A Blog to the Professor

Dear Professor Drew,
I hope you never felt as though these blogs were not what we would have wanted. Although many of us have been procrastinating, I feel as though blogging has been a special way for me to continue the journal that I have put aside for years. Thank you for getting me to reflect, especially during such a critical time to do so. I have VERY much enjoyed your class and you being my english professor; I would not have wanted anybody else! I am lucky to have had you and I thank you for your kindness and generosity with all of us! It really has made us more open as you have been so welcoming. Again thank you and good luck with whatever the future brings (soon to be Dr. Drew). Take care and again, thank you!

Reflection on "The Beach" Blog

Out of all my post, I believe that writing this one on my reflection experience at "the beach" was my favorite. I very much enjoyed writing this blog because I was able to really think about something that made me reflect and think! While at the beach a few nights ago, I was wondering on past experiences and really thought about where I stood in life. I believe, at our age, we are so focused on running in circles that we forget to often take time to ourselves, sit, relax, and really take in all that you are and all that you have become over the years. It is fun to think about where you once where in life and where that has taken you. Everything happens for a reason, it is fun to try and figure out those reasons rather then letting them pass you by without knowing why.

I believe you would reading this blog as much as I have enjoyed writing and posting it. If you would like to read it, click on the link below. Thank you for reading!
thebeach

Reflection on "Obstacles" Blog

I very much enjoyed writing this particular blog on Obstacles. I was inspired to write this because it is a topic on a retreat I have attended and has made a huge impact on my life and the way I chose to overcome obstacles that, at the time, seem impossible to do. I have been inspired by my friend, Stephanie, whom I wrote about in this particular blog, by her courage and strength while dealing with the death of her mother, who past away from breast cancer when Stephanie was only five years old. After getting to know Stephanie, I have been inspired to look at hindrances on my life differently and KNOW that I too can face an obstacles and turn what seems completely wrong, upside down into a positive outlook. Stephanie did this for me.

If you would like to be a little inspired on something different you are facing, take time and ready my blog on Obstacles. Clink on the link below and thank you for reading!
obstacles

Reflection on "Alochol" Blog

I really enjoyed writing this particular blog because I was able to become more personal with my fellow classmates and hopefully, readers! I would like to consider myself to be an open person about all that I am or strive to be. I believe there is always room for improvement, in anybody, and therefore having the privledge of opening up about a personal subject helps to want to be that much bettter because you realize, once again, that you have overcome a hurdler.

Alochol has always been a problem in my family's past history. The more I open up about it though, the happier I become because I can then share the fact that I am part of my family that does not touch alchol. In a sense, a person's weakness can make them stronger. I am grateful to have written this blog.

If you would like to read my Alochol related blog, clink on the link below. Thank you for reading!
Alcohol

Reflection on "Morgan" Blog

I have very recently entered a blog about my good friend, Morgan. I would like to consider this blog one of my particular favorites because Morgan has to be one of my favorite people. I wrote certain things about his personality and how influential he is; however, I feel I could say so much more about him. Morgan truly inspires me on a daily basis to be a better person and keep me focused on the right tracks. It is important for people to find mentors and "helpers" to push them forward on the right path when your path may seem weary. Morgan is constantly a source of inspiration to me and I am truly so grateful. If you have not met Morgan, please make a point to do so; he will make your day so much brighter and leave you feeling better then you did before. Thanks be to Morgan.

To get to know a little about Morgan, click on the link below. Thank you for reading!
Morgan

Reflection on Critical Thinking Blog

I remember writing my "Critical Thinking" post. I wrote my Critical Thinking post on September 15. During this post, I was thinking about becoming a better writer. I still, hope to improve my writing but thankfully, writing papers and blogging during this semester, I have somewhat improved my critical thinking and writing skills. I still feel the same as I did about writing when I wrote that post. Writing, for me, is very important because it's the base of what is going on in your mind, hense, critical thinking. It has been very helpful writing blogs because of its freestyle. I believe freestyle writing has been very helpful as far as critical thinking skills are involved. I am grateful.

If you would like to read about my past "Critical Thinking" blog, clink on the link below. Thank you for reading!
criticalthinkingblog.

Blogging

As I finally make it to blog number 40, I would like to reflect my thoughts on blogging all together this semester. As a little girl, since 1997, I have written in a journal. Ever since then, I have loved writing about personal thoughts. I believe that learning how to write in a personal diary, journal, and now blogging is very vital in meditating on your own personal thoughts and soon becoming a great writer. Writing takes a lot of practice and that is exactly what personal writing such as in a diary, journal, or blog is..practice!

I have personally really enjoyed the blogging portion of this English class. Although I have procrastinated in finishing my blogs, have done them, I have really enjoyed doing so. Blogging has really allowed me to take time out in a hecktick schedual to think about special things in which I would like to write about. Luckily, I have had the opportunity to so openly share a little bit about myself, my family, friends, and life thus far in my College experience! Blogging is great and really a special way to get writing and thinking!

Weather

Driving to class, I often wonder if living in florida year round is worth it. It is December 8th and currently 65 degrees outside. I was so thrilled to feel the change in weather and even more so, it be somewhat chilly out but then I hear on the radio that it will be up to 80 degrees this up-coming Sunday. Some may believe that it is awesome to live in warm weather year round and sometimes I would like to believe that myself; however, when Christmas time comes around, traditionally, I would like to wear red sweaters and decorate the outside of my house in the cold weather. I do not like the thought of decorating my Christmas tree or putting lights up outside in a bathing suit. The weather change affects the way a person feels about a particular season but if there is no weather change, how can a season by any different from the last, or at least feel any different? During the Summer time, Florida weather is amazing and perhaps I should feel more grateful about not having to drive in snow. I just wish it would remain, at least, in the 60's. I would just dislike if Christmas came around and my family and I went to the beach. Is that Christmas? Like the song goes, "I'm dreaming of a white Christmas.."

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Last night I wrote a paper on OCD, which is the abbreviation for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Writing this paper was somewhat difficult because of all the information on this one particular topic. I have found interesting facts though that really have made me think, especially about my own viewpoints and actions. Did you know that OCD was originally thought upon in a religious content in the seventeenth century? Neither did I!

OCD was founded by a sermon writer who believed that OCD came from blasphamous thoughts that were tried to be fixed by worshiping God; however, doing so actually made the obsessions more severe because it created a compulsive attitude towards prayer. Now-a-days though, OCD is looked at in a more broad point of view from having obsessive thoughts towards unrealistic views or having a compuslive attitude towards washing your hands, or locking your doors. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder becomes a disorder though when one begins to have trouble living a normal life because of the obsessions or compulsions taking over the way they live their life, or can live their life.

OCD is hard to treat but it is easily diagnosed on somebody. However, often people are quite to diagnose themselves with this disorder because of the fact that humans are all susesptable to having some form of anxiety. The key is to not mix the two so much that you suddenly put the disorder upon yourself. OCD is hard to treat but easy to avoid.

Crash

One of my favorite movies is Crash. I absolutely love this movie because of it's amazing way of making you think of what is going on in the world beyond what you can see. Crash is a movie about very realistic prejudice. Prejudice is something that, from centuries ago until modern day society, has a problem. Human beings, I believe, are all equal; as a matter of fact, I believe to some degree that we are all brothers in this world, all here for a specific purpose in which we need eachother encouragement to be the best self we can possible be. How can one find their full potenital though or try to better themselves in any way if they are constantly being put into catagories because of issues such as race, color, religion or ethnicity? Prejudice, I believe, is the main problem of unequality in society. This movie, Crash, came out in the year 2o05. I have recently watched in this past summer and am now currently watching it in my Psychology class. I believe this movie to be one of the greatest eye openers and a very needed one. It is easy to judge and hard to love but it is more rewarded to try loving before ever judging.

Morgan

I have a friend named Morgan. Morgan is a blessing to me because he stands so strongly with his beliefs when others constantly try to push him down. Morgan, like me, is a strong believer, as a Christian, in Christ. Sometimes, it is very hard to follow the lifestyle of a "true" Christian because others are trying to take down the standard of what it would be like as a true Christian, which is what every Christian tries to live for, to become that of a true Christian. Morgan, is just that, a true Christian! I admire everything about him because of his ability to stand so firm on something that can, somewhat, bring you down. I am so blessed to have Morgan in the same University as me (such as my good friend, Vanessa whom I also mentioned in previous posts). Because of their standards, I am able to be who I am, with no masks, JUST ME!

Motherhood

I cannot wait to be a mother when I grow up! I believe that is what every girl my age longs to be! I believe that that is what every girl practices until she actually is a mother. For instance, I have a 16 year old little sister. I believe that my duty as having a little sister is to practice being a mother. My sister is at the age right now where any little thing influences everything she does and everything she will be. I believe, as her older sister, I should act more as a parent rather then a buddy. I need to be the better influence instead of what her buddies advertise because, in the end, she is looking for somebody to shape who she wants to be. I believe, since my sister and I are so close, that I hopefully rub off on her. I am not trying to be self-righteous, I am only trying to indicate obiedience as an older sister because when a girl is a mother, that is what she needs to imply, strong obedience. Luckily for me, I have had practice .. on my little sister!

Colors

What would life be like in black and white? Would people have the same personalities and moods or would they shift because everything would look so similar? Think about watching a tv show; I am sure we have all seen a black and white film and most definitely one in full color, which do you perfer to watch? I definitely perfer to see the world in color! Color brings life in everything that we see..with no color, it is as good as dead because it gives no emotion. For example, when it is extremely sunny outside, I am in a much better mood then when it is cloudy and gray, only because the sun reflects the color in the things around us which gives that thing life. If you believe this to be untrue, I suggest you go outside..what does the day LOOK like and how do you feel?

Finals Week

Finals week is a pain in the rear! I have recently talked to my older sister, Nicole, who is a student at Florida State University. We are both pulling out our hair as we come to the end of the semester and have nothing to do but pile up the stacked work and start writing the 100 papers that are due! At this time of the year, I often lose perspective of what is most important and I, very little, take time to concentrate on myself and what means most in my life. In a way, I believe that fact alone is what makes us (students) so crazy! It is not the load of work that is due or how many papers we have to put together, it is simply forgetting what is most important and taking time for ourselves to relax, that alone would make anybody crazy! It is important to, of course, stay focused on your work but at the same time stay focused on the world around you...it would be dangerous to think that the existance of life is in the paper you are writing and I believe that is what students due! Just breath!

My Cell Phone

If I went up to various people from all different ages and asked them if they perfered we had cell phones or not, I wonder what their response would be? I would assume that the older generations would say they perfer we do not have cell phones because they are only a distraction and just add to the technology mess that our modern society has gotten into; however, if I asked people from my generation, I believe their response would be that they would not be able to live without their cell phone! My response? I love my cell phone; however, I can see where both sides are coming from because cell phones do very much add to the technology mess but also it would somewhat be impossible to live without one! Cell phones can become a horrible distraction, especially trying to concentrate in class and you recieve a new text message that you just HAVE to look at but at the same time, if you were in a mess in the middle of the night.. what would you do without your cell? I believe the best thing to do is use your cell phone in a mature manner...using it when it's appropriate! But really, how can I live without my cell?

Dogs

I have 5 dogs at home, yorkies! We used to have 6 including my favorite dog, Lucy but she has recently passed away (as you can read in previous blogs). I am so thankful to have five waging tails greet me whenever I arrive home from a tough day of classes. Ever since I was young, I have been in love with dogs (I guess since I have had Lucy since I was in Kindergarten). Dogs never have an attitude, never yell or become angry over immature matters, never judge or dispise. I have learned that all dogs do is long for somebody to care and love them, basically, what humans long for! The only difference between a dog and a human is dogs never judge if they do not recieve what they wanted, they just keep on loving and waiting ... almost as if they have faith you will never let them down! I love my little yorkies and I am so blessed to have them at home with me! I believe my dog, Lucy is in Heaven and I think about her every day.

Alcohol

Ever since I was a little girl I have always been taught that alcohol was no good and something I should never get myself into. My family has delt with addictive personalities, involving alcoholism! I have had to experience the death of my uncle, my Godfather, while he was only 42 because he was an alcoholic beginning from a very young age! Also, on my mothers side, my grandpa is also an alcoholic! Because of this, both my parents (experiencing bad alcoholic related issues) have raised their kids (my three sisters and I) to never get into it because it causes nothing but trouble. In middle school, alcohol never phased me, I never even took a second thought about the subject because of my family history; however, high school was a completely different story.

While entering high school, I wanted so badly to fit it so I got into something that was horrible to my family and I, alcohol. I regret this to the point of tears now-a-days because now I am a college study who never touches high school and I could not be happier! Alcohol, from my own personal knowledge and understanding, makes one feel weak instead of strong! Like my parents have always told me, "it's no good!"

Water

Water is delicious! I am sitting here staring at my empty water bottle and the more I stare at it the more I become thirsty! As a child, I used to hate water because "it had no taste!" I would always perfer soda or at least gatorade; something with some flavor, a little substance and spice! As I grow up though I hear things such as, "if you drink a cup of water an hour, you will be just as alert as having a full meal an hour!" I have tried, since I have heard that amazing advice, to drink a cup of water an hour (bringing my full 2.2 liter container to each class all day). Ever since I have been doing so, drinking my cup an hour, I have found that this information is true! I have been more alert, no headaches, and actually full..leaving me with no sudden cravings for unnecessary fulfillment! Water, since I have become older, is delicious! I actually crave good old H20 instead of cola!

Coffee

Some believe that coffee is the best solution to a sleepy attitude; however, coffee can and actually is considered a drug. Coffee is considered a drug because it is addictive. Any substance that changes the way a person is mentally is considered a drug. Because coffee contains caffine, it changes your brains activity waves, which alerts your motivation skills causing you to become more "awake."

I am one to drink a lot of coffee, as a matter of fact, if I do not drink my cup of coffee for the day, I become extra sleepy and even develop a headache. I believe I am addicted to coffee! This fact makes me think, "is coffee really the best solution to a sleepy attitude?" If coffee is a substance that makes you become addicted or have a crave or it, how great can it actually be? I believe the best solution to any problem is the natural one! In this particular case, I believe MORE SLEEP is the best solution to a sleepy attitude because coffee will just leave you more tired until you have one more cup!

VLB

In my previous post I had mentioned my good friend, Vanessa Black. Vanessa is 18 years old and is now a Freshmen at Lynn University, not only that, she is on the basketball team! Vanessa went to High School with me at Pope John Paul II, which is located right next to Lynn. She was originally planning on going to New Hampire to play on their Division 1 team; however, she decided she would rather stay in her home town and be a Knight!

Vanessa and I (just as I explained in my previous post) attended a Kairos retreat together in April of 2006. While being a leader on this particular retreat, Vanessa was a candidate. It was amazing to experience this retreat with her being that she was one of the most caring, warm, and open hearted candidates to have gone on the retreat. Because Vanessa was so open to the experience, she made the experience a life changing one for me and one that I have yet to forget!

I am so thankful that Vanessa decided to go to Lynn University especially since I am here because I am able to have that special reminder of all I can be by the example she presents. Like I said, I am so blessed to have Vanessa as a friend and better yet, have her so close to home! Friendship is a gift....Vanessa is a gift!

Friends

While struggling with my thoughts on my Psychology paper, I realized how amazingly blessed I am to have the friends I have in my life! I have been struggling with a Psychology research paper on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder for quite some time now. This paper is due tomorrow morning at 8 a.m (similar to our Blogging). While trying to gather my thoughts as far as the format of my research paper, my good friend, Vanessa, who also goes to Lynn University, found me in the library! She, without realizing it, took such a load of stress off my mind! She has made me laugh and take my mind off of Psychology!

I went to High School with Vanessa. We experienced an awesome religious retreat together during our Senior year and I like to think that because of that, I consider her one of my best friends! She has, without a doubt, changed my life and has made it so much more positive! Just like every other day, Vanessa has made this day better and has helped me to appreciate what is truly important and that is friendship!

Music Appreciation

I am in the school library right now waiting to join some of my buddies for a concert, a school concert. I take Music Appreciation this semester and it is required that we attend two concerts that are performed throughout the semester. The attendance of both concerts count as 20 percent of our final grade, each concert being a total of 10 percent. I assumed it would be easy; however, it has been a little difficult to cordinate my time correctly in order to make two of the concerts. Luckily, I attended one already and tonights performance will be my second equaling a total of two concerts. I have enjoyed learning about the development of music and how it has come to be. I assume the name Music Appreciation has been made because of the fact that the course has helped me to further appreciate music and all it has to offer!

Hard Work

As the end of my first semester comes to an end, I am trying very hard to work assiduously and put the same amount of effort in all my classes. Doing this, I find myself a little worn out and a little stressed. As a matter of fact, I am trying to try a paper, finish my blogging, and put together a presentation to later write two more research papers for two of my other classes (besides English). Then, after doing all of this, I have to start studying for finals exams. I know I can and will do well, the important thing is to stay focused and concentrated. Once the last exam is over with and Christmas break begins, I will be able to rest, relax, and smile..knowing I gave it my all! It is only important to assisuously work extra hard these next two weeks.

Television

Sometimes I ruminate on the whole theory of television. (I think it's weird I do that, too!) I often think, "how could anybody live without television?" It is just so good! Personally, I love watching TLC and the science channel because they play the most entertaining shows! For instance, my favorite show on TLC is "Little People, Big World." The show is about a family of "little people" (midgets) and how they live their lives, as a midget. At first, I was kind of freaked out by the show but after I watched it a few times, I was hooked and now look forward to new episodes! I know it sounds funny but the story of this family is really inspirational. The family lives on a farm. I don't know why but I just love the show. (I hope it is on tonight!) On the other hand, my favorite show on the science channel is called "Surivorman." This show is about a guy who is purposely disserted on all sorts of forests, desserts, swamps and such alone with only cameras (or so they say!) After the holicopter drops him in the location, he then tries to survive using any means possible using all nature and natural instincts! I find the show incredibly fasinating! I love television, it takes your mind off reality every once in awhile and puts you in another world, why complain about that? After all, that's what a lot of us might need from time to time!

Obstacles

Facing Obstacles is a difficult task, in any situation because regardless of the circumstances, and ostacle in one's life is always an obstacle! One of my friends faces an obstacle every day of her life. She wakes up without a mother. Her mother died when she was 5 years old from breast cancer. My friend is now 19 years old. I have often heard that "time heals wounds," well I do not find that to be true, especially not in her case. She still feels deep sorrow for the lose of her mother and often explains vivid detail about the funeral, her emotions at the time and even more how guilty she feels for, at the time, not feeling as sorry as she does now. On the other hand, she flips the sorrow into something magnificant and that is trying everyday to be the person whom her mother would want her to be. She studies hard in school and is a very faithful and loyal friend and person.

In the face of an obstacle to life's happiness, instead of allowing it to be insuperable, have faith that whatever good you can do will help you rise above all else. Life's funny because sometimes we feel as though we have been delt too much, yet, we are never given more then we have the potential to handle. Nothing is insuperable!

Flashbacks

Often at times I like to ruminate on my high school experience. It seems as though I just graduated a few days ago. Now, it is November 30th. Time just flys! The good thing about this fact though is it allows us to have memories on which we ruminate on. The reason for me thinking about my high school experience, is the fact that it was such a vital portion of my life that was critical to where I now am and how I want to be, not only that, but who I would like to be. High school is a special time in somebody's life (God willing) that we take closer steps to our destination. I was lucky to have witnessed those steps and walk them carefully, therefore; being led to the right direction. It is scary because often at times, my age is considered to be one of the "forgetful" ones where it does not matter what I do as long as I have a good time because the future will take care of itself. I used to believe that, now I can't. I have a fear of the unknown because the unknown is in MY HANDS! It's important to ruminate on the past because the past sub-consciously fixes the future!

Holidays

There are various holidays: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, Valentines Day, St. Patricks Day, Easter ...etc. That is only to mention the obvious ones yet they varie depending on beliefs and culture. Depsite the differences though, holidays are holidays and involve spending time with those whom mean most. Personally, holidays have to be my favorite time of year. They inform a desire to take some time to celebrate, relax, remininse, be thankful, and appreciate, it is very important to do all of those things! My favorite holiday would have to be Christmas. That special time is coming near and I can hardly wait. I believe this holiday (Christmas) puts everything in perfect perspectives, if you allow it to, just like any holiday has the potential to do!

Laughing

Yesterday I went to a special dinner with some buddies, on the beach in Delray. It was a great dinner: chicken (on sticks), ribs, mexican rice, and a mixed salad! Delicious! The best part about the dinner though, was not so much the food, but rather spending time with good friends. I believe the best visage anybody can express is that of laughter! I happen to be a huge fan of smiles and laughter. If I could, I would spend an entire day doing whatever it takes to keep me laughing. The best way anybody can laugh is because of an inside joke. I sat next to my friend, Anna last night, whom I have known since third grade! Obviously, Anna and I have many inside jokes. The best part about sitting at dinner is looking at eachother and bust out laughing because we know exactly what we are both thinking. Laughter, what a great thing!

Random

A fortuitous situation occured the other day. I know a teacher in my old high school whom I truly admire and who has basically instilled in me better perspectives. I am so grateful for who she has been to me and how she has made such a terrific impact on my senior year, high school experience. The other day, I came across a quote that was spoken by Mother Teresa. Mother Teresa once said, "it is not the magnitude of our actions but the amount of love that is in them!" After hearing this inspiration quote spoken by Mother Teresa, I randomly thought about that inspiration, admirable teacher of mine. I began to realize that is has been so long since I have taken time to appreciate her and talk to her. I was hesitant to get in touch though, only because I know how busy she is with her "little kids" over there in the high school realm. The thought continually ran in mind though that I probably should get in touch with her since it has been too long. I went to open my e-mail to send her a quick hello and randomly enough, an e-mail popped into my mail box, from her, which she had JUST sent! I cannot think of a more fortuitous occurence then that recent one. I sure am grateful though. (I hope this blog inspires the reader to perhaps think about somebody whom they have not spoken with in awhile. I would suggest to instill a fortuitous situation upon them!)

The Beach

Last night, after a full day of classes, I spent some time at the beach after dinner. It was a dark night and extremely windy (I almost thought we were secretly getting hit by a hurricane.) I walked for a down the beach and thought about previous nights on that same beach throughout the years. I started noticing how things are different, how slowly life changes, yet we walk so fast that we don't even realize how it does!

I have been living in South Florida since I was three years old. I have spent many days and nights on that beach with friends and family. I have had crazy times and very memorable times at that beach. For some reason, thinking about it made me realize that life moves so fast. Kind of correspondant to Ferris Buller's quote in his movie, "life moves pretty fast. If you do not stop and take a look around, you may miss it!" I hold this to be true because there I was, in the same place I have been for years yet it seemed different. Thank God I stopped to take a look around!

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving just past. Thanksgiving is probably one of my favorite holidays to celebrate with my family! It is a time where my entire family get together and celebrate and big meal in spite of being thankful for all we have a share together. This year, most of my family was either out of town or had to visit their other families, so we celebrated a little differently. My older sister, Nicole, came home from FSU. My dad, mom, and two sisters cooked a bunch of food from scratch and celebrated the holiday by ourselves, at our home. It was such a great time and the food turned out to be delicious! Who knew that I could cook? I didn't! I always love spending a great amount of time with my family, it always puts me in tune with what is most important in this world and even more, puts my perspectives and priorities where they should be! Family is a sacred and special gift. Thanksgiving is a special time to remember that bond you share with those who mean most to you. Thank God for that holiday and my family.

November, Blogging?

It seems like only yesterday I was receiving further instructions from Professor Drew on how to blog. It is now the end of November, and yet, I am no where near having the maximum amount of blogs posted for this class. How did time fly so quickly? Better yet, how was I ever so busy to forget about blogging all together? My last post was mid October where I talked about my dog, Lucy, passing away. If that was my last thought while blogging, I am almost releaved that I forgot about the fact because then I was able to not think about my last post, which was a devasting one!

Well, after recieving instructions, once again, from Professor Drew to work on and complete our blogs, here I am...getting back into the flow of it all. It is a nice brain exercise as I sit here trying to gather any thoughts at all to type. The only thought that keeps playing over and over in my head is the fact that we are now at the end of the semester, while it is the end of November! Wow! I guess time flys when you are having fun or better yet...procrastinating your blogging assignments.

Proposal for Paper - Leadership

We are beginning to develop ideas on our second paper. The great thing about this paper is we're to choose our own topic of choice. When pondering on different topics to focus on and write about, I could not think of anything I would like to focus my attention on more then the "idea" of leadership. Who do others often consider leaders? Why are certain people put in the catagory of a leader and how do they earn that title? What is a leader?

Because all these questions go unnoticed and undiscused, I would really enjoy getting information and allowing others to broaden there "idea" of what a leader is. I believe authority and leadership often go unnotied to those who are average. The average person may often think of a leader as somebody ahead of them, stronger, or "better" then they are but in reality, what if that one person of average ranking IS a leader in themselves and the people around them? I personally have found this to be true and wish to share information with others to help others realize their potential and leadership - what they are capable of!

In order for me to become more inteligent on this issue, I plan to look up information on all different types of leaders in our society such as athlets, presidents, people of historic importance...etc. I want to stress on the "idea" of leadership; however, at the same time stress on the fact that any one of us can simply be a leader in our own person lives! I will need to google information on a few historic or symbolic heros/leaders..etc to get information on how they earned their title of a leader. Beyond that, I will use my own personal experiences and idea of what a leader is and finding the potential within yourself. Also, I'd like to make a survey to bring around campus with a few questions on what an idealistic leader is and if others (our age) consider themselves leaders.

I believe in order for one to be a leader, they have to take a stand and ones standing there not allowing anybody to move you but to stand with you. Finding leadership finds character and without character, who are you? A leader is somebody with potential and I BELIEVE that what every person is - a person of great potential!

I plan to present my information (as of now) more or less in speech form. I plan to almost write a persuasive speech but more so simply just allowing others to realize their potential and broaden their ideas of heros, leaders..etc.

Sisters

I consider myself so blessed with the family I have. What gives my life such joy on a daily basis, regardless of the situation, is the blessing of my two sisters, Nicole and Melisa. Nicole is my older sister; she is 20 years old and attends Florida State University (a better university but not quite as nice as Lynn!). She has taught me everything I know. Her and I have always been the best of friends. We used to do everything together! After she began to attend FSU, I became even more attached to my little sister, Melisa. Melisa is two years younger than I am and attends Pope John Paul II High School at the moment. It's a pleasure for me to be called her older sister because not only do I consider us best friends but I really do consider the role as her older sister as a gaurdian role (almost as if I were practicing to be a parent).

Both of my sisters mean the world to me. Often others say they love or wish to be an only child but if that were the case, in my situation, I don't think I'd be half the person I am today. Both Nicole and Melisa taught me and helped me grow! With them, I'd be lost! Sisters are the friends that never leave and remain in your heart always! Thank God for sisters!

My Dog, Lucy

Today started like any other day; I woke up, brewed my cup of coffee and got ready for my 8 AM phsycology class. Today though, was not like every other day, at least, not any day to smile. My dog, since I have had since Kindergarten, passed away. I have been very upset all day but really am lost on how to react, at least when I am in between classes. It is so ironic how my great aunt has recently passed away and now, the family dog, which we have had in the family for 14 years, passes. I feel though that it was her time to go, both of them. Lucy was very old and started to develope heart failure such as my aunt was old and suffering from parkinsons disease. It was both of their time; however, this does not make the news of their passing any easier.

I have always been attached to my dog, Lucy. I remember when I was 5 years old, my family and I took a trip to the pound where we saw the most beautiful Golden Retriever, German Shepard mutt. She was the only puppy of 10 to look up at us and move her head side to side every time my dad whistled. Her joyful and playful personality had our attention from the start. She had the cutest black mussle and would howel whenever she would become extra playful. We fell in love from the start. I was so surprised one afternoon to find that, as my sisters and I were playing in the pool, my mom came home with this beautiful little puppy. My sisters and I were so excited and happy to have her and would want to do nothing but play with her. She was very active and loved us from the start as we loved her! We named her Lucy, being that my favorite show was "I Love Lucy."

I have her through all turning points in my life from that day as a kindergarten student until now, a college student. It's amazing how a dog can become a family memeber, a sister, and mostly a best friend. She acted as a puppy until a few months before her death, where she developed bad heart failure which soon had her struggling and quickly made her weak. Today, was a turning point for my family and I as we had to take her to the emergency vet where she fell asleep and soon had a heart attack, her then passed away. Luckily, she died painlessly and peacefully but it still holds this day as a very sad one. All I can do is notice the beautiful weather outside and know that she is in a much better place. I believe all dogs go to heaven! Ironically, today is the feast day of St. Francis of Assis who is the patriot saint of animals! I KNOW that Lucy is being taken care of and is running around stronger then ever. Her pain ended but the love that we have for her will FOREVER remain. I LOVE THAT DOG AND ALWAYS WILL!
Rest in peace Lucy!

Blogging

As I have been posting varies blogs, I have been aware of how much I enjoy doing so. Blogging is a modern and technology based way of having a personal journal. Although posting blogs within our class is not as personal as a journal, the way in which we post blogs and the topics given allow me to take a few minutes and reflect on basically whatever I'd enjoy writing about that's in mind. Being able to do so not only allows me to clear my thoughts but also allows me to practice my writing skills and hopefully catch the attention of my fellow classmates/readers. I really enjoy blogging and I think it's an excellent way of getting students to write, express thoughts, and create ideas. There has been times when I have finished writing a blog and have thought to myself, "wow, I'm glad I was able to write about that!" ... In other words, I am grateful for these assignments. Thanks Professor Drew!

Seasons

Waking up every morning to the smell of a fresh cup of coffee and then walking out to my car for my morning commute has been such a pleasure as I've noticed a beautiful change in weather. Florida is known to be one of the hottest and most humid states, which is true! Luckily, when the seasons come around, Florida is one of the most beautiful states to live in. The air has been more crisp and dry and the sudden breeze reminds me of the setting of a great Thanksgiving meal. Around this time as the season changes to fall, my mood also changes. I notice I am happier, more optimisitc - all because of the poignant scenary that surrounds me and the weather to follow it. I am so thankful for this time of year and often take time to enjoy and embrace it!

A vocabulary word that I posted in this blog was - POIGNANT.

POIGNANT : affecting or moving the emotions.

Kairos

Kairos is a greek word meaning, "The Lord's Time", according to the religious retreat I have recently attended, the name being, KARIOS! On this retreat I was a leader. The leaders on this retreat are given a topic and then are to write a 45 minutes speech/talk on their topic; however, adding their personal life story. My topic for my talk was "Knowing God." Being able to speak of such a personal topic not only allowed me to share my personal opinion but also learn more on where I stand in my faith and how I help others to realize their own potential in faith. Being able to be a part of such a beautiful and awakening experience has done so much for my own perspectives. I was able to have four days in such a beautiful setting, The Cenacle. The Cenacle is a very quiet retreat home with a very big chapel. I was so blessed to have been able to share four days and be able to share my own personal beliefs with others and have moments of prayer. Sometimes in order for somebody to find themselves, they have to come to an awareness of their own personal beliefs. My beliefs are beautiful and I am so lucky to be able to practice it so freely.

My Great Aunt

Sometimes life hits you with the unexpected; moreover, at the unexpected time. I have recently found out that my great, Tia Nieve, passed away. I was, in a way, expecting the news because of her condition. My great aunt was diagnosed with parkinsons disease about 5 years ago. Her condition as far as strength and stability went from normal to severely different and weak. Seeing her go through these stages was very difficult considering my sisters and I have always been close to her. My aunt has always been such an amiable women. She has always been a women of great faith, femininity, and independence, in my opinion, those characterisitics alone makes such an outstanding and beautiful person. Although I was expecting her death, attending the funeral was a bit of a shock for me as I watched my grandmas, her sister, become very emotinal. Seeing my grandmother go through such greif had me only imagining later in my life, as if it were one of my sisters and I was standing by the coffin.

My great aunt will always be remembered and always be incredibly loved for her loving spirit and generous heart. I don't believe anyone will truly be missed for what they have done in this world but missed for the footprints they left in the hearts of those around them. Having death so close to home had me thinking of many things....mainly, my life and how I want to live. I am thankful for my aunt and even more thankful for what she's taught me. If I can only be like her, I would!

My Opinion on Gerald Graff's Opinion

When asked to inform others on Gerald Graff's work and/or my opinion on his work, it is a privledge for me considering he is a man whom, after being educated on, I now admire. Graff is a man of great knowledge and I know this by simply reading only portions of his writings, beliefs, and teachings. I was recently informed on his personal views on academics; moreover, the juxtaposition of the many teaching and learning styles.

Graff is not a man to stand in front of a classroom, as a professor, and lector his students followed by giving them an assignment and, sooner or later, handing them a letter grade based on how well they grasped the words thrown at them in class. Graff is more the man to find the different interests in society and his students and apply it to the way he teaches. He not only teaches those who are academically smart but also feeds knowledge to those who are "street smart." Graff, unlike others, takes an issue, one that may not be interests to those in the classroom, and teaches his topics in a way that it soon becomes the interest of the students who sit in front of him. Also, Graff allows his students to personally write their thoughts in journal writings and express their own personal stance on issues. By allowing students to express their knowledge in free writes, they will enhance every aspect of their academic intelligence.

In my personal opinion, I believe everything Graff explains as far as learning and education is correct. I am a person whom, by far, experiences doubt and disbelief in my academics because of soceities way of teaching and also their way of claiming intelligence on anyone. I am a person whom is also called "street smart" and I often learn most when it is out of personal experiences and/or personal expressions of knowledge. Learning out of a book, in my opinion, is overrated and often does not get the job done and even if it does, the knowledge is only temporary. Intelligence holds true when it is put to a test and put into action. Thank you Graff, for believing in the rest of us.

Physical Abuse

An issue that recently was brought to my attention is that of physical abuse. I am startled by the number of women whom have been physically abused by their sponses or boyfriends and, in the situation, remained quiet. In middle school, I was educated on this issue but would never believe it to occur so close to home. Someone very dear to me, to my surprise, has been a victim of such a severe issue in today's society.

What an ambiable person my friend is; therefore, I would have never suspected anything to be wrong in her daily life. My friend would go on with her daily life as if nothing was wrong. Little did her friends and family know that she was a victim of phsyical abuse by her boyfriend. This is how the situation often occurs: the one who is doing the abusing finds ways into being very dexterous with his actions, words, and appearances, that others will see nothing but the mask he is wearing.

Luckily, her friends came to know what was really going on and involved the police. The cruel and dangerous man is now on trail and God willing will be behind bars. My friend is ok, although this is a time where she needs her closest friends most. I ask that all of those who are people of faith, take such time to pray for those who are victims of such harmful situations. God is watching but all in all the only thing He can do is wait for us to stop the violence.

First Paper

Recently, I was asked to write my first English paper in college. The topic of the paper was that of learning and teaching. Our Professor, Professor Drew, wanted us to basically write a more relaxed paper based on our own thoughts on our perferred learning methods in our English class. Usually when I am asked to write a paper, I get a little hesitant with the understanding that I need to improve my writing skills; however, I somewhat enjoyed writing this particular paper because I love the idea of having the opportunity to express my personal learning style and ability. I consider myself lucky to have had this assignment. Hopefully, not only will I improve my writing but also come to a better understanding of which way I enjoy learning most, during this semester. I am looking forward to it.