Monday, September 30, 2019

Children in Foster Care Essay

Statement: Upon ageing out of the foster care system, foster kids end up either dead, homeless or incarcerated due to lack of independent living skills and lack of knowledge about programs in their communities! Due to many children being so displaced and neglected, it is hard to provide for children because foster homes are overcrowded. Due to lack of financial stability roughly 20,000- 100,00 children in the United States are discharged to live on their own while approximately 1,100 young adults are discharged and left to fend for themselves throughout the country.† Having reached the age, they are presumed to be productive, self reliant and fully self sufficient† (Retrieved January 2, 2013, from www.childrenaidsociety.org). Unfortunately, these young adolescents are looked at as a failure before even given a chance in society due to not growing up under the best circumstances. Already troubled by their childhood experiences of neglect, abandonment and abuse, the vast majority of young people leave the system without knowledge, skills, experience, habits and relationships that can engage them in connective and productive programs within their communities. With this in mind, it also stops them from being connected members of society. According to statistics â€Å"foster children that age out of the system are far more likely to encounter poverty, homelessness, compromised health, unemployment and incarceration† (Retrieved December 29, 2012, from www.angelsfoster.org). Having access to both resources and programs during and aftercare can help alleviate alot of tension that children in the system encounter when trying to maintain and survive on their own. If the United States government help foster care agencies foster more programs and provide adequate funding in the right areas, then foster children would have more knowledge and skills when it comes down to independency. Without any friends, social workers, or dependent foster parents to turn to for help or assistance, these young people are pre dominantly at greater risk of becoming homeless, jobless, incarcerated or dead. According to statistics, young people discharged to themselves in different states have high numbers of poor preparation and independent living skills. â€Å"12-30 percent struggled with homelessness, 40-63 percent did not complete high school, 25-55 percent were unemployed and those employed had earnings far below the poverty line. 31-41 percent were arrested, 18-26 percent were incarcerated 12-18 months after leaving the system† ( Retrieved January 2, 2013 from www.whitehousetaskforceondisadvantagedyouth).

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mediation Is a Form of Negotiation

A Learning Team Charter is a necessary element in managing a successful team. An effective team that aims to accomplish manageable results needs goals, communication, and conflict management. What the team will go through is a process in management and here is where the team charter will show its value. Without a team charter, the team process will at the end of the day falter and fail. The major components of the charter needed to ensure team success includes team goals, system of communication, and most important, a system of settling differences or conflict management. To handle disputes a clause called the â€Å"alternative dispute resolution† (ADR). ADR includes processes and techniques that act as a means for disagreeing parties to come to an agreement. Despite historic resistance to ADR, it has gained widespread acceptance among both the general public and the legal profession in recent years. The most common form of ADR is arbitration. Other forms of ADR are negotiation, mediation, conciliation, mini-trial, fact-finding, and using a judicial referee (Cheesman, 2010). The most effective method that will suit the needs of our learning team is the mediation method. If an agreement cannot be reached during the mediation process, then the arbitration method will be utilized. Mediation is a form of negotiation in which a neutral third party assists the disputing parties in reaching a settlement of their dispute. The neutral third party is called a mediator (Cheesman, 2010). Within a team environment the mediator would be the team members not involved in the dispute. If an agreement cannot be reached during the mediation process, then the arbitration method will be used. In arbitration, the parties choose an impartial third party to hear and decide the dispute. This neutral party is called the arbitrator. The arbitrator in a team charter environment would be the professor of our class. The arbitration process will only be used as a last resort and the professor’s decision cannot be disputed. In most cases there are no disputes that occur in a team environment because all members want to work together to accomplish a common goal which in a classroom situation means getting the best team grade possible. In the rare event that a dispute arises, the ADR process is fast becoming the process of choice in settling disputes.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Portraits from 1480-1560 - Beauty and Power Essay

Portraits from 1480-1560 - Beauty and Power - Essay Example On looking at the precision and detail Leonardo and other artists afforded his portraits, it is evident that what they were drawing was not merely portraits but ‘reality’ as it were. The artist’s attention to detail shows the modern person how life was during the time (Tinagli88). At the point, the portraits were supposed to be three-quarter so that the sitter could lock their eyes with the painter in a way that signified dialogue. It was believed that the eyes were the instrument through which love was communicated yet a few of the most celebrated portraits did not lock eyes with the viewer. Portrait Ginevra de’ Benci did not lock eyes with the beholder in spite of her being a renowned poet and hailed for her work which preached love. In his documentation, Leonardo wrote that he understood the conventions of beauty as depicted in poetry and believed that a painter yields, even more, power over men’s mind as in his work, he could draw a portrait that a man can fall in love too. The painting may not even depict a living person. In his argument, Leonardo is right to state that the paintings had power over the mind of men. Mostly, the eyes were believed to communicate love. In such a case, if the person received a portrait of a woman whose eyes were locked to those of the beholder, then there is no doubt the beholder would have translated the images to mean that the person loved them. In conclusion, there are many changes that have occurred in artistry since the Renaissance.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Corporate Governance Implications of Financial Fraud Dissertation

Corporate Governance Implications of Financial Fraud - Dissertation Example Student’s family name: First names: Student ID No: Course: Supervisor: Dissertation Title: Corporate Governance Implications of Financial Fraud Declaration I certify that this dissertation is my own work. I have read the University regulations concerning plagiarism. I am willing to allow the university to use my dissertation as a sample for future students. Financial statement fraud and Ponzi schemes involving Board Chairpersons and senior figures in public companies wasted billions of dollars of investor capital to threaten markets and public interest. These scandals forced legislatures and regulators to question whether inadequacies in corporate governance contributed to a higher propensity for fraud and how best to correct these. Although it is true that corporate governance alone is not the only reason for financial statement fraud, it makes sense to try to encourage boards to discharge their responsibilities with due and diligent care. Because a corrupt board will propaga te fraud, it makes sense to emphasize the independence of boards from management and independence of individual directors to ensure effective boards. Only independent boards capable of exercising due diligence without negative influences exerted on audit committees, and auditors can ensure transparency and a commitment to ethical conduct must come from the top. For this dissertation, a literature review and case studies for selected early 21st-century fraud scandals serve to conceptualize corporate governance implications of financial fraud using inductive research. However, the research presented avoids a more extensive study involving examination of a far larger number of fraud cases from fraud databases using statistical methods in an attempt to lean towards conceptual development. (This page intentionally left blank) CHAPTER 1:   The corporate scandals of the early 21st century shocked the financial community around the world to present an impetuous for government regulatory a ction to try to correct the prevailing laxity in safeguards against corporate fraud (Causseaux, 2007, pp. 151 – 152). In the United States of America, scandals surrounding Enron, WorldCom, Aldephi, and HealthSouth were a topic of discussion for many even though financial fraud was to continue to prevail in many other parts of the world.  

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Business law corporate personality, Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business law corporate personality, - Essay Example The most important concept that flows from the incorporation of a company is that of limited liability whereby the shareholders tend to be liable only to the unpaid amounts of shares and so the company as a separate legal entity is held accountable for its own debts. Corporate personality has been in use for a long period of time but the area of law developed when small businesses used the notion so as to create limited liability. The turning point of corporate personality was the decision of Salomon v Salomon1. In Salomon, a leather merchant incorporated a company and completed the formalities by appointing his family members as shareholders which was a requirement of the Companies Acts at that point in time. In his personal capacity, he appointed himself as managing director and subsequently purchased the sole trading business. The main concern was the over valuation of the business placed by him, but this was mainly due to his confidence in the success of the business. The company subsequently went in to liquidation and a liquidator was appointed by the court who in turn evaluated that the company was a sham and had been used as an instrument to defraud creditors. The Court of Appeal accepted the evaluation of the liquidator, however, the Hou se of Lords reversed the decision stated that the Court of Appeal had used a moralistic approach and went on to say it was irrelevant that some of the shareholders were used merely to fulfill a technicality and so the use of corporate personality could be made by any person who intended to pursue what was his own business and thus the company set up in this case found to be a separate legal entity and not an agent or trustee of the person controlling it.2 The case set a cornerstone for the doctrine of separate legal entity and separated the company from its shareholders. This concept has

Vincent Van Gogh Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Vincent Van Gogh - Research Paper Example The paper "Vincent Van Gogh" explores the art and life of Vincent Van Gogh. Van was born in 1853 in Groot-Zundert in Southern Netherlands, which was a predominantly catholic; he grew up with a striking attraction of painting and beauty. He was the son of Theodorus Gogh, a minister at the Dutch reformed church. He took his grandfather's name Vincent, whose work as an artist had been largely sculptor. As a young boy, he was a serious, thoughtful and silent, this astonished many children who grew together. Notably, art and religion were two greatest occupations in his lineage and some scholars have linked his artistic work in the family background and early exposure to the artistic world. He attended school at Zundert village from 1860s where a single catholic teacher taught more than 200 pupils. This was quite normal during this time when education was at its early stage if development in the Netherlands. Together with his sister, he moved to a boarding school in 1861 at Zevenbergen th at was about 20 miles away from his home. During his stay in school, he remained distress to be relocated away from the family members, and he began drawing and painting. In 1866, he joined a new middle school called Willem College in Tilburg. Perhaps this was the most influential turning point that influenced his career choice. During his studies, he encountered Constantine Huysmans, who was an artist, and he developed a conviction in the art. In addition, the teacher was instrumental in encapsulating.

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Dementia and Caretaking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Dementia and Caretaking - Essay Example These fears include the repetitive questions of going home; seeking caretakers and this phenomenon is called "Shadowing" (Lindeman, Corby, Downing & Sanborn 1991) Alzheimer disease is one of the disorders known as dementia. Patient develops multiple cognitive deficits including memory loss. The diagnostic criterion along with memory loss must include one of the cognitive disturbances: aphasia, apraxia, anoxia or a disturbance in executive functioning (DSM- IV 1994). Dementia may be progressive, static or remitting (DSM-IV 1994). Keeping in view of this study the AD should not be taken as 'process of inevitable and immutable decline'. (Judkins,Wayne ) Caretaking for the patient of AD is a long process which involves many people. In the early stages the family members are the initial help. But the later stages require persistent care of the patient and he/she is shifted to adult day care centers. In adult day care centers safe and supportive environment is must for the patient of AD. It involves creating new roles to replace the roles lost because of the disease. (e.g. provider for spouse, worker) In this environment patient can interact in the same cognitive state and can form meaningful attachments. (William & Roberts 1995). The group spirits should also be fostered in the day care centers to make the patient feel that he/she is the desired member of the social group. Researchers in their recent studies have examined the role that the attachment style may play in dementia. It is observed that personality characteristics persist in dementia. For example, a person suffering from depression and aggressive behavior before the diagnosis of dementia 'have these tendencies aggregated by the course of disease. (Agbayewa, 1986) Bowlby defined attachment behavior as "any form of behavior that results in a person attaining or retaining proximity to some other differentiated and preferred individuals, who is usually conceived as stronger and /or wiser." (John Bowlby, 1979, pp 129) Misen (1992) was the first researcher to conclude that the patient of dementia could also be classified as having secure or ambivalent style of attachment. The further studies proposed that various component of attachments i.e. trust, comfort with dependency became more important with higher level of dependency caused by dementia. The studies have also found that the effect of dysfunctional behavior as taken by caretakers was correlated with caretakers' psychological distress. (Levesque. Cassette & LaChance, 1998) But it is observed that attachment therapy can also help the caretakers to overcome their psychological stress. The following quoted study is taken from the interview of Ann Hurley (Citation: Trudeau S. Bright Eyes, A Sensory Stimulation Intervention for Patients with Advanced Dementia: An interview with Scott Trudeau, by AL Romer, Innovations in

Monday, September 23, 2019

How broadway shows contribute to New York economy Term Paper

How broadway shows contribute to New York economy - Term Paper Example Live musical theatre on Broadway has been a major New York City tourist attraction, since 18th century and it has survived depression, war and major technological changes(Mulder,24). Broadway theatre means a vital New York city industry with box office revenue exceeding millions of dollars in a particular season. During 2000 and 2001, the ticket price of Broadway theatrical shows exceeded the limits and set record prices. The Broadway theatre industry is the single largest tourist attraction in the New York City and nothing could take its place for entertainment. It is evident here that millions of people attend this shows and the collection from these can contribute largely to the economy of the New York City. The main contribution by Broadway to the New York economy directly comes from the expense of the production itself. It has been revealed that the Broadway company’s expense on services, pay roll and running of the shows itself added 1.5 $ Billion to the city’s ec onomy. Moreover the Broadway companies spend millions of dollars on the salaries and other services for the running of the shows. ... Today the population of New York City is more than 8 million, and Broadway entertainment is a key industry which contributes to New York’s economy. It would not be a surprising fact to mention that Broadway theatres are a solace to people in the midst of turmoil and fast life of the city. New Yorkers attend theatre shows and musicals to get away from the stressful life of the city and to indulge in little pleasure. Moreover, the tourist which attends the theatres also spends on hotel stays, dining other activities which add up to the profitability of the city. According to (Healy)â€Å"Preview of the new Broadway revival of â€Å"West Side Story† across New York theaters: drew gross revenues of more than $1 million in each of its first two weeks, this shows that the appetite for plays and musicals is alive and well despite the recession†. Even in recession times the audience and the producers have not given up on theatres which reflect that the contribution to ec onomy is still intact for New York City. It is surprising that no production in Broadway have ceased due to recession or economic downturn. Instead 43 productions got initiated during 2008-2009 seasons even though it was recession times. This was an excellent statistical figure for entertainment sector, especially in the phase of recession. In 2008-2009 seasons, the Broadway industry gave away $9.8 billion to the New York City economy and supported 84,400 jobs. The spending is mainly in three fields: producers spending to run the shows; the theatre owners spending on venue maintenance and renovation; and money spend by non- New York city resident s to attend the Broadway shows. The money that is spending in these areas is circulated with spending on other facilities and finally

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Principles of Microeconomics Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Principles of Microeconomics - Research Paper Example In economics, entrepreneurs play a key role in bridging the gap between capital and labour. Entrepreneurs also take on significant risks in order to generate profit. Many people do not think of universities and colleges as businesses, but, in fact, they are large and complex businesses in a microeconomic sense. Many private colleges charge two to four times the tuition of state colleges, and then award aid based on merit to coerce desired students to attend, resulting in a final price that varies by student and that favors students in certain categories over others (Friedrich 1). Because the services that a college provides to student are the same even though some students pay a drastically steeper price to attend, this can be considered an example of price discrimination on a microeconomic scale. In cases of price discrimination, different prices are charged to customers in order to generate some specific results. In the case of many private universities, price discrimination is intended to increase competition and encourage acceptance of the best quality students. Whether this form of price discrimination is ethical is a subject that has been largely debated as the cost of college education has risen steadily over the last decades. Friedrich, Alex. â€Å"Notes in the Margins: Med school, loans and price discrimination.† MPR News. 14 June 2011: 1.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Essay Example for Free

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Essay From the e-Activity, recommend how the SOX framework can ensure reliable and complete financial information and how accounting professionals have benefitted from its use. Provide support for your response. Evaluate how the SOX has reinforced investors’ and creditors’ confidence in companies and how these individuals can take steps to verify the accuracy of the financial statements of potential investments or loans. Provide support for your rationale. Answer: The Sarbanes-Oxley Act was signed into law on July 30, 2002. Passed in response to the corporate and accounting scandals of Enron, Tyco, and others of 2001 and 2002, the laws purpose is to rebuild public trust in Americas corporate sector. The law requires that publicly traded companies adhere to significant new governance standards that broaden board members roles in overseeing financial transactions and auditing procedures. While nearly all of the provisions of the Act apply only to publicly traded Corporations, the passage of the bill served as a wake-up call to the entire nonprofit community. Indeed, several state legislatures have already passed or are considering legislation containing elements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act to be applied to nonprofit organizations. In many instances, nonprofit organizations have adopted policies and altered governance practices in response to the Act. Nonprofit leaders should look carefully at the provisions of Sarbanes-Oxley, as well as their states laws, and determine whether their organizations ought to voluntarily adopt governance best practices, even if not mandated by law. This report will review those provisions and assess their relevance to nonprofit organizations. Finally, it is important to note that two provisions of Sarbanes-Oxley apply to all entities, including nonprofit organizations. This report will also review those features of the Act that require immediate nonprofit compliance.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Business Culture And Communication Of Australia Management Essay

Business Culture And Communication Of Australia Management Essay The Report is an endeavour to demonstrate the feasibility of an Australian based University to open their new campuses in Taiwan and Japan. It presents a detailed informative study about the cross cultural means of communication, business culture and practices as well as business strategies in different regions of Asia-Pacific. There are significant issues presented in this report that will provide the readers an in-depth understanding of the topic presented. Moreover, the report is an ongoing attempt to focus on the social and cultural differences and how they play an important role in doing business across the world, important cultural aspects that influence business such as verbal communication in business, dress code, scheduling and appointment and other factors are discussed in this research, which provides guidelines for University staff. It is recommended that: Introduction Culture and communication require people to communicate across different cultures and geographical locations. In a lecture, Informatics, Culture and Communication (COMM 20036), Mr. Alexander Hoetzer described culture as involves work habits, life style, communication style, religious instruction, human behaviour and business activities. To do business successfully around the globe, all organizations need to overcome cultural barriers. background: Australian University intends to open new campuses in Tokyo and Taipei. The guidelines will be provided on cross cultural communication for Australian staff who will be liaising with the university staff in Japan and Taiwan. The guidelines must incorporate computer mediated communication channels such as videoconferencing, teleconferencing, memos, email, staff meetings and discussion forums with procedures and protocols which take into account the different cultures involved and promote effective cross cultural communication. Aim: The most aim for this report is provide guidelines on Cross-Cultural Communication for the Australian University, which intends to open their University campus Tokyo and Taiwan. 1.3 Scope: In this report, our Group presents guidance for Australian staff of a University who will be liaising with university staff in Taiwan and Japan in order to open a new university campus there. Present Report analyses the Cross-cultural issues and emphasizes the main streaming of the cultural values of Taiwan, Japan and Australia. This report examines the issues related to Australia University which intend to open campuses in Taiwan and Japan that considers not only the establishment of effective communication can be achievement. Moreover, the report illustrates the pros and cons of an organization that must have adequate knowledge of the cultural backgrounds of its members and the management must educate its employees in the aspects of cross-cultural communication. Besides, this report recommends the commitment of the strategic management to consider the culture and business issues of a country. The ability to learn within this multifaceted context to translate learning into effective decisions will add to the Australian university success. Methodology: A wide range of majority of the information formed for this proposed report will consist of research primarily from a number of online articles, case studies, journals and different resources from various websites were used to gather relevant information for this research and more over available market research reports. The literature where there is extensive contributing to be competently searched those methods currently in used. Gathering information with respected to improvements and innovations. Discussion Business Culture and Communication of Australia: Australia is great multi cultural society .Australians are friendly, outgoing, informal people who move to a first name basis quickly. Business Ethics, Culture and Meetings of Australia: Australia has a tradition of consensus that can make it an easy place to do business. Australians are generally wary of appearing boastful or arrogant. They usually dont praise any one for doing good job, because they think everyone doing their best in their jobs .This extends to their own accomplishment, successes and expertise, often point withholding information about themselves (Maria J.C.P, Ik-Whan G. K, Philipp A. S, Raymond.B, 2003).Generally Australians way of contacting will be on the basis of the first name of the person ,preceded by Mr, they greet both men and women by smiling, eye contact and shaking hands. Australians values friendship, they believe being good mates which is as important as doing business together and consider mutual respectful and beneficial relationship and is termed to be more important. Australians are generally result oriented and they prefer to make quick decisions, they are conservative and move fast to put their decisions into action. In smaller businesses, one person could be the sole decision maker for the entire company and makes decision immediately. Though, they generally take time to committing to a deal. Negotiating is not generally part of Australian business culture. They offer what they believe is a fair deal and expect you to do the same. In the business world traditional business suits are standard for men. Skirted suit or suit with pant for women. Avoid excessive jewellery or accessories. All business dealings will be in English. Australians dislike the negotiating and aggressive sale techniques because they value directness; presentation of any kind should be straight forward with both positive and negative outcomes. Meetings start on time .Appointments is mandatory to meet someone and they believe it is easy to schedule meetings and meetings should start on time if someone is running late, let your associate know in advance. Australians will not exchange business card in social meetings, because they operate more than one relationship with a contact and they never discuss about the business in social meetings. 3.1.1 Business culture and communication of Tokyo: Overview: Japan is a country of peace and harmony that continues to develop in a positive construction of tradition and modernization. Japan has been extended and colourful history and culture, a separate model hierarchy, the EEA and the etiquette that still makes social and business practices today. Due to the influence of Confucianism, it is important to have more respect for the oldest members appear in Japanese business culture. Age and rank are strongly linked. A change in the current business environment requires educational background and power often about age appropriate. Culture: Wa The most valuable principle alive in the Japanese society today is the concept of WA or harmony. The preservation of the first Constitution in 604 AD and teamwork is required when who live and work in collective farms, which dates back to social harmony. In the operating conditions, WA is reflected in the avoidance of self-assertion and individualism and the maintenance of good relations despite differences of opinion. Kao One of the fundamental elements of the Japanese social system is the concept of face. Glance is a trademark of personal pride and is the basis of an individual reputation and social status. Preservation of sight is delivered via the confrontations and direct criticism to avoid when possible. Omoiyari Closely linked to the concepts of wa and kao, omoiyari refers to the sense of empathy and loyalty in Japanese society, encouraged and authorised in Japanese business culture. Business Culture in Tokyo: In terms of business culture, Japan remains the second largest economic position in the world and its economic environment is forcing the local population to the so-called Japan style of the corporate culture and rules by which they have lived for a long time to make drastic changes. Japan has with its elaborate culture, a separate model hierarchy, the EEA and the etiquette that still reflected in many social and business practices today. A significant part of the former Japanese business protocol was a gift. In the modern contemporary Japanese business culture, it is not expected that the gesture is still practiced and accepted with gratitude. However, be careful not to take great gift as it can be thought of as a buy. It is good business practice in small talk before negotiations. The Japanese counterpart questions relating to education, family and social life. More private questions are not acceptable. Greet Hofstede Cultural Dimensions for Japan: http://www.geert-hofstede.com/graphs/hofstede_japan.gif Image courtesy: Hofstede (2009) According Hofstede (2009), above diagram terms are: Power Distance Index (PDI). Individualism (IDV). Masculinity (MAS).   Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI). Long-Term Orientation (LTO) (Hofstede 2009).  Ã‚   Business Culture, Meetings and Workings Practises in Japan: In the Japanese, companies will be reflected in the negotiating process. They begin at the executive level and continue at the middle level. Decisions will be made, however, often within the group. It is important to realise that in todays Japan, even a low-ranking individuals allows a Manager to receive his or her performance as well. Because of the great contemporary business competition in Asia, the old concept of the unhurried Japanese negotiation process no longer applies the decisions quickly and efficiently. When a business appointment, will arrange a personal call more effective than sending a letter and seen as good ways Late is as a sign of violation punctuality is essential in Japan .Due to the influence of Confucianism, it is important to have more respect for the oldest members appear in Japanese business culture. Age and rank highly connected, but a change in the current business environment means that educational background and power often about age appropriate. Physical contact, other than a handshake is never displayed in public. It is good business practice in small talk before negotiations. In General, Japanese business meetings will be aligned in order of seniority, with the leading person on the front and at the very least, a senior person closest to the door. In addition to this rule, however, it can happen that the highest person where choose. Physical contact, other than a handshake is never displayed in public. The Japanese counterpart questions relating to education, family and social life. More private questions are not acceptable. Japanese Business Etiquette: DO use apologies where the intention is serious and express gratitude frequently as it is considered polite in Japan. DO avoid confrontation or showing negative emotions during business negations. Express opinions openly but evade direct or aggressive refusals. DO greet your counterparts with the proper respect and politeness. If your counterpart bows make sure you return the gesture, which is usually performed shortly and shallowly. More often than not, a handshake is sufficient. Business Culture and Communication of Taipei: Overview Taiwan is located east of the Taiwan Strait, off the south-eastern coast of mainland China, is the largest island in the Republic of China. Taiwans population is mostly Han Chinese, who were born on the mainland and divided into three groups based on the dialect of Chinese they speak (Taiwans Country information 2007). Taiwanese value a well crafted message. They appreciate sharing a deep and broad contextual understanding in order for the core message to be delivered and understood. That context comes in the form of words, gestures and facial expressions. 3.1.2 Taiwanese Communication and culture: Communication in Taiwan can be difficult, if someone does not speak official languages such as Mandarin Chinese or Taiwanese, a southern Fujian dialect, which are broadly spoken. Levels of English will be irregular even within Taiwanese multi-nationals and major large companies based in the country. Within small to large-sized businesses, little or no English at all will be spoken. It may, therefore, be necessary to employ the use of a translator, which will further slow down an already slow process. Be prepared for the inevitable delays and confusions (Taiwanese Communication Styles n.d.). As in several Asian cultures, language is infrequently used in a completely literal fashion. Much of what is actually meant can be hidden behind a smoke screen of vagueness and coded language. It is not polite and disrespectful to disagree openly and therefore anything other than a clear yes (Taiwanese Communication Styles n.d.) should be viewed with some wariness. Search for further information; go back to the subject later in the meeting and apply diagrams, charts etc. to support to mutual comprehension. Unlike Japan, it is not unknown for meeting to become emotions, with heated, erupting and then subsiding quickly. Its better to try to ignore this lack of reserve and avoid referring back to it in an attempt to score points. This could result in loss of face and a fracture in the relationship (Taiwanese Communication Styles n.d.). Hofstede (2009) analysis for Taiwan is almost all identical models for Republic of China. Like other Asia countries relationships are in Taiwan, a primary part of the culture. Individualism is the lowest ranking factor, Long-term Orientation (LTO) is the peak factor and the Taiwanese are a collectivist society. Geert Hofstede Cultural Dimensions for Taiwan: http://www.geert-hofstede.com/graphs/hofstede_taiwan.gif Image courtesy: Hofstede (2009) According Hofstede (2009), above diagram terms are: Power Distance Index (PDI). Individualism (IDV). Masculinity (MAS).   Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI). Long-Term Orientation (LTO) (Hofstede 2009).  Ã‚   Taiwanese Business Culture ,Meetings and Business Practices: In general in Taiwanese society, the business culture is Confucian with strong hierarchical and family influences, particularly in the important small to large size business sector. Decision-making tends to be concentrated in the hands of organization or company owners. They are proud of their achievements and history and continue to be energetic, in the main economical. They have a natural commercial style and are welcoming to foreigners. Relationships are the key issues to success in Taiwan, its take time be familiar with your business partners (Taiwan economy brief 2008). The best relationships usually meet testing times before belief and trust develop. Taiwanese are generally tough negotiators, while they are enjoying negotiating. But Taiwanese are not formal as Japanese, it is good to continue formalities until they invited to do otherwise, self addressing like Dr Alex, Chairman Alex, Mr Alex etc (Taiwan economy brief 2008). Business visiting cards are compulsory and business cards are should be presented and received with both hands, starting with the top manager present. Instead of place the card in a pocket, treat the card with respect at the meeting. If possible print names at back of business card in Chinese and it is advisable to carry a passport for identification when dealing with government agencies (Taiwan economy brief 2008). A thoughtful gift is a suitable gesture for introduction and indicates of person desire to explore and build a good relationship. Taiwan economy brief (2008) suggested that do not give clocks, umbrellas, white flowers, handkerchiefs and sharp objectives, those are indicating that cutting or breaking a relationship. Time is money (Taiwan economy brief 2008) normally Taiwanese are comfortable to quick response and they expect quick action and decision-making. Face feeling are important in great business dealings, it is polite to speak of others in glowing expressions and be modest and deprecating about the negotiator. Never let others lose face, even in worry situation. Meeting schedules are not highly structured in Taiwan. There may be an agenda, but it serves as a guideline for the discussion and may act as a springboard to other related business ideas. As relationships are valued, there may be some time in the meeting devoted to non-business discussions. Time is not considered more important than completing a meeting satisfactorily, therefore, meetings will continue until the discussion is completed and may extend well past a scheduled end time (YVONNE .S, JEANNE H. Y STEVEN CHIH-CHIEN L, 2008). For formal meetings it is best wear a suit and tie, after relationships are made strong, it is appropriate to dress according to the occasions and season (Taiwan economy brief 2008). Asians and Taiwanese in particular, have high regard for those older than themselves. Between 9.30 am and 11.30am, and between 2.30pm and 4.30pm are the best times to seek appointments. However eating is a serious business in Taiwan, offers of lunch and dinner are accepted a nd when suitable, reciprocated. When dinning out it is common for Taiwanese to rise from the dining table promptly at the end of the meal (Taiwan economy brief 2008). Business practices: Men should wait for a woman to extend her hand. If you are in a group, try to assemble in rank order, with the most senior person first. Greet or introduce the most important person first. A handshake is the common greeting. Handshakes are not as firm as in many other countries. Many Taiwanese lower their eyes during the greeting as a sign of respect. People are usually addressed by their title and surname (Yvonne et al., 2008) 3.2 Effective Cross-Culture Communications: Globalisation makes every country interdependent with each other. As more companies join the globalisation role, diversity in the corporate world will become renowned. This diversity is the inclusion of all groups at all level regardless of locations, competition, background and position. Besides, there is some pattern in cross-cultural communication that has to be considered to achieve successfully (Cross Cultural Communication n.d). One of the significant changes this has triggered is the required to communicate effectively with different people in different languages and from different cultures. It is now recognised that linguistic and cultural knowledge are both, most essential areas of knowledge that organizations must come to obtain if they are to join together, progress and succeed in the marketplace. Cross cultural communication is a must (Cross Cultural Communication n.d). 3.2.1 Computer mediated channels In this Globalization age, computer mediated communication channels are the most important elements to conduct the business in cross-cultural environment (Anderson et al. 1995). This section explains how the intercultural communication, mediated by cultural artefacts such as internet communication tools, E-mail, Videoconferencing, staff meetings. Nowadays computer-mediated communication is playing the key role in everyones life, it is the most effective way to communicate with the people no matter how far away they are. People using communication technologies to develop new contacts, save existing relationships, and maintain relationships with others. Most popular means of communications are videoconferencing, teleconferencing, and email, internet. Knowing the relationship of ideas between the technologies and the cultural differences is vital for two reasons. One is with the worldwide rapidly increased use of technology and interactions between different people are more often mediated through individual extensions. Rapidly, personal use communication technologies to, find, learn about and communicate with each other. Secondly the communication between people, especially between the cross culture people are developed and maintained through these technologies. So selecting the proper technology for communicating with personals across a cross culture requires an understanding of how people use these technologies in their culture. ( Arun V, Hao C,2008) 3.2.1. a Digital telecommunication channel: Videoconferencing. Video conferencing is tool in communication channels which enables people to meet and work together through the sight and sound medium no matter where there are located throughout the world. Video conferencing allows two or more location to interact via two-way video and audio transmissions simultaneously. Participants should join meeting at least 10 minutes before the start. Make sure all the equipment is working properly if not consult the technician. Video conference goes out of control unless someone take the job of traffic cop. Dressing up appropriately is important avoid very bright colours. Do not zoom cameras extremely close up on the participant. It is imposing. Be loud and clear always if audio is not clear on the other side try adjusting settings and avoid screaming. Avoid double talk wait for other side to finish before replying. Look straight imagine that you are making eye contact with the person other side. Do not move adjust your settings to ensure you are visible to the person on the other side. Make spot where the camera can view you best. Do not mute microphone when starting the connection, mute the microphone after the connection is established if you want. Make sure the presentation slides should be in the large format. Mute the microphone because even murmur can be heard out loud. 3.2.1. b Digital telecommunication channel: email. E-mail is used to maintain the relationships with people, and it used to expand and strengthen people, and it can be used to notify issues to the group to resolve problems more effectively, it can be also used to communicate with different people though there are not at their desks, used to communicate with different people irrespective of location. (Laurie M, 2007) The use of e-mail is one of the primary features of the internet and is still the most popular function. In this all the parties need not be considerate all the time as in face-to-face situation but can still participate fully in the conversation via e-mail without losing track of the argument (Anderson et al. 1995). They can read messages and respond to proposals in their own time, as their own tempo. But as the Taiwanese and Japanese have a non-verbal communications and high context culture and use indirect language to correspond, they prefer to communicate by telephone or personally rather than by impersonal means such as E-mail. However the Australians have low context culture, so they tend to use overt, plainly and explicit coded messages to make everything else, and convey plain and literal meaning. Therefore E-mail will be a superior way of communication for Australians (Anderson et al. 1995). 3.2.1. c Digital telecommunication channel: Teleconferencing Teleconferencing systems are ideally for meetings, new program introductions, seminars and all forms of personnel and management training. In effect, teleconferencing is the most powerful communications technology developed to date; it is the most effective way of communication which saves time and money. (Laurie M, 2007) 3.2.1. d Digital telecommunication channel: 3.2.1. e Digital telecommunication channel: 3.3 Effective written communications: Writing is the representation of language in a textual medium by means of a series of characters or symbols. Writing is an extension of human language in time and space. Write probably began as a result of political expansion into the old cultures, which reliable resources needed for the transmission of information, maintaining financial accounts, historical records, and similar activities. Around the 4th millennium v. Chr. the complexity of the trade and the Administration outgrew the power of memory and writing was a more reliable method of recording and transactions in a final form to present 3.4 Effective verbal communications: The basis of communication is the interaction between people.   Verbal communication is one way for people to communicate face-to-face.   Some of the key components of verbal communication are sound, words, speaking, and language.   Aside from written communications, Australian Universities staffs are supporting the communication through conferences, negotiations and videoconferencing. Asian culture value silence when talking and are patient and understanding. The formality of Asians, while speaking in English is high and will avoid slang, jargon and also avoid confrontations as much as possible. Asians often prefer to speak what is implicitly rather than explicitly, in order to prevent conflicts, and to a more ambiguous interpretation of meaning open .In Discussions, Asians like harmony and piece. Most of the time non-native English speakers prefer to know what one is saying as face is important to them. They use words that are common and understandable as they mostly prefer facial expressions are important to them. Avoid of casual, and they appreciated politeness and formal way of communication. Asian values personal relationships; they prefer actual meeting rather than phone conversations or video conferences. In conducting a video conference where they mind gesture, eye contacts, body movements, and facial expressions as these are given more attention by the As ians rather than the messages. Therefore, opinions are often better proposed discretion; instead of directly expressed (Seltman 1991).This is reinforced by the fact that the Asians instructors are generally a direct translation methodology. If resources permit install translation software, which is termed to be particularly helpful. In negotiations, an agreement may need to be amended from time to time. So, remember that the deal is not final even if the signature has been affixed. People in general are not hard to talk, touching, unless forced by overcrowding or other disturbance in places that are traditionally considered to be public. People keep to themselves and between strangers In contrast, Australian English speakers value clear and concise conversations and they speak words carefully, they understand and prefer written formats rather than the verbal massage, on the other hand, their way of communication is more direct and constant .Silence is regarded as confusion in the case of Australians. In negotiations a deal is finalized and binding up on the signing for approval only. high and low contexts culture High context refers to groups or societies where people have close relationship over a long period of time. Several aspects of cultural behaviour are not made explicit because the majority members know what to do and what to think from years of interaction with each other. Hall (1976) states that most Asian countries include Japan and Taiwan are classified as high Context cultures. Low context refers to groups where people tend to have many connections but of shorter period or for some specific reason. In these groups, cultural behaviour and beliefs might need to be spelled out explicitly so that those coming into the cultural environment know how to behave. Australians are classified as low context cultures (Hall 1976). Conclusion: This report concludes with the reflections of cross cultural business communications of different places like Australia, Tokyo and Taipei. The results of this studies about the awareness and understanding of the cross cultural and communicational characteristics of the country and are termed to be crucial for the successful business interactions between members of different countries. More precisely, too effectively and ethical business in countries like Australia, Japan and Taiwan requires an understanding and acceptance of collectivism, saving face particularise and the maintenance of the harmony. With the advent of globalisation means of doing business have changed dramatically. Most organizations open at store to working with different people across the globe. For this reason it is essential to understand how cultural adversity effects and how business is being conducted in various countries Asians and Australian culture vary greatly in terms of their believes, life style and business practices, Asians have high context culture which gives much importance to inter personal relationship ,whilst Australians belong to low context culture where individualism is highly regarded , in order for these two countries to collaborate in business venture. It is important to understand these differences. Communication strategies are affected by cultural differences in a number of ways. For this reason, respect on each others culture should be regarded to avoid any conflicts that arise. In nut shell cultural differences should not be a hindrance to a successful business venture .Rather, understanding an embracing these differences will help improve the relationships of countries across the globe. 6.0 Recommendations:

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Children With Behavioral Disorders in Single Parent Homes Essays

Unfortunately, we live in a world were economic times are tough. It can be a struggle for parents to adequately support children - especially if there is only one parent. According to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development about 15.9 percent of children world wide live in single-parent households. In the United states alone there are approximately 13.7 million single parents today, and those parents are responsible for raising 21.8 million children (approximately 26% of children under 21 in the U.S. today). The question we must ask is, What struggles and psychological effect does separation and divorce have on the parents as well as the children? Divorce is the final termination of a marital union, canceling the legal duties and responsibilities of marriage and dissolving the bonds of matrimony between the parties. In most countries divorce requires the sanction of a court or other authority in a legal process. The legal process for divorce may also involve issues of spousal support, child custody, child support, distribution of property and division of debt. Shared custody is awarded in approximately twenty percent of all divorce child custody cases. When shared custody is not awarded, the court will award one parent sole custody of the child. A court may also award a parent joint custody. Joint custody is a court order whereby custody of a child is awarded to both parties. In joint custody both parents are "custodial parents" and neither parent is a non-custodial parent; or, in other words, the child has two custodial parents. Seventy percent of all child custody cases name the mother as the custodial parent. A â€Å"b roken family† will effect the mother, father and child in different ways; with mothers usua... ...1%) as likely to have one or more total problems than those from two-parent families, twice as likely to have an emotional disorder, etc(National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth ). Works Cited See e.g., Cal. Fam. Code sect. 3004 http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/displaycode?section=fam&group=02001-03000&file=3000-3007 1988 Census "Child Support and Alimony: 1989 Series" P-60, No. 173 p.6-7, and "U.S. General Accounting Office Report" GAO/HRD-92-39FS January 1992 Center for Disease Control National Principals Association Report on the State of High Schools Fulton County Georgia Jail Populations and Texas Dept. of Corrections, 1992 GROWING UP IN CANADA, National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth (Human Resources Development Canada, Statistics Canada, Catalogue no. 89-550-MPE, no.1, November 1996, p. 91) Available from StatCan.

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Coco Chanel Essay -- Fashion Designers Essays

Coco Chanel In his 1993 book, Creating Minds, Howard Gardner attempted to distinguish characteristics that were common to creative people. In doing so, he concluded that many factors were involved in the development of a creator. For instance, the relationship between the Individual, the Work, and Other People (i.e. family and colleagues) (Gardner 9) was elemental in predicting future successes. Likewise, part of his hypothesis focused around the fact that creators typically make their mark in one single genre. He divided the types of work that could be created into seven different areas: interpersonal, intrapersonal, visual/spatial, logical/mathematical, musical, verbal/linguistic, body kinesthetic (Gardner vii). Gardner's rubric for finding commonalties amongst creators, or those people who produce innovative, influential works in their particular domain, has become a highly regarded and widely used tool for identifying creative genius. Likewise, one key factors promoting creativity was the marginal status of the creator. Gardner briefly mentions the importance of the relationship between the creator and their society (Gardner 42). In my opinion, Gardner gives too little attention to the importance of one's marginal status. I intend to show, through the example of Coco Chanel, that marginality can have an imperative impact on the development of one's creativity. Therefore, I will fit Chanel into the prescribed rubric that Gardner outlined in his book, and show how her marginal status defined her as well as her work. Part One: The Personal History of Chanel Chanel was born in 1883, illegitimately (Charles-Roux 9/3) to a father that would soon desert her, and a mother who would die by the time she reached the age ... ... different perspective on things. Perhaps she was "creative" because she did not know how to be "traditional." Maybe what seemed normal to Chanel, what felt natural for her, was simply different from what was normal for others. In any case, I feel that Chanel's marginal status was the main catalyst for her success as a fashion designer. Gardner overlooked the degree of importance that should be attributed to a creator's marginality. For in the end, to create is to do something original, what has never been done before. And to do something unique should mean to be unique. And to be unique and creative means to be marginal. Bibliography Charles-Roux, Edmonde. Chanel and Her World. The Vendome Press: London. 1979. Gardner, Howard. Creating Minds. Basic Books: New York. 1993. Madsen, Axel. Chanel: A Woman of Her Own. Henry Holt and Co.: New York. 1990.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

The Godfather: Michael Vs. Sonny Essay -- essays research papers

The Godfather: Michael Vs. Sonny   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  At a first glance Michael and Sonny appear to be quite different. Upon further observation, however, they have some similarities. Although they are different in areas of personality, values, and their tempers, they are similar in areas of loyalty, their respect for their father, and their strong family ties.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Their personalities are quite different. Sonny is brash and arrogant, where Michael is calm and cool. When Don Corleone was in the hospital and Sonny is in charge, the family got kind of careless. He doesn't seem to care what could happen due to his actions. He wants to kill the police captain and doesn't think about the repercussions. Tom has to tell him that it wouldn't be good to kill a cop, but they end up doing it anyway. I think Michael was pushed into it because of his loyalty to the family. He is more calculating in manner. Near the end when he â€Å"takes care of all the family business† on the day of the Baptism is a prime example of this. Because he was this way, the objects of his violence had no idea that it was coming.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Their values are another way that they differ. Michael is a man of honor. He doesn't run around having affairs with different women. He only marries twice because his first wife was killed in the explosion. Sonny is an adulterer. He is with another women during his sisters wedding, along with a few other times throughout t...

Analysis And Reflection On A Science Activity Undertaken

This assignment will look into the effectual instruction of scientific discipline in the foundation phase and cardinal phase 1 by reflecting upon a scientific discipline activity undertaken during Autumn Attachment. It will discourse the of import points in scientific discipline instruction such as evocation, practical activities, distinction and the importance of appraisal. The great importance of learning scientific discipline in schools can be made clear by looking at the undermentioned points. The schools in general should learn kids the basic information and accomplishments of the scientific disciplines every bit good as the indispensable rules of scientific thought and job resolution. The purpose must be to prosecute the kids, to acquire them interested. Teachers should seek and avoid kids from holding bad experiences of scientific discipline and as a consequence disliking it. Primary school instruction is particularly of import. When learning lessons that cover the basic scientific constructs it can organize the footing of what could turn into a lasting involvement in scientific discipline. The kids need to be excited and motivated by scientific discipline in order for them to larn. One scientific undertaking that explored immature kids ‘s apprehension of scientific discipline was the SPACE undertaking ( the scientific discipline procedure and construct geographic expedition undertaking ) . Working within a constructivist model it explored 12 different countries of scientific discipline. The kids ‘s apprehension was investigated before a 6 hebdomad spread, it was so looked at once more to see if there had been any alterations. The consequences obtained from this survey led to 8 major research studies and a set of course of study stuffs ( Nuffield Primary Science ) being published and developed. SPACE was a classroom-based undertaking. It ‘s purpose was to set up the thoughts that primary school kids had in peculiar scientific discipline construct countries and the possibility of kids altering their thoughts as a consequence of relevant experiences. The joint managers of the survey were Doctor Wynne Harlen and Professor Paul Black. The undertaki ng was based upon the thought that kids develop their thoughts through the experiences they have therefore the purpose was to set up the above points.Ball experiment:During Autumn Attachment I led an activity affecting the usage of the senses and proving theories. The kids were shown 5 different balls. They were asked to touch and look at each ball one at a clip and give a brief description of how the ball looked and felt. They were so asked to give an appraisal of how many times they thought the ball would resile, based on how the ball looked and felt. The balls were so dropped from the same tallness and so kids counted each of the bouncinesss. The existent figure of bouncinesss was so written down following to the kids ‘s conjectures so the kids could compare their conjectures to the existent figure of bouncinesss. This activity involved the kids holding to utilize their senses, both touch and sight, to come up with a sensible conjecture of how many bouncinesss there would b e. They had to utilize their anterior cognition of balls they had experience of resiling in order to come up with their conjectures. When be aftering for this activity it would hold been utile to execute an evocation activity. It is really of import to find what present the kids are working at and to learn them harmonizing to their ability. Evocation is a stipulation to altering the kids ‘s different constructs. There are three conditions that are necessary for of import acquisition to take topographic point. The stuff that is presented must do sense or lucifer experience. The kid must cognize plenty relevant information and they need to be able to larn meaningfully. I unluckily did non show such an activity. If I had it would hold allowed me to be after the activity more efficaciously and derive better responses from the kids as I would hold better understood the kids ‘s degrees and had a better thought of what the kids already knew. ‘Scaffolding ‘ is an of import facet of kid development. Vygotsky defined it as the â€Å" function of instructors and others in back uping the scholar †˜s development and supplying support constructions to acquire to that following phase or degree † . The scaffolds allow a pupil ‘s to construct on anterior cognition and retrieve new information. This is merely what is so of import in the instruction of scientific discipline. Children should be able to construct on the anterior cognition they have with support from the instructor and the experiences they are offered. This is why evocation is so of import. In order to construct on a kid ‘s anterior cognition we must foremost larn what their anterior cognition is. I did nevertheless, consider distinction. Differentiation provides chances for kids of all abilities to show what they know, what they understand and what they can make. It involves offering the kids undertakings which enable them to demo some grounds of what they are capable of at their best. There are two ways to distinguish an activity ; distinction by result and distinction by undertaking. Differentiation by outcome involves all kids set abouting the same undertaking and the distinction is based on the quality of work or response given by the kids. Differentiation by undertaking involves the kids being set a specific undertaking based on their ability degrees. The undertakings may be differentiated on the footing of trouble, the sum of construction or the sum of counsel given or it could be all three. The activity I led was differentiated by result. The kids were all asked to take part in the same undertaking but the quality of the replies and responses given differed based on th e ability of each kid. There are both advantages and disadvantages for each type of distinction. In distinction by outcome the undertaking can be used by each kid and a comparing can be made between their abilities. It avoids holding to judge which students would be suited to which undertaking. It is nevertheless, rather hard to come up with a undertaking that will offer counsel and support for lower degree kids whilst non keeping back the higher degree kids. In the instance of my activity it was non needfully designed to provide for all ability groups in the category. The lower winners found it rather hard to come up with suited words to depict each ball every bit good as sensible estimations when thinking how many times the ball would resile. Again, an evocation activity would hold been improbably utile as it would demo what level the kids are at for that peculiar country of cognition and apprehension. It may besides hold been better to offer somewhat different undertakings coveri ng the same country of larning for the different abilities of the category. Distinguishing by undertaking allows the undertaking to be matched to the ability of the kid so all degrees of ability can see some success. Although the lower ability kids may hold taken away something from the activity they may hold gotten more from it had it been catered for their specific ability. It may hold besides helped to force the higher winners further by offering them an activity that was a little more ambitious than the one set. Measuring students advancement is another of import facet in order to estimate patterned advance. For this peculiar activity I chose to execute formative appraisal. This was due to the nature of the activity. The kids did non bring forth any written work that could hold been assessed. Formative appraisal, besides known as appraisal for larning ( AoF ) is all about measuring advancement, analyzing the information and eating back in a positive manner. This is so that any actions to be taken can be agreed by the kid and the instructor. It besides allows the learning methods to be changed so that any demands, of the kid, that have been identified can be met. Assessment for larning involves sharing any learning ends with the kids, self-assessment and peer reappraisal. Assessment for larning or formative appraisal is an on-going procedure and encourages the kids to take more duty for their ain acquisition. It besides involves the kids being aware of what they are larning and the intent of it. In hindsight this is something that I should hold implemented in my activity. Although they kids appeared to bask it and acquire involved, all offering their ain sentiments and positions, they likely did non cognize or understand why they were making it. Giving feedback to the kids is an of import facet after appraisal. Research has shown that giving feedback on mistakes and offering the chance for the kids to place their ain schemes for bettering their work in the hereafter is straight linked to important betterment. It is critical nevertheless, non to compare one kid to another or do mention to kids ‘s ability. It is besides thought that rating work can hold a negative consequence on public presentation and should hence be avoided. During this activity I made certain to promote kids to believe of new descriptive words and offered congratulations for any original or â€Å" out of the box † thought. I besides offered verbal congratulations for things that certain ki ds did that were good for them ; this was different depending on the ability of the kid. Due to the nature of this activity there was no written appraisal involved, this is nevertheless, another signifier of formative appraisal. It assess each kid ‘s advancement and offers constructive feedback. Written feedback can include teacher-led appraisal and child self-assessment. I decided to be after a practical activity as the kids in this peculiar category had small experience of scientific discipline activities and it was of import to capture their attending and excite them. Practical activities are one of the chief characteristics of learning scientific discipline. There are 4 chief functions of practical activities. They are used for deriving information, constructs and rules ; for developing procedure accomplishments ; to heighten acquisition of the nature of scientific discipline and for bettering attitudes towards scientific discipline. Although larning about scientific constructs is considered to be one the most of import facets, there is small grounds to propose that practical activities add to the acquisition of these constructs. What there is small uncertainty about nevertheless, is that practical activities change peoples positions of scientific discipline, that they about ever better kids ‘s enjoyment of scientific discipline and that pro cedure accomplishments are more efficaciously taught. They provide a common set of experiences for the kids that can be used in treatments with the whole category or with persons. It was surely the best pick for this group of kids. They were engaged and excited about the constructs they were larning approximately and this helped them to be engaged for a drawn-out period of clip. It is besides more likely that the kids will retrieve the experience of physically resiling the balls to work out the job instead than merely discoursing it. Scientific question is thought to be a really of import facet of learning scientific discipline within the National Curriculum. It gives instructors the chance to force the pupils frontward and to heighten their apprehension of the topic. By leting the kids to take portion in probes it allows them to inquire inquiries, use their experimental accomplishments to come up with sensible accounts for why things happen and investigate facets of the universe.Decision:I have to hold that scientific question is a really of import facet of learning scientific discipline. Children need to be able to inquire inquiries and figure things out for themselves. In order for this to go on I feel that practical experiences of scientific constructs is something all kids should acquire the opportunity to take portion in during scientific discipline lessons, particularly in primary schools. Children need to hold strong, positive experiences of scientific discipline for a solid foundation for the hereafter. Peoples of all ages remember more of what they do that of what they hear, hence, I feel to learn scientific discipline efficaciously there needs to be practical activities offered to kids. This is non the lone of import facet of scientific discipline instruction, nor is the lone thing needed in order to learn scientific discipline efficaciously. Evocation activities need to take topographic point so that the kids ‘s abilities and cognition can be noted and the lessons differentiated consequently. For the kids to hold genuinely meaningful experiences they need to experience like they can fall in in. Therefore the lessons need to provide for all. Assessment, excessively, is critical. It is needed to maintain path of the kids ‘s advancement and their abilities. In short, kids need to hold solid, positive experiences that are catered towards their demands in order to hold a positive mentality on larning the scientific disciplines.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Legacy of Algeria

Algeria remains one of France’s most valuable possessions during the colonial period. The country was a French colony for over a century until the early 1960s when nationalist agitation caused independence to be granted to the country. This form of revolt, which began gathering momentum in 1954 and lasted till 1962, is what became known as the Algerian War. Even though this war ended since 1962, the memories of the War are still present especially in France. Moreover, this war appears to be the most significant part of France’s involvement in Algeria.This essay will therefore look at the legacy created in France as a result of their involvement in Algeria. The essay will also examine the huge debates and controversies created by memories of the war in France. Aspects of brutality by the French police will equally be examined.Torture was a significant part of the Algerian and this aspect has sparked a series of debates and controversies in France ever since the war ended . During the more than one hundred thousand Algerians were tortured[1] by European born French police officers and pro-French Algerians who had been known to be very brutal when they handled matters relating to French Algerians in Paris. Several interrogation centers were created and the torture of Algerians by French auxiliary police was synonymous to these interrogation centers. Methods used where water torture, impaling on bottles and electric shocking.[2]   It was incidents like these that made the Algerian War to be labeled the most brutal in all colonial battles that France got involved in. In fact the conduct of the war welcomed a lot of criticisms from the French public without even bordering about the goals of the war. It is therefore no surprising that French men termed the war, â€Å"dirty war†.[3]Torture was so common to the extent that General Paul Aussaresses, whom at the time of the war was working with the French Special Service in Algeria and   who took p art in the battle of Algiers, which was aimed at hunting and destroying Algerian fighters acknowledged the use of torture when he held that,Among the operations in which I participated, most led to interrogations.Others to simple liquidation, which occurred on the spot. . . . [T]hose who  arrived in Tourelles [an interrogation center] were considered to be so  guilty that they did not leave alive. . . . [T]orture was used systematically if  the prisoner refused to talk, which was often the case. Rarely were prisoners  who were interrogated at night alive in the morning. If they talked ornot,  Ã‚  they were generally neutralized. . . . Summary executions were an integral  part of the task of maintaining order[4]The employment of torture by French police in the Algerian war created a significant impact in France, years after the War was over. To begin with, it sparked up a huge debate in France and the issue was whether torture was used during the Algerian war. This debate has been going ever since the war ended. For instance, in 1979, the issue about torture became so popular, to then that public opinion had to be sampled to see those who believed that torture was part of France’s colonial rule in Algeria. More than 50% of opinions sampled confirmed that they believe torture had been part and parcel of the Algerian crisis.[5] In later year the issue received more recognition to the extent that, opinion polls showed 94% of the population holding the belief that torture had been employed by French police during the Algerian War.The legacy left behind by the Algerian had serious ramifications in French politics. The question on torture again received recognition for the role it played during presidential campaigns in France. This was the case of the presidential elections in France in France in 2002. During campaigns major candidates were demanded to justify their stance with regards to the use of torture Algerian war.[6] Majority of the candida tes in this case were out rightly against torture.[7] In fact, ever since the war ended, the manner in which the war was handled has always aroused criticisms with emphasis placed on the use of torture. How ever, it is important to understand that French citizens have never really criticized the motive behind their involvement in Algeria. Instead, they criticize the manner in which the government reacted when things started going wrong in Algeria.The Algerian case also left it trade mark in the legal department in France. This is because, years after the incident, some of the perpetrators of what has been considered as cowardly acts have been brought before the court. Moreover, trials of this kind have drawn a lot of attention from the press. A case in point is the trial of Maurice Papon, who was the brainchild behind the suppression of Algerian demonstrators. Papon was a government functionary in France’s possessions in North Africa during the 1940s and 50sThis case was pres ided over in Bordeaux by Jean Louis Castagnà ©dà ©s.[8]During this trial, Papon asserted that he was never in support of the use of torture. He pointed out the he was never in control of the military, the main perpetrators of these acts, therefore, there was little he could do to stop them.[9] Even though Papon was freed for medical reasons, this case went further to strengthen the legacy of the Algerian situation in France. For instance the case pushed writers to work and in the process a number of works on Papon were produced. General works were also written on Papon and his trial. One of such works was marc Olivier Bruch’s scholarly study of the French administration under Vichy, titled Pour Servir l’Etat Francaise.On the commercial level some of these works gained a lot of grounds. This could be seen in the steady variety of books, movies and television shows, which came out to help bring to light the degree of torture experienced during the Algerian adventure. O ne of these movies, perhaps the most commercially successful, titled Avoir Vingt ans dans l’Aures released in 1971 and the documentary La Guerre d’Algerie and a lot of other documentary revealed the hidden practices of the of the French army in Algeria.[10]In fact Pascal Ory has tried to summarize central theme underlying most of the French movies and documentaries on the Algerian war when hen he writes, â€Å"French cinema did everything it could to give the image of the Algerian War as a ‘dirty war’† Also, another history of French movies holds the position that â€Å"Torture obsesses the cinema of the Algerian War.[11] Most of these movies and documentaries have gained a lot of grounds on the commercial level.Another legacy left by the Algerian war in France has been the commemorations in France marking the 1961 massacre. This incident occurred when dozens of Algerians were peacefully marching in Paris on October 17 1961. These of Algerians were ruthlessly killed. During the early years of the French government acknowledged the need for regular commemorations to mark this incident. The most outstanding was that held on the occasion of the 40th anniversary. This event was commemorated with demonstrations, exhibitions, film showings, and a colloquium held in the National Assembly, with distinguished panelists and some of the survivors of the event.[12]The legacy created by the Algerian questions in France has created a lot of controversy in France. For instance, national petition came demanding that the 1961 massacre be labeled a crime against humanity. This petition was welcomed by many intellectual elites amongst them were Pierre Bourdieu, Maurice Agulhon, Madeleine Rà ©bà ©rioux, Jacques Derrida. Such calls pushed the Paris City Council to affix a plaque on the Seine Bridge where several Algerians were dumped in to the river Seine on the day of demonstration. It even took time before the decision on what was to be writt en on the plaque. The wordings were carved on the plaque affixed on the left bank of the bridge crossing River Seine: To the memory of all the Algerians killed during the bloody repression of the peaceful demonstration of 17 October1961.†[13] Many human right groups and leftist have also welcomed the position that that the massacre be considered a crime against humanity.Another area of controversy in the Algerian crisis is centered on the proper word to term it. The French never wanted to consider it a war, instead they less hard phrases such a move to maintain order have always been preferred. However, a new understanding stemming from the rising concerns of the occurrences during the conflict made the French parliament in 1999 to label the Algerian case a war. This new development seems to have weakened the stance of many with regards to the horrors of the conflict.[14] This indicates the impact created by the Algerian crisis in France if one considers the fact that the conf lict has been a call for concern right in the French Assembly.Another area of controversy has been on the impact of trials like the case of Maurice Papon. People have been asking questions on whether it is necessary to try somebody for a crime committed some fifty years back. The French government sees it different. For instance, France which is one of those countries championing the course of democracy and human has to do something keep her credibility towards these this course.Moreover, it is imperative for trials of this kind to take place so that they could act as preventive measure for those who ever find their self in situations like the case in Algeria.Above all, there has also been a huge debate on the impact trials of this kind could have at the level of pedagogy.From the above, it is clear that the Algerian question has left a big scar on the French society judging from the memories of the war, which keeps circulating in France and among French people and Algerians. Moreov er, some people still remain divided on certain aspects of the war and it is this situation that has sparked up controversies when talking about the Algerian war.ReferenceCohen, William B. â€Å"The Algerian War and the Revision of France’s Overseas Mission†.Project Muse.Golsan, Richard J. â€Å"Vichy Afterlife† History and Counter History in Postwar France.Lincoln and London: University of Nebraska Press, 2000.[1] William B. Cohen, â€Å"The Algerian War and the Revision of France’s Overseas Mission†, Project Muse, 228. [2] Richard J. Golsan, â€Å"Vichy Afterlife† History and Counter History in Postwar France (Lincoln and London: University of Nebraska Press, 2000), 167. [3] Cohen, â€Å"The Algerian War †, 229. [4] Ibid, 232. [5] Ibid, 230. [6] Ibid, 236. [7] Ibid. [8] Golsan, â€Å"Vichy Afterlife†, 158. [9] Ibid, 162. [10] Cohen, â€Å"The Algerian War †, 229 [11] Ibid, 229. [12] Ibid, 234. [13] Ibid, 235. [14] Cohe n 231

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Natural Family Planning Essay

To begin this essay I will first explain what Natural Family Planning is and I will then turn to take a look at the essay written by Joseph W. Koterski entitled Theological Reflections on Natural Family Planning. Natural Family Planning ‘is the general title for the scientific, natural and moral methods of family planning that can help married couples either achieve or postpone pregnancies. Methods of Natural Family Planning depend on the observation paid to the naturally occurring signs and symptoms of the fertile and infertile phases of a woman’s menstrual cycle. The main idea behind Natural Family Planning is that no methods of artificial contraception are used. Such methods of artificial contraception include drugs, devices or surgical procedures which are used to avoid pregnancy.   The first question Koterski asks is ‘Can the use of Natural Family Planning to avoid pregnancy be morally justi?ed? He then goes on to state that many discussions come to the conclusion that Natural Family Planning is acceptable providing one does not have a ‘contraceptive mentality. The writer agrees with this statement, however one finds themselves asking does the whole idea of Natural Family Planning not have a somewhat contraceptive mentality to it also? The article then puts across the idea that procreation is good within marriage however if a couple do have a contraceptive mentality it should be for a moral reason such as ‘spacing births a bit for the good of the mother’s health, or caring better for the sake of one’s existing children, or for the good of the marriage in a time of great pressures of some sort If these scenarios do come into a couples lives who use Natural Family Planning they are still remaining open to having children at the se times however they are just hoping they will not until these scenarios have sorted themselves out. It appears that throughout the article the writer continually relates back to the subject about having a contraceptive mentality. He says on a frequent basis that if the reason for a couple having a contraceptive mentality is morally for the right reasons then it is okay while still using Natural Family Planning. Compared to using contraception where the act itself is  morally objectionable whether the intentions are good or bad, there does not seem to be anything intrinsically objectionable to a couple deciding whether or not to have intercourse at a particular time during the womans menstrual cycle. If the couple have a good knowledge of Natural family Planning and are trying to avoid having more children then nothing should change about their actions during sexual relations apart from the time at which they have them and knowing when not to have intercourse. The author seems to be saying there is nothing wrong with this approach, however many a person would say this is having a contraceptive mentality. The writer then poses two questions aimed especially at those religious people who do not believe in intercourse unless between a couple for procreative reasons: 1. Are we morally required to have all the children possible for us, given  our current understanding of the natural rhythms of fertility? 2. Are we morally required to refrain from intercourse when we know  as a couple that we are infertile? These questions open up quite a strong argument for those sceptical about the idea that intercourse should only be for procreative purposes. These would possibly argue that sexual intercourse is also for unifying purposes between a couple and therefore this would prevent a couple from growing closer. John Murray also states that it is not the woman’s fault that she is naturally infertile therefore why should she have to abstain from intercourse: If you were naturally blind, you could not do anything further to make yourself blind. So: when a woman is naturally infertile [and knows it] she cannot do anything to make her acts of sexual intercourse infertile [due to her natural infertility] The point is not that she may not do so; she cannot do so. The facts and figures of the matter according to Jack Dominian are ‘currently ninety-nine percent of sexual activity is knowingly and deliberately non-procreative. Dominian then continues on with his argument  stating the majority ‘need only a few sexual acts to achieve their desired family size. It appears Dominion is saying therefore that contraceptive methods are the easiest way of controlling family size. The writings of Paul Quay S.J. Then continue on the essay. Quay mentions how estrus is a sign of fertility in the female species of animals and the male species can pick up on this. Humans are different however and the only way for us to know is by knowing how to ‘read the cycles of temperature and cervical fluid as signs of fertility and infertility. The article continues on to mention the whole symbolism around sexual intercourse. When a couple have intercourse it is almost like a language between them that only they can understand. Koterski uses Quays argument to say that the physical union of intercourse symbolises the union of persons in marriage. The whole idea of nakedness between a couple having intercourse is to symbolize their openness and vulnerability to one another. The whole point of this argument appears to be this is the reason why only when married should one engage in intercourse. If relating back to Natural Family Planning and not having a contraceptive menta lity ‘Traditionally the reason given is that sex is linked to procreation and that the fruit of this, children, need two parents to look after them and give them legitimacy and status. As we carry on through the document and take a look at the application of Quay’s understanding to Natural Family Planning we see how it states the Church should have as many children as possible. The task seems to be to ‘bring all of these who are naturally born to be reborn of the water and the Holy Spirit of the womb of the church by baptism. The document continues on to focus more towards the Church and how even though one may be born to Christian parents this does not mean one is a Christian. It is only through water and the Holy Spirit that we can be brought from this world of sin into the Christian community and the Church. It is only through God however that these children should be brought into this world and not as items of property, therefore conception should be one hundred per cent natural and not through in vitro fertilisation or any such procedures. The authors final few points are quite valid when he states the the infertile period for a couple who are using the method of Natural Family Planning is a period for the woman’s body to rest before releasing the next ovum. Natural family planning should also allow the woman’s body to rest during the natural spacing of pregnancies. In this sense by abstaining from intercourse it is an expression of love on the man’s behalf as he is caring for his wife. The main point the author is trying to get across is that some of the time, even though intercourse is a way of expressing love, abstinence can sometimes be for the greater good of the family and the relationship. To conclude, this essay states what Natural Family Planning is and the many different aspects to it. As with everything it has its pros and cons however if practised properly it allows a couple to do as the Church teaches and ‘make a decision about how many children to have in a wise and loving manner – trying to bear in mind various needs, such as health, their existing children, society’s needs, etc.’13 The whole idea about making Natural Family Planning successful is not to have a contraceptive mentality. This however is a mentality that the majority have and as stated by Jack Dominion ‘ninety-nine per cent of sexual activity is knowingly and deliberately non-procreative. Bibliography Dominian, Jack, ‘Masterbation and Premarital Sexual Intercourse’ , God Sex and Love (London: SCM Press, 1989), Koterski, Joseph W. Theological Reflections on Natural Family Planning, http://www.nvjournal.net/images/stories/SampleArticles/6.4.pdf Murray, John, Lecture notes. http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/marriage-and-family/natural-family-planning/what-is-nfp/

Saturday, September 14, 2019

The Return: Shadow Souls Chapter 43

Elena had a feeling she couldn't quite describe. It wasn't letdown. It was†¦let up. For what seemed like most of her life she had been searching for Stefan. But now she had him back again, quite safe and clean (he'd had a long bath while she insisted on scrubbing him gently with all sorts of brushes and pumice stones, and then a shower, and then a rather cramped shower with her). His hair was drying into the silky soft dark shock – a little longer than he usually kept it – that she knew. He hadn't had energy for frivolities like keeping his hair short and clean before. Elena understood that. And now†¦there were no guards or kitsune around to spy on them. There was nothing to keep them from each other. They had been playful in the shower, splashing each other, Elena always making sure to keep her feet on the no-slip guard and ready to try to support Stefan's lanky weight. But they could not be playful now. The shower's spray had been very helpful, too – at concealing the teardrops that kept flowing down Elena's cheeks. She could – oh, dear heaven – count and feel each one of his ribs. He was just bones and skin, her beautiful Stefan, but his green eyes were alive, sparkling and dancing in his pale face. After they were dressed in nightclothes they simply sat on the bed for a little while. Sitting together, both breathing – Stefan had got into the habit from being around humans so much and, recently, from trying to eke out the small amount of nutrition he received – in synchronicity, and both feeling the other's warm body beside them†¦it was almost too much. Then, almost tentatively, Stefan groped for Elena's hand, and catching it, held it in both of his, turning it over wonderingly. Elena was swallowing and swallowing, trying to make a start in a conversation, felt herself practically radiating bliss. Oh, I never want anything more, she thought, although she knew that soon enough she would want to talk, and to hold, and to kiss, and to feed Stefan. But if someone had asked her if she would have accepted just this, sitting together, communicating by touch and love alone, she would have accepted it. Before she knew it, she was talking, words that came like bubbles out of molasses, only these were bubbles from her soul. â€Å"I thought that somehow I might lose this time. That I'd won so many times, and that this time something would teach me a lesson and you†¦wouldn't make it.† Stefan was still wondering over her hand, bending industriously to kiss each separate finger. â€Å"You call ‘winning' dying in pain and sunlight to save my worthless life – and my even more worthless brother's?† â€Å"I call this a better kind of winning,† Elena admitted. â€Å"Any time we get to be together is winning. Any moment – even in that dungeon†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Stefan winced, but Elena had to finish her thought. â€Å"Even there, to look in your eyes, to touch your hand, to know that you were looking at me and touching me – and that you were happy – well, that's winning, in my book.† Stefan lifted his eyes to hers. In the dim light, the green looked suddenly dark and mysterious. â€Å"And one more thing,† he whispered. â€Å"Because I am what I am†¦and because your crowning glory isn't that glorious golden cloud of hair, but an aura that is†¦ineffable. Indescribable. Beyond any words†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Elena had thought they would sit and simply gaze at each other, drowning in each other's eyes, but that wasn't happening. Stefan's expression had slipped and Elena realized how close to bloodlust – and to death – he still really was. Hurriedly, Elena pulled her damp hair to one side of her neck, and then she leaned back, knowing Stefan would catch her. He did this, but although Elena tilted her chin back, he tilted it down in his two hands to look at her. â€Å"Do you know how much I love you?† he asked. His entire face was masked now, enigmatic and strangely thrilling. â€Å"I don't think you do,† he whispered. â€Å"I've watched and watched how you were willing to do anything, anything to save me†¦but I don't think you know how much that love has been building up, Elena†¦.† Delicious shivers were going down Elena's spine. â€Å"Then you'd better show me,† she whispered. â€Å"Or I might not believe that you mean it – â€Å" â€Å"I'll show you what I mean,† Stefan whispered back. But when he bent down it was to kiss her softly. The feelings inside Elena – that this starving creature wanted to kiss her instead of going at once for her throat, reached a peak that she could not explain in thoughts or words, but only by drawing Stefan's head so that his mouth rested on her neck. â€Å"Please,† she said. â€Å"Oh, Stefan, please.† Then she felt the quick sacrificial pains, and then Stefan was drinking her blood, and her mind, which had been fluttering around like a bird in a lighted room, now saw its nest and its mate and swooped up and up and up to at last reach unity with its best-beloved. After that there was no need for clumsy things like words. They communicated in thoughts as pure and clear as shimmering gems, and Elena rejoiced because all of Stefan's mind was open to her, and none of it was walled off or dark and there were no boulders of secrets or chained and weeping children†¦ What! she heard Stefan exclaim voicelessly. A child in chains? A mountain-sized boulder? Who could have that in their mind – ? Stefan broke off, knowing the answer, even before Elena's lightning-swift thought could tell him. Elena felt the clear green wave of his pity, spiced by the natural anger of a young man who has gone through the depths of hell, but untainted by the terrible black poison of hatred of brother for brother. When Elena had finished explaining all she knew about Damon's mental processes, she said, And I don't know what to do! I've done everything I could, Stefan, I've – I've even loved him. I gave him everything that wasn't yours alone. But I don't know if it's made even the slightest difference. He called Matt â€Å"Matt† instead of Mutt, Stefan interrupted. Yes. I†¦noticed that. I'd kept asking him to, but it never seemed to matter. It mattered this way: you managed to change him. Not many people can. Elena wrapped him in a tight embrace, stopped, worried that it was too tight, and glanced at him. He smiled and shook his head. He was already looking like a person rather than a death camp survivor. You should keep using it, Stefan said voicelessly. Your influence over him is strongest. I will – without any artificial Wings, Elena promised. Then she worried that Stefan would think her too presumptuous – or too attached. But one look at Stefan was enough to assure her that she was doing the right thing. They clung to each other. It wasn't as hard as Elena had imagined it would be – handing Stefan over to other humans to be bled. Stefan had a clean pair of pajamas on, and the first thing he said to all three donors was, â€Å"If you get frightened or change your mind, just say so. I can hear perfectly well, and I'm not in bloodlust. And anyway, I'll probably sense it if you're not enjoying it before you do, and I'll stop. And finally – thank you – thank you all. I've decided to break my oath tonight because there's still some little chance that if I slept I wouldn't wake up tomorrow without you.† Bonnie was horrified and indignant and furious. â€Å"You mean you couldn't sleep all that time because you were afraid to – to†¦?† â€Å"I did fall asleep from time to time, but thank fortune – thank God – I always woke up again. There were times when I didn't dare move to conserve energy, but somehow Elena kept finding ways to come to me, and every single time she came, she brought me some kind of sustenance.† He gave Elena a look that sent her heart spinning out of her chest and high into the stratosphere. And then she set up a schedule, with Stefan being fed every hour on the hour, and then she and the others left the first volunteer, Bonnie, alone, so as to be more comfortable. It was the next morning. Damon had already been out to visit Leigh, the antiques-seller's niece, who had seemed very glad to see him. And now he was back, to look with scorn at the slug-a-beds who were distributed all around the boardinghouse. That was when he saw the bouquet. It was heavily sealed down with wards – amulets to help get it through the dimensional gap. There was something powerful in there. Damon cocked his head to one side. Hmm†¦I wonder what? Dear Diary, I don't know what to say. We're home. Last night we each had a long bath†¦and I was half-disappointed, because my favorite long-handled back-scrubbing brush wasn't there, and there was no star ball to make dreamy music for Stefan – and the water was LUKEWARM! And Stefan went to see if the water heater was turned on all the way and met Damon going to do the same thing! Only, they couldn't because we're home again. But I woke up a couple of hours ago for a few minutes to see the most beautiful sight in the world†¦a sunrise. Pale pink and eerie green in the east, with nighttime still full dark in the west. Then deeper rose in the sky, and the trees all wreathed in dew clouds. Then a shiny glory from the edge of the horizon and dark rose, cream, and even a green melon color in the sky, Finally, a line of fire and in an instant all the colors change. The line becomes an arc, the western sky is deepest deepest blue, and then up comes the sun bringing warmth and light and color to the green trees and the sky begins to become celestial blue – celestial just means heavenly, although somehow, I have a delicious shivery feeling when I say it. The sky becomes a gemlike, celestial, cerulean blue and the golden sun begins to pour energy, love, light, and every good thing onto the world. Who could not be happy to watch this while Stefan held her? We who are so lucky as to be born into the light – who see it every day and never think about it, we're blessed. We could have been born shadow souls who live and die in crimson darkness, never even knowing that somewhere there is something better.