Documentation of NSTP

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSThis page is where we would acknowledge all those who helped us with our feeding program.This is not necessarily where we would recognize loved ones who supported us during the feeding program. That would be more appropriately done in an optional Dedication page. We would like to thank Sir Mark Brinio who support and helped us in doing the feeding program for the children.Also we thank the children who actively participated in the program that we conducted. The parents who support their child to win every contest they have joined. Thank you very much.IntroductionFeeding program is an activity used to helped people in hunger, fun and other activities such as games, dancing, singing and other fun activities. This program can make people happy by serving them foods, giving them gifts and giving them fun.The purpose of it is to serve the children and make them happy by engaging them into different games or activity and then feed them properly with the food we prepared as a student.In that way, we can make them happy and at the same time, we teach them how to interact with other people like us or even with other children. By giving those winners a gift in every activity that they participated and act properly with no cheating.ObjectivesOur objectives in the program we conducted are the following:To serve them properly To serve them food that we prepared To make them happy To share our goods to them Giving them gifts Obtain disciplineProblemsThe problems we encountered during the program were the children have no control during the games and they did not maintain discipline in the first place. The other children hurt others just to win the game and some of them are cheating just to win the game.In serving food to them, we also encountered the improper behavior of the children in stealing the line. They push each other accidentally in order to have a food.Also in giving gifts to them, they keep hurting each other and try to get forcibly the gift that m y classmate throws in the ground. The others acted as a young to join in the games but they are old enough to participate in that kind of game. They are not qualified to join. Another is the improper trespassing in our boundary or in our tent. These are the problems that we have encountered during the event.Narration of experienceWe experienced fun in this activity and at the same time, we experienced being so tired because it is so hard to handle a lot of children in that program. Keeping them in the dancing center just to avoid hurting each other and to make war to other children.ReactionBased on what are we experienced in the feeding program service, we learned different things that we may apply in our daily lives. Like sharing what you have to others. In this simple way, we can make them happy. Make them smile especially children. In our program, I saw the children having fun in  playing different games or activity that we conduct and they enjoy well. Giving their best to be a ble to win the game that they joined and to obtain prizes from us.Dancing was included in our program where the children are dancing with their own step, with own skills to win the game and have a gifts from us. We observe also the parents who were watching their child in participating our program. They also participating and help us observe properly without harming each other because when we serve the food, the children are going wild. We avoid them from taking one place to another, avoiding to harm each other and learned to disciplined.

Comparative Analysis of Dominant Russian and American Values

Comparative analysis of dominant Russian and American Values The question of values becomes important when we cannot understand and explain the behavior of foreigners. Probably you know this from your own experience of communication with people from other countries: sometimes we think that foreigners behave strangely or rudely or just differently from what we expect. In most cases this is what is usually called â€Å"cultural misunderstanding†. OK, now let’s dwell on the concept â€Å"value†. There is a considerable confusion surrounding the definition of values.In spite of the fact that there are many definitions and innumerable studies, no definition has attracted widespread consensus. Kurt Baier notes that to define values sociologists employ a bewildering profusion of terms, raging from what a person wants, desires, needs, enjoys, prefers to what the community enjoys, sanctions or enforces. The concept of value refers to two contrasting ideas. At one extreme we speak of economic values based on products, wealth, prices – on highly material things. In another context, however, the word â€Å"value† acquires an abstract, intangible and non-measurable meaning.Among such spiritual values are freedom, peace, justice, equity. In many societies we find a growing antagonism between some of the new values propagated by the mass-media, and the traditional values inherited from the past. For example, we can single out such pairs as: traditional sex roles/blurring of sex roles or traditional family life/alternative families. But let’s analyse all this stuff by looking at two countries, America and Russia. First of all, we’ll give some descriptive information, then we’ll compare them. America.Before we can fully understand the dominant American worldview we need to analyze the historical and cultural roots of mainstream American society. The earliest settlers who came to the North American continent were motivated by the desire to escape the control and the social order of monarchy, aristocracy, and established churches. They were seeking relief from oppression and poverty and were ready to make a fresh start. Freedom is at the center of all that Americans value and hold dear. The U. S. Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791, assures individual rights such as freedom of speech, press and religion.The concept of individual freedom began to be associated with the United States. By â€Å"freedom† Americans understand the desire and the ability of an individual to control his own life without interference from any organized authority. As we can see, Americans' notion of freedom focused on the individual and individualism. The early settlers were mostly farmers whose success depended on their ability to survive and confront hardships on their own. This idealized self-reliant individual is easily recognizable in the industrial age as a small businessman who became a financial success on his own.Th is strong belief in self-reliance and self-sufficiency is the basic aspect of the American character. Though people are not equal in their abilities, equality of opportunity is understood by Americans as an equal chance for success, an equal start to enter the race for success. However, this myth proclaiming equal opportunities has become one of the most battered ideals of today. Only a relatively small number of people under corporate capitalism can reach pinnacle of success, no matter how many people are talented or motivated to succeed.Only a few can reach the top because they could discipline themselves and work hardest. There is also support from Protestant theology, which tends to associate hard work and personal achievement with being in favor with God. In any context working hard is highly honored by Americans. The self-esteem of many Americans is closely connected with performing productive and rewarding work. Students and children are encouraged to work part-time to gain v aluable experience and become contributing members of the family instead of being a dependant.Being a productive member of the society is very important and praised and it is not surprising that elderly people and the disabled strive to be useful and productive in any way they can. The phrase â€Å"to go from rags to riches† reflects the great American dream in which material wealth and possessions are one of the top priorities. Russia. Russia, more than any other country, has always been a challenge for philosophers and historians who tried to provide a logical description of Russia's national identity and national character. There are, however, reasons behind this uniqueness and complexity.Russia is a very old country with the history of more than 11 centuries. It often happened that the new stage of development denied all the values of the previous one: from Tsarist Russia to Socialism, from Socialist Russia to the Free Market Economy. However, despite these sweeping chang es Russia has always demonstrated its uniquely Russian character and style which have survived through centuries and resist all attempts to transform or westernize Russia. It is impossible to approach the culture of Russian people without trying to look at the geopolitical context within which Russia has lived for centuries.Russia is a vast country, situated on the crossroads of Europe and Asia. With such a vast territory to govern, Russia evolved into a state ruled from its center. Distance and isolation prevented easy communication with other centers of civilization which contributed to isolation from excessive foreign influence and to the uniqueness of the Russian national worldview. Russia is also a northern country with a long cold winter and short summer. The harsh climate made Russians strong and healthy, capable of enduring extreme hardship, patient and cautious, dependant on the test of time.The vast territories and cold climate, together with the need to survive and resist the attacks of neighboring countries cultivated the spirit of communalism, which is often considered to be a predominant Russian value. From prehistoric times when Russians banded together to cultivate the land, to fell the trees, to harvest the crops and to protect themselves from invaders, sobornost (communal spirit, togetherness) became a distinctive feature of Russians in contrast to the individualism and competitiveness of the West. Communalism at the same time brought about such ideals as dependence on each other's help, mutual support and trust.Russians rely on a close network of family and friends and coworkers as protection against the risks and unpredictability of daily life. On the other hand, communal mentality is alien to the spirit of self-reliance and responsibility. Russians got used to being told what to do and what to think. Even in the modern rapidly changing world decision making is often difficult for Russians who prefer to refer decisions to higher-ups, thus r idding themselves of the responsibility in case things go wrong. Another important feature of the Russian national value system — preference of spiritual over material.N. Berdyaev considered Russians to be the most spiritual people in the world and claimed that the economy can be viewed only as an instrument but not the goal or the highest value. With the advent of the market economy nowadays it may seem that many traditional values will change dramatically. Traditional values are still strong — self-sacrifice, sense of duty, compassion, the importance of family, and love of nature, courage and moral strength. We may only hope that provided with new practical dimensions, these values will remain the mainstream Russian values.The List of Russian-American Values. 1. Going to extremes (Russians) vs. moderation in everything (Americans) A Russian can spend all his money in a restaurant during one night, Americans would probably never do this and would consider the Russian behavior strange or just foolish. 2. Open-heartedness (Russians) vs. being reserved (Americans) A Russian can talk to a complete stranger on the train about his or her problems, an American would probably prefer to talk about football, rather than to share his or her problems with anybody. 3. Generosity, hospitality (Russians) vs.BEING PRACTICAL, saving money (Americans) While Russian dinner is a real feast, Americans make as many hamburgers as there are guests expected; if Americans invite you for coffee, they mean coffee and not anything else. 4. Complaining about problems (Russians) vs. Being always OK (Americans) Russians and Americans solve their problems in different ways: if Russians have problems they go to their relatives or friends, if Americans have problems, they go to their psychiatrist. Russians and Americans also differ in borrowing money: Russians borrow money from their relatives or friends, Americans borrow money from the bank. . Critical/ironical attitude to one's country (Russians) vs. patriotism (Americans) Russian love of their country is geographical (they love their nature, their birch-trees); American love is political (they love their freedom and democracy and they believe that it's their sacred duty to protect freedom and democracy all over the world). 6. â€Å"Being† orientation (Russians) vs. â€Å"Action† orientation (Americans) Americans are more active physically and mentally. Russians prefer to sit at home doing little and earning little money for little work rather than to stand the physical strains of hard work.Russians prefer intellectual entertainment to going in for sports (Americans prefer sports). 7. Leisure orientation (Russians) vs. Work orientation (Americans) You have worked hard before the exam. When you come to your exam and get â€Å"5† you tell your colleagues that you knew everything and you deserved it (American); you tell your colleagues that you knew nothing and got â€Å"5† becaus e of cheating (Russian). 8. Problem making (Russians) vs. problem solving (Americans) Russians have a serious attitude to life, they tend to complicate everything, Americans have a childish attitude to life, they tend to simplify everything.Situation: Your friend doesn't get on with his colleagues and because of this won't get a promotion. You think that a) He has a complicated personality (Russians), or b) He is a fool (Americans) 9. â€Å"Creative attitude to law† (Russians) vs. law obedience (Americans) It's normal to break traffic laws in Russia, then it's normal to bribe the police (Americans can't even think of bribing the police! ). Explanation: When Russians break traffic laws and are stopped by the policeman, they first try to talk with him, appealing to his feelings, since Russians see in him a human being and not the embodiment of the law. 0. Collectivism (Russians) vs. individualism (Americans) Examples from Russian life: cheating on tests, which is considered nor mal among Russian students (When Russian students are told that American students do not normally cheat, Russian students can't understand why. ). A line in the library (Several people from your group will join you in the line and nobody would object, American students would consider this not only strange but totally unacceptable).

Strategic Choice and Evaluation (synopsis) Essay

Strategic Choice and Evaluation (synopsis) - Essay Example Management can determine the direction the firm needs to head for continued success by conducting a SWOT. To take this a step further, the strategic manager may also conduct a matched paired analysis. The matched paired analysis allows the manager to match the strengths and weaknesses of the firm with the opportunities and threats. This will allow management to determine what strengths and opportunities are the best options for the firm to ensure the strategic plan objectives are achieved. Evaluating the strategies of each individual company allows management to find alternatives to improve the organizations plans for continued growth. Therefore, each company has to implement strategies to innovate new ideas and products for profitable gain. The Team D was involved in analyzing a company in order to develop a strategy for the company. The team tried to work on three areas including the development of a generic as well as a grand strategy and to identify the method of delivering high value. This in turn will help the company in developing a strategy that will assist then in their future goals. In order to develop a strategy an organization based strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis is necessary. The SWOT analysis along with the matched pair analysis helps the organization in matching the organization’s strengths as well as weakness with its respective opportunities and threats. The matching of these components helps organization in identifying opportunities that the organization can explore with its strengths for the attainment of organizational objectives. The company can even evaluate the strategies of its competitors in order to identify ways through which it can improve its own oper ations and attain

Business Process Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Business Process Analysis - Essay Example of undertakings under operation management may include acknowledgement of stakeholders’ interests, sustainable organizational development, among others. The goods firms are some how different while being compared to the services companies with operations management in focus. Some of the attributes to consider for an operations management in a services firm are; information distribution, transformation of information, financial functions, transportation and movement of people and goods, and experience generation. (Nankervis, 2005) This study is going to analyze the Southwest Airlines’ four processes that are linked to the daily operations and performance determination. To this, this question is to be answered in a comprehensive approach,† Which four processes can be identified in SWA (Southwest Airlines) and that are utilized to determine its daily business performance?† Several functions are going to be analyzed and which are unique to SWA. One of the main processes is the supplier information function, which according to SWA is highly dedicated to ensure quality services to customers alongside a company spirit. The company is also committed to ensure that employees are provided with a stable environment of work. The section strives to make air fares stand at their lowest levels. Therefore, the company seeks to all suppliers to quote lower prices so as to ensure that the costs are low enough to keep their commitments. Secondly, at SWA there’s the customers service commitment. The company ensures highest quality of customer service under this section. SWA is committed toward delivery of flights at a frequent rate. The organization in its entirety empowers every of its employees to make decisions so as to ensure high quality of customer service is enhanced. (SWA, 2009) Also the Airlines is committed towards ensuring that there is total safety when it comes to employees and customers. The company has a strong culture of maintaining safety as regards

Journal summary Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Journal summary - Essay Example Some of the symptoms of the illness include either mood episodes that might constitute an overly joyful state, also known as manic episodes, or depressive episodes, which is an extremely hopeless or sad state (Saunders, 2010). It is possible to use several medications in the treatment of the disorder, which are inclusive of mood stabilizers used for the prevention of manic episodes that might be recurrent. Apart from the medications used, some of the other interventions applicable for controlling the disorder include psychotherapy sessions for the family members as well as the individual, support groups, and psychoeducational classes (Saunders, 2010). Some of the nursing interventions used for patients with the disease might involve the stabilization of acute symptoms, safety measures and crisis intervention mechanisms. However, the application of the interventions depends with the status of the patient. The responsibility of the nurse in this case would be to assess the behavior of the patient, his or her mood or thought processes, which is a consideration that will assist the patient in getting a positive perioperative experience (Saunders,

Risk management in Toyota Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Risk management in Toyota - Essay Example The quality of the Toyota cars, introduction of premium brands like Lexus in tune with the tastes and fashions prevailing in the American markets, its collaboration with the leading player General Motors subsequently, entrenched the brand ‘Toyota’ firmly into the USA. The success story of Toyota could be summed up from one of its slogans in the 1980s â€Å"Who could ask for anything more†. The product profile of the company has undergone changes to include larger and luxurious vehicles. The corruption charges leveled against the UJF Bank, one of the largest shareholders of Toyota with Toyota’s Chairman as a director was a setback to the company’s diversification strategy into financial services. Also, the over concentration in the already developed American and European markets over the period of time could strategically affect its leadership position in the global market in future. The financial risk is related predominantly to the issue of capital structure and leverage, but the business risk largely dependent upon the economic conditions, and the study of risk management in relation to a company like Toyota needs to focus on the macro economic factors. This paper seeks to analyze risk management perspective of the company in relation to the prevailing global economic conditions, its strategic outlook to changes in the environmental factors globally and other internal factors related to risk management. Currents status and evaluation of risk management The international economy has undergone drastic changes in the recent years consequent upon the stupendous growth of emerging economies, especially the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, China and India) countries and the credit squeeze in the aftermath of subprime crises in the developed nations. However, it is pertinent to note that the emerging economies have not been affected by the subprime crisis, as these countries have been insulated from the world economy by virtue of the continuin g regulations in these countries, especially in the financial services sectors, and their exposure to international banking system has been very limited. A cursory glance of US Vehicle Sales from 1984 to 2010 from Penton Media (2011), as given in Appendix I and II, which more or less coincides with Toyota’s establishment in the USA reveals the growth (or lack of growth) over the period of time. Competition The market for Toyota is very competitive. For example, Toyota’s competitors Suzuki of Japan and Hyundai of South Korea have well established facilities for manufacturing, marketing and servicing in India. The local manufacturer Tata Motors has aggressively priced its small car Nano around INR 100,000 which works out to just US$ 2400 approximately. Volume is going to be the name of the game in the emerging economies like India, China and Brazil. Jie, R. (2010) reports: â€Å"China has overtaken the United States and Japan to become the world's largest car manufactur ing country in 2009.† While Toyota was concentrating more and more on developed markets, its competitors have made inroads into the emerging markets, where Toyota is lagging behind the local as well as the international players. Realizing the potential in the small car segment in India, Chevrolet has introduced the model ‘Spark’ at INR 279,000 which works out to US$ 6200 approximately since ‘value for money’ or pricing is a crucial factor in influencing the consumers’

Bacterial transformation and gene expression Lab Report

Bacterial transformation and gene expression - Lab Report Example This study looks into DNA as the blueprint of our life. Life without these molecules is not possible. DNA are transcribed into RNA and translated into proteins. These proteins are important for the biochemical functions of the cell. In bacteria, apart from DNA, there is extrachromosomal DNA called as plasmids. They are double stranded DNA which forms circles with size ranging from 1 kb to 200kb (kilobase). Plasmids are very advantageous for the genetic engineering. Plasmids code for many antibiotic regions and they have the ability to accept the gene of interest. The transformation of our gene of interest into the plasmid is called recombination and the bacteria are called recombinant bacteria. Thus plasmids can be used as cloning vehicles or vectors. These plasmids are not essential for the survival of bacteria, but in some instances, for survival in the different environments, they can provide some extra advantage. The best example is the survival of the bacterial cell in the prese nce of an antibiotic drug. Antibiotic resistant bacteria like Escherichia coli are used for the transformation of the gene of interest into the host cell. Transformation and cloning are the two important genetic engineering tools used for the expression of the foreign gene of interest in the given bacterial cell. Three conditions required for the transformation are: 1) the host into which the foreign DNA is inserted, 2) a method for the insertion of the DNA into the host cell, and 3) methods to identify the transformed cells and select them.

Identifying complication of drinking cinnamon to induce labor Essay - 1

Identifying complication of drinking cinnamon to induce labor - Essay Example Being a secondary data collection method, it will involve access to articles with related literature and also establishing a strong understanding of the relationship between the use of the cinnamon sticks and the success rate of child birth. Therefore, the major source of the information will be secondary references which will have a strong focus on the development of the literature. Secondary information sources make reference to articles, books, hospital maternal reports and any other related source of information. Matan, et al (2006) argues that cinnamon sticks can be quite risky for pregnant women who use them to induce labor because they create a situation of toxicity from accumulation. This is especially the case when it is used for an extended period without attaining the intended results which might lead to the women developing some serious health problems. These problems might lead to the baby also being put at risk (Shields, P. & Rangarjan, 2013). The risk occurs when high toxicity levels in the mother as a result of high consumption of cinnamon reaches the baby. From the study design, information is collected through a collection of methods which are all secondary sources. In essence, information is collected from as many secondary sources as possible so that what different authors think about the situation is shared. This is a situation, which has to be avoided at all costs, and it requires that expectant mothers desist from using large amounts of cinnamon sticks in trying to induce labor. This study is useful because it shows that despite the common assumption that the use of cinnamon induces labor, there are instances where it does not. An increase in the amount consumed will not therefore help in any way. In fact, it might make the mother to put her baby at risk as acknowledged. When such cases occur, very little that can be done to save it. However, this study fails to show for how long a mother can take cinnamon sticks before it

Comparing and contrasting between two poems Essay Example for Free

Comparing and contrasting between two poems Essay In this essay I am going to look at the differences and similarities between two cultural poems. I will look at the language used by the poets to describe the different cultures and I will also look at the imagery used to portray the cultures in the poems. The two poems I will be looking at is Island man by Grace Nichols and Blessing by Imtiaz Dharker The poem Island Man is about a Caribbean Island man who lives in London and still wakes up to the sound of the sea and the poem Blessing is about a third world country who have hardly any water and cant wait for the water pipe to burst so that they can have some more water for a while. Island Man is broken up into four stanzas with one line at the end on its own. The first stanza is where he is waking up after dreaming about the island and he is slowly coming back from his dream. In this stanza they have used a metaphor wombing, which is actually a made up word, however, this word makes you think that he could have possibly grown up here as the word gives the impression that he feels a sense of safety towards the island and so he could have grown up there. It also uses sibilance with the words Surf, steady and wakes. This creates a calm and gentle mood for the island where Island Man possibly grew up. The second Stanza is also about him waking up from his dream and coming back from the island in his head and also expands on the image created in the first stanza. The first line Wild seabirds gives you the feeling that on this island you are free and you can relax and have fun without being stressed out all the time. There is an adverb defiantly used on the third line to describe the sun Sun surfacing defiantly this is a lexical field, creating the image of independence or refusing to be organized. Also the word emerald has been used to describe the island, this suggests that the island is precious to him and that it has many vivid colours whish are really special to him. Then the last line of the second stanza is stood out from the rest of the poem groggily groggily is used to describe the him coming back from the island to the stress of everyday life, and it emphasises the way that he doesnt want to come back. The third and fourth stanzas are about him waking up from his dream about the island and realises that he is in London and not where he wants to be. Grey metallic soar and Dull, north circular roar are used to describe London as really dull and having a lack of colour, whereas the island appeared to be very colourful, for example Blue surf and sun surfacing defiantly and emerald island. Also in the third stanza the third line stands out from the rest of the poem Surge of wheels, this is describing the sharp sound of London compared to the soft and relaxing sounds of the island. In the fourth stanza, the first and second lines link back to the island muffling, muffling deadens the sharp sounds from earlier in the poem and his crumpled pillow waves, links to the sounds of the island, him thinking his pillow is the waves of the island. And finally the last line in the fourth stanza island man heaves himself which is followed by the last line Another London day, Contrasts with wakes up and shows how much he really is longing to be on that island instead of in London and how he has to pull himself away from his island and begin another London day. The poem Blessing starts with a similie which really emphasises the meaning of the poem the skin cracks like a pod. There is never enough water, onomatopoeia is also used with the word cracks to add emphasis to show how desperate these people are for water. Like Island Man the second stanza expands on the image created within the first two lines. The second line uses onomatopoeia twice, splash and echo. This makes you realise how precious the water is to the people in the poem, especially when it says how they imagine the echo of it in a tin mug on lines 3-6, this really shows there desperation and longing for something everyone else would take for granted. In the third stanza, various metaphors are used to add emphasis to the previous stanza and also create a new image of how they react when they receive more water than they normally have. They describe the water as silver crashing to the ground, this shows how important the water is to the people, especially when the water is described as silver. The people are described as a congregation to again add emphasis and show how much these people want the water and how desperate they are, this is shown again by using another metaphor on the very last line of the third stanza frantic hands, this again shows the desperate people trying to reach for the water. Finally, the fourth stanza describes how fantastic and amazing they find this water by using another metaphor to show how much they treasure the water as the blessing sings over their small bones, also in this final stanza it describes how poor they were and how little they had by saying that the children were naked and their small bones could mean that they are really weak as they dont have much to eat and obviously not enough to drink. Overall the two poems are fairly similar as they are both about people wanting things and longing for something that they dont have. For instance in Island Man he continuously dreams about the island where he possibly grew up and where he wants to be everyday instead of the dull and stressful life that he is currently living in London. Likewise in Blessing the people who live in the poor country have hardly any water and are longing for water. A phrase from each poem could possibly link this to each poem, for example in Island Man on the fourth line it says In his head and in Blessing on the third line it says Imagine. These phrases could indicate to the reader that both poems are about people wanting things that they cant have and are so desperate that they dream about them. However there are differences between the two poems, for instance in the way the poems are written, because Island man has no punctuation apart from a capital letter on the first and last line and also on the first line in the section of poem that starts to describe the city of London. This could be to distinguish between the two different places described in the poem and then the last line of the poem where it shows how he is feeling about waking up for another London day when he really doesnt want to. And also because in Blessing they are longing for something which they need to survive (water), whereas in Island Man he is desperate to go back to the island where he grew up and is precious to him however unlike the people in Blessing, he could actually live without the island, even though he may not want to, although you cant live without water.

Proposals Relation to the Education of Youth in Pennsylvania Essay Example for Free

Proposals Relation to the Education of Youth in Pennsylvania Essay In the â€Å"Proposals Relation to the Education of Youth in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia,† 1749, Benjamin Franklin reconciled public service, the benefits of classical learning, and the necessity of practical training for young people in the colony. Mr. Franklin discussed that knowledge helps to give honor. Not just honor to yourself for knowing what you are doing and talking about but, also an honor for your country to represent them if you were to become a part of office and have to communicate with others outside of country. Not even just to be in office but, to also become a minister or priest for a religion thanks to the studies of religious and civil morality. Thanks to their knowledge the academy will give to them they will be able to help their country in not just honoring them but, helping the citizens in the country. Due to their knowledge they will be able to give the citizens fair amounts of income, fair prices for taxes, and prayers. The men that will have this knowledge will not only be from a rich background with an abundance of money and high class families. As well as, poor background young men with little money and probably no family at all have a chance to receive an education and help their country. Then after one school is built to help young men, more and more can be built by other men with knowledge and help others get the education they once received. In this academy the students will learn similar subjects to what the modern day student learns today. Students will be taught the English language by reading some of the best authors in the 1700’s. There was Tillotson, Pope, Cato’s Letters, and etc. hould be some of the classics read. They will be taught to write with neat handwriting, swift drawing of arithmetic, accounts†¦ geometry, and astronomy. All of these can count as basic classes to help with any future job the student might want to have/achieve when they graduate. These basic classes can also help with everyday jobs, for example, directions in the stars while on a journey in the ocean or lost in the fore st (science), buying or trading goods for money (math), or even just being able to read and write a form of a constitution or charter (grammar). Benjamin Franklin also states â€Å"But art is long, and their time is short. † in paragraph 8 of â€Å"Proposals Relation to the Education of Youth in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia,† 1749. In the passage, the author also talks of the necessities of practical training which has to do with knowing how to handle and work on machines and the histories on machine. Something that will be taught is the machines used in wars. Men can learn to make these machines and use them. Then they can improve them in ways to make them better so they can be used when needed. The knowledge of machines can help those week men that cannot do much physical work can invent new machines to reduce labor for all men and slaves. Manufacturing companies will begin to grow in ways of money and making more of what they sell. Their money will flourish and the companies will gain power. Once the companies grow, trade will also increase which can make that country gain more money also. That is when math and grammar also come in handy. Manufacturing companies will not only flourish but, farming as well because of the farming technique they give you, to plant cash crops and even plant your own foods to eat at home. Benjamin Franklin put to rights that public service, the benefits of classical learning, and the necessity of practical training for young men in the colonies by giving them knowledge to honor and help themselves and country. Next, the students learning the basics will help with future jobs and everyday lives. Lastly, the men learn to use and invent machines by learning their histories and how they were used. These arguments should make anyone want to open up an academy and teach young men.

Importance of Reflective Practice in Counselling

Importance of Reflective Practice in Counselling Reflective practice refers to the capability to reflect on our everyday actions and frameworks, as well as concepts on personal experience as part of a process of life-long learning (Schon, 1983). According to this definition, Bolton (2010) termed this as developmental insight, where the emphasis is placed on the learning from our own experience rather than knowledge gained from lectures or tutorials. On a personal note, I think what is significant about reflection during the course of our practice in this subject is that I am not just looking back on events and actions that has happened to us in the past, but also I am conscious of my emotions, experiences, actions, and behavioural reactions, and thus the utilization of these factors to add on to my existing knowledge database. As such, it is to draw out new and perhaps better knowledge, and in the long run, I hope to have a higher level of understanding. These would be achievable via the few factors that would be discussed in the e ssay, such as questioning and reflecting on my own moral and ethical values and comparing it with the Ethics Code in situations where I am required to act extremely. On another note, by reflecting on my personality profile, I check and reflect if my ideals and passion are congruent with the test that measured my psychological preference and my criterions on decision making. By reflecting on these frameworks, I hope to shed some light on my self-awareness and hopefully gain some new insights so that ultimately, I can improve as a better human being. The Ethics Code The Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, in another light denoted as the Ethics Code, consists of several clause and terms which serves as a guideline as how a psychologist should behave when conflicting scenarios arise, which could possibly happen on a daily basis. The Ethics Code, however, applies only to psychologists and their work-related activities that are part of their nature of job scope. These usually include an array of activities such as counselling, teaching, supervision, social intervention, as well as conducting assessments through the development of assessment instruments. On the other hand, the violation of the Ethics Code itself does not instantly determine whether a psychologist has violated a law and is liable for legal actions in court. When considering a professional behaviour to be conducted, psychologists must not only consider the Ethics Code, but also to put into consideration applicable laws and the relevant board regulations. Psychologi sts must ensure that the ethical standards are met if the Ethics Code establishes a more stringent standard of conduct that is mandatory by law. Greenberg and Shuman (1998) elucidate that although not always the case, during practice, the law would usually be compliant with the Ethics Code. If, at any point in time, the Ethics Code happens to be with conflict with the requirements of law, I feel that psychologists are supposed to remain committed to the Ethics Code and exercise caution to resolve any conflict while not violating any civil laws. Since the work of a psychologist is to develop a reliable and valid construct of information which are backed by research, and are applied with the intention of broadening our vision and knowledge on behaviour, which essentially creates an opportunity to improve conditions of interaction between society and the individual, the Ethics Code is thought to be able to provide a common set of values in which it is envisioned to offer the general pr inciples as well as rules of decision making to ensure that most of the possible situations encountered by a psychologist can be referred to and resolved. However, Corey, Corey and Callanan (1998) argues that while it holds true that the Ethics Code provides guidelines for ethical conducts, it was not intended to be able to provide specific guidance or solutions to each and every situations that could arise. Though I feel that the Ethics Code is very thorough in its descriptions as it covers a wide scope of possible situations, it is still nonetheless not fool-proof as in specific field such as forensic psychology, where there is a fine line between ethical practice and legal laws. This was backed up by Day and White (2008), who mentioned that ethical dilemmas would arise and explain that especially in the field of forensic psychology, it is not uncommon that practitioners are drawn into legal proceedings. Furthermore, it was brought up by Herlihy and Corey (1997) that although it m ay be consistent with the Ethics Code to breach client confidentiality in situations such as when a client is seen as a threat to self or others, there are many occasions when the ethically responsible course of action is less clear. As such, I feel that while the Ethics Code offers a valid guideline on actions to be conducted in various situations, psychologists should still take into considerations which are the correct and just actions to take and certainly to exercise caution in the behaviours to be taken as a wrong decision could damage a person’s life or damage their reputation. Field trip to Institute of Mental Health The grey area of applicability of ethics in mental health settings is an intriguing issue, especially with personal experience, i.e., field trip to the Institute of Mental Health. While many consider the correct course of action to be in a particular way, health practitioners and their set of code and values may present itself differently. I realized that there exist difficult and conflicting cases that may arise when dealing with people with mental disorders. For example, the ethical standard of conduct would be to inform the clients the truth of their conditions, and avoid actions that are likely to harm clients. However, the very act of informing the clients of their conditions is likely to invoke a response, which in return would most likely aggravate their emotional suffering. An array of misconceptions was cleared when the nurses at the Institute of Mental Health provided a clear explanation of the evolution of treatment of patients changed from the past to the present. One exa mple brought up by the nurse was the usage of straitjacket. A straitjacket is a garment which resembles a jacket, but with long sleeves and is generally used to restrain individuals who would possibly harm themselves, damage furniture, or injure surrounding staffs. Before the development of psychiatric medications, doctors did not know how to properly treat mental disorders such as depression and anxiety disorders. A variety of treatments that was deemed to be cruel by current standards were thus attempted by the doctors, and the straitjacket was one of the treatments used. However, as research allows the development of drugs to suppress the effects of the mental disorders, such treatments were stopped and disallowed to be continued to be carried out to the clients. It was very fortunate to hear from the nurse at the institute that the straitjacket is no longer in usage as it was deemed to be inhumane, and I personally think so as well. Since the drugs are now capable of suppressing the effects of mental disorders, the approach of institutionalizing the clients has been reviewed. Townsend (1976) posits that clients who are institutionalized gets convinced that they are mentally ill, and as they integrate themselves with the institutional life, it would reduce the client’s ability to live outside if they were to get deinstitutionalized. Personally, I feel that dealing with individuals who are affected by mental disorders is a tricky issue, as there are many possible ways to approach the situation. One example would be making the decision as to whether an individual should be institutionalized or not. However, as far as I would suggest, I think that it should be advocated that the criterion of institutionalizing the clients be more strict, for example, admitting only the extreme cases of mental disorders where the clients are not able to sustain normal daily life, as the said effect would cause them to rely on the institution and progressively unable to l ive by themselves, even if symptoms of mental disorders were to subside and doctors claim that they can be discharged from the institution. Awareness Program Autism disorder was the focal point of the awareness program for my group, and there are several pointers in which I am ashamed that I personally have committed. Firstly, it has been found that the lack of awareness in autism disorders has been a very concerning issue, especially in Singapore. Sigman, Mundy, Sherman and Ungerer (1986) explains that many people correctly identified some of the key characteristics of autism, including difficulty communicating, difficulty making friends, love of routine, as well as obsessive behaviours. However, some other common characteristics which I realized upon research, was that individuals who are affected by autism require the need for clear and unambiguous instructions and are susceptible to being disturbed by noise and touch; these points were less well known and could develop misconceptions if the other party was not aware; these were the points in which I was unaware of and would negligibly scrutinize them if I had to repeat my words multip le times and yet they would not understand what I would have said. Upon raising my own awareness of the particular disorder and through some reflection, I felt that many individuals with autism act differently when compared to our typical population. Whether at school, at work or in social settings, people with autism are often taken at face value and thus misunderstood. Individuals with autism may not respond when spoken to or may avoid eye contact from the people asking the question. They could possibly behave in unusual manners in which most people do not understand. Some behaviours are so out of the norm that they were misinterpreted as poor discipline. However, people in society tend to arrive at this opinion solely based on just a brief observation, rather than putting in effort to try to look for further signs to comprehend the nature of those actions taken by these individuals affected with autism, and as such, they often suffer discrimination, intolerance and isolation. For many, that means a lifetime of exclusion from everyday society. We, as individuals, should not be doing this, but rather, embrace the difference and aid them into being comfortable with their surroundings so that they can cope with their everyday lives. Just a simple act of observing them would go a long way in creating a society in which such individuals affected by autism disorder can coexist with us. Nonetheless, the completion for the autism awareness program did not come as an easy task, as it was difficult to acquire access to the relevant institutes of interest. For example, my group was not able to gain access and direct first-hand experience of understanding how individuals with autism would behave in schools, where they are required to interact with their surroundings, and more importantly, their peers. However, this setback did not deter my group from obtaining information. Pathlight school, a school for individuals with autism, however, did release some interactive info rmation such as articles and newspaper cut-outs with regards to the related field, and were cooperative in allowing us to gain as much knowledge as possible despite our lack of first-hand experience. As such, the only methods we were able to procure information was through the information released by the management of Pathlight, as well as the many questions that were relayed through e-mails so that we can gain accurate knowledge regarding autism disorders, and shed some light to others who are not as aware of such a disorder. Nonetheless, I feel that even with the information amassed through research; it is still insufficient to properly account for the wide array of characteristics that are exclusive to individuals with autism. Personality Profile Individuals who go through personal development includes going through events that improve our self-awareness, and it allows us to cultivate our talents and potential, and as such, enrich our quality of life which ultimately contributes to the realization of our passion and aspirations. Based on the MBTI, Davies (2008) proposed that it is an assessment tool used to measure psychological preferences in how individuals perceive the world and make decisions, my personality profile is INTJ. Lawrence and Martin (2001) suggested that the MBTI is a reliable and valid instrument to measure our personality. They mentioned that the test is capable of being retested and are good across age and ethnic groups, and they pointed out that the instrument is set out to measure what the test is supposed to test originally. Based on the MBTI assessment by Myers (1998), it is conceived that INTJs see things from a top-down approach, and are capable of relating new information to overall patterns. They al so find themselves readily synthesizing abstract and complicated theoretical matters, and such mind-sets would lead the INTJs them to value knowledge, as well as expect competence of themselves and others. Personally, I would agree to these points as my ideals of work reside in the fact that if all of the group members are competent, we would be able to complete the work beforehand and leave time and room for improvements to be made before any actual submission is due. This is especially important as having gone through numerous group works, my belief is that the more the content is reviewed, the more insightful it gets as we gain mastery and command in the particular context of research. I feel that in aspects of productive work, even if it is a group project, I prefer to work independently and thereafter team members come together to share their points to strengthen the validity and reliability of the entire project; though I favour the notion of working independently, I would not differ from group norms and still be cooperative towards team members. This was supported by Baron and Baron-Tieger (1995), where they elucidated that INTJs prefer to work independently, and have no particular problems in meeting group requirements as teamwork is not an issue. In another aspect, I value accuracy in my work and ensure that most, if not all of my curiosity in the area I am researching in is satisfied, and, because of my values I find myself inclined to field such as science and research, particularly in fields of forensic psychology. Through the test in which also supports my ideals of inclination to abstract matters and challenges, I feel that forensic psychology is a very interesting path in psychology as it presents abstract ideas and challenges in actual situations and it is my passion, as well as satisfaction to be able to decipher the true meaning and rationale behind human behaviour. Another technique in which I find useful in promoting my self-awareness is th e Johari window. Based on what I understand, the concept of reducing the blind spot by being inquisitive about myself would help in promoting self-awareness, because by understanding how others perceive my in another aspect which I was not able to see, I would be able to reflect on my actions and determine whether adjustments to my behaviour are required. Similarly, Joseph (1969) clarifies that in order to become self-aware and develop as a person, we should know more about ourselves and be informed about what others know about us as well. To conclude, reflection and practice can be considered a subset of the many concepts and values we can pick up along the way of gaining insight on skills that are useful and applicable in our field of study. Through various lessons and facilitation, i.e. the Ethics Code, I was able to build up knowledge with regards to identifying, accessing, as well as making evaluations of information and its applicability to actual practice. Furthermore, the development of skills in professional and personal reflection was significant, as seen I feel that I have gained the capability to identify approaches for the development of appropriate outcomes and predict the indicators of success. Furthermore, by reflecting on the various concepts brought up in the essay, as well as through the course of subject, I feel that I have gained some new knowledge about myself; for example through the concept of Johari window, I realized that to be better self-aware, I needed to be inquisitive about myself, and th is is one of the crucial part of what I think helps in my personal development. References Bolton, G. (2010). Reflective Practice, Writing and Professional Development (3rd ed.). California: SAGE Publications. Corey, G., Corey, M., Callanan, G. (1998). Issues and ethics in the helping professions (5th ed.). California, CA: Brooks/Cole. Davies, S. J. (2008). Psychometric testing: what is Myers Briggs? The Foundation Years, 4(2), 81-82. Day, A., White, J. (2008). Ethical practice from the perspective of the forensic psychologist:Commentary on the uses and value of the Australian Psychological Society (2007) Code of Ethics. Australian Psychologist, 43(3), 186-193. Greenberg, S. A., Shuman, D. W. (1997). Irreconcilable conflict between therapeutic and forensic roles. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 28, 50-57. Herlihy, B., Corey, G. (1997). Boundary issues in counselling: Multiple roles and responsiblities. Alexandria: American Counselling Association. Joseph, L. (1969). Of Human Interaction. Palo Alto, CA: National Press. Lawrence, G., Martin, C. R. (2001). Building People, Building Programs: A Practitioners Guide for Introducing the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator to Individuals and Organizations. United States of America: Center for Application of Psychological Type. Myers, I. B. (1998). Introduction to type: A guide to understanding your results on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Palo Alto, CA: Consulting Psychologists Press. Schà ¶n, D. A. (1983). The Reflective Practitioner, How Professionals Think In Action. United States of America: Basic Books. Sigman, M., Mundy, P., Sherman, T., Ungerer, J. (1986). Social interactions of autistic, mentally retarded and normal children and their caregivers. Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, 27(5), 647-656. Tieger, P. D., Barron-Tieger, B. (1995). Do what you are: discover the perfect career for you through the secrets of personality type (2nd ed.). Boston: Brown. Townsend, J. M. (1976). Self-concept and the institutionalization of mental patients: An overview and Critique. Journal of Health and Social Behaviour, 17, 263-271.

Paul Cronan :: Essays Papers

Paul Cronan Paul Cronan Case This case involves a corporate response to AIDS in the workplace. The return to work of Paul Cronan, a person with AIDS, after a much publicized law suit, led to a walkout of his coworkers. This case documents the circumstances which preceded the work stoppage. Analyzing this case from Paul Cronan’s supervisors point of view there are three main ethical issues to be considered: duty to protect the interests of the company, New England Telephone (NET); obligation to maintain the rights of the other employees; and duty to provide for the safety and privacy of Paul Cronan. There are ample examples throughout the reading to support identification of these three issues. It is evident that there is substantial interaction between Cronan and his supervisors in the early stages of his illness. Cronan contacted his first boss, Charlie O’Brian, asking for permission to leave work for a doctors appointment on three occasions. Cronan disclosed his illness to O’Brian on the third attempt to leave early from work. On his return to work he was instructed by his boss to see the company doctor. Later he contacted O’Brian, asking to be put on medical leave. Months later when he was well enough to return to work he contacted his new supervisor, Richard Griffin, who informed him that he needed a medical release to return to his job. He also asked Griffin for a transfer to a less volatile environment. These examples prove that the two men were Paul Cronan’s supervisors and thus had to be concerned for the safety and well being of Cronan. There is evidence to support that there were other employees in Cronan’s department. When his illness was revealed co-workers purportedly threatened to lynch him if he returned. Later it was reported that damaging graffiti had been written on the bathroom stalls. On his return to work after the legal settlement he was treated like a leper by fellow employees. That same day, several co-workers filed a grievance with the local union protesting his re-instatement. The next day the workers walked off the job to reduce their contact with Cronan. Later several employees spoke of their fear of the disease and discomfort with Cronan. These examples prove that there were other employees in the department and thus the supervisors had to see that their rights were upheld, also. Next, it is evident that the supervisors were agents of the company. Paul Cronan :: Essays Papers Paul Cronan Paul Cronan Case This case involves a corporate response to AIDS in the workplace. The return to work of Paul Cronan, a person with AIDS, after a much publicized law suit, led to a walkout of his coworkers. This case documents the circumstances which preceded the work stoppage. Analyzing this case from Paul Cronan’s supervisors point of view there are three main ethical issues to be considered: duty to protect the interests of the company, New England Telephone (NET); obligation to maintain the rights of the other employees; and duty to provide for the safety and privacy of Paul Cronan. There are ample examples throughout the reading to support identification of these three issues. It is evident that there is substantial interaction between Cronan and his supervisors in the early stages of his illness. Cronan contacted his first boss, Charlie O’Brian, asking for permission to leave work for a doctors appointment on three occasions. Cronan disclosed his illness to O’Brian on the third attempt to leave early from work. On his return to work he was instructed by his boss to see the company doctor. Later he contacted O’Brian, asking to be put on medical leave. Months later when he was well enough to return to work he contacted his new supervisor, Richard Griffin, who informed him that he needed a medical release to return to his job. He also asked Griffin for a transfer to a less volatile environment. These examples prove that the two men were Paul Cronan’s supervisors and thus had to be concerned for the safety and well being of Cronan. There is evidence to support that there were other employees in Cronan’s department. When his illness was revealed co-workers purportedly threatened to lynch him if he returned. Later it was reported that damaging graffiti had been written on the bathroom stalls. On his return to work after the legal settlement he was treated like a leper by fellow employees. That same day, several co-workers filed a grievance with the local union protesting his re-instatement. The next day the workers walked off the job to reduce their contact with Cronan. Later several employees spoke of their fear of the disease and discomfort with Cronan. These examples prove that there were other employees in the department and thus the supervisors had to see that their rights were upheld, also. Next, it is evident that the supervisors were agents of the company.

Review of an Ecological Science Research Article from a Primary Scientific Source :: essays research papers

Powell, K., 2005. Fish farming, Eat your Veg, Nature, 426, 378-379.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The article that I chose to review discussed the possibility of maintaining and sustaining aquaculture by changing the diets of the farmed fish. The idea of carnivorous fish turning into vegetarians would help for future sustentation of aquaculture. There were pros and cons to either side of vegetarianism and the maintaining of carnivores. There are issues that would require research and analysis to which the author points out to the reader.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Aquaculture has increased by 5% over the past 10 years. The wild stock of fish that is caught to feed the fish farms has numbered 11 million tons, which is 12 % of the total fish hauled from the sea each year. Carp and tilapia are the most farmed fish in the industry that already are consisting of a vegetarian type diet. Salmon and trout are the next largest farmed fish. The difference is that the salmon and trout are carnivores. The author reports that the carnivorous fish are more expensive to cultivate and more resources are needed to maintain these types of farmed fish.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Most farmed fish are fed on a diet that consists greatly of fish oil and fishmeal. Fishmeal is made from a protein rich powder of ground up cheap fish as a source of nutrients and proteins. The problem with using these within the farm diet is that the demand for the fish oil will overpower the supply as aquaculture expands and booms. The author states that the â€Å"demand will outstrip supply of oil by 2010.† (Powell).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Feed companies which supply the fish farms with fishmeal and fish oil as a staple to the diet of the carnivorous fish will seek different sources of protein. This protein could possibly come from larger fish such as mackerel, herring, and blue whiting. If this happens it would put more pressure on the natural stock already being harvested for other purposes. Some companies are traveling to the Antarctic to collect krill, which has repercussions for the bottom of the food chain in that the ocean itself is a primordial web of life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The author boosts that the fish will be able to eat Soya beans, corn, rapeseed, sunflower seeds, flaxseeds, and wheat gluten if converted to a vegetarian diet. The author also reports that some salmon farms already use these foods as staples in their fish farm diets.

Pillow Book by Sei Shonagan

After reading this brief section of â€Å"The Pillow Book,† I believe that the things, events or situations she considers not good or proper are those that differ from the unique cultural value and concept of Miyabi. Miyabi is a refined courtly taste and a perfection of form and color. Many of the things, events and situations described directly differs from this concept and in ancient Japanese societies, this concept was very much valued and important.This is especially shown in the 5th example of hateful things in which Sei Shonagon describes â€Å"the sight of men in their cups who shout, poke fingers in their mouths, stroke their beards, and pass on the wine to their neighbors with cries†¦Ã¢â‚¬  This example shows how Sei Shonagon has seen well-bred people behaving like this and violating the concept of Miyabi which has caused it to be distasteful. In my opinion, the concept of Miyabi and the reasoning of her evaluation is based on social aspects as Miyabi was forme d upon a concept of how to behave socially. . A Man who has nothing in particular to recommend him discusses all sorts of subjects at random as though he knew everything. I agree with this example because I have met a lot of these types of people throughout my life and I find them absolutely annoying. They are perfect examples of what I believe to be jack of all trades and master of none. It especially annoys me when they talk about a topic in which I study or have done a lot of research on and they end up telling a lot of false facts which I know to not be true. . One is in the middle of a story when someone butts in and tries to show that he is the only clever person in the room. Such a person is hateful, and so, indeed, is anyone, child or adult, who tries to push himself forward. This example really resonated with me because throughout attending a lot of networking events, I have realized that these people are despicable. When a person is in the middle of saying something, I fin d it really rude to cut in and interrupt them.However, this seems to always happen at networking events where all the students are trying to gain favoritism from the employer by interrupting and attempting to show that he is the cleverest person in the room. c. Ladies-in-waiting who want to know everything that is going on. Once again, this example really â€Å"pushes my buttons†. I find this to be especially true in high school settings where everyone wants to know everything. It seems that every person, especially girls in high school need to know the daily gossip and find it a personal objective to spread that gossip to as many people as they possibly can.I really do not like these types of people, especially when it is none of their business or when you do not even know them. d. A newcomer pushes ahead of the other members in a group; with a knowing look, this person starts laying down the law and forcing advice upon everything – most hateful. This occurs in group settings and especially in team projects. One person will always assume that they are the smartest and try to take a management role to delegate work to everybody. However, I think that the reason you’re working in a group is to see the opinions of others and also to see how others think.When one person tries to take over and stops everyone from giving opinions, this destroys the main point of working in a group. From reading this list, I think that she would consider anything that conforms to the concept of Miyabi would be good or praise worthy. In a western civilization, she would probably consider gentlemen behavior to be good or praiseworthy. Sei Shonagon sets herself up as an arbiter of good taste and most of hateful things are pronouncements of what she considers elegant or inelegant behavior in male courtiers.Therefore, I believe that a man who acts as a gentleman will receive praise from her. There is definitely a bias in Shonagon’s evaluation of people. Firstl y, it is evident that she does not really like old people. This is evident in her 4th example of how she talks about â€Å"an elderly person warms the palms of his hands over a brazier and stretches out the wrinkles. No Young man would dream of behaving in such a fashion; old people can really be quite shameless†. This shows that she is quite straightforward and almost arrogant in writing about her view of elders.In addition, there is a gender bias as she seems to evaluate her male courtiers and makes explicit pronouncements as to what she deems to be elegant and inelegant behavior. Through reading her list of hateful things, I realized that Shonagon thinks that a man has to do everything perfectly and in accordance with Miyabi. An example would be the 8th hateful thing; â€Å"A gentlemen has visited one secretly. Though he is wearing a tall, lacquered hat, he nevertheless wants no one to see him. He is so flurried, in fact, that on leaving, he bangs into something with his hat.Most hateful! † To me, it seems that the male courtier was just clumsy and made a mistake of banging his hat on something but to Shonagon, it seems that this is the most inelegant behavior a male courtier could do. She wrote about how hateful it was and therefore, I think that there is definitely a gender bias in her evaluation of people. The only time she actually talks about hateful things that women does is in her example of â€Å"ladies in waiting who want to know everything that is going on. † Her list of hateful things is mostly comprised of the male courtiers.

Developing The Leader Within You Essay

Abstract This paper will illustrate exactly what it takes become to great leader. I will demonstrate through the author’s purpose, themes, principles, and concepts. Being an effective leader requires an individual to communicate well with others, motivate, create vision, creativity, and be sure to never sabotage integrity. The author’s purpose is to teach others how to become great leaders and how to remain good leaders. Leaders must be willing to change themselves to make changes within the organization. This will allow leaders to perform to best of their best ability. I will give the reader my insight, and the insight of Maxwell and DuBrin on how to become a great leader and how to maintain great leadership abilities. A leader will show loyalty to themselves as well as the organization when integrity is being displayed. Our integrity should be at the forefront at all times and should never be sabotaged for any reason. Introduction Many of the greatest leaders have had to overcome many challenges in life. Nothing in life comes easy, and to become a great leader requires time, patience, and persistence for many that were not born leaders. Leaders are required to guide others into great accomplishments. If someone isn’t able to lead others into great places and achieve great accomplishments, they’ve failed their followers. Leaders are not quitters and at the end of the day, the goal will be accomplished. Great leaders have been known to change the world. These are the people that shape our universe and create hope for better days. Some of us are born to be leaders and some us are taught. Everyone wasn’t born to lead, there has to be followers. It’s important to know what our positions are. The greatest leaders have all had one thing in common, persistence. They never gave up on accomplishing their own goals and the goals of the organization. Often we find ourselves unprepared for the position in which we apply for. I never want to feel inadequate about a job  I am hired for and not deliver what is required of me. As a leader, I want to perform my job proficiently and relay what I’ve learned to others so they too can become great leaders one day. If I am not able to direct others into the right direction, I would never feel accomplished as a leader. Anyone that is able to create a vision, deliver the vision to others and become an effective leader has mastered what it takes to influence others to create positive outcomes. Discussion DuBrin defines leadership as the ability to inspire confidence and support among the people who are needed to achieve organizational goals. The ultimate goal should be to benefit the organization and maintaining your integrity while doing so. Lack of character will cause us to fail and do things we are not proud of. As a leader we should always be willing to achieve greatness and lead others down the same path. Maxwell’s purpose gave his readers insight on what it takes to be or become a great leader. Maxwell wants us to accept leadership as an influence with the ability to obtain followers. He also explains what it takes to remain a good leader for life. Leading never stops and we must go through all levels of leadership to achieve our goals. Maxwell, keeps his instructions simple, he sees leadership as influence to others. If we don’t have followers there is no one to lead, which defeats the purpose of being a leader. As a leader we have a tremendous amount of respons ibility to lead others to achieve great things. DuBrin and Maxwell’s purpose of both books are to provide us with valuable information to obtain healthy, long lasting leadership positions. As leaders, we are long term thinkers who see beyond the days crisis, described by Maxwell. Good leaders are able to see long-term effects on particular situations and make the best choice possible. Leaders have to prioritize in order to be successful leaders and lead others to success. Prioritizing allows us to always be prepared for the unknown. If we are able to categorize tasks with priorities and have a successful ending, it shows that we are able to make important decisions when it matters the most. One of the main subjects discussed in â€Å"Developing the Leader Within You†, would have to be change. Maxwell expressed the point that a leader without change  is an unchanged organization. An unchanged leader will not be a successful leader. A leader has to be willing to make changes to do what is important for the organization. A leader should never become so obsessed with their desires and goals and forget about the ultimate goals of the organization. The goals of the organization should be the first priority. There should never be any goals within a leader that out weighs the organization’s purpose. When a leader resists change just as much as followers th ere is a breakdown in morale and could cost the company more than money. In any aspect of life we all have to change for a better end result, it’s considered compromise. DuBrin did not focus too much on change. He did state that accepting change is the more responsible thing to do. It’s natural to resist change, but every leader has to accept change in order to be successful. If the leader is excited about the changes this will motivate others to feel excited about it as well. Maxwell expressed that our attitude is key to a successful leader. We have to take responsibility for our attitudes in life. He stated, â€Å"God chooses what we go through, we choose how we go through it. Our attitudes can make or break an organization. If we are displaying a bad attitude to our followers, how are we creating leaders? It’s impossible to mold followers into leaders if we are not positive demonstrators. Ultimately the theme of Maxwell’s book provides us with proper tools to develop a good leader. I found that our attitude and change are the two most profound themes of this book to create and maintain a solid foundation to becoming a great leader. Maxwell describes integrity as the most influential ingredient to leadership. Integrity and ethics both pl ay a big role when discussing leadership. We should never compromise who we are for anyone. If there is something that needs to be done that does not fall in line with our morals, we should never compromise that. We should always know what is right and what is wrong. Integrity is considered our personal standards. Our integrity defines who we are and our actions rest solely upon the basis of our level of integrity. Leaders have to instruct their followers on believing in something and never compromising their integrity for acceptance. Maxwell and DuBrin 100% agree when it comes to integrity. They both believe it is very important for leaders to be honest, trustworthy, and display integrity when dealing with others. Both authors believe in doing the right thing at all times no matter what the situation.  Integrity keeps us align in what is expected from a great leader. People become confident in us when we display integrity. Maxwell describes it as simple as possible, when our character is low, so are our standards. When our standards are low we have no power to lead other s in the right direction. When integrity is present, our standards are higher. Motivation, creativity, vision, and people are the primary concepts to creating a healthy work environment. A great leader can motivate others to do well and help them find what there strengths are. Leaders should never belittle their subordinates. In order for followers to keep a positive outlook on what organization wishes to accomplish in the long run. Being a good listener and asking yourself, â€Å"how can I make more people successful† is a very valuable question (Maxwell, 2002). Creativity goes a long way, leading others with creativity makes it a fun and energetic environment. A leader has to provide followers with a clear precise vision of what is expected from them. Leaders have to know where they are going and persuade others to go as well. Leaders lastly, have to invest time into people. People should feel like the individual they are following have all together. Dubrin and Maxwell both agree on the concepts listed above. They seem to both have the same values and understanding. Maxwell discusses a lot about spirituality in his book. DuBrin did not include anything spiritual in the textbook, for the sake that it’s a textbook. Conclusion Maxwell’s book, â€Å"Developing the Leader Within You†, has been an inspiration to me. I found the book very helpful information. As an individual, who is seeking a leadership position, both books have been very helpful in this process. I have learned so much about the proper steps to take in order to remain an effective leader and not a for the moment leader. For the most part, Maxwell and Dubrin ideas were mirror image to each other. Dubrin, went into more detail, do to the fact that it’s a textbook. The most important lesson learned for me would have to be, influence. Influencing others is a very vital part to becoming a great leader. Maxwell stated, â€Å"people want to be led, not managed.† We have to allow individuals to have their own  personalities, their own goals, and ambitions. It’s up to the leader, to lead them in right direction. It is a manager’s responsibility to manage their current state. In conclusion, I agree with Maxwe ll when he says that we are all leaders. At some point in our lives we have influenced someone in one form or another. We should make sure we are a good influence and provide our followers with a great map through the process. Maxwell realized that he was providing leaders with good information, however he couldn’t understand why their leadership skills were so temporary. He realized that he wasn’t providing them with the root of what makes an effective leader, making individuals feel worthwhile is the key to a great leader. Ensuring followers feel worthwhile will help them feel, as they are apart of the contribution. Making others feel important means a great deal to me. I am very eager to apply the concepts to my everyday life and in my future as a leader. Communication, motivation, vision, creativity, and people are key factors to creating great leaders. References Dubrin, A. D. (2013). Leadership : Research Findings, Practice, and Skills 7th ed. OH: South-Western Cenage Learning Maxwell, J. C. (2002). Developing the leader within you. TN: Thomas Nelson Publishing

Annotated Booklist of Children’s Literature Essay

Mr. and Mrs. Mallard fly north to look for a place to live. Their first choice is the Public Garden in Boston, but when Mrs. Mallard is almost run over by a bike she decides that it is not a good place to bring up a family. They finally decide on a spot on the Charles River and meet a Policeman called Michael who feeds them. Mrs. Mallard lays eight eggs. Mr. Mallard then decides to explore the rest of the river and agreed to meet the whole family the following week in the Public Garden. When the ducklings are born Mrs. Mallard teaches them to swim and dive and to follow in a straight line so she can take them to meet their father in the Public Garden. As they wade ashore and start to cross the road, the cars begin to honk their horns. The ducklings respond to this by quacking at them. Michael sees what is happening and stops the traffic so the ducklings can cross the road. Once they are across, he contacts other police officers to help him hold traffic to make way for the ducklings so that Mrs. Mallard and her family are able to cross the street safely into the Public Garden. Mrs. Mallard and the ducklings then swim across the pond across to the little island where they found Mr. Mallard waiting for them. The ducklings like their new island so much that they decide to live there. Personal Response: †¢ Did this book resonate with you? If so, in what ways? If not, why not? I enjoyed reading this book as an adult, remembering it from childhood.  Reading it as an adult, I realize the some of the lessons I learned as a child such as following instructions from my mother for example. †¢ Would you recommend this book? If so, to whom and why? If not, why not? I would highly recommend this book to preschool and early education teachers who are looking for an entertaining story that can be used to teach the children about such things as following instructions. For older children a big thing that can be learned is how sometimes things are not as they initially appear, and the Mallard family discovered through the story. †¢ Would you like to read other books by this author? Why or why not? Yes. The author/illustrator did a wonderful job of keeping the story moving, and allowing the pictures to accent and helps move the story along, while continuing to holding the interest of the reader. †¢ How does this book demonstrate characteristics of quality literature? This book shows a good balance between the illustrations and the writing, allowing each to accent the other as the story moves. The story is one that younger children can relate to, and using ducks as the primary characters, it creates an interest in the readers or listeners to want to find out more. †¢ Additional notes/comments/criticisms: Although this story is almost 70 years old, some of the issues it addresses are valid and current even in modern times. In this reviewers opinion the greatest asset of the story is the strength of its primary female character in Mrs. Mallard, showing her to be a woman who is not afraid to make decisions and take charge, something not often seen in 1941. Title:A Wrinkle in Time Author: Madeleine L’Engle Illustrator:Ellen Raskin (1960s editions), Leo and Diane Dillon (current hardcover) Publisher: Farrar, Straus & Giroux Date of Publication: 1962 Genre:Fantasy Short Synopsis: In the beginning of the story, we are introduced to Meg Murry. Although she is very bright, her self esteem is very low and this is causing her problems in school. We learn her parents are both scientists, and that her father has been missing for over a year now. We are also introduced to her five year old brother, Charles Wallace, who we discover very quickly is an extremely gifted child with a very close bond to his sister. On a dark stormy night a strange woman who identifies herself as Ms. Whatsit visits the Murry family and she tells Meg’s mother, â€Å"There is such a thing as a Tesseract.† The next day, Charles Wallace takes Meg to meet his new friend Mrs. Whatsit, and her friends Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which. On their way there they meet up with Calvin O’Keefe, a boy Meg goes to school with, and he and Charles Wallace immediately become friends. The three ladies, who are actually very strange and powerful beings from beyond the Earth, offer to help Meg and Charles find their father. The children learn from Mrs. Whatsit and her friends that the universe is threatened by a great evil called the Dark Thing. They are told several planets have already succumbed to this evil force, including Camazotz, the planet on which Mr. Murry is being held. The children are transported by Mrs. Whatsit to Camazotz and instruct remain always in each other’s company. On Camazotz, everything appears exactly alike because the whole planet must conform to the terrifying rhythmic pulsation of IT, a giant disembodied brain. Charles Wallace tries to fight IT with his exceptional intelligence but allows himself to be hypnotized to try and save his father. He then leads Meg and Calvin to Mr. Murry and together they confront IT. Meg and Calvin are also unable to withstand IT’s power and escape only at the last minute, when Mr. Murry appears and seizes Meg and Calvin, â€Å"tessering† away with them to the planet Ixchel inhabited by tall, furry beasts that care for the travelers. Unfortunately Charles Wallace is left behind and remains possessed by IT. The three Mrs. W’s appear as Meg realizes that she must travel alone back to Camazotz to rescue her brother. Mrs. Which tells her that she has one thing that IT does not have and this one thing will be her only weapon against the evil. Meg is told she has to discover this weapon for herself. When standing in the presence of IT, Meg finally realizes what this weapon is, her ability to love. By concentrating on her love for Charles Wallace, she is able to restore him to his true identity, releasing him from IT’s clutches and the teasers with him, landing in their vegetable garden on Earth, where her father and Calvin are waiting for her. The family reunites as the three Mrs. W’s visit them one last time. Personal Response: †¢ Did this book resonate with you? If so, in what ways? If not, why not? This is one of my favorite books from childhood, and to this day one of my favorite authors. As a child I understood the character of Meg, and many times in life felt a kinship with her in many ways. The feelings of awkwardness and not fitting in were understandable to me, and writings such as this showed me I was not alone. †¢ Would you recommend this book? If so, to whom and why? If not, why not? I would highly recommend this book, as well as those that followed in the series. This book is good for adolescents who have reached that awkward stage in life where then need to fit in or are questioning the power that love can have on us as a society. This story shows us that not only love, but hope as well can overcome any darkness so long as we believe. †¢ Would you like to read other books by this author? Why or why not? I have read many other books by this author as she is one of my favorite writers next to Isaac Asimov. Her stories are always ones that make us think, not just of ourselves as individuals, but many times as a society as a whole. The stories challenge our views, and show us how our own individuality can be one of the greatest gifts we have as human beings. †¢ How does this book demonstrate characteristics of quality literature?  This book shows characteristics of good literature in the way it approaches the development of its characters most of all. It keeps them believable, and allows just about anyone who is reading to connect with at least one of the characters, and in doing this allows them to â€Å"step† into the story as that character and experience firsthand the lesson that she is conveying to her readers. Each of the characters has their flaws as well as their strengths, and they learn that only by working together are they able to overcome the evil and restore themselves. †¢ Additional notes/comments/criticisms: L’Engle has said that â€Å"One cannot discuss structure in writing without discussing structure in all life; it is impossible to talk about why anybody writes a book or paints a picture or composes a symphony without talking about the nature of the universe.† This perspective is what makes her one of my favorite authors as she is able to discuss this structure of life without compromising he own morals or beliefs. Title:The Giving Tree Author: Shel Silverstein Illustrator:Shel Silverstein Publisher: Harper & Row Date of Publication: 1964 Genre:Picture Book Short Synopsis: The Giving Tree follows a friendship between a growing boy and a favorite tree. In the beginning of the story the tree is full grown and healthy and the boy is very young. The tree provides the child with apples, shade, and branches to swing and hang on. As the boy gets older he asks more of the tree and the tree never turns him down. The boy uses the tree to first build his house, and then as he becomes a mature man cuts the tree down in order to make a boat. Through all of this the tree does not protest and offers itself to the boy. Many years later, the boy returns as an old man to the  tree, which has nothing left but a stump. The man requests that he be allowed to sit and rest on the trees stump while he waits for his death. The tree again happily gives him what is requested. Personal Response: †¢ Did this book resonate with you? If so, in what ways? If not, why not? This was my favorite book as a child and I enjoyed reading this book as an adult. This book through its wonderful illustrations and well structured story telling shows us an example of unconditional love. †¢ Would you recommend this book? If so, to whom and why? If not, why not? I would highly recommend this book to preschool and early education teachers who are looking for an entertaining story that can be used to teach the value of giving, and the joys that can be had from something as simple as giving without expectation of reward. †¢ Would you like to read other books by this author? Why or why not? Yes. The author/illustrator did a wonderful job of keeping the story moving, and allowing the pictures to accent and help move the story along, while continuing to holding the interest of the reader. The simple line drawings invoked a very strong feeling of love in the way the tree is shows as it many times almost embraces the boy as he grows. †¢ How does this book demonstrate characteristics of quality literature? This book shows a good balance between the illustrations and the writing, allowing each to accent the other as the story moves. The story is one that younger children can relate to as they watch the boy grow from a boy to a senior citizen. This progression as he ages and the tree continually gives its â€Å"life† to help him succeed models itself from how a parent does all they can to nurture and help their child to succeed, many times to the exclusion of their own well being. †¢ Additional notes/comments/criticisms: Even with its age this story transcends time as it looks at the universal  emotion of love, and what we will do for it. There is much debate, however, over its interpretation. Some view the boy as selfish as he uses the tree to its â€Å"death†, while others such as I see it as the relationship of a parent to their child, where both the tree and the child’s actions are reasonable. Title:The Snowy Day Author: Ezra Jack Keats Illustrator:Ezra Jack Keats Publisher: Viking Press Date of Publication: 1962 Genre:Picture Book Short Synopsis: The story is of Peter, a young boy living in an apartment in the city, and his adventures as he reacts to a day after a big snow storm. Peter wakes and gets dressed and then goes out and crunches the snow with his feet, makes footprints and tracks through the snow, and drags a stick in snow. Peter is disappointed when the big boys don’t include him in their snowball fight, so he builds a snowman, makes snow angels, and slides down a snow mountain. Peter ends his full day of snow play by taking a warm bath and sharing his adventures with his mother before going to bed. The story ends with his joy of waking to even more snow the next day. Personal Response: †¢ Did this book resonate with you? If so, in what ways? If not, why not? This book was an enjoyable read as we were able to sense and feel the awe and wonder of Peter as he explored the Snowy Day, and discovered all of the fun than can be had in the snow. The book covers everything from properly dressing for play in the snow to appropriate games that can be played. The wonderful illustrations in the book not only were an accent to the story, but the words within the story actually would not have any meaning. The story is told as much through the independence of the illustrations and the  words as many times one is used to explain the actions of the other rather than just giving a physical representation of the action within the words as many picture books do. †¢ Would you recommend this book? If so, to whom and why? If not, why not? I would highly recommend this book to preschool and early education teachers who are looking for an entertaining story that can be used to teach students the wonders of exploration. From the first scenes of Peter waking up, right to the final scenes, the book is about the wonders that are out there if we are not afraid to move beyond that we are comfortable with and explore. †¢ Would you like to read other books by this author? Why or why not? Yes. The author/illustrator did a wonderful job of creating a character in Peter who we all can associate with. He takes great care in developing the character and in subsequent books continues the story of Peter as he continues to grow and mature. I feel these additional books would be a wonderful addition to any teacher’s collection. †¢ How does this book demonstrate characteristics of quality literature? This book shows an amazing balance between the illustrations and the writing, allowing each to not just accent but to carry the other as the story moves. The story is one that younger children can relate to as they watch Peter explore and discover new things in the world around him. The book never loses focus on its purpose which is to allow us to not just read about Peter’s exploration, but to share in it with him. †¢ Additional notes/comments/criticisms: This book also features the first African American main character to be depicted in a children’s picture book. This ground-breaking book was followed by several others written by Keats, including A Whistle for Willie, Peter’s Chair, A Letter to Amy, and Goggles. Each of these books continues to follow Peter as he grows from this shy child into a well adjusted teen.

Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis and Alexander Solzhenitsyn’s One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich Analysis

In situations of desperation, desolation or depression humans may become capable of acting inexplicably. When a person is faced with a grim situation he may try to deny the reality of the situation, and as such remain optimistic that all will be set right. The protagonists of Franz Kafka's The Metamorphosis and Alexander Solzhenitsyn's One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich must cope with these elements of self-delusions, their bitter wisdom and the fragility of their own hope. People who believe they have nothing to look forward to, begin to change their perceptions of happiness to cope with their dismal situation. The human Gregor Samsa enjoyed happiness from making others happy, as seen through his intentions of sending his sister to the musical Conservatory or his ability to provide for his family. When he is no longer able to find happiness in human interaction, he begins to find happiness for himself in the simplest occurrences. Read also Analysis of Characters in Flannery O’Connor’s â€Å"The Life You Save May Be Your Own† â€Å"He especially liked hanging from the ceiling it was completely different from lying on the floor; one could breathe more freely; a faint swinging sensation went through the body; and in the almost happy absent-mindedness which Gregor felt up there, it could happen to his own surprise that he let go and plopped onto the floor.† During the initial stages of his metamorphosis, Gregor is proud and happy about his ability to provide such a comfortable life for his family. After his transformation he is not able to make others happy consequently being forced to seek pleasure for himself in the smallest things, despite how simple they may seem. Ivan Denisovich, also referred to as Shukhov, finds himself in a similar situation. He is forced to abandon the common goals shared by other men and to adopt a mentality where survival provides him with satisfaction. Ivan is happy about his day because he avoids additional punishment, has more than usual to eat, works at building a wall which he takes pride in and acquires some new tools. His enjoyment of these simple accomplishments demonstrates the changes which have occurred within him. â€Å"Shukhov went to sleep, and he was very happy. He'd had a lot of luck today. They hadn't put him in the cooler. The gang hadn't been chased out to work in the Socialist Community Development. He'd finagled an extra bowl of mush at noon. The boss has gotten them good rates for their work. He'd felt good making that wall. They hadn't found that piece of steel in the frisk. Caesar had paid him off in the evening. He'd bought some tobacco. And he'd gotten over that sickness. Nothing had spoiled the day and it had been almost happy.† The happiness felt by Ivan results from incidents that others would take for granted. His additional labour in the prison is not for any reason other than for his survival and satisfaction. Rather than thinking of how he could be made happier by what he does not have, he appears happy with what he is given. The protagonists of both novels force themselves into believing they are happy, to be better able to cope with the grim reality of their circumstances. Although there is no rationale given for their respective situations, the protagonists both have the knowledge that their life has changed for the worse. When Gregor reflects upon the life he once gave to his family, he begins to feel guilty about Grete having to care for him. His life has been based upon his role as the provider, but fulfilling his duties after the transformation is no longer plausible. â€Å"Often during Gregor's short stays in the city the Conservatory would come up in his conversations with his sister, but always merely as a beautiful dream which was not supposed to come true, and his parents were not happy to hear even these innocent allusions; but Gregor had very concrete ideas on the subject and he intended solemnly to announce his plan on Christmas Eve. Thoughts like these, completely useless in his present state, went through his head as he stood glued to the door.† His motivation has been fulfilling the financial and emotional needs of his family put forth on him, but he is no longer needed by his family. The Samsa family is now capable of surviving without his contributions, and seemingly are better people as they become independent. As the bug he is a burden to his family because his purpose in life has been made impossible to fulfill. Unlike Gregor, Ivan believes that he has a purpose (to work with his hands) but he is unable to because of an unfair conviction. â€Å"Easy money doesn't weigh anything and it doesn't give you that good feeling you get when you really earn it. The old saying was true-what you don't pay for honestly, you don't get good value for. Shukhov's hands were still good for something. Back home he'd surely find himself work making stoves, or something in the carpentry line, or mending pots and pans. The only catch was- if you'd been convicted with loss of civil rights, you couldn't get work anywhere and you weren't allowed back home.† Ivan is proud of the work he does with his hands but he is not permitted to choose his living because of the sentence. He is not able to return home and has lost his civil rights. His future will never exceed his past life. For Ivan true freedom means home but he will never have that freedom again. The male prisoners create a society in which they have the security of knowing what they will be doing and eating from one day to the next yet remain powerless over their futures. The changes caused by the peculiar situations give both protagonists a more pessimistic view of their lives. The promise of hope causes people to be optimistic even in the grimmest of situations, but a lack of it may be detrimental. In the case of Gregor the fragility of his hope is a disadvantage. He retains a human sense of frustration, memory and optimism despite his increasing animal instincts. During the incident when Grete attempts to remove his furniture he at first seems passive to the notion but once his mother voices doubts, saying the removal of the furniture would be symbolic of the family giving up hope of his return, he too becomes more hopeful, even wanting to give up crawling to retain his humanity. â€Å"Nothing should be removed; everything had to stay; he could not do without the beneficial influence of the furniture on his state of mind; and if the furniture prevented him from carrying on this senseless crawling around, then that was no loss but rather a great advantage.† The hope of others around him greatly influences his own, as instanced when he opens his door to measure the reaction of his family to his initial transformation. Later Grete declares the bug would have already left if it really were Gregor. She is essentially giving up the hope that the bug is her brother; expectedly Gregor dies that night. The will to live for Ivan, however, is strong enough to overpower his hopelessness and the endless difficulties of a life he cannot control. He has enough hope of getting out of prison to maintain his own sanity, but not so much that he becomes dejected about his situation. â€Å"Shukhov sort of liked the way they pointed at him- the lucky guy nearly through with his sentence. But he didn't really believe it. Take the fellows who should've been let out in the war. They were all kept in till forty-six- â€Å"till further notice.† And then those with three years who'd gotten five more slapped on. They twisted the law any way they wanted. You finished a ten-year stretch and they gave you another one. Or if not, they still wouldn't let you go home. But sometimes you got a kind of funny feeling inside. Maybe your number really would come up one day. God, just to think you might walk out and go home!† Ivan realizes that he will never have freedom yet wants nothing more than being released from prison. Restraining his hopes with a touch of reality enables him to find a balance between escape and contentment during his sentence. It is difficult to be truly happy when keeping the dismal reality in mind. The protagonists find their lives are worse because they know it is not possible to find the happiness they once had. Despite this knowledge, they maintain the hope of returning to normal for as long as they can. This hope serves to protect the potentially false happiness they experience. Both characters are described as being almost happy because, despite their self-delusions, they can only obtain true happiness if their lives were to return to the way they once were; but that is unfeasible.