Develop and document the scope of a project Research Paper

Develop and document the scope of a project - Research Paper Example They are Marketing and Sales departments. The corresponding departments in the sister company also perform the same function and are highly interdependent. These departments are very essential if not the most important departments for both companies in case of undertaking the project of releasing the new product to the market. This is so because of the strategic role the departments play in the successful realization of the project implementation (Dervaes, 1998). This paper tries to give a brief scope of the project with a clear outline of some important issues that concern the project. Some of the issues that are outlined in the scope include, but not limited to: the deliverables in the project, the specific limitations of the project and its scope together with the specific exclusions and assumptions that come with the project while implementing the project. These assumptions are specific to the operations that are undertaken in the distribution chains in Winsome sales department. Some of the specific deliverables that are expected from the project include meeting the sale volumes that have been set by the sales and marketing departments of both companies. The company plans to double the sales volume in the next fiscal year as a result of an introduction of the new product. This could mean that the Sales department would be required to increase their human resource capacity by contracting more staff to help in the achievement of these targets. Alternatively, Winsome manufacturing would procure the services of its sister company. To choose one among these two options, the company will undertake an analysis to find out which of the two options is a better one concerning the financial obligations that each project requires. If procuring the services of the sister company is the cheapest option, there must be specific terms and conditions that should be agreed upon in order to make sure the company will succeed. The factors that affect the project also include it s limitations and challenges. They must be well addressed in order to help the company successfully meet its targets without obligatory affecting other products (Dervaes, 1998). A steep competition from the other firms in the industry must be considered. Elaborate plans to counter their influence must be adhered to in order to achieve the overall objective of the company which is to double its sales volume in the next fiscal year. There are key elements of the products that must also be addressed like the branding which will help market the new product. Its pricing structure must also be addressed well with intense marketing also done. Some of the specific exclusions that must be identified in order to be certain that the venture succeeds include excluding this particular project from the other products that have been manufactured by the company. This product should be given a lot of emphasis with its features and advantages made known to all the customers who would be as well poten tial buyers of the product. Other existing products that the firm is producing in the market should also be excluded in the general analysis of the firm performance (Mathur, 2006). There must also be proper communication channels between the two companies and strategic customers. These means that all the information regarding the product must be made available to sales representatives of both Winsome and the sister company, and they should be able to pass the same

The Shining Film Analysis

The Shining Film Analysis The suspense, blood and gore made the film so intriguing; the audience was kept wondering throughout as to what would really happen next. The eerie hotel combined with music and sound effects played a major role in the film, giving it a sense of paranoia. Nicholsons portrayal of Jack Torrance was truly remarkable, showing us how easily a man can lose complete sanity. The film reveals our need for companionship; loneliness is something we as humans, find it impossible to endure. What disappointed me about the movie was the fact that the breakdown of the family was not as clear prior to it happening; Jacks character lacked depth which would have been vital before his eventual breakdown. However, the film as a whole was exceptionally appealing. The director (Stanley Kubrick) carefully placed the horrific images combined with excruciating background music that would give you utmost panic; Stanley Kubrick had us believe exactly what he wanted and where he wanted, the fact that you were never too certain as to what was about to happen next showed his creative flair. The overflowing blood scenes were a visual masterpiece that seemed almost surreal, what drew me more to the film were hands out the characters and the circumstances they had to go through. Whether you like it or not after watching the film, it makes you somewhat wonder if a world where the past and present unite really exists; hence expanding our imagination to the extent that nothing is impossible. Themes: Isolation and loneliness are one of the major themes in this film. Jacks main reason to losing complete sanity was because he started to slowly isolate himself from everyone, including his family; nothing seemed to matter or make sense anymore. If you were in a world where its sole existence was you; then slowly if not immediately, life loses its meaning. At the beginning of the film we are shown that the car is moving towards and isolated hotel; the hotel itself represents a sense of isolation. The fact that it is located in a secluded place, where not a single soul can be found creates a border between Jacks family and the rest of the world. One scene that showcases loneliness is when Wendy talks to the fire department; we can see a feeling of despair, because she has literally no one to talk to. Duality plays another major role in the construct of the set and the film; there are two mazes, two little girls, two Gradys, even two Jacks. The duality factor of the film may represent the two faced nature of humanity, the one that shines (Danny) and the other one that wallows in the dark, corrupted, and twisted desires. In Jacks case what started as a mere irritation turned into downright aggression towards his family. Detachment from reality is another major theme circling throughout the film. Jack spends most of his time working alone or isolating himself from his wife and child. How are we as humans able to define whats a mere illusion to reality? Jack was not in a clear state of mind, from the way he talked and acted we could tell he was slowly slipping to world illustrated by him. The severity of his detachment is shown with his writing, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. As the film proceeds Jack sells his soul, or whats left of his humanity to the devil in exchange for drinks; which finally detaches him completely from reality. Clairvoyance is another theme that Kubrick plays on during the film; Danny is the major factor of this theme. Seen through messages sent by Tony, Danny starts to pick up the broken pieces and tries to prevent what the future beholds. This theme is covered with mystery and no clear edges, representing more of an unfinished circle with no beginning and no end. Tony sends Wendy messages in a mirror written red rum The reflection of which reads murder, murder is a reflection of both the past and the future, the word has a significant connection to the hotel; and history repeating itself. The hotel itself is filled with unexplainable paranormal activity that causes people to be in a disturbing state of mind. Clear, unexplainable images are brought to life to the characters; thus leaving them hanging by a thread of defining whats real and whats plain imagination. Structure: The choice of actors and their portray play huge factors in creating a horrifiic masterpiece. Darling, light of my life. Im not going hurt ya. You didnt let me finish my sentence. I said Im not going to hurt ya, Im just gonna bash your brains in Im gonna bash em right the fuck in. Jack, 1980: The Shining. Nicholsons brings a character to life with his portrayal of Jacks psychotic, twisted mind. With the audience observing his every move; its hard to ignore the fact that whilst watching the film you feel like you can see right through Jacks psychotic, twisted mind. He had the audience observing his every move. Wendys personality on the other hand is illustrated as passive and hysterical making her seem eventually vulnerable as the film proceeds; the fact that she does not dare to conflict with her husband even in the most unfortunate situations makes her almost flawed character seem more human and damaged. Shot in secluded hotel high in the mountains which is inaccessible to anyone, the setting itself creates an atmosphere of seclusion. Kubricks choice of unnerving music and sound effects is one of the most crucial factors that add to the cramped atmosphere; keeping the audience tense, ready for a scared. The Shining wouldnt have been the same if Kubrick didnt add the yellow/ green colour to film, which created a complete different atmosphere; and setting the perfect cautious mood for the audience whilst watching the film. The emptiness of the hotel combined with the unusual setting complements each other greatly, allowing Kubrick to capture great shots; the film was very fast paced but at the same time had long, intense pauses creating a synchronized effect between each shot. Stanley Kubrick tells us simple story of losing complete sanity through a unique perspective. As a whole the film successfully achieves its goal of keeping the audience right at the tip of their seats and anticipating whats going to happen next. Jack Torrance was a one of a kind character, who was trapped by his own demons within the hotel; thus, creating a fascinating phenomenon.

A Life Worth Living in Kurt Vonneguts Slaughterhouse-Five :: Slaughterhouse-Five Essays

A Life Worth Living in Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse-Five Kurt Vonnegut (1922- ) is an author with a unique perspective on life. He sees in a vivid technicolor things in this world that the rest of humanity may only see in black and white. By the same token he sees life as a rather dark subject, it's the ultimate joke at our expense (Lundquist 1). His life experience has been one of hardship. His mother committed suicide in 1942. Two years later he was captured by Nazis in World War II's epic Battle of the Bulge. In 1943 he survived the massively destructive fire-bombing of Dresden, Germany. He returned with the distinguished Purple Heart. In 1958 his sister and brother-in-law died, leaving him to raise their children, along with his own (Campbell 2). Despite these hardships, however, to Vonnegut life is still worth living. It shows through in his novels. Vonnegut utilizes black humor and irony to show many recurring themes noted in his works which are we, as a race, must learn to keep happy illusions over evil ones and that a soothing lie is sometimes the best truth (Lundquist 1). To say that Vonnegut feels life is worth living despite the horrors of the world is to say that Vonnegut really longs for the life of his childhood. It was a life of family and good, Midwestern upbringing. Wholesome morals like self-respect and pacifism were fed to him along with other staples of the Midwest. America was an idealistic, pacifistic nation at the time. I was taught in the sixth grade to be proud that we had a standing army of just over a hundred thousand men and that generals had nothing to say about what was done in Washington. I was taught to be proud of that and to pity

Care and love Essay

However, this is when we contradict our first impression of him being a caring father, because no commendable father or even guardian will wait until morning to find out what is wrong with a child. Especially if previous events might have been the key to the survival of the child. We first see how he treats his daughter, Betty now we see the other responsibility he neglects, his niece; she is an orphan and should be treated with care and love. Instead he questions her commitment to the church and notes she was â€Å"dancing like heathen in the forest†; this testifies that he really does not care about his own flesh and blood, being an outcast of the church in this time was very dangerous: it was the centre of the community. Hale’s main interrogation method is to ask leading questions; therefore his victory of the debate whether Tituba was a witch or not. In the same way Parris asks leading questions to Abigail â€Å"What did you do with her in the forest?†. There is one thing about Parris though when dealing with minors he always is completely sure of who should take charge of the conversation.  Parris is quite selfish on numerous occasions he talks about himself more than Betty, by â€Å"my enemies† and the fact that â€Å"they will ruin me† does show some sort of over reaction. Getting frustrated over position and forgetting the main cause of the conversation driven to the point of believing a â€Å"faction swore to drive me out of my pulpit† we see definite troubles in Parris. The employment of a teenager nearing womanhood was very important it showed that you were respected if you became a servant in those days, Abigail had not been employed for a â€Å"seven month† but until this conversation he had always over-looked the matter and never inquired why as to she was sacked.  The Crucible reveals to us the modern day â€Å"tooth for a tooth†, Parris uses emotional blackmail, when he demands for an issue to be revealed in his favour he declares that he has â€Å"put clothes upon you back† this implies the use of emotional blackmail for getting something he wants; but putting clothes on your nieces back should not be a chore. Goody Putnam is the husband of a wealthy land owner, when she intervenes he shows a certain â€Å"deference† towards her for she is on the winning side of the community her husband is a rich land owner. Parris shows greed and hunger for money and status, he is easily â€Å"swayed† into agreeing with the Putnam’s that witches were among them in Salem we get the feeling of neglecting one self he is a man who thinks he is prosecuted everywhere, unpopular and mistrusted in the community.  Finally Parris makes a decision and indeed leaves in kin over money and power, he cleverly leaves Abigail in a complicated situation by stating â€Å"then you were conjuring spirits last night† he gives away his own kin for power and respect. Millers concern is that many in power are led astray by greed. Miller wants to have these people not in control of the public and it is people like Parris whom are dangerous and selfish  Goody Putnam and Parris have similar status she is a women she is married to a powerful landlord. Parris looks up to her and will believe anything, like her. In order to keep status.  Goody Putnam is directly portrayed as a â€Å"twisted soul† Miller makes us keep a open mind. We already get the gist of this. It means that a person who not trustworthy and has been through so much that they have become bended to one side of an argument. She has been described as â€Å"Death ridden† because she had lost all her â€Å"seven babies†. Later on we will learn how and why she acts in such a irresponsible and insane manner. When she first appears with play she is â€Å"shiny eyed† this gives us the opinion that she had just heard extraordinary news that Parris daughter had just flown over a barn. â€Å"How high did she fly† as a question shows clear stupidity for then or now anyone could have worked out for themselves they cannot. She indicates to Parris that the â€Å"devil† was right under his nose and in his household for there was a â€Å"stroke of hell† upon him and the â€Å"devil† was directly attacking him. Goody Putnam’s only daughter is â€Å"sick† as well and has the same sort of sickness as Betty, before thinking of a medical explanation she forces a recognition of witchcraft for the â€Å"devils touch† was on the children and was no natural cause for this illness.  This superstitious ignorance was terribly dangerous then: There could be a false accusation and someone’s life would pay the price these are Millers concerns. She does in some reference act like Hale. She is completely zealous in terms of supernatural causes but her reasons are not intellectual but ignorant. In depth we must look why, she believes she gave birth to seven â€Å"hearty babies† which suggest they were healthy. But â€Å"withered† in her arms. Now we could have a reason maybe a rare type blood disease for instance. At the time, a lack of science helped to sustain superstitious ideas  She is so immersed in her beliefs to the point that she sends her own daughter, Ruth to dance with the girls and try and â€Å"get closer† to her previous dead kids. This is entirely a kind of taboo. Since there is no other resource or explanation for these things at these times, the supernatural good and evil were heeded: the local doctor was â€Å"baffled† because the science was not advanced, not because the devil had intervened.

The Bribary Scandal at Siemens Ag

For example, I am quite familiar with the ways business is done is Russia and I can assure you that bribing cases are very common there, with number of them being literally unavoidable. As for the case with bribing Wilhelm Seychelles, the chairman of the AUP labor union, I think it was completely unnecessary for such a big and respected company like Siemens to do that. Such bribing is certainly avoidable and It Is not worth for the company to risk It's reputation.In my opinion, It should be a concern of governments to prevent such actions and create mechanisms hat make any types of bribing activities Impossible, especially In companies In which the state owns a controlling stake. 2. I think if a company has a respected name in the field, offers competitive prices and meets all qualifications to win a contract, then it has couple of options to do so without bribing: a. Status off well-known and respected company gives it an ability to contact the government officials and local analogu e of U. S.Securities and Exchange Commission beforehand and ask to monitor the process of tendering. B. If the contract is for a large amount of money and, maybe, socially important, it might e a good Idea to attract the media to the deal. I believe these two options would scare away any company managers who are Intended to benefit from bribing. However, If the company Is In the situation when somebody demands money in return for a contract, it should immediately notify an appropriate agency and provide sufficient evidence in order for the officials to impose punitive sanctions against a breaking company. . In my opinion, the board made a right decision in not extending Killdeer's term. Even though Killed was not implicated in the scandal directly, l, honestly, hardly live that he, as the CEO of Siemens GAG, was unaware of the unlawful actions that had taken place within the company, since the amounts spent on the ‘consulting services' (Ð ²?420 million) seem to be too large n ot to notice them, or at least questionable.The practice of bribing for contracts might have been common at Siemens before and was Inherited by Killed from former CEO, Heimlich von Peeler. This practice doubled with Killdeer's aggressive, American style of management could have been reasons why Siemens GAG performed so well in the last few years roll to ten scandal. I also Delve Tanat whenever Clientele 010, It was Tort ten Detente of the company.After Killdeer's departure, considering how successfully he managed the company, it is most likely that Siemens' rate of growth and value of its shares will drop. If it wasn't for the bribery scandals, Killed could have much more work done for the company benefit over the following years. 4. As I could tell from the case and from my own experience, there are many companies that give money or gifts in exchange for contracts or some sort of favors. Siemens is not the only company accused of bribery.The enormous amounts Siemens spent on bribin g government officials and companies' managers probably led the investigations to begin. There are number of Siemens' competitors who were not as wealthy, and, as a consequence, couldn't get the same contracts, even though they might have been more qualified. My assumption is that the Siemens' competitors, angry about such injustice, could have been initiators of the investigations, which revealed the cases of bribing. Generally, I think Siemens was just unfortunate to get caught.

Pro Tips From Successful Writers! Good Work Habits Make All the Difference

Pro Tips From Successful Writers! Good Work Habits Make All the Difference Pro Tips From Successful Writers! Good Work Habits Make All the Difference   Many people assume that good writers are born that way. A modicum of natural talent is certainly helpful; however, when it comes to long-term writing success, good work habits make all the difference. How many gifted writers are there with half-finished work on their hard drives? The completion of a well-written project requires solid work habits, discipline, and self-knowledge. Luckily, these are not traits; they are skills that can be learned! These pro tips from successful writers will help you see your work through from start to finish. Getting Ready to Write Sometimes, just sitting down to work is the biggest obstacle! Whether it’s challenging yourself with a deadline, setting aside time for writing, or avoiding distractions, writers need to engage self-discipline to create the opportunity to be creative. Deadlines Are Your Friends Deadlines can be a blessing in disguise. They propel you through the more difficult stages of your process, helping that end goal to stay within view. Self-motivated projects are understandably challenging to complete- so create deadlines for yourself. Essay contests and job applications can help provide motivating deadlines for a writer. While some creative writers may find adrenaline to be a helpful motivational tool, with academic or business writing, it is more likely to result in sloppy work. Your arguments will be stronger and your vocabulary richer if you avoid the stress of a rapidly approaching end-date. By getting a head start, you won’t short change the vital editing process, and you won’t be thrown off course if setbacks occur. Limit Distractions Short story writer Nathan Englander advises, â€Å"If you want to get work done, you’ve got to learn to unplug.† When you hit roadblocks in your work, it can feel like a relief to distract yourself by messaging a friend. However, studies prove that productivity skyrockets when personal phones are kept out of sight, or at least switched to â€Å"airplane mode.† For many writers, working at home is the easiest way to avoid noise and distractions. However, if you have children or pets, messy areas might become an additional distraction (and a temptation to procrastinate). It can be hard to focus when surrounded by piles of dirty laundry. Use Your Most Productive Hours The best time to write varies from writer to writer. Often, finding your ideal writing window will depend on how you work best. If you require silence to focus, early morning is a great choice (before anyone has the chance to distract you). Writers Toni Morrison, Ernest Hemingway, and Haruki Murakami famously preferred the early hours for their efforts. One advantage of morning writing is a sense of accomplishment that can carry you throughout the day. You’ve made progress; now you can relax without writing looming all afternoon. Use the time for editing, administrative tasks, or research, and focus on writing during your most fruitful hours. Create Your Optimal Environment Not every writer prefers absolute silence or solitude. The presence of others can also be inspiring and comforting. This helps explain the rise in popularity of co-working spaces, which are popping up all over campuses and urban centers. The library can also be a pleasant respite from the busy atmosphere of a coffee shop. Regardless of where you work, noise-cancelling earphones can help shut out the chatter. Just be sure to pick music that inspires you! Up-tempo instrumental music can keep you from succumbing to boredom and fatigue. Finally: Forget The Rules! It can be challenging to stick to a regular writing routine with the stresses of our daily lives. It’s important not to fret over less-than-ideal circumstances if you can’t change them. As E.B. White put it, â€Å"A writer who waits for ideal conditions under which to work will die without putting a word on paper.† It’s also helpful to remember that even the best writers don’t always feel like sitting down to work. As Henry Miller once said, â€Å"write according to program and not according to mood.† Now That You’ve Started Congratulations: you’re off! These simple techniques will help you stay focused while improving your results. Set Short-Term Goals Short-term goalposts can help you drive towards the finish line. You choose the writing interval, which may vary from project to project. When writing a thesis, for example, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by such a seemingly monumental task. However, when you break that task up into manageable increments, anything is possible! Just take it one step at a time. Whether it’s a half hour or an hour, all you need to worry about it keeping your head down until the buzzer sounds. Be wary of using your phone as a timer, since this may tempt you to use it as a distraction. Leave Yourself Somewhere to Start If you don’t know where to start the next day, sitting down to write can seem impossibly daunting. One oft-repeated piece of advice is to stop writing for the day (or the session) in the middle of a sentence or paragraph. If you provide yourself with a launching pad, you’ll start work focused and inspired, and you’ll get the satisfaction of â€Å"finishing† something early in the session. If you’re working from an outline, know exactly where you’ll begin the next day before signing off, to fend off that dreaded fear of the blank page. Move Your Body Sometimes, when a section is particularly frustrating, a walk or jog can be just what you need. Exercise can clear your head and get you back on track, refreshed. It’s hard sitting at a desk for hours on end! If you’ve set your timer and worked for your allotted time, use your break period to get moving. A walk around the block, a dip in the pool, or a few jumping jacks can be enough to get you energized. Kurt Vonnegut once reported that he broke up his writing with push-ups and sit-ups to fend off lethargy. Editing And Rewriting This can sometimes seem like the toughest part of writing, but it is one of the most critical steps for doing good work. Neil Gaiman described revision as â€Å"a process of making it look like you knew what you were doing all along.† Get Feedback Go to one or two trusted friends, but don’t go to ten. The further along you are in your career, the more likely you are to have respectful, trusting relationships with other writers. Don’t be afraid to reach out, but avoid the temptation to ask everyone for their â€Å"take† on your work. Too many opinions can be counter-productive, particularly if the views are from individuals with a limited understanding of your topic. If you don’t have anyone you feel comfortable showing your work, or if you’re pressed for time, consulting a professional writing service can be invaluable. Know When To Delete Editing the same passages repeatedly can be time-consuming and frustrating. If your wording isn’t creating the desired effect, or if you’re finding it too difficult to make a succinct point, radical surgery may be required. Delete the problematic passage and start over. If it doesn’t work, you can always revert to an earlier version history; but often the solution will become apparent to you once you have a clean slate. Knowing When To Walk Away Remember: your work will never be perfect. Be satisfied knowing that you did the best you could. If you set yourself up for success with your writing habits, you can avoid fretting over sections that might have improved with more time. No writer has all the time they want, and we do the best with what we have. While you may eventually look back on your work and notice small errors that you missed, that’s simply the nature of the process. Whether you’re writing a thesis, a research paper or a college admissions essay, know that writers all over the world struggle with the same issues you do. While there’s no â€Å"easy† way to write, establishing good writing habits will set you apart from the crowd. For expert editing and writing services, call 1 (800) 573-0840 (toll-free) to speak with a professional paper writer. With offices in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver, can help make sure great habits result in great writing.

Biography of Mary Leakey

Biography of Mary Leakey Mary Leakey was a very important Anthropologist. She was born February 6, 1913 in London, England. Since her father painted, her family moved from town to town on many occasions. She grew up in places such as England, France and Italy. At age eleven, when she lived in Dorgogne, she became interested in prehistory after meeting Abbe Lemozi. Mary's life was very good until 1926 when her father died and she was shipped off to a Catholic convent school. She was expelled many times from the school. Mary later went on to receive a degree in prehistory. She was very determined and usually attended lectures on prehistory at the University of London.Her first career opportunity happened when her artistic abilities were discovered by Dr. Thompson. She asked Mary to illustrate her book, The Desert Fayoum. Then, Dr. Thompson invited Mary to meet Louis Leakey while he was speaking at the Royal Anthropologist Institute.Olduvai Gorge, February 2006He was very impressed by her drawings and asked her to illustrate a book of his, Adam's Ancestors. Louis then left his wife and two children for Tanzania in 1934. Mary and Louis married Christmas Eve 1936. Mary then started to work on excavating Hyrax Hill. She then moved onto the Naivasha Railway Rock. However, she took a break when her first son was born in 1940. Then she took another break in 1943 to give birth to their daughter who died three months later. Again, in 1944 another child was born, Richard Leakey. Another son was also born later in 1949.In 1948, Mary made an exciting discovery. She found the skull and jaw of an apelike creature called Proconsul Africanus. It is dated at 18 million-years-old. Most of the 1950's were interrupted by political problems in Kenya. Although, in 1959, Mary discovered the Australopithecus...

Isobars - A Weather Guide Definition

Isobars - A Weather Guide Definition Isobars are lines of equal atmospheric pressure drawn on a meteorological map. Each line passes through a pressure of a given value, provided certain rules are followed. Isobar Rules The rules for drawing isobars are: Isobar lines may never cross or touch.Isobar lines may only pass through pressures of 1000 or - 4. In other words, allowable lines are 992, 996, 1000, 1004, 1008, and so on.The atmospheric pressure is given in millibars (mb). One millibar 0.02953 inches of mercury.Pressure lines are usually corrected for sea level so any differences in pressure due to altitude are ignored. The picture shows an advanced weather map with isobar lines drawn on it. Notice that it is easy to locate high- and low-pressure zones as a result of the lines on the maps. Also remember that winds flow from high to low areas, so this gives meteorologists a chance to predict local wind patterns as well. Try drawing your own weather maps at Jetstream - The Online Meteorology School.

Challanges for The SME's ( Small and Medium Size Enterprises ) Essay

Challanges for The SME's ( Small and Medium Size Enterprises ) - Essay Example The annual balance sheet of the organization should not be more than 43 million euros. Hallberg (2000) further explains that in Europe, different countries have a definition of SMEs. For instance in Germany, an SME must not exceed a limit of more than 255 employees. In Belgium the number of employees must not exceed 100 people. This means that a company that has 255 employees in Belgium would pay taxes at a full rate, but it will qualify for a subsidy in the European Union (Padoan, 2010). In the United States, there is a criteria used in the definition of an SME. This criterion is based on the structure of ownership, the type of industry, the number of employees, and the revenue that the organization gets. In the United States, the cap that limits an organization identified as an SME may be 1500 people, but on most occasions, the cap stands at 500 people (Nummela, 2011). SMEs normally face a series of challenges, and one such challenge is the inability of the organization to get some appropriate office space (Lenihan, 2010). For instance, an SME would need some appropriate infrastructures in their buildings, which comprises of adequate water and electrical facility. However, these organizations rarely receive such facilities (Jetter, 2006). This is because of inadequate financing, and capital resources that can make them to afford these kinds of facilities. Furthermore, SMEs are always unable to access high quality internet services at a cheaper cost. This is because most of them have to get their own DSL links or wireless internet services which are always expensive. This is because they are unable to pool their resources and purchase bulk internet connectivity at a wholesale price (Levy, 2005). Most entrepreneurs of SMEs normally lack experience, and this plays a role in the failure of their business enterprises. Because of their inexperience, they are

Teenage Sex Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Teenage Sex - Essay Example Upon gathering related research articles from the UAH-Salmon Library, the moral, ethical, health, and social issues related to teenage sex will be tackled in details. Eventually, significant ways on how my cultural background and the place where I grew up affect my attitude and values regarding teenage sex will be provided in this study. Prior to conclusion, the pros and cons of incorporating sex education in the school system will be thoroughly discussed. Morality means that the act of a person should not go against religion which could lead a person to experience â€Å"defilement†, â€Å"sin†, and â€Å"guilt† (Farley, 2006, p. 175). In relation to morality, ethics is a moral philosophy which is commonly used when judging whether or not a specific human action is classified as moral or immoral. Religions like Catholics, Protestant, and Jewish acknowledges that the act of making love should be done within the context of marriage (between the husband and wife). Therefore, it is immoral and unethical for high school students to engage themselves in teenage sex. Teenage sex is a serious socio-economic problem because the act of engaging in sexual activities at an early age could lead to unplanned pregnancy. Teenage pregnancy is one of the most common reasons why a young woman would drop out from school (The National Campaign, 2010). Because of the tight competition in the labor market, there is a strong possibility that a pregnant teenager who is not able to finish school will have more difficulty finding a decent job. Therefore, teenage pregnancy could lead to serious economic problems after a teenage mother gives birth. In relation to unprotected teenage sexual activity, the health of the mother is compromised because of the increased risk of becoming infected with sexually transmitted diseases like HIV, Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. Almost all teenage women who become

How did the modern states of Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon come Research Paper

How did the modern states of Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon come into being, and what role did Britain and France play in their formation - Research Paper Example On the other hand, the French controlled Ottoman Syria now the modern Syria2. With the formation of these territories after the war, the French and the British took over them and ensured that they became formal by the League of Nations systems of mandate. In this case, the French were assigned the Syria mandate by 19233. The mandate included the present-day Lebanon and the modern Syria. On its part, the British got Southern Iran and Jordan from Baghdad to Basra. However, the French later on gave up the Northern part of Iran in exchange for oil revenues at 2 percent. Through the mandate created, it is quite evident that France and Britain played significant roles in the formation of the modern Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan after the war. The drawing of the four states was primarily based on the exploitation of diverse sectarian make

Marketing Across Cultures Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Marketing Across Cultures - Term Paper Example Legislation may also prove to be a potential problem as the laws are set up to encourage exportation of products and limit the number of imports that are coming in so as to promote the growth of their economy(Balasubramanian, Kahrr & Patwardhan 196). The lack of established distribution chains is another problem that one may encounter during this endeavor as these countries do not have a large number of franchise outlets that one is able to draw up distribution agreements with. The country that may pose the biggest problem with distribution is most likely to be China due to its communist stance within the government that is not inclined to accept western products more readily as compared to India and Japan. 2. Many products fulfill both a functional need as well as a social need. When deciding how much to adapt an existing product for a new foreign market, which type of need should a marketer focus on? Explain your answer. ... This is because unless a product’s design is to be drastically changed, it will maintain the same use as in other markets, thus, the best way to create an in-road into the market is by finding a way of marketing the product as essential in terms of societal use. This will attract potential consumers to the product as well as create an opportunity for the product to compete with other alternative products that may already be present within the market. Concentrating on the social need will ensure that the target audience feels like it is a product that they require in their lives whilst concentrating on the functional need opens doors for potential consumers to dismiss as an unnecessary expense. 3. Comparing a supermarket in Tokyo, Japan with one in Dallas, Texas, which of the two is likely to have higher sales of snacks and sweets (Items usually found near the cash register at the checkout)? Explain your answer using the most relevant cultural dimension. In comparing the spendi ng culture of the two countries, it is most likely that the sales of snacks and sweets at the counter will be higher in Dallas, Texas, than in Tokyo, Japan. This is because despite both locations having a reasonable amount of individuals who are able to afford this, the western culture is characterized with the nature of impulse buying on a higher level as compared to their oriental counterparts (Kotler & Keller 45). The main reason why these products are placed at the counter of a shop is due to the factor of impulse buying, thus, this is what will need to be considered when tackling this query. That is, the products are placed at the counter to tempt buyers who had not initially planned on purchasing

US History Western Trail Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

US History Western Trail - Essay Example Some of them are English men and women with children tagged along; some are French, who were later absorbed by the United States as French colonists in the upper Midwest of New Orleans, Louisiana. I noticed that the Englishmen were wearing flannel undershirts, neckerchiefs, and hats. Even the men, not just the women of this period, knew their layering and to suffer for their style. Some wore stiffly starched collars and folded tips, which were a part of the fashion then. The native American dwellers, particularly women, were wearing ankle-length one-piece dress made of silk fabrics, very common among upper middle class women during that period. Their necklines were generally modest, with a fichu worn on them. Some of the men were wearing a linen pullover shirt made with full sleeves, deep-buttoned cuffs, a generous collar, and very long tails tucked to the trousers. Their pants had straight, slim legs, and a flap that was buttoned to the waistband. These emigrants were traveling by walking, through barefoot in particular. Some of them came through steam ships all the way from their motherlands, which took them several weeks before finally arriving in this western part of America. The travel via the steam ships must have caused them too much anxiety, as I’ve heard that traveling through these ships is comparable to risking one’s life. Several people die in ships, and during those moments, the captain and his crews usually do not have any option but to conduct a sea burial. The emigrants also encountered cholera, poor sanitation, and accidental gunshots in their long journey of the trail, which took them about 2,000 miles. There was a misconception that the emigrant’s biggest problem en route were the Native Americans, which in truth, were quite helpful to them (The Oregon Trail: Retrieved on June 26, 2008). Traveling to the west entails hardship for this prospective immigrants, adding to the fact that they had no one to depend on in their

Appeal letter suspension Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Appeal letter suspension - Essay Example However, while I was placing significant amount of time in my English, my performance in other units went down the gutter. My advisor further advised me to drop the other units that were giving me challenges and pick PE and GEC classes, but then I would not have sufficient credits to fill the required 12 credits that I needed for the semester. This meant that my only way out of the problem was to deal with the tough courses. I attempted my best and got through with the semester. Further problems emanated from the fact that I lived far and travelling cost me a great time that I would have spent studying or visiting my family. Attempts to correct this problem were futile, at least in the timeline that I intended. Nevertheless, I made every effort possible to produce good results, and I managed to raise my GPA from 0.91 to 1.583. My current efforts are geared towards raising my GPA above 2.0, and I hope to get the opportunity to do so next Fall semester. Please understand that the performance that I have presented over the recent semester does not reflect my academic capabilities, but is coupled with other problems that I was going through. I am currently working hard to improve my situation and promise that I will record a GPA of more than 2.0 next Fall semester. Thank you for your consideration and for accepting my

US History Western Trail Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

US History Western Trail - Essay Example Some of them are English men and women with children tagged along; some are French, who were later absorbed by the United States as French colonists in the upper Midwest of New Orleans, Louisiana. I noticed that the Englishmen were wearing flannel undershirts, neckerchiefs, and hats. Even the men, not just the women of this period, knew their layering and to suffer for their style. Some wore stiffly starched collars and folded tips, which were a part of the fashion then. The native American dwellers, particularly women, were wearing ankle-length one-piece dress made of silk fabrics, very common among upper middle class women during that period. Their necklines were generally modest, with a fichu worn on them. Some of the men were wearing a linen pullover shirt made with full sleeves, deep-buttoned cuffs, a generous collar, and very long tails tucked to the trousers. Their pants had straight, slim legs, and a flap that was buttoned to the waistband. These emigrants were traveling by walking, through barefoot in particular. Some of them came through steam ships all the way from their motherlands, which took them several weeks before finally arriving in this western part of America. The travel via the steam ships must have caused them too much anxiety, as I’ve heard that traveling through these ships is comparable to risking one’s life. Several people die in ships, and during those moments, the captain and his crews usually do not have any option but to conduct a sea burial. The emigrants also encountered cholera, poor sanitation, and accidental gunshots in their long journey of the trail, which took them about 2,000 miles. There was a misconception that the emigrant’s biggest problem en route were the Native Americans, which in truth, were quite helpful to them (The Oregon Trail: Retrieved on June 26, 2008). Traveling to the west entails hardship for this prospective immigrants, adding to the fact that they had no one to depend on in their

Ethic case 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Ethic case 2 - Essay Example Socrates’ statement that â€Å"The unexamined life is not worth living,† summarizes his idea of good life. The examined life reveals that human lives and ways of living are unequal. Life appears on a hierarchical order. However, Socrates fail to clarify the precise ranking of life and does not provide where any given kind of life belong in the hierarchy. From his interaction with different people, Socrates gets first-hand information, which makes him to conclude that â€Å"unexamined life is not worth living.† He believes that Athens does not persevere to obtain what is good. About good life, Socrates exemplifies the enlightenment stance. His notion is that ethical virtue defines a good life, which entails the practice of specific proficiency or wisdom concerning ethical issues. According to Socrates, pragmatic wisdom about ethical issues entails knowing the meaning of virtues, which involves the riddance of irregularity in belief concerning the meaning of virtues. In his pursuit of true knowledge, he comments, "Certainly I would pride and preen myself if I had this knowledge, but I do not have it, gentlemen." As it appears, Socrates believes in true wisdom founded on

Causes of the American Civil War

Causes of the American Civil War The United States maintain their position of the world as the strongest, most influential country for many decades. Observing their history closely, we can see that they had gone through many ups and downs, and harsh yet necessary battles within the nation and with other countries. In order to examine the Civil War and reconstruction of the United States, we need to understand the causes of the war, what happened during the war, and the changes that the war had brought. I believe that the Civil War of 1861 played a significant role in building the stronger nation; likewise, I will discuss three major causes of the war which are the slavery, the conflicts between the North and South states, and the Presidential election of 1860 describe how dreadful the war was, and how the slavery, the relationship among the states, and the economic and political situation changed after the war. Moreover, I will present my own views on the Civil war. First, the slavery was one of the greatest causes of the Civil War. The Slavery in all across North America has had existed for 168 years. Eventually, by 1804, most of the Northern states abolished slavery institution, but the invention of cotton gin in 1793 increased the use of slaves in the South and the slavery became very important for the South. Before the Civil War, the tension between the North and the South was invested in Slavery. The North was insisting that America should become free country and need to industrialize the South. On the other hand, the South was opposing the North by being pro-slavery for their agricultural industry. The U.S. Constitution was clearly permitting slavery even though the document did not include the words slaves and slavery. For example, in U.S. Constitution Section 2 of Article IV said held to Service or Labor in one State, under the Laws thereof, escaping into another (Constitution On Slavery). It shows the fugitive slaves must be returned to their owners. Moreover, the Bill of Rights in 1791 did not mention about slavery, yet on the Fifth Amendment, it says Be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law (Constitution On Slavery). According to the Fifth Amendment, the slaveholders were given an absolute right to take their property with them. Since the slaves were equaled properties, they could take their slaves even to the free Northern states. It developed into negative conflicts between the North and the South. However, America gained huge part of the West from the victory in the War with Mexico, including California, Utah Territory and New Mexico Territory. In Addition, the amount of gold that was discovered in California was huge and it led the Gold Rush in America, which did not last for long. The issue of whether the new states in the West should be opened to slavery or should be free from the slavery brought a big political confusion. The state of California was extremely important for the both powers. The North was asserting completely opposite opinions from that of the South. Since California got so much richer quickly, if the slavery in California got abolished, the South states would significantly lose their political and economic power. In contrast, if the slavery got permitted and protected by the federal government, the South states would be able to gain more power. The South was saying that they would leave the Union if California becomes a free state. Eventually, the issue drove the South to assert their opinion, which was to elect two different presidents between the North and the South The old compromiser Henry Clay addressed the Compromise of 1850 in order to keep the peace between the two different powers. Clay, Calhoun, and Webster proposed that California should be admitted as a free state, and while the slave holding could be legally admitted, the Slave trade should be abolished in Washington D.C. For the South states, they offered stronger fugitive slave act, which was to return the runaway slaves back to their owners by using force. Also, the other new territories in the west such as New Mexico and Utah were opened to slavery (Keesee 265). The Compromise of 1850 was debated for around 8 months and finally passed. The president Taylor disagreed with the Compromise, saying that it could divide the territories and extend slavery. His anticipation turned into reality when the fugitive slave act brought a counter result, awakening people in the North about the slavery issue. Likewise, the Whigs party changed their name as the Republicans. After the Compromise of 1850, another controversy arose when the Kansas-Nebraska Act was proposed. Senator Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois envisioned constructing a transcontinental railroad which connects the East and the West, and the railroad had to go through the unorganized part of the Louisiana Purchase. When the region required an organized government for the construction, many Southerners resisted territorial organization; hence, Douglas sought to win Southern support for his railroad by a clever piece of legislation (Keesee 270), which was the Kansas-Nebraska Act. The Act stated that Kansas and Nebraska states would choose on the status of slavery for themselves, and the Southerners welcomed this idea because they want to expand the slavery. Also, the South and the North both wanted those states in order to gain more power in the House of Representatives. The Kansas-Nebraska Act resulted in two events which eventually destroyed Democratic dominance of American politics: the rise of the Republican Party and a virtual civil war in Kansas (Keesee 270). In an attempt to win the region, proslavery border ruffians from Missouri and antislavery free-staters clashed in Kansas. On May 21, 1856, border ruffians ransacked the town of Lawrence, Kansas, which was known to be a staunch free-state area. (Martin), and the fighting known as Bleeding Kansas had begun. The brutal attack happened in Lawrence triggered another outrageous event. One of the most publicized events that occurred in Kansas was Brooks-Sumner Episode (Keesee 272). In Washington D.C., Senator Charles Sumner of Massachusetts, representing the angry North, made a speech that apparently disdaining and criticizing Andrew Butler, a senator of South Carolina. As a consequence, Preston Brooks, a relative of Butlers, got angry and confronted Sumner. Brooks hit him repeatedly with a cane (Keesee 272) and Sumner got badly injured. This scandalous event worsened the conflicts between the North and the South, and led to a violent solution. Furthermore, the event which finally triggered the Civil War was the Election of 1860. The Presidential Election of 1860 contained four presidential candidates from different parties: Stephan Douglas, John C. Breckinridge, Abraham Lincoln and John Bell. The Northern Democrats nominated Stephan Douglas and the Southern Democrats nominated John C. Breckinridge. John Bell was nominated by the Constitutional Union Party. In the end, Abraham Lincoln who was representing the Republicans got the most votes. When Lincoln got elected as the President of the U.S., the secession began. Leaders in the Deep South had insisted that if Lincoln won, they would not submit themselves to what they considered a hostile, strictly Northern party; likewise they would secede, or leave the Union (Keesee 280). On December 20th of 1860, the first Ordinance of Secession began by South Carolina. South Carolina declared independency by leaving the Union, and other Southern states considered following South Carolinas path. Ultimately, the 10 other states from the South joined South Carolina by 1861, under the name of Confederate States of America [C.S.A]. Jefferson Davis, a Senator from Mississippi was elected as the president of C.S.A. Southern diarist Mary Boykin Chesnut wrote, We are divorced, North and South, because we have hated each other so (South Carolina Secedes). Secondly, as the Union and the Confederates were separated, they began the bloodiest war of the U.S. History. The Union was willing to force the Confederates to rejoin, but the Confederates kept refusing. However, on March 5, 1861, the Fort Sumter in Charlestown Harbor, South Carolina was in need of supplies. Abraham Lincoln was notified by Robert Anderson, the Commander of the Fort, saying that they had less than a six week supply of food left in fort (Fort Sumter). In Addition, the Fort Sumter was located in C.S.A. governed area, so the Confederates wanted the Fort to be evacuated. Consequently, the General P.G.T. Beauregard, the Commander of Charlestown was ordered by Confederate government to clear out the Fort. Anderson announced to Beauregard that the Fort will evacuate by noon on April 15 unless the additional supplies arrive. Beauregard replied that the announcement was unacceptable and stated that their guns will no longer hold fire more than an hour. On April 12th, 1861, the Confederate soldiers began to fire, and even though the Fort did not have enough supplies of food nor guns, they bravely defended over 30 hours. At last, they surrendered and went back to the North. (Fort Sumter) The battle was not slaughter because the soldiers from both sides did not die or seriously injured; however, the Battle of Fort Sumter significantly gave rise to the most slaughter and violent war of U.S. History. The Civil War began with the Battle of Fort Sumter. As the time passed on, the War got more violent and serious. Brothers killed each other and thousands of men died. The War had numerous battles yet the Battle of Gettysburg was the most significant battle of all. Lincoln addressed the Union army to surround the little town of Gettysburg in order to defend the Confederates. On July 1st, 1864, the Battle began. General Robert E. Lee was in charge of the Union army and Maj. Gen. George Gordon Meade was in charge of the Confederate army. On the first day of the battle, Union army was forced to retreat to south of Gettysburg. Moreover, they retreated up to the hills, which gave them an important advantage to possibly win the battle. On the third day, the Union army ruled the battle by successfully defending Confederates sudden attack with 12,500 soldiers. The Confederates were defeated and retreated to Virginia (Borade). Eventually, the Union won the battle by pushing the Confederates back to the South. In fact, both sides had close number of casualties. As a result, 51,000 casualties from both side and 28,000 were Confederates (Kelly). It was the bloodiest battle of all the other battles during the Civil War. Also, it was the climax of the War and a key battle for the Union to conclude the whole War. On April 3, Richmond fell to Union troops as Robert E. Lee led his Army of Northern Virginia in retreat to the West pursued by Grant and the Army of the Potomac. A running battle ensued as each Army moved farther to the West in an effort to oust flank, or prevent being out flanked by the enemy. Finally, on April 7, General Grant initiated a series of dispatches leading to a meeting between the two commanders (Surrender at Appomattox, 1865). According to the text, Lee eventually retreated back to the South and finally gave up on the Civil War. On April 9th, 1865, Lee and Grant met at Appomattox Court House. Grant suggested Lee to surrender and offered a chance to surrender with honor. The Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered 26,765 troops of the Army of Northern Virginia with honor (Lee Surrenders to Grant at Appomattox, Ending Civil War). Thirdly, on 1865, the congress passed the 13th Amendment which abolished slavery. The victory of the Union gave them power to free all the blacks across America. The government of U.S. had to reconstruct the whole country. Unfortunately, they faced other difficulties on legislating laws to give full citizen ships to the all freed blacks. Confederate defeat and the end of slavery brought far-reaching changes in the lives of all Southerners. The destruction of slavery led inevitably to conflict between blacks seeking to breathe substantive meaning into their freedom by asserting their independence from white control, and whites seeking to retain as much as possible of the old order. The meaning of freedom itself became a point of conflict in the Reconstruction South. Former slaves relished the opportunity to flaunt their liberation from the innumerable regulations of slavery. Immediately after the Civil War, they sought to give meaning to freedom by reuniting families separated under slavery, establishing their own churches and schools, seeking economic autonomy, and demanding equal civil and political rights (Americas Reconstruction: People and Politics After the Civil War). The slaves got the freedom and privileges that they always dreamed about, but they also faced on the harsh discriminations. The increasing discriminations were the white Southerners response to the end of slavery. The discriminations were getting seriously violence and the Ku Klux Klan appeared in 1866. Schools, churches, and other community institutions, symbols of black freedom, became the targets of violence, as well as private homes and individual African-Americans (Americas Reconstruction: People and Politics After the Civil War). It was not easy for the nation to combine together again when they were separated and had the bloodiest War in the history. During the Reconstruction period, President Andrew Johnsons plan was rejected by the Congress. Eventually, the Reconstruction Acts of 1867 was passes over President Johnsons veto on March 2nd. Johnsons veto of these measures moved many moderates into the radical camp, and inaugurated a bitter conflict over control of Reconstruction policy, which culminated in 1868 when he was nearly removed from office by impeachment (Americas Reconstruction: People and Politics After the Civil War). The 14th Amendment and the 15th Amendment were each ratified on 1868 and 1870 by the Congress. By the end of the Reconstruction, when Souths violent discriminations and terrorisms would not stop, the North retreated from having responsibility of equality. After the War, the North was on the way with industrial revolution. The Civil War resulted differently in the North than in the South. Unexpectedly, their economy apparently benefited from the War. Instead of fighting in battles, they had rebuilding to do. There were new markets for products used by the Union Army. Northern factories were producing more than ever before. Booming factories meant that bankers and investors were making profits. This money supported new inventions and better ways to produce goods. New technologies sprouted from this period of growth. While the Civil War was in progress, Cyrus Fields of Massachusetts developed the first trans-Atlantic telegraph cable. The cable was laid on the ocean floor in 1866. At this same time, Christopher Sholes invented the typewriter. Alexander Bell developed the telephone, testing it successfully in 1876. Thomas Edison was experimenting with the phonograph and the light bulb. Both these inventions were made public in the 1870s as well. During the war, the need for weapons and other metal products had caused a boost in steel production. Raw materials were plentiful. Now, mining and refining of metals became the backbone of Northern industry. (Robinson) Nowadays, people think of America as a country full of freedom. Slavery was a terrible condition and nobody wanted to be under the condition. The Civil War ended and brought freedom to nearly 8 million slaves. It also brought a dramatic transition from slavery to citizen ship. The Civil War was inevitable and necessary since there were the anti-slavery Northerners and the pro-slavery Southerners existed in the same country. Slavery must have been banned because all human beings are created equally and should be treated equally. The United States 16th President Abraham Lincoln said, As I would not be a slave, so I would not be a master. This expresses my idea of democracy (LINCOLNS DEFINITION OF DEMOCRACY As He Would Not Be a Slave, So He Would Not Be a Master. Article NYTimes.com). Lincoln was elected in the year of 1860. He was also the President of the Union side and kept his position during the Civil war. He was legendary and famously known as the Father of the United States of America. People say that Abraham Lincoln blew in freedom to the country by purposing freedom of the slaves. In Conclusion, The Civil War was caused because of the slavery, numerous conflicts between the North and the South and the Secession of 11 States eventually caused by the Election of 1860. I believe that the Civil War of 1861 played a significant role in building the stronger nation because it gave freedom to the country by freeing slaves, the outer conflicts between the North and South states were concluded by Unions victory, and the War affected positively on the Industrial Revolution of the America. By observing the Civil War, we can learn that the War within the nation night be necessary in building stronger and more stable nation. In fact, the United States of America has the strongest position in the world now.

Oedipus the King and Mason’s Shiloh Essay -- comparison compare contra

Oedipus the King and Mason’s Shiloh  Ã‚     Ã‚   "Shiloh," written by Bobbie Ann Mason, and Oedipus the King, written by Sophocles, contain extremely different story lines but jointly have one unique quality, the role of the woman. In each of these stories, the females struggle to overcome one major obstacle plaguing them by using their inner-strength. Norma Jean from "Shiloh" fights to leave a seemingly endless marriage, and Jocasta from Oedipus the King struggles against an ill-fate. Norma Jean and Jocasta believe that they are strong enough to conquer these challenges, but, in the end, they both realize they are not strong enough and commit suicide because of this defeat. Norma Jean and Jocasta strive to beat the one main obstacle placed before each of them; Norma Jean fights against marriage, and Jocasta struggles against fate. In "Shiloh," Norma Jean is married to a man with which she cannot live anymore. By strengthening herself mentally and physically, Norma Jean believes that she can leave her husband, Leroy. In preparation for the day when Norma Jean will leave Leroy, she takes a body-building and English composition class. After working out one day Norma Jean explains to Leroy, "I'd give anything if I could just get these muscles to where they're real hard" (491). Strengthening the mind and body is the only way Norma Jean knows to build her self-esteem and prepare herself for this day that will soon be upon her. On the other hand, Jocasta has always been a mentally strong woman. Jocasta's battle is against something much more severe than a bad marriage; she battles fate. When Jocasta first had her baby, Oedipus, an oracle declared to Jocasta th at "doom would strike him[Laius] down at the hands of a son, / our son, to... ...r too overwhelming for her. Once again the woman was not strong enough to overcome life's many challenges. How does one know if he or she has enough strength? In both of these stories, the women try to battle life using inner-strength. Even though Norma Jean and Jocasta are under extremely different circumstances, both make the same ultimate decision, death. Whether or not death was the right choice, this choice was made by both characters. Their strength was not enough to surpass the problems of life. Works Cited Mason, Bobbie Ann. "Shiloh." Literature: An Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, and Drama. Sixth edition. Eds. X.J. Kennedy and Dana Gioia. New York: Harper Collins, 1995. Sophocles. Oedipus the King. Discovering Literature: Fiction, Poetry, and Drama. Eds. Hans P. Guth and Gabriele L. Rico. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1993.      

Animal Farm :: Free Essay Writer

Animal Farm The novel, Animal Farm, was written by George Orwell andwas published in 1946. The story is about a farm in England around the time of the Russian revolution. The animals on Manor Farm are irritated with the way they are being treated, so they start a revolution. The pigs,who were the smartest animals on the farm, took controlof the farm while the other animals worked. Throughout the novel the pigs lie to the other animals and change the rules, of the farm to accommodate themselves.George Orwell's real name was Eric Blair. He was born in 1903. He went to school at Eton, and after service with the Indian Imperial Police in Burma, he returned to Europe to earn his living writing novels and essays. He was a political writer who wrote of his own times. He was a man of intense feelings and fierce hates. He hated cant and lying and cruelty in life and in literature. He was critical of communism but was himself a Socialist.The setting for Animal Farm is Manor Farm in England during the time of the Russian revolution. The farm is enourmous.The farm has been enlarged by two fields bought from Mr. Pilkington, and various new buildings had been added. One of the major characters in the novel, Animal Farm, is Nepoleon. Napoleon, after driving Snowball, another pig who was trying to take over the farm, off the farm, took over. Nepoleon says one thing, and does the other, takes otherpeoples ideas, and he is the biggest liar on the farm. Nepoleon took the freedom of the animals, that they had gained from the revolution, and twisted it so that now instead of being enslaved by the farmer, they were enslavedby him.In the novel, Animal Farm, the animals speak with a Russian accent. For instance, the word "comrade" is used often. The pigs mostly use a Russian accent, but the other animals mainly use an American accent.Animal Farm is about a farm in England during the Russian revolution. The animals on Manor Farm are fed up with the way they are being treated. Inspired by a speech given to them by a late animal named Major, the animals revolt. The animals drive the owner off the farm and take over. The pigs who were the smartest animals took control, set up rules, and kept the farm together.Throughout the years on the farm the pigs lie to the other animals about, if they work hard, all the luxuries they would receive.

Deschooling Essay

In the contemporary society, many people believe that as an integrated part of society, the purpose of education is to capacitate individuals to reach their full potential as human beings, individually and as members of a society. These individuals will receive education which will enable them to think and act intelligently and prepare them for community life (Literacy Philosophy, 2012). However, Ivan Iillich proposes the notion of ‘deschooling’ which he thinks the rights of learning for most people are taken away because of the obligation to attend school (Illich, 1971). The deschooling thesis calls for â€Å"the disestablishment of the norm mandating institutionalized education† (Kahn & Kellner, 2007, p. 438). The school is in crisis and will not last for much longer. In this essay, I intend to provide a critical overview of Illich’s main ideas of ‘deschooling’, and explain how his vision is relevant to today’s views on the purpose of education. The thesis of Illich’s notion of deschooling is â€Å"universal education through schooling is not feasible† (Illich, 1971, p. vii). He explains if people are educated in the institutions which are built on the style of present schools, education will be no longer feasible (Illich, 1971). Instead of facilitating knowledge to learners, school takes away people’s abilities and desire to learn. More precisely, the increase on educational expenditure is gradually growing inefficiently which makes some children do not have the opportunity to study at school (Illich & Verne, 1976). Most people wrongly believe the more money spends on education, the better education students can receive. Nevertheless, Illich (1971) contends the money spends on education is insufficient to improve the teaching quality and the performance of students who have disadvantages. Aiming at increasing the equality of receiving education, many governments provide funds to those schools with many students from low- income families. However, the tremendous costs of schools force the governments to provide more funds to those schools. The poorer students need funds to enable them to learn, but normally the funds are spent on the development of the school rather on the poor students themselves (Illich, 1971). Illich (1971) indicates that school gives â€Å"unlimited opportunity for legitimated waste, so long as its destructiveness goes unrecognized and the cost of palliatives goes up† (p. 10). So the money is insufficiently spent. As a result, children from poor families still cannot receive the opportunity to go to school. In some developing countries, some children even do not have the opportunity for the most basic education. However, Illich (1971) states that even in schools with equal quality, the poorer students still cannot catch up with the rich as an effect of relative poor financial conditions. The poor parents cannot afford to pay their children’s tuition fees and books. Some filed trips or vacation travels which are good for students’ learning, are unreachable for the poorer children. It is obvious that the poorer children are self-abased. In general, the poorer students fall behind as long as they depend on school for learning (Illich, 1971). Moreover, in some nations, some parents even do not allow their children to attend school. Even more essentialis the fact that some parents deliberately keep their children at home, or wink at their staying away from school. Sometimes this is a matter of sheer economic necessity. Parents are often forced to rely on children as a means of supplementary support. They need their children to work. So in those countries, only a small number of children attend to school although hundreds of thousands money have been spent to make the school attendance higher (Illich, 1971). Reimer (1971) who has the same opinions about school as Illich describes â€Å"schools are simply too big to treat concretely† (p. 10). There are too many people in the school institutions. In turn, individuals may have bad habits which they learn from others in the school. So some parents may worry about the harmful habits that their children may learn from school. In sum, schools limit students’ abilities to learn to a certain extent. Another illusion, which Illich thinks most people have, is â€Å"learning is the result of teaching† (Illich, 1971, p. 12). He argues schools cannot possibly achieve their goal of promoting learning. Schools often teach students that instruction produces learning; yet learning is the result of personal activity, not the result of instruction (Illich, 1971; Gintis, 1972). Specifically, most people not only acquire knowledge inside school but also need to learn more about extracurricular knowledge outside the formal schools, which cannot be taught by teachers in the class. For example, if a person wants to learn a second language, he can travel to other countries and live with local people. Speaking under a good language environment can make him speak well than just sitting in the classroom and listening to the teacher. Therefore, individuals can reclaim responsibility for their own learning away from the constraints of the educational institutions. People are often taught that valuable learning is the result of attendance, the more classes students attend, the better grades they will get. However, some students attend school and study every day, but they still cannot get good grades and certificates. School takes away people’s desire to learn. Thus, like all other bureaucratic service institutions, â€Å"schools fail by their very nature† (Gintis, 1972, p. 85). Illich also emphasizes his opinions about alternatives to schools. In terms of alternatives in education beyond the official system, Illich considers learning exchanges as an effective way for people to learn where people are able to make contact with each other to teach or learn, â€Å"without the need to enrol at some institutions offering formal courses† (R. Small, Ivan Illich and de-schooling, April 5, 2013). He proposes the network of ‘learning webs’ to replace school. Moreover, he regards skill exchanges as an essential way to â€Å"provide people who want to learn a skill with access to those persons who have mastered the skill and have the ability to demonstrate it† (Arsdall, 1975, p. 31). Training skill teachers are quite expensive. A person who wants to be a teacher needs to get the certificate for teaching. Therefore, there are merely a small number of teachers who have potential skills. From Illich’s point of view, everybody who has a skill can also teach it and share with others. Even the best businessmen and artists are more skillful, talented and creative than most of the arts and business teachers (Illich, 1971). Consequently, people do not need to learn skills from teachers. He also states the professionals who engage in operating educational institutions must be replaced by a new breed of â€Å"educators†. The proposed educators should be able to â€Å"create and operate the various educational networks† (Arsdall, 1975, p. 32). Further, the opportunities for skill-learning are multiplied. People are able to learn skills effectively from different people. Additionally, learning exchanges are more economical than schools, and they are cheaper or even free so that everyone can share in them (Reimer, 1971). The sharing of skills can easily motivate people to learn by guaranteeing freedom to teach or exercise them on request (Arsdall, 1975). On the other hand, some people staunchly oppose Illich’s idea of deschooling society. In contrast to Illich’s opinion of againsteducational institutions, those opponents argue that schools are necessary for the society. Many people respond to the controversial theses against schools published in Deschooling Society (Zaldivar, 2011). Amongst those critics who take part in the debate, Paul Goodman most radically oblige Illich to revise his thinking. Goodman thinks there are some problems for schools, but schools should be improved instead of being disestablished. Other critics claim that Illich’s opinion of alternatives is ideal and unable to be applied in practice. As a matter of fact, the alternatives offered by Illich are â€Å"often disqualified, seen as utopian and with no practical direction† (Zaldivar, 2011, p. 621). Besides, according to Greer (1971), the most pivotal mistake in Deschooling Society is that Illich upholds disestablishing school, but he does not propose the effective instruction for transforming the most important educational institutions (cited in Zaldivar, 2011). Further, as one of the most significant critical texts against Illich theses, Gintis represents the most articulated critique of Iillich studies in his essay entitled Toward a Political Economy of Education: A Radical Critique of Ivan Illich’s Deschooling Society (Zaldivar, 2011). Gintis (1972) critiques Iillich’s Deschooling Society, argue that, â€Å"from the fact that schools do not promote learning, however, Illich does not conclude that schools are simply irrational or discardable. Rather, he asserts theircentral role in creating docile and manipulable consumers for the larger society† (p. 3). In addition, according to Small (2013), the solutions such as increased funding, special programmes and new curriculum approaches, which Illich thought inefficient are still being advocated today. With respect to learning exchanges system, it has been proved work reasonably well with arts and crafts, as well as learning other languages, but it might be useless for scie nces or other academic subjects. However, some of Illich’s opinions are relevant to today’s education. His negative definition of schooling indicates the problems of education in the present day. Everybody should have an equal chance to education. Yet, it is undeniably true that in the poor nations, especially in some poverty-stricken rural areas, some school-age children cannot go to school because of lack of financial support. Many kids drop out of school because they cannot pay the fee every year. In this case, Illich’s view of education offers a multi-pronged critique of schooling, reflects the shortcomings and defects of modern education in equality. Furthermore, with respect to public purpose of schooling, schools are supposed to educate positive values to students (Reimer, 1971). It is a general recognition that the purpose of modern education is to cultivate qualified talents in both ability and integrity. Nevertheless, in the specific educational practices, schools cannot fully play a positive role in education; sometimes even have a negative effect on students. For example, teachers tell students to be friendly with others, but outside the classroom, some teachers even denigrate other teachers in public. It has a negative influence on students. In addition, Ivan Illich’s concern with learning webs, which he calls educational or learning webs, has struck a chord among many people. According to Smith (2001), Illich’s propose of learning exchange is an approach to find some enthusiastic proponents within non-formal education. As the best example of a learning exchange, the world-wide web enables people to gain access to any learning resource which may help him to define and reach his own goals (Smith, 2001; Small, 2013). It appears certain that technologies like computers have driven the current construction of education. With the development of technology, it is possible for students to develop their own weblogs and get resources on line by themselves. With Internet students can share their personal diaries, discuss what they are reading, learning and doing in relation to coursework, post hyperlinks to useful Internet sites, debate over issues being discussed in class or of current topical interest(Kahn & Kellner, 2007). As a consequent, communications among young peers are highly developed. According to Nussbaum (2004), online learning exchanges become a highly involved and interesting cultural forum (cited in Kahn & Kellner, 2007). So Illich’s conceptions of ‘webs of learning’ have a significant implication on education in the present age. Illich’s notion of deschooling reflects today’s view of education. In conclusion, Illich’s critiques of the school and call for the deschooling of society have caused great repercussions among many workers and alternative educators (Smith, 2001). Although many people oppose his vision of deschooling society and some of his ideas have been proved to be unsuccessful, his work can provide â€Å"new insight into ongoing studies of modernity† (Zaldivar, 2011, p. 24). Further, his propose of educational webs or networks connected with an interest in ‘non-formal’ approaches has a considerable influence on people’s understanding of searching for new formal educational institutions except schools. It is no doubt that some of his views retain considerable and thought-provoking power (Smith, 2001). What we should consid er carefully is to think how we can improve modern education effectively in the future with Illich’s suggestions and proposals.

Image of God

Christianity has been interpreted in many ways by different theologians and lay people. As much as this subject is studied there continues to be an ongoing differing of opinions relating to what it means to be created in the image of God. However, even with the differing of opinions, Christian faith is based on the central belief that Jesus is the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit and that his life on earth, his crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension into heaven are proof of God's love for humanity. infoplease. com, 2010). Although Christian beliefs are based on the New Testament, Christianity still views the Old Testament as a very important part of its faith and uses it often in reference and teaching. This paper will first discuss what it means to be created in the image of God as it pertains to my opinion and second how my beliefs on this subject are incorporated into my nursing practice.Man in God’s Image  "The most distinctive feature of the biblical understanding of man is the teaching that man has been created in the image of God†. Hoekema, 1986). The bible refers to man being made in God’s image in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. In the Old Testament, the book of Genesis references man being made in God’s image in the Creation Story, in explanation of the generations of Adam to Noah and also again in the Covenant With Noah. Genesis: 1:26-28; 5:1-3 and 9:6. The New Testament references in many different books that man was made in the likeness of God and also speaks frequently of Jesus as being the perfect man who is made in the image of God.Hoekema states â€Å"Since Christ was totally without sin (Heb 4:15), in Christ we see the image of God in its perfection†. Christian belief follows that man was made in the image of God; however, differing theologians have developed differing theories over the years in regards to what it means to be made in the image of God. Theologian Saint Augustine of Hippo believed that humanity, which was created in the image of God, also had an image of the Trinity within it. He believed that there was evidence of the trinity within the human mind such as love, being, knowing, willing and understanding. (newworldencyclopedia. rg, 2010). According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) â€Å"Of all visible creatures only man is ‘able to know and love his creator’. He is ‘the only creature on earth that God has willed for its own sake’, Man occupies a unique place in creation, he is ‘in the image of God†. God, creator of all life, made man unique apart from other living things by giving him gifts such as dignity, self-knowledge, self-possession, the ability to commune with others, free will, faith and love. Creation began with Adam and has been passed down to all of humanity which, in turn, results in a unity within humanity.Acts 17:26 states  "He made from one the whole human race to dwell on the entire surface of the earth, and he fixed the ordered seasons and the boundaries of their regions†. Because creation began with Adam, who was created in God’s image, and we are all from Adam, we too are created in God’s image. The question is what does this mean? For some it means, contrary to my personal beliefs, that with the Fall of Adam and the development of sin the image of God in humanity has been destroyed or corrupted. So what does it mean to be created in God’s image? Man was created with definitive differences from other animals.I believe animals are capable of love and all living things possess and innate ability for survival. I also believe that some animals are capable of a higher cognitive reasoning to an extent. For example, both sharks and chimpanzees have been taught to use a higher thought function in turn producing higher cognition. There is life, even within plants, that manifests and grows. However, God gave man a soul that with his body creates a unity. A soul that possesses unique gifts that other living things do not have. God gave man the ability to develop relationships with others and with God himself.I believe that God initially created man for companionship and love. Because of this our Creator has made a never-ending covenant with us and loves us unconditionally. I believe that God created man and woman equally and that the first union is the first representation of communion among humans. I believe that our humanity, made in God’s image, is created good. I believe that although there is sin in all of us, this sin does not corrupt our souls but because of Adam’s original sin, it is now within all of us, not as a personal fault but a flaw of humanity.A â€Å"wounded nature† (CCC). I believe that man is capable of personal sin and does so on a daily basis because of this wounded nature, however, God gave us free will and man has t he choice of right and wrong. Unfortunately, since the Fall, man is no longer perfect with a divine likeness and sin is actually a proper state within humanity. Meaning that â€Å"As a result of its original sin, human nature is weakened in its powers; subject to ignorance, suffering, and the domination of death; and inclined to sin†. (CCC).God’s image remains present in us because we are created by God. Good remains present in us because we are created by God. This can be evidenced by seeing humanity helping each other in times of need, seeing love shared in so many forms and present in so many deeds, seeing the overall beauty of humanity that is present even though we live in a world of sin and imperfection. Man remains hopeful in many ways and the Grace of God shines through in many situations. With all of this happening on a continual basis how could one question that man has lost his image of God?Yes, there is evil present in the world, as stated earlier mankind i s weakened, only weakened, not distorted and corrupt. Personal Beliefs for Serving those in Need of Healthcare Now that ground has been established for how man is created in God’s image I would like to discuss how I personally not only see this within my nursing practice but also how I use it to provide care to patients. Shelly and Miller state that â€Å"The role of the nurse grew out a Christian understanding of the human person as created in the image of God and viewed the body as a living unity and the ‘temple of the Holy Spirit’ (1 Cor 3:16)†.As a nurse I find that this statement has very a great deal of truth in it. Nurses view the body as a Temple in many ways and assist those in who are not able to care for themselves. I feel that because we are created in God’s image, we should work to take care of ourselves and try to maintain a disease free state. Unfortunately, there are people who do not always share this view; this is where keeping God with us while giving care becomes very important. As nurses, whether it is an advanced practice nurse or a floor staff nurse, we have a desire to care for others.We want to help them return to a functioning state of health, whatever that may be because it differs depending on disease process. However, often times because a person has a chronic disease, he or she does not want to participate in their care or is short tempered with the staff that cares for this person. When this happens it is easy for a nurse to also become defensive and give less of herself to this person. Unfortunately, this happens frequently on busy units and emergency departments. If the nurse is not careful, he or she can become jaded and judgmental developing preconceived notions of patients based olely on the diagnosis or actions from the patient. However, if the nurse keeps God in her mind and close to her heart he or she is able to see the patient in a different light and can care for this patient in their diseased state knowing that we are all children of God and made in his image. In order to take optimal, holistic care of our patients we need to always keep with us that humanity is created in God’s image and that life is a sacred gift that we should respect on all levels no matter who the person is or how he or she may differ from yourself.When I am caring for my patients I try to always be not only sympathetic but empathetic. Being sick is a scary thing and often times the outcomes are unknown at the time of the present illness. Fear of the unknown is one of the most common stressors a person can have. So, if you take the stress of â€Å"not knowing† and combine it with the physical stress of being sick and emotional stress that accompanies not feeling well you can easily see that nurses often take care of patients when they are not only at a suboptimal level physically but also emotionally and often times spiritually.With this in mind one can understand the struggle on both sides of the spectrum; a person is at a place where he or she is requiring care from someone other than themselves. This person is a consumer and knows that he or she is paying for the care that is being received, with this in mind one can see how this can easily be looked at from a business-like perspective meaning basically an exchange of transactions and nothing more. However, in healthcare there is the human aspect that is very unique among business.We are in the business of caring. As nurses we not only know this, we feel this. We see a person in need and provide care for that person, this alone has aspects of the image of God within it. The desire to provide care and love for another being even when this being is not always acting kind or â€Å"doing the right thing† is a grace given to us by God. Jesus, the son of God, the second person of Trinity was a great healer and a caring, loving man. In all four of the Gospels, there are acts of healing documented that Jesus performed.Understanding that Jesus wanted to heal afflictions and help those who could not help themselves and knowing that he did this with kindness and love in his heart keeps me true to my profession and spirituality. Not everyone is blessed with good health and even those who are experience tragic events. Because humanity is a union, created by God and in the image of God, we are called to help one another not only in times of need but on a daily basis. I think that in doing this we strengthen our relationship between each other and with God.As a nurse I keep this in perspective so that I am not only helping my patients but also my patient’s family members, my fellow co-workers, and visitors with anything that I can. It is easy to look at a portion of the picture, but we should always take a few steps back and look at the whole picture. In doing this it helps facilitate not only one area but all areas. Jesus was always able to explain to his apostles the whole of a situation when they asked him questions, looking at a problem as a whole, rather than a portion makes it easier to treat everyone involved, not just one person.God has given humanity many gifts, such as the ones mentioned above. God also gives individuals gifts and graces them with the ability to perform and strengthen the gifts given to them. Although we are made in the image of God, people can differ a great deal. They differ in actions, opinions, thought and feelings this is a gift in itself. As nurses God has granted us with gifts of empathy, compassion, intuition and understanding. As much as nursing is a science it also holds a strong component of intuition and feeling.A patient connects with the nurse at the bedside because of the feelings that they share and experience together. When a nurse and a patient are able to connect on this level relationships are formed and care is given, received and collaborated. This bond that is created is another example of how we are created in God’s image and how we share this with others. Conclusion â€Å"To be created in the image of God means that we must look to God for our meaning, purpose, and direction. It also makes us thinking, willing, feeling, relational creatures who reflect these attributes of our Creator†. Shelly ; Miller, 2006). With this in mind we can all realize that to be created in the image of God is a gift, from a loving, relational God. I feel that if we can keep this thought in perspective, that our life, created in His image, is a gift and remain thankful for this gift we will be able to serve others with God in our hearts and minds. God did not create us to be solitary beings. He created us to commune together, to love one another and to help one another. Although our divine likeness has been weakened, it still remains and it is our responsibility to nurture our faith and help it o grow. When we do this we become closer to God and strengthen our bond not only with our love for h umanity and the union we share with it but also our bond with God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. When we feel that closeness and strength it helps us to remember that we were created in His image and likeness which in turn helps us to live our faith. References Catholic Church. Catechism of the Catholic Church. 2nd ed. Vatican: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 2000. Christianity: Central Beliefs. (2010). Retrieved September 13, 2010, from http://www. infoplease. com/ce6/society/A0857333. tml#ixzz0zQKnLsSt Created in god's image. (1986). Grand Rapids, MI/Cambridge, UK: William B. Eerdmans. New American Bible, (1991). St. Joseph ed. Catholic book Publishing Corporation. New World Encyclopedia Online. (2010). Augustine of Hippo. Retrieved September 13, 2010, from http://www. newworldencyclopedia. org/entry/Augustine_of_Hippo Shelly, J. A. , & Miller, A. B. (2006). Called to Care: A Christian Worldview for Nursing. 2nd ed. InterVarsity Press: Downersgrove, IL. What it Means for Hum ans to be Created in the Image of God THEO/532 September 14, 2010 Brandy Perkins Malone University Image of God Christianity has been interpreted in many ways by different theologians and lay people. As much as this subject is studied there continues to be an ongoing differing of opinions relating to what it means to be created in the image of God. However, even with the differing of opinions, Christian faith is based on the central belief that Jesus is the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit and that his life on earth, his crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension into heaven are proof of God's love for humanity. infoplease. com, 2010). Although Christian beliefs are based on the New Testament, Christianity still views the Old Testament as a very important part of its faith and uses it often in reference and teaching. This paper will first discuss what it means to be created in the image of God as it pertains to my opinion and second how my beliefs on this subject are incorporated into my nursing practice.Man in God’s Image  "The most distinctive feature of the biblical understanding of man is the teaching that man has been created in the image of God†. Hoekema, 1986). The bible refers to man being made in God’s image in both the Old Testament and the New Testament. In the Old Testament, the book of Genesis references man being made in God’s image in the Creation Story, in explanation of the generations of Adam to Noah and also again in the Covenant With Noah. Genesis: 1:26-28; 5:1-3 and 9:6. The New Testament references in many different books that man was made in the likeness of God and also speaks frequently of Jesus as being the perfect man who is made in the image of God.Hoekema states â€Å"Since Christ was totally without sin (Heb 4:15), in Christ we see the image of God in its perfection†. Christian belief follows that man was made in the image of God; however, differing theologians have developed differing theories over the years in regards to what it means to be made in the image of God. Theologian Saint Augustine of Hippo believed that humanity, which was created in the image of God, also had an image of the Trinity within it. He believed that there was evidence of the trinity within the human mind such as love, being, knowing, willing and understanding. (newworldencyclopedia. rg, 2010). According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) â€Å"Of all visible creatures only man is ‘able to know and love his creator’. He is ‘the only creature on earth that God has willed for its own sake’, Man occupies a unique place in creation, he is ‘in the image of God†. God, creator of all life, made man unique apart from other living things by giving him gifts such as dignity, self-knowledge, self-possession, the ability to commune with others, free will, faith and love. Creation began with Adam and has been passed down to all of humanity which, in turn, results in a unity within humanity.Acts 17:26 states  "He made from one the whole human race to dwell on the entire surface of the earth, and he fixed the ordered seasons and the boundaries of their regions†. Because creation began with Adam, who was created in God’s image, and we are all from Adam, we too are created in God’s image. The question is what does this mean? For some it means, contrary to my personal beliefs, that with the Fall of Adam and the development of sin the image of God in humanity has been destroyed or corrupted. So what does it mean to be created in God’s image? Man was created with definitive differences from other animals.I believe animals are capable of love and all living things possess and innate ability for survival. I also believe that some animals are capable of a higher cognitive reasoning to an extent. For example, both sharks and chimpanzees have been taught to use a higher thought function in turn producing higher cognition. There is life, even within plants, that manifests and grows. However, God gave man a soul that with his body creates a unity. A soul that possesses unique gifts that other living things do not have. God gave man the ability to develop relationships with others and with God himself.I believe that God initially created man for companionship and love. Because of this our Creator has made a never-ending covenant with us and loves us unconditionally. I believe that God created man and woman equally and that the first union is the first representation of communion among humans. I believe that our humanity, made in God’s image, is created good. I believe that although there is sin in all of us, this sin does not corrupt our souls but because of Adam’s original sin, it is now within all of us, not as a personal fault but a flaw of humanity.A â€Å"wounded nature† (CCC). I believe that man is capable of personal sin and does so on a daily basis because of this wounded nature, however, God gave us free will and man has t he choice of right and wrong. Unfortunately, since the Fall, man is no longer perfect with a divine likeness and sin is actually a proper state within humanity. Meaning that â€Å"As a result of its original sin, human nature is weakened in its powers; subject to ignorance, suffering, and the domination of death; and inclined to sin†. (CCC).God’s image remains present in us because we are created by God. Good remains present in us because we are created by God. This can be evidenced by seeing humanity helping each other in times of need, seeing love shared in so many forms and present in so many deeds, seeing the overall beauty of humanity that is present even though we live in a world of sin and imperfection. Man remains hopeful in many ways and the Grace of God shines through in many situations. With all of this happening on a continual basis how could one question that man has lost his image of God?Yes, there is evil present in the world, as stated earlier mankind i s weakened, only weakened, not distorted and corrupt. Personal Beliefs for Serving those in Need of Healthcare Now that ground has been established for how man is created in God’s image I would like to discuss how I personally not only see this within my nursing practice but also how I use it to provide care to patients. Shelly and Miller state that â€Å"The role of the nurse grew out a Christian understanding of the human person as created in the image of God and viewed the body as a living unity and the ‘temple of the Holy Spirit’ (1 Cor 3:16)†.As a nurse I find that this statement has very a great deal of truth in it. Nurses view the body as a Temple in many ways and assist those in who are not able to care for themselves. I feel that because we are created in God’s image, we should work to take care of ourselves and try to maintain a disease free state. Unfortunately, there are people who do not always share this view; this is where keeping God with us while giving care becomes very important. As nurses, whether it is an advanced practice nurse or a floor staff nurse, we have a desire to care for others.We want to help them return to a functioning state of health, whatever that may be because it differs depending on disease process. However, often times because a person has a chronic disease, he or she does not want to participate in their care or is short tempered with the staff that cares for this person. When this happens it is easy for a nurse to also become defensive and give less of herself to this person. Unfortunately, this happens frequently on busy units and emergency departments. If the nurse is not careful, he or she can become jaded and judgmental developing preconceived notions of patients based olely on the diagnosis or actions from the patient. However, if the nurse keeps God in her mind and close to her heart he or she is able to see the patient in a different light and can care for this patient in their diseased state knowing that we are all children of God and made in his image. In order to take optimal, holistic care of our patients we need to always keep with us that humanity is created in God’s image and that life is a sacred gift that we should respect on all levels no matter who the person is or how he or she may differ from yourself.When I am caring for my patients I try to always be not only sympathetic but empathetic. Being sick is a scary thing and often times the outcomes are unknown at the time of the present illness. Fear of the unknown is one of the most common stressors a person can have. So, if you take the stress of â€Å"not knowing† and combine it with the physical stress of being sick and emotional stress that accompanies not feeling well you can easily see that nurses often take care of patients when they are not only at a suboptimal level physically but also emotionally and often times spiritually.With this in mind one can understand the struggle on both sides of the spectrum; a person is at a place where he or she is requiring care from someone other than themselves. This person is a consumer and knows that he or she is paying for the care that is being received, with this in mind one can see how this can easily be looked at from a business-like perspective meaning basically an exchange of transactions and nothing more. However, in healthcare there is the human aspect that is very unique among business.We are in the business of caring. As nurses we not only know this, we feel this. We see a person in need and provide care for that person, this alone has aspects of the image of God within it. The desire to provide care and love for another being even when this being is not always acting kind or â€Å"doing the right thing† is a grace given to us by God. Jesus, the son of God, the second person of Trinity was a great healer and a caring, loving man. In all four of the Gospels, there are acts of healing documented that Jesus performed.Understanding that Jesus wanted to heal afflictions and help those who could not help themselves and knowing that he did this with kindness and love in his heart keeps me true to my profession and spirituality. Not everyone is blessed with good health and even those who are experience tragic events. Because humanity is a union, created by God and in the image of God, we are called to help one another not only in times of need but on a daily basis. I think that in doing this we strengthen our relationship between each other and with God.As a nurse I keep this in perspective so that I am not only helping my patients but also my patient’s family members, my fellow co-workers, and visitors with anything that I can. It is easy to look at a portion of the picture, but we should always take a few steps back and look at the whole picture. In doing this it helps facilitate not only one area but all areas. Jesus was always able to explain to his apostles the whole of a situation when they asked him questions, looking at a problem as a whole, rather than a portion makes it easier to treat everyone involved, not just one person.God has given humanity many gifts, such as the ones mentioned above. God also gives individuals gifts and graces them with the ability to perform and strengthen the gifts given to them. Although we are made in the image of God, people can differ a great deal. They differ in actions, opinions, thought and feelings this is a gift in itself. As nurses God has granted us with gifts of empathy, compassion, intuition and understanding. As much as nursing is a science it also holds a strong component of intuition and feeling.A patient connects with the nurse at the bedside because of the feelings that they share and experience together. When a nurse and a patient are able to connect on this level relationships are formed and care is given, received and collaborated. This bond that is created is another example of how we are created in God’s image and how we share this with others. Conclusion â€Å"To be created in the image of God means that we must look to God for our meaning, purpose, and direction. It also makes us thinking, willing, feeling, relational creatures who reflect these attributes of our Creator†. Shelly ; Miller, 2006). With this in mind we can all realize that to be created in the image of God is a gift, from a loving, relational God. I feel that if we can keep this thought in perspective, that our life, created in His image, is a gift and remain thankful for this gift we will be able to serve others with God in our hearts and minds. God did not create us to be solitary beings. He created us to commune together, to love one another and to help one another. Although our divine likeness has been weakened, it still remains and it is our responsibility to nurture our faith and help it o grow. When we do this we become closer to God and strengthen our bond not only with our love for h umanity and the union we share with it but also our bond with God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. When we feel that closeness and strength it helps us to remember that we were created in His image and likeness which in turn helps us to live our faith. References Catholic Church. Catechism of the Catholic Church. 2nd ed. Vatican: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 2000. Christianity: Central Beliefs. (2010). Retrieved September 13, 2010, from http://www. infoplease. com/ce6/society/A0857333. tml#ixzz0zQKnLsSt Created in god's image. (1986). Grand Rapids, MI/Cambridge, UK: William B. Eerdmans. New American Bible, (1991). St. Joseph ed. Catholic book Publishing Corporation. New World Encyclopedia Online. (2010). Augustine of Hippo. Retrieved September 13, 2010, from http://www. newworldencyclopedia. org/entry/Augustine_of_Hippo Shelly, J. A. , & Miller, A. B. (2006). Called to Care: A Christian Worldview for Nursing. 2nd ed. InterVarsity Press: Downersgrove, IL. What it Means for Hum ans to be Created in the Image of God THEO/532 September 14, 2010 Brandy Perkins Malone University