "the truth will find you out." Meaning, sooner or later, the truth will be known. To me, life's code (not necessarily man or woman) should be live honestly. If we are honest in every walk of life we can not fail.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)