Research Essay

â€Å"Reading is neither neutral, nor natural. † How does your context as a reader influence your reading of The Dreamers? Reading is neither neutral, nor natural. Readers are constantly positioned to make their own ideas and opinions of different texts based on their own understand and connecting of their personal context. In Jack Davis’ The Dreamers the descriptions of the tribal family in the first scene provide a strong, central reading that while I would accept, the earlier generations from those times would challenge the mutual reading of the harmonious tribal family.The different generations of past and present times would also have many contrasting views on particular characters such as Worru. Additionally, the study of past texts, such as The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams and Coonardoo by Katherine Suzanne Prichard, allows me to comprehend the meaning behind the symbol of alcohol in The Dreamers and how it is a representation of escapism for people in d egrading ways of society.In the beginning of The Dreamers by Jack Davis, we are described a scene of a tribal family walking, relaxed, across an escarpment with children happily singing songs of cultural meaning, relaying their innocence and happy family-based futures: â€Å"Dawn. We hear the distant echoing of children singing a tribal song. A tribal family walks slowly across the escarpment silhouetted against the first light of dawn. The central, prominent reading brought forward by Davis’ descriptions and symbolism of the melodious, peaceful tribal family is one I accept because of Davis’ way of showing the harmonious nature of the aboriginal culture and way in their environment, in the world they know. However, the white generations of the 1980s would contrast and challenge this communal reading because of their own racial attitudes and beliefs of Aboriginals.To the whites of the 1980s, Aboriginals were filthy and worthless individuals and therefore the white soc iety audiences were unable to cope with and respect the cultural identity and way of life of Aboriginals. These confrontational views of The Dreamers show how reading is not neutral. Every generation is different, therefore they all respond to particular readings inversely due to their own personal context. This reinforces that reading is not neutral.Worru is a character in The Dreamers who is exceedingly diverse from the members of his family. Worru is the representation of Davis’ views of his own complicated culture and aboriginal context. Worru is desperately trying to hold onto his Nyoongah (aboriginal) culture that within him has ‘survived civilisation’ through reminiscing about life before white settlement and his language: â€Å"I walked down the track to where the camp place used to be and voices, laughing, singing, came surging back to me. In Act One Scene One, Worru sings of his past, something that is all but real now that he is going through a lost a s a result of living in a suburbia-dominated world. Through the study of Coonardoo by Katherine Suzanne Prichard, I am able to see that the aboriginal generational views would be ones of sympathy and empathetic understanding, as aboriginals would be able to relate heavily with Worru, knowing just how much they lost because of the dramatic change in the way they wanted to live.On the contrary, a white audience of the same era wouldn’t be able to understand how aboriginals couldn’t adapt to such a â€Å"easy† lifestyle, and be unable to connect to the Aboriginal background and estrangement of their race. Readers who have read more texts than most are able to see and understand how changed contexts but parallel themes are cooperative in identifying symbols. Through my reading The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams and The Dreamers has allowed me to understand the symbol of alcohol and its meaning of escapism in both plays respectively.Tom Wingfield from The Glas s Menagerie drinks constantly, trying to escape the horrors of the Great Depression in America. He drinks to forget his issues and withdraw from a pitiful reality. This reading allows me to understand the reasoning behind why, in The Dreamers, Worru, Peter, Eli and Roy all drink constantly – using money needed for food and other essentials: â€Å"The full bottle is now nearly empty. The heat and the alcohol are taking their toll. † The characters drink alcohol to also escape from the cultural oppression of white society and the failing ways of aboriginal life.They see alcohol as the only way to forget what has been done to them, as it is an influential depressant, and using it to disengage from a reality that would see the complete deprivation of the aboriginal way – a way they cherish. An informed reading is not something that just comes naturally, it must be taught and learnt over the reading of numerous texts, therefore reading is not natural. In Conclusion, readings are mostly advanced through a readers own individual context and experiences.My interpretations on a tribal aboriginal family were analogized by the white generations of the 1980s view on aboriginals, establishing that reading is not neutral. The diverse generational views formed unlike perspectives on who would sympathise with the hostility of the aboriginal race, my own background through the study of the other texts Coonardoo, The Dreamers and The Glass Menagerie has given me a purer understanding of how alcohol embodies escapism for people in contemporary society. All these factors have established my view that reading is neither neutral, nor natural.

No Good Reasons To Believe in Dualism Essay

Are there any good reasons to believe in dualism? Dualism, the philosophical theory that states that there are two kinds of substance: mental and physical, is now largely discredited by the world’s leading philosophers. It first came to prominence through Renà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Descartes in his Meditations as he tried to come to terms with the fact that most of his knowledge was either false or that he did not have enough evidence to believe in it firmly enough. For many centuries the idea was debated and reclassified, changing slightly from philosopher to philosopher and being totally rejected by others. The alternative to dualism is monism, the idea that mental and physical substances are one and the same; that is that the mind is or is contained within (in the tissue of), the brain. At first it appeared that dualism was indeed a logical conception, as features of the mind and the body seemed very different indeed. Descartes pointed out that while one could imagine oneself without physical features, it was impossible to imagine oneself without a mind; indeed the very action of attempting this was enough to prove that a mind was present. This was the basis of Descartes’ theory to draw out basic knowledge that he could not be deceived about. Due to this distinction it seemed logical to conclude, using Leibniz’s Law, that physical and mental entities were indeed separate. However, Descartes had made a mistake in assuming that his clear and distinct perceptions of a thing made that thing possible. For example, I can clearly and distinctly conceive of a unicorn, but that does not mean that they exist. (Lewis Carroll parodied this in Through the Looking Glass, in which the Red Queen tells Alice she imagines several impossible things before breakfast. Presumably she has a clear and distinct perception of these things, as when Alice attempts it, she is told she is not trying hard enough.) Also, I can just as clearly perceive of something not being as of it being, and as something cannot both be and not be, it would seem that this theory for basing something upon an unalterable internal proposition falls down. So, the argument from clear and distinct perception cannot be used here as it is just as easy to conceive of the mind and body being separate as it is for them to be one and the same. There are many scientific and logical arguments in favour of monism, Occam’s Razor, for example, a theory which asks us to take the simpler solution to a problem over the more complicated theory. For example, before the biology of animals was worked out scientifically, it was believed that all living creatures had an attribute called vitalism, which kept it alive. Now we know the biology, we can use this much simpler explanation. Here it can be applied easily: obviously it is simpler to believe in one substance than two, one of which does not conform to the laws of physics. There is also scientific evidence that shows us how damaging or experimenting with the brain, which is undeniably physical, can affect a person’s mental behaviour. Performing a lobotomy, for instance, can totally alter a person’s personality – turning them from being calm and rational to being crude and rash, or vice versa. Similarly, stimulating neurons on the Thingybob Strip, which crosses the top of the brain, can cause sensations all over the body. It may be that prodding a part of this strip can make your elbow tingle in a most delightful manner or make your thumb feel as if it is being dragged through warm treacle. It would seem from this that the these feelings are to be found in the prodded part of the brain and this is where the mental is to be found within the physical. These reasons show that monism is probably the more scientifically favourable position, but are there any reasons that can show Dualism to be the more logical choice? Leibniz’s Law might argue for dualism in that there being differences between the physical and the mental, they must therefore be separate substances. For example, having a chunk of the physical removed does not mean a part of the mental has also been removed. In fact, an awful lot of the physical body can be harmed, even in the brain, before there is a definite mental side effect. Surely, say the dualists, if the some parts of the mental were contained within certain parts of the brain, for example, if the capacity to taste lentils were located solely in a small part of the brain, and that part were to be removed we would no longer have the capacity to taste lentils. But a lot of the brain can be removed, and so, if there were set areas we would be removing certain abilities of the mental. Therefore, the mental must be separate from the physical. However, it is true that removing some areas of the brain will prevent the mental from performing certain capabilities. It is possible to find out which areas of the brain are functioning when fuelled by particular stimuli, and if, when doing this we slice out those areas of the brain, in some (but not all) cases, those functions will no longer be possible. Also, the left side of the brain and the right side provide vastly different functions – one being more practical and other being more intellectual. This would seem to back up the monist theory that the mind is located within certain parts of the brain. Another counter argument to Dualism could be contained within Feigl’s concept of Nomological Danglers. If the mental is indeed distinct from the physical it cannot be present within the same world as the physical things we know of, as removing physicals things would inevitably reveal the mental substance. Therefore it follows that it is connected to this physical world in some other way. However, Feigl tells us that it is ridiculous to believe that there is a separate type of law for these substances, which allows them to exist dependently of the rest of physics. Surely the mental substances cannot be ‘dangling’ outside of the realms of reality? These masses of arguments for monism overwhelm the poorer, outdated arguments for dualism, which stem from a less scientifically advanced age, in which the solutions appeared to work logically, based on a more internal philosophy of contemplation, which is now being replaced by a more practical philosophy, backed up by the sciences. Hence it is not unfair to say that previous ideas that worked in favour of dualism are no longer good reasons to believe the theory and that as we have better reasons to take the theory of monism seriously, we must subscribe to it, and not dualism, as the correct theory.

An Analysis of Leadership Models

An Analysis of Leadership Models Each theory provides a model for effectively steering an organization. Three contemporary theories are widely applied in organizations today; Transactional Leadership, Charismatic leadership and finally transformational leadership. Each of these theories has its strong points weaknesses and challenges in real world application. These are not by any means the only theory – there are many others applied in other leadership situations. A lot of management research has gone into finding the perfect leadership solution. In this paper, we will review three leadership theories, their pros and cons and discuss examples of each theory. Page 1 Transactional Leadership Transactional Leadership model Leadership style plays a crucial role in the development of an organization. It is a leadership style that is often used by many companies assumes that people are motivated strictly by reward and punishment. This style generally does not appeal to the values, morals, or other intrinsic characteristics of most people. The transactional leader is highly focused on task, provides very clear direction, and oversees productivity in detail. When a subordinate fails, the next step is a penalty or punishment. The introduction of the task versus people orientation and the idea of leadership styles are widely accepted today. The model does have a downside, however: It does not consider other potential factors that may influence outcomes and therefore affect leadership effectiveness. While a two-dimensional task-versus-people perspective might be a helpful way to talk about leader behaviors, it by no means tells the whole story about leadership. Research continues to this day on these important questions, and this has led to additional new theories of leadership (Yukl, Gary A. Yukl). Assumptions ? ? ? ? ? Style The transactional leader works through creating clear structures whereby it is clear what is required of their subordinates, and the rewards that they get for following orders. Punishments are not always mentioned, but they are also well-understood and formal systems of discipline are usually in place. Transactional leadership believes that punishment and reward motivate people People are motivated by reward and punishment. Social systems work best with a clear chain of command. When people have agreed to do a job, a part of the deal is that they cede all authority to their manager. The prime purpose of a subordinate is to do what their manager tells them to do. Page 2 The early stage of Transactional Leadership is in negotiating the contract whereby the subordinate is given a salary and other benefits, and the company (and by implication the subordinate’s manager) gets authority over the subordinate. The „transaction’ is the money or any other award that the company pays to its subordinates for their compliance and effort (Kurnik, 2012). When the Transactional Leader allocates work to a subordinate, they are considered to be fully responsible for it, whether or not they have the resources or capability to carry it out. When things go wrong, then the subordinate is considered to be personally at fault, and is punished for their failure (just as they are rewarded for succeeding). The transactional leader often uses management by exception, working on the principle that if something is operating to defined (and hence expected) performance then it does not need attention. Exceptions to expectation require praise and reward for exceeding expectation, whilst some kind of corrective action is applied for performance below expectation. Transactional leadership has more of a „telling style’. Transactional leadership is based on the fact that reward or punishment is dependent on the performance. Even though researchers have highlighted its limitations, transactional leadership is still prevalent in real workplace and more companies are adopting transactional leadership to increase the performance of its employees. This approach is. Whereas Transformational Leadership has more of a ‘selling’ style, Transactional Leadership, once the contract is in place, takes a ‘telling’ style. Advantages of Transactional leadership This method works in most of the cases, where it’s applied, provided the employees are motivated by rewards. It is a proven compliance strategy, which works best if the top most leader in the hierarchy is capable of making most of the important decisions and is a strong personality. Page 3 Disadvantages of Transactional leadership A powerful and assertive leader will find the transactional model conducive to his way of running things. However, though he will create great followers, he will stunt their growth as leaders. When people get used to doing just what they are told and only as much they are told, they stop thinking ‘out of the box’. Original thinking is not really promoted in this system, because of which, an obedient workforce will be created with a lack of imagination. New leaders will be tough to find from the lower strata of power hierarchy. This leadership model will create a stressful work environment. Productivity will be maintained but innovations and breakthroughs will be tough to find. Examples of Transactional leadership In practice, there is sufficient truth in Behaviorism to sustain Transactional approaches. This is reinforced by the supply-and-demand situation of much employment, coupled with the effects of deeper needs, as in Maslow’s Hierarchy. When the demand for a skill outstrips the supply, then Transactional Leadership often is insufficient, and other approaches are more effective. The main limitation of this leadership is that it assumes that people are largely motivated by simple rewards. Under transactional leadership, employees can’t do much to improve job satisfaction. Transaction leadership has been ineffective in providing skilled employees to their organization. This style of leadership is least interested in changing the work environment. Experts do not recommend this approach. Transactional leadership focuses more on management of punishments and rewards (Kurnik, 2012). Page 4 Charismatic Leadership The sociologist Max Weber defined charismatic authority in 1947 as â€Å"resting on devotion to the exceptional sanctity, heroism or exemplary character of an individual person, and of the normative patterns or order revealed or ordained by him. † Charismatic authority is one of three forms of authority laid out in Weber’s tripartite classification of authority, the other two being traditional authority and rational-legal authority. The concept has acquired wide usage among sociologists. Weber in his writings about charismatic authority, Weber applies the term charisma to â€Å"a certain quality of an individual personality, by virtue of which he is set apart from ordinary men and treated as endowed with supernatural, superhuman, or at least specifically exceptional powers or qualities. These are not accessible to the ordinary person, but are regarded as of divine origin or as exemplary, and on the basis of them the individual concerned is treated as a leader1 Charismatic authority is as said to be power legitimized on the basis of a leader’s exceptional personal qualities or the demonstration of extraordinary insight and accomplishment, which inspire loyalty and obedience from followers. ] As such, it rests almost entirely on the leader; the absence of that leader for any reason can lead to the authority’s power dissolving. However, due to its individual nature and lack of formal organization, charismatic authority depends much more strongly on the pe rceived legitimacy of the authority than Weber? s other forms of authority. Charismatic leaders can lead organizations into new areas, inspire followers, and sometimes obtain extraordinary performance and results from an organization. Conger Kanungo (1998) articulates the five characteristics of charismatic leaders. ? ? Vision and articulation; Sensitivity to the environment; 1 Weber, Maximillan. Theory of Social and Economic Organization. Chapter: â€Å"The Nature of Charismatic Authority and its Routinization† translated by A. R. Anderson and Talcott Parsons, 1947. Originally published in 1922 in German under the title Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft chapter III,  § 10 2 Kendall, Diana, Jane Lothian Murray, and Rick Linden. Sociology in our time (2nd ed. ), 2000. Scarborough, On: Nelson, 438-439. Page 5 ? ? ? Sensitivity to member needs; Personal risk taking; Performing unconventional behaviour. Advantages of charismatic leaders 1) They can sense the gap between what an organization is giving to its followers and what its followers require from the organization. Therefore they are able to create a vision that is in line with these requirements. ) Since members of the organization feel that they re part of this vision they are part of this vision, they support the goals of the organization (employee loyalty) Disadvantages of charismatic leaders 1). Followers may find this transformation uncomfortable and disrupti ve to the workplace or to them personally. Others may have difficulty relating to the leader’s vision of the future. Charismatic leaders also rely heavily on their personal charm, and perceptions, which could be significantly influenced by rumors or â€Å"negative press. † 2) They cause more harm than good. eg Adolf Hitler. 3) They lack of Successors and Visionaries. A charismatic leader often retains the majority of the control in the office because he believes in himself so much. He may have difficulty turning over control to others because he enjoys having the control or doesn’t feel anyone else is able to handle the duties like he can. This type of situation potentially leaves the company without any knowledgeable successors should the charismatic leader leave the company. Without giving others the authority and freedom to take some of the control, the company’s vision for the future is limited to the ideas of the leader. This type of environment may also squash some of the creative problem solving from other employees in the company, particularly if any ideas presented are pushed aside by the leader. 4) A charismatic leader sometimes gets so caught up in his control that he is unable to clearly see potential dangers with the company. The confidence he has in his abilities makes him feel that the company’s success will continue indefinitely. If he doesn’t have any other management Page 6 personnel on the same level with the same information, he may potentially miss a threat to the company’s financial welfare. 5) Overreliance on the leader. The charismatic leader wins over the employees of the company with his motivational leadership style. While employees may find inspiration in this type of leadership, they may also rely too heavily on the person in charge. The employees begin associating the success of the company solely with the leader. They may fail to see that all employees are a valuable part of making the company a success. This saddles the leader with a huge responsibility for both keeping the company running and motivating the staff. Examples of Charismatic Leadership Bill Clinton He was considered one of the most charismatic leaders of our times. Clinton connected and inspired. He had an ability to make his audience feel as though as individuals they were each the most important person in the room. His use of eye contact, infectious smile and self-awareness ensured that he made a powerful impact on those he met. No wander he was the president with the highest opinion poll ratings at the time of leaving the presidency, even though his tenure had been marred by the Monica Lewinsky scandal. Obama is a charismatic leader, during his inauguration as the 44th president U. S. A; over 2 million people were present. He accomplished fetes such as managing to raise funds in an unprecedented fashion, that is, small sums of money from numerous persons . He has been applauded as an outstanding orator, captive speaker and brilliant man. He inspires his followers, moves them to tears and gives the hope. He feverishly wooed the citizens to vote for him. Adolf Hitler Hitler gained this ‘charismatic status’ partially because of his political skill and magnetism. He had experienced considerable success in cutting the unemployment figures and this was essential. However, it was somewhat overshadowed by his unshakeable conviction in his own Page 7 historical role. Hitler often spoke of a ‘mission’ and claimed ‘I go with the certainty of a sleepwalker along the path laid out for me by Providence’. It was this ‘mission’ achievable only for Hitler, which allowed him to transcend bureaucratic processes and become ‘charismatic’. 3 3 Noakes, Jeremy and Pridham, Geoffrey (ed. ) Nazism 1919-1945 Volume II: State, Economy and Society 1933-1939 (Exeter: University of Exeter Press, 2000) Page 8 Transformational Leadership Transformational leadership occurs when a leader takes a visionary position and inspires people to follow. James MacGregor Burns (1978) 1 first introduced the concept of transforming leadership in his descriptive research on political leaders. According to MacGregor, transforming leadership is a process in which â€Å"leaders and followers help each other to advance to a higher level of morale and motivation†. MacGregor differentiated between leadership and management, and related them to characteristics and behaviors. According to MacGregor, the transforming approach creates significant change in people and organizations by changing the employee expectations and aspirations. This is because it redesigns the perceptions and values. Unlike in transactional approach, it is not based on a â€Å"give and take† relationship but on the leader? s personality and abilities, articulation of an energizing vision and challenging goals. He theorized that transforming and transactional leaders were mutually exclusive styles. Bernard M. Bass (1985), expanded upon MacGregor? s work (1985) by explaining the psychological mechanisms that underlie transforming and transactional leadership. Bass used â€Å"transformational† instead of â€Å"transforming† original ideas to develop what is today referred to as Bass? Transformational Leadership Theory. 2 According to Bass, transformational leadership can be defined based on the impact that it has on followers. According to Bass, transformational leaders earn trust, respect and admiration from their followers. Transformational leadership can be found at all leadership levels in an organization. These leaders are seen to have a charismatic appeal in that they are visionary, enthusiastic, passionate, daring, inspiring, energetic, risk takers and thoughtful thinkers. However, charisma alone may not be sufficient to transform an organization. To gear changes, the leaders must exhibit the factors of transformational leadership. The four different components of transformational leadership as suggested by Bernard M. Bass: ? Intellectual Stimulation – Transformational leaders not only challenge the status quo; they also encourage creativity among followers. The leader encourages followers to explore new ways of doing things and new opportunities to learn. Page 9 ? Individualized Consideration – Transformational leadership also involves offering support and encouragement to individual followers. In order to foster supportive relationships, transformational leaders keep lines of communication open so that followers feel free to share ideas and so that leaders can offer direct recognition of each follower? s unique contributions. ? Inspirational Motivation – Transformational leaders have a clear vision that they are able to articulate to followers. These leaders are also able to help followers experience the same passion and motivation to fulfill these goals. ? Idealized Influence – The transformational leaders serves as a role model for followers. Because followers trust and respect the leader, they emulate the leader and internalize his Assumptions People follow a person who inspires them A person with vision and passion can achieve great things Enthusiasm and energy get things done. Leadership style The leadership style adopted is â€Å"selling type†. This involves: Developing the vision – transformational leadership beginnings with development of a vision. This may be done by senior managers, the leader or the team. The leaders then buy and sink into the vision. Selling the vision – the leader then constantly sells the vision to the followers. The leaders seek adoption of the vision through creating trust and any means available to convince the followers. Seeking the way forward – this goes along with the selling activity. Some leaders know the way and simply want others to follow, while others happily lead the exploration of possible routes since they do not have a ready strategy. With a clear vision, though the direction may not be very clear, it is always known. Since this is an ongoing process, a transformational leader will accept the failures and content with whatever progress that is made. Page 10 Leading the charge – the final stage and most critical is that the leader takes the lead and remains central during the action. This is where the leader is a role model –setting the examples by not idling behind their troops. Their unrelenting commitment keeps the team focused. These leaders are people oriented and thus strike a balance between the task and the followers. Transformational leadership borrows a lot from relationship theories also known as transformational theories. Emphasis is laid more on the link formed between the leaders and the followers. The leader inspires and motivates the group to see the importance and significance of the task, but also wants each individual to fulfill their potential. Advantages of Transformational leadership ? This kind of leadership style often brings out high ethical and moral standards. Since the team is all geared towards achieving the organizational task as well as their individual goals. ? Produces a highly energized work force, which is essential to achieve organizational goals. It enables maximization of synergy in the team. Disadvantages of Transformational leadership ? Since the style emphasizes on impression management, it leads to a moral self glorification/ promotion by the leaders. ? Due to the influence emphasis, the followers may be manipulated by the leaders to lose more than they actually gain. ? ? The energy applied by leaders can wear out the followers making them give up. The passion and confidence can easily be mistaken as reality. This may lead to mistakes with consequences being adopted. Though transformational leaders are charismatic, they are not like pure charismatic leaders who succeed through their individualism since they believe in others. Page 11 The leadership style is almost impossible to teach or train since it? s a combination of leadership theories and personal attributes Examples of Transformational Leaders Nelson Mandela South Africa was a racially polarized country for many decades. Nelson Mandela was able to humanize the apartheid leading to the emergence of a nation now recognized globally. His was able to use his charisma to synchronize the haves and have-nots towards a common cause – transforming the nation from the polarity caused by the racial and wealth factors. Mahtama Gandhi Prior to the British occupation, India was amongst the leading goods exporting nation. The British rule was highly mechanized with modern industrial power; they successfully eliminated the local Indian artisans? infrastructure turning India into a big importer and consumer nation. Different leaders were contemplating different ways to drive British in India; he sought to understand the reason for colonialism. According to Mahatma, the way to resist the British was through non violent ways to become self reliant and stop consuming English products. He therefore opted for persistent mass movements that would eventually prove expensive to the British Rule. Gandhi inspires various leaders including South African Nelson Mandela and various movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. Sam Walton Sam Walton, founder of Wal-Mart, often visited Wal-Mart stores across the country to meet with associates to show his appreciation for what they did for the company. Sam Walton gave â€Å"rules for success† in his autobiography, one of which was to appreciate associates with praise (Walton, 1996). Page 12 Jack Welch He was Chairman and CEO of General Electric between 1981 and 2001. During his tenure at GE, the company’s value rose 4,000% and was the most valuable company in the world for a while. Having taken GE with a market capitalization of about $12 billion, Jack Welch turned it into one of the largest and most admired companies in the world, with a market value of about $500 billion, when he stepped down as its CEO 20 years later, in 2000. Although Jack Welch was a celebrated leader of a global manufacturer often noted for its technological prowess, he utilized a very human process to drive change through GE’s vast organization. Having respect for the individual as a pivotal force in organizational change, Welch created a model of exceptional performance every corporate leader can learn from. Page 13 References Lussier/Achua 3rd edition. Effective Leadership. Course text Kurnik, E. (2012). Transactional Leadership. Retrieved March 3, 2012, from HubPages Inc: http://edikurnik. hubpages. com/hub/Transactional-Leadership Yukl, G. A. (Gary A. Yukl). Leadership in Organizations (6th Edition). New Jersy: Prentice Hall. Burns, J. M. (1978) Leadership. New York. Harper Row Bass, B. M. (1998). Transformational leadership: Industrial, military and educational impact. Mahwah, NJ: Erlbaum Page 14

Art and craft in school Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Art and craft in school - Essay Example vity and diversity of the students possess and a magnitude of respect by showing the strength of character and originality thus improving communication and creativity in school. The condition of the school environment reflects its style and character. Including art and craft in the classroom environment creates an engaging foundation of trust among the students especially during the crucial stage where the class activity acquires self-sustaining and viability (Tuttle & Silva, 2009). I discovered that art is an investment in the culture of the school and should be preserved for the benefits of the students. In reserving original and best art in the classrooms highlight a sense of power to the students. It revealed an increased in performance after allowing the students to decorate their thoughts in the classrooms. The activity increased communication among the thus showing that art boosts their thoughts and influences the culture for growth. Art also increases the quality of life in the school environment. Art has a manipulative ability as is different every time one sees it thus; many students associate art with the essential effort related with the artist thus generates the effort to succeed in their activities. (Paquette & Tuttle, 2009 pg113). Art increases a complete approach to diverse programs during school hours thus increasing the performance as many students labor towards the purpose of their achievements. Art is also used in the class to make an impact to the people in the society. Paintings created through learning process are donated to people as a way of giving back to the community. Students with various arts display their work and feel proud while people appreciate their effort thus igniting their efforts towards success. An art creates an opportunity for students with learning difficulties to express their feelings and boost their memory (Tuttle & Silva, 2009). Students with learning complications may have problems in recalling what they have

AS Showing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

AS Showing - Assignment Example The PEOPLE accessing the storage space of the closet may be youngsters or elders as this is the picture of a household cupboard. The things in the cupboard need to be organized such that both youngsters and elders can not only access them but can even stack the stuff back at proper locations. This would not only include the people living in the house but may also include the housekeeping maids etc. By evaluating the above PACT module for the cupboard it is realized that a more efficient and properly shelved storage space would preferably replace the current cupboard design. This may include the making of small compartments both above and below the hanging area of the dresses. As demonstrated in the lab report, the task is about a remote controlled ‘car control’ operation. In order to assess the usability of the car control the proper method for usability assessment is adopted. This involves the conduction of a number of steps the very first of which is the pre-design phase. This phase involves the collection of user’s opinions about competitive applications that serve almost the same purpose. It is for this purpose that questionnaires are filled and opinions are taken from the potential users of the proposed device. The PACT analysis is conducted and the observation of the Participants is recorded. The Wizard of OZ techniques are used to initiate rapid parallel prototyping. This helps in attaining the responses given by the customer. This often is the phase in which system functionality is developed. The emergence of the pre-release phase or beta stage as it is often referred to. The application is made available to certain users for testing before it is formally launched. The responses that this launch receives are used to make some necessary adjustments into the design. The concept of Heuristic analysis is used to assess how the different buttons on the control specifically serve their particular

MGMT436 U4 DB1 External Consultant Research Paper

MGMT436 U4 DB1 External Consultant - Research Paper Example Timeliness, cost and quality of services causes complaints. Thirdly, glowing internal expenses and cost of services are growing every year due management of global operations managements (Hughes, 1990). The internal consulting team finds what is lacking by analyzing and surveying the mentioned problems. Considerable persistence was taken to get the results. The following changes were made to create a correct structure. The task was restructured and done correctly by identifying loopholes in the functional setup. The ‘functional’ setup was slow since it lacked compliance. The task is made customer focused by restructuring towards geographic groups. The change factors that were addressed shows successfully that particular jobs were readjusted to conform with the job enrichment tenets, which have a complete customer focus rather than focusing on the functional expertise. The approach still calls for more improvements. Measurements were instituted to help focus on the productivity improving and quality. Though it worked well, there are still personnel problems and a slow corporation. The following factors need more attentions than the others. Despite the changes and the suggestions, the following factors need to be worked upon. They are, curbing the ever rising expenses, dealing with low cooperation from employees and, handling the personal problems of the

The Impact of the Increase of Cigarette Taxes Term Paper

The Impact of the Increase of Cigarette Taxes - Term Paper Example This term paper focuses mostly on the implication of the increased cigarette tax to smokers, to the target beneficiary of the law and to the government. The researcher also gives light on how the cigarette tax is implemented. Studies and articles reviewed in the paper show strong indication of positive and negative effects of additional cigarette taxes. It has pointed out that the low-income earners and the youth are the categories of smokers who are most likely to quit due to the economic reason of price. The real loser in any price increase is the smoking public who shoulders the cost passed on to them by manufacturers, distributors, and retailers through the tiers of taxes imposed by the government. The positive growth of government revenue is shown as tax increases government income. As a source of revenue, tax collections increase as higher taxes are imposed thereby providing a source of revenue for project allotments. In this term paper, the tax hike in 2009 is intended to bene fit the expansion of the State Children Insurance Program. But this is contradicted that the amount of collection will not be sufficient to support this program. The researcher then concludes that cigarette tax is a conflicting policy that has to be weighed in terms of revenue generation, health promotion, and social considerations. However, it is an economic tool that balances economic and social policy. In Asian experience, their policy favored the tax increase, in the same way, that this year, US has implemented cigar tax hike.

Project Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Project Management - Essay Example Traditionally a huge multi-ton refractive brick oven is custom designed and built in order to fit the building where it is housed. D'Angelo Pizzeria has designed a fully equipped miniature pizza parlor that incorporates three independent high temperature brick ovens in a temperature controlled 8'x10' foot trailer. The patent pending design of the D'Angelo pizza ovens allow each unit to reach internal temperatures of over 1200F while maintaining a high level of thermal efficiency similar to a traditional stationary brick oven (Chillibreeze, 2011). The proposed project is to turn the D'Angelo Pizzeria trailers into a new franchising concept opportunity to the masses. The D'Angelo Pizzeria concept will bring a superior quality pizza at a competitive price. Traditional pizza parlors just cannot compete with the quality and outstanding flavor that genuine New York style fermented dough, quality fresh ingredients, and a high temperature brick oven pizza can provide (Brown, 2010). ... The proposed concept will include a fully built customized D'Angelo Pizzeria enclosed trailer fully equipped and customized to our specifications at a selling price of $40,000. The A/C cooled trailer will house three individual D'Angelo ovens equipment to operate each independent franchisee owned restaurant. The proposed trailer design involves purchasing lots of pre-built aluminum food trailers from Chinese manufacturers (Nebiu, 2002). This general purpose food trailers will be transported to our main warehouse where our manufacturing team will extensively modify the trailer units to the specifications of the company. The interior modifications to the trailers will include the necessary shelving, prep tables, ventilation, gas and electrical installation to accommodate all the preparation equipment and for the custom oven set. The modifications of the trailers will be designed for maximum space utilization to provide ergonomically designed work surfaces, machinery, and processes to m aximize employee comfort and efficiency. The exterior of the trailers will be customized to D'Angelo specs and advertising designs. For the proposed project the materials supply and operating infrastructure will have to be designed and developed in order to supply the pizza trailers to our franchise customers. The total proposed project costs for D'Angelo will be around $900,000 .The total project costs budgeted will be divided as follows: $270,000 to build and develop necessary operating training and manufacturing facility infrastructure $75,000 to build the first lot of 10 pizza trailers for the initial batch of fully built trailers. $100,000 marketing costs $150,000 operating capital (selling,

Classic film research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Classic film research - Essay Example Within the context, Ang Lee’s film is noteworthy because he does not try to follow Jane Austen’s literary craftsmanship. Instead, the director attempts to unleash his own individual freedom and artistic craftsmanship. Thesis statement: In the film Sense and Sensibility, Ang Lee makes use of film techniques, (importance given to body language and visual symbols), characterization (changes in the individuality of main characters) and theme (appealing to Austen fans and international viewers/youngsters who like romantic comedy genre), to convey the message of understanding female psychology. Plot summary: The film’s plot is closely related to the lives of three daughters in Mr. Dashwood’s family. To be specific, Mr. Dashwood’s death did not crush the cohesion among the family members because Mrs. Dashwood decided to fight against fate. So, they decided to move to another place, named as Devonshire. Gradually, the plot thickens when Marianne’s (M rs. Dashwood’s daughter) affection towards Willoughby become futile. Later, she realizes that Willoughby is a fraud and decides to marry Colonel Brandon. On the other side, Elinor’s affection towards Edward creates internal problems in their families. But in the end, Elinor was proposed by Edward. One can see that the major events in the film are interconnected with the internal affairs of Mr. Dashwood’s family. ... To be specific, he ignored the star value of these mainstream actors and asked them to use their body language to express their emotions. This can satisfy the Austen fans and the western viewers who are interested in melodrama. At the same time, the director was aware that various visual symbols can be used to convey his messages to the international viewers. For instance, the scene in which Elinor is kept alone by her mother and sisters by closing their doors is symbolic of desertion and loneliness. Louise Flavin states that, â€Å"A visual representation of the self-indulgence of â€Å"sensibility† can be read in the scene in which Marianne, her mother, and Margaret go into separate rooms and slam shut the doors, leaving Elinor alone on the step† (47). To be specific, the closed door is symbolic of miscommunication or internal problems in Mr. Dashwood’s family. Besides, the director knew that he must satisfy both the Austen fans and the international viewers. S o, he depended upon film techniques (cinematic techniques) like body language and visual symbols to communicate with his viewers in general. Characters/Characterization: In the film, the director selected Emma Thompson as the main character because she knew the limitations of her leading role. To be specific, Emma Thompson is the mastermind behind the film’s script. She knew that the modern viewers, especially the youngsters, may not accept Jane Austen’s story because the same is not relevant in the modern context. So, she interchanged the behavior traits and beliefs of the main characters, especially the behavior of Elinor and Marianne. Besides, the director chose Kate Winslet as an important character in the film because she was not a familiar actress in 1990s.

Memorial Park Essay Example for Free

Memorial Park Essay El Paso Texas has many tourism places for its society. Many of these historical places are more than 100 years old. And learn about their society as well. As an illustration the San Jacinto Plaza has been their for many years, but its famous for its alligators, and also known as Plaza de Los Lagartos. Plaza de Los Lagartos is use for touristic attraction amusements, and parades. Back in the 1880s through 1960s downtown El Paso featured an amusement in the center of the plaza, a pond filled with live alligators. That attract many people from El Paso. But they had to move the alligators, because they cant survive the cold weather nights. they didnt remove them completely, citizen work to put a sculpture made by Luis A. Jimenez. The alligators sculpture it what makes today history in The San Jacinto Plaza. The San Jacinto makes a tourism illustration that us the society still have history alive. Todays sculpture is used to remember the alligators as a tourist attraction. San Jacinto plaza Amusement Park has been used by many artists in the 1960s. The live alligators attracted people from all counties and was a main reason to come visit El Paso. There was 3 alligators and the amusement park showings were daily from morning to night. Also for example the San Jacinto plaza has been use for bus stops. People use it to rest and wait for the next bus. It also known as an amusement park because all the old buildings around the plaza. And back in the 80s people use it only to hangout and see the alligators. San Jacinto plaza has been known more for its colorful night parades on Christmas. People from El Paso decorate the plaza with colorful lights, and they also put an Christmas tree big enough so everybody can see. People make an long parade, this parade its only on nights, because they have surtain amount of light. The parades has an Santa clause, elfs, candies, deers, and much more stuff. And at the end of this parade they all end up in the Plaza de Los Lagartos where people can enjoy the shows, singing, food and Santa. And at the end of this show they throw fireworks to amaze the children. This parades are only on Christmas. PlazaSan Jacinto has been a pretty historical place for many people. Sometimes I wish I could live back in the 1880 to inform myself Why was the reason the government decided to put alive alligators? This place had cause many happiest especially on children in Christmas days. have experienced the live alligators because personally I have never seen one up close and it would be a great experience to watch them eat and roam around their habitat. However the parade is a very nice touch and makes for a great attraction to .

Anxiety in Cancer Treatment: A Case Study

Anxiety in Cancer Treatment: A Case Study Case Study Celine Laurie Cyr-Martel Patient Presenting problem: Celine is a 25 year old female who presented to the emergency department (E.D.) with increased abdominal pain over the last 2 weeks. Patient recently completed chemotherapy and cancer treatment for intestinal cancer. Celine has been under increased stress due to her living situation and is concerned that her cancer has returned. She reports the pain is different than when she was initially diagnosed. She had an appointment with her oncologist on Monday, but by Friday night the pain was excruciating and she presented to the ED on Saturday morning. Background and demographics: Celine was born in a suburb of Maine, never knowing her biological father, was raised (a term she uses loosely), by her mother and resided with her mother and biological brother two years her senior. The patient reports most of her life, her mother was an addict. According to Celine, from an early age – which she reports as 5-10 years of age, she remembers her mother’s drug of choice as alcohol. When her maternal grandparents visited, the addiction was hidden. While Celine was in Junior high and high school, her mother’s drug of choice was cocaine. Celine reports her mother would make her steal either food or money. Celine was told that if she was caught, â€Å"nothing bad would happen.† Celine was fearful if she told anyone of the environment, the state would make her live in foster care. From ages 12-15, Celine found her mother clinically dead twice, Celine called 911 and her mother was revived. Both times, the mother entered rehab with the intention of becoming sober and clean. In those  times Celine stayed with her maternal grandparents. Her mother would â€Å"get clean† and  Celine and her brother would return home. Celine’s brother experienced a traumatic  brain injury his senior year in high school while riding an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATC). His home care fell to Celine. It was at this time Celine, who had just turned 16, was diagnosed with intestinal cancer. According to Celine, while she was going through Chemotherapy, her mother would steal her pain meds, leaving Celine to endure the pain. She was deemed in remission at the  age of 19 after a 3 year battle, the cancer returned last year at age 24. Celine completed high school as an above average student, but was unable to attend college due to increased anxiety. At the age of 21, Celine who was still living with her mother and acting as care taker, found her mother unconscious and called emergency services. Her mother was un able to be revived. Celine contacted the State at this time, to request help with her brother. According to Celine, the state was surprised to learn that no one had previously intervened. Celine moved into her own apartment and is currently on disability, due to her medical and anxiety concerns. Her brother lives in a group home setting, whom she visits seldom. Celine reports that in the last six months she has noticed increased anger and is working with her therapist to determine the reasons and rationale. The two scales used to determine intervention and resources for both the anxiety and the patients history of intestinal cancer were the GAD-7 (Lowe, Decker, Muller, Brahler, Schellberg, Herzog, Herzberg, 2008; Spitzer, Kroenke, Williams, Lowe, 2006) and the Cancer Behavior Inventory (CBI-B) (Heitzmann, Merluzzi, Jean-Pierre, Roscoe, Kirsh, Passik, 2011; Merluzzi, Nairn, Hedge, Martinez Sanchez, Dunn 2001; Merluzzi, Martinez Sanchez, 1997). Measurements CBI-B:The CBI-B is a shorter version of a previously well-established measure of the Cancer Behavior Inventory Long Version (Heitzmann, Merluzzi, Jean-Pierre, Roscoe Kirsh 2011). The long version is a 33-item tool, developed to measure how well an individual copes with cancer. The long and short version of the CBI, measure items on a nine point scale from â€Å"not at all confident† to â€Å"totally confident.† The internal consistency in the longer version of 33 items produced a co-efficient of 0.94 and the test-retest for the 33 item CBI was 0.74 (Merluzzi, Nairn, Hedge, Martinez Sanchez, Dunn 2001; Merluzzi, Martinez Sanchez, 1997). As my interaction with this patient was limited due to the emergency department location, the patient agreed to participate using the shorter version, 12 item CBI-B. The Cronbach co-efficient of the 12 item version, indicated an internal consistency of .84, attained in three different samples (Heitzmann, Merluzzi, Jean-Pierre, Roscoe, Kirsh 2011). Thus, the results in using this assessment indicate acceptable reliability to the degree to which the patient believes she is able to cope and maintain her health during her experience with cancer. The quality of life measures were also positively correlated with the negative correlations or depression and the impact of sickness, demonstrating the validity of the CBI-B (Heitzmann, Merluzzi, Jean-Pierre, Roscoe, Kirsh 2011). Patients who believe they are able to cope with the illness are more apt to connect with the resources to face the multiple challenges of the disease. . GAD-7: Reviewing validity studies for the GAD-7, resulted in agreement this measurement tool is appropriate and validated for use in primary care (Spitzer, Kroenke, Williams, Lowe, 2006), those in a hospital program, (Kertz, Bigda-Peyton, Bjorgvinsson. 2013), and the general population (Lowe, Decker, Muller, Brahler, Schellberg, Herzog, Herzberg, 2008). Spitzer et al., (2008) used a large sample size (2982), and took into account ethnicities, age, education, and relationship status. The diversity and sample size allowed for various correlations, producing a Cronbach which resulted in a score of 0.92 indicating an excellent internal consistency. Within the general population, there is evidence to support the validity and the reliability of the GAD-7. Lowe et al., (2008) used a sample of 5,032 participants. The researchers assessed the construct validity by comparing scores of those diagnosed with general anxiety disorder in primary care settings, to the scores of those diagnosed wit h GAD in the general population. The internal consistency resulted in an acceptable 0.89. Although a smaller sample size of 232 was selected from a partial hospital program to measure the validity of the GAD-7 (Kertz, Bigda-Peyton, Bjorgvinsson 2013), the study concluded that due to the brevity, easy administration, that the GAD-7 had strong construct validity. The associations with self-esteem, depression, resilience and how satisfied a patient is with their life, demonstrated good reliability and construct validity within the GAD-7 in all three studies (Lowe et al., 2008; Spitzer et al., 2006; Kertz, Bigda-Peyton, Bjorgvinsson 2013). Administration: The CBI-B and the GAD-7 were administered twice; upon the initial assessment and the third contact. (The second contact was by phone to ascertain the results of her appointment with her oncologist. The patient advised that the results of her blood work was â€Å"looking positive.†) When initially administered, CBI-B score was 64. (Figure 1) The scores indicating the patient was able to maintain her abilities when confronting her disease, but not yet at a point where confidence was paramount. As the CBI-B was administered only twice, a wide variation in scores was not expected. The third contact, the patient agreed to meet in the conference room of the emergency department. I asked if this would be a hardship as her grandmother would be traveling three hours. The patient advised she had an appointment with her oncologist, and she wanted me to explain the measurement tools to her grandmother. Results of the second administration of the CBI-B was 91; (Figure II) indicating an increase in self efficacy within two weeks. The initial score from the GAD-7 was 19 (Figure III) indicating severe anxiety. The patient is currently being treated for her anxiety, so the elevated score was not a surprise to this practitioner. However, the patient was concerned as she had been working on decreasing her anxiety with her current therapist. The patient was hesitant to take the GAD-7 the second time as she was apprehensive it might not change. Upon taking the second test, (Figure IV) the patients score actually resulted in positive news for Celine decreasing by 5 points. Scores: The patient attributed the positive change in the scores for both the GAD -7 and the CBI-B as a result of relocation to her maternal grandparent’s home on the coast of Maine where she was close to the ocean able to use her photography and find â€Å"peace in her heart.† As evident in the CBI-B, relaxation, coping, consolation, and having some-one whom she could share her concerns and feelings. These scores had increased. The patient advises that she has been able to use the breathing techniques when she begins to feel overwhelmed. The decrease in the anxiety scores may also be correlated to the relocation, support systems, access to hobbies. Although, the patient’s score still borders on severe, her future outlook presents as positive when speaking of her living situation. Celine admits to worry about her cancer, but believes she will continue to improve. Celine’s passion has always been with the artistic realm. Her grandparents have become involved in Celine’s life. They live three hours away on the coast of Maine. Celine finds solace at the ocean. The Grandparents purchased a camera for Celine two years prior. She currently takes photographs of nature, her grandfather makes the frames for the pictures and they are sold at fairs. Celine advises a few of her pictures have been placed in the reception area of a local hospital. Discussion: Both measurement tools used with this patient were of great validity in the emergency department setting. As there is not always a chance to follow up with patients, I was fortunate to gather information not just from the tool itself, but the patient’s reactions, participation, and discussion when using the measurement tools. Follow up with her therapist would be paramount to continue addressing the anxiety. The patient advises she will be attempting to locate another therapist closer to her grandmother. We were able to locate several therapists in a nearby town. The young woman’s resiliency may be the result of the hardships already endured at a young age. According to Merluzzi Martinez Sanchez (1997), social supports, whether perceived or actual are positively correlated to self-efficacy. {The second and final meeting resulted in opening a dialogue between the patient and her grandmother}. Celine began an on line class for photography and is hopeful to cr eate her own business. The two chosen measurements correlated well together. The ability to regulate ones affect, adapt to the negatively of cancer, and express those thoughts, the more positive the outcome (Merluzzi, et al., 2001). If the therapist can continue to address the anxiety in terms of self-efficacy, it is possible that Celine will continue to increase her good health.

Cancer :: essays research papers fc

The Mysterious Face of Cancer Statement of Purpose: What people need to understand though is yes cancer is Life-altering chain of events but cancer is not the end of the world. I. Death is inevitable; there is no way around it. A.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are more than one hundred types of cancer. B.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are three main ways doctors and scientists detect cancer in a patient. C.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  If a patient does have cancer and it is detected in the early stages there is a greater chance of recovery. II. There are three main types of cancer treatment doctor’s use.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Most cancers are treatable if they are detected in the early stages. B.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Sadly, many people discover they have cancer after is too late. C.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are several warning signs that may save a patients life. III. Scientists may not know right now why cancer affects certain people but they do know that it has nothing to do with age or gender. A.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the United States about 8.4 million Americans alive today have a history of cancer.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  B. Nearly 552,200 people will develop cancer in the next year. C. There are several steps a person can take to reduce his or her risk of developing the cancer virus. The Mysterious Face Of Cancer Every person on earth will eventually one day have to leave it behind. It is not the choice of the person whether they go peacefully or whether they go with pain. More often than not a person will go with pain. This is the case with cancer. More and more people die everyday from cancer and it appears to ruin the lives of all those associated with it. What people need to understand though is yes cancer is a life altering chain of events but cancer is not the end of the world. Death is inevitable; there is no way around it. Perhaps cancer patients realize this more than anyone. â€Å"All creatures born upon this earth must, in the end, die. Some live long and peaceful lives. But others are caught up in struggles—must fight for their lives† (Silverstein 12-13). This is the case with cancer. Cancer patients will struggle and fight for their lives and not have the luxury of dying peacefully. The cause of cancer is still unknown to scientists but they have been able to come up with some possible explanations. Cancer affects newborn babies, boys, girls, women, men, animals and even plants. The possible causes of the cancers that affect each of these groups include chemicals in the body, viruses, ultraviolet rays, smoking, and it has been proven to be hereditary in some cases.

Sleepless and Irritable Essay -- Teenagers, Adolesence, Sleeping Habits

Many studies have been done on how many hours of sleep teens need and how lack of sleep can affect their lives. Sleep has an impact on teens and their concentration, their mood and the way they function doing things in day to day living. Studies show that teens should sleep 8 to 10 hours a night however; many are not getting the recommended amount of sleep to help them (The Science Of Sleep." 60 Minutes. Narr. Lesley Stahl. Prod. Shari Finkelstein. CBS. 16 Mar 2008). A lot of teenagers stay up late without realizing the consequences and how it can affect their lives. One of the biggest consequences of teens lack of sleep is when it comes to driving, being tired make teens less alert and is a main reason for teen accidents. (National Sleep Foundation. Detection and Prevention: Drowsy driving. Retrieved July 31, 2009). The 8 to 10 hours that are needed for proper function is very hard for teens to get because they have many tasks to keep up with from school, sports, part time jobs, friends to family life. Other activities that keep them occupied are texting, playing online games and internet addiction with sites such as Facebook. These things cause teenagers to stay up very late or they are kept awake the whole night trying to catch up with all the demands they couldn’t fit into their regular day. All this combined creates sleeping disorders in teens and causes health problems. Almost everyone knows in order to be healthy and fit sufficient sleep is required. Parents need to take care to watch over their teens and help them create a good sleep pattern it is proven that teens that have a good relationship with their parents have better sleeping habits. Parents think teens know how much sleep they need and will just go to sleep w... ...tant especially for a tee Works Cited "Insomnia - Sleep Disorders - Sleep Center." Stanford Hospital & Clinics - Stanford Medicine. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Dec. 2013. NIH Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Dec. 2013. "Sleep deprivation." Better Health Channel. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Dec. 2013. "Sleep Hygiene  « Princeton University Health Services." Princeton University - Home. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Dec. 2013. The Science Of Sleep." 60 Minutes. Narr. Lesley Stahl. Prod. Shari Finkelstein. CBS. 16 Mar 2008. CBSNews. CBS Interactive. Web. 27 Feb. 2013. National Sleep Foundation. Detection and Prevention: Drowsy driving. Retrieved July 31, 2009. â€Å"Teens Who Feel Supported At Home And School Sleep Better† By Patti Neighmond. December 05, 2013 â€Å"TEEN SLEEP PROBLEMS LEAD TO DEPRESSION & DRUG ABUSE† By Byron J. Richards, CCN October 28, 2008 NewsWithViews.com

Ukraine: Facts :: essays research papers

Ukraine: Facts Ukraine is a state in Eastern Europe, bounded on the north by Belarus, on the north and east by the Russian Federation, on the west by Poland, Slovakia, on the southwest by Hungary, Rumania, and Moldova, and on the south by the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. Ukraine includes the Crimean Autonomous Republic, which was elevated from an oblast to a constituent republic in 1991. Kyiv is the capital and largest city. Ukraine is the second largest country in Europe after Russia. The total area of Ukraine is 603,700 sq. km (compare the area of France - 551,000 sq. km; Germany - 356,000; Great Britain - 244,000; Italy - 301,000; Spain - 505,000). The area spanned in a west-east direction is 1300 km; from north to south - 900 km. The population of Ukraine is 52 million (Germany - 78 million; France - 56 million; Great Britain - 58 million; Italy - 59 million; Spain - 40 million). Ukraine's state border extends for a total of 7698 km: with Russia - 2484 km; Belarus - 952 km; Rumania - 608 km; Poland - 542 km; Slovakia - 98 km; Hungary - 135 km; Moldova - 1194 km. The total length of Ukraine's sea coast is 1758 km (Black Sea - 1533 km; Sea of Azov - 225 km). The climate of Ukraine is moderate-continental; in the southernmost region of the Crimea the climate is sub-tropical. The largest river of Ukraine is the Dnipro, which is 2201 km in length, of which 981 km flow through Ukraine. The largest mountain system in Ukraine is the Carpathian Mountains that extend for more than 270 km and are 100-110 km wide. The highest peak is the Hoverla (2061 m). Government Names: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Ukraine local long form: none local short form: Ukrayina former: Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic Digraph: UP Type: republic Capital: Kiev (Kyyiv) Administrative divisions: 24 oblasti (singular - oblast'), 1 autonomous republic* (avtomnaya respublika), and 2 municipalites (mista, singular - misto) with oblast status**; Cherkas'ka (Cherkasy), Chernihivs'ka (Chernihiv), Chernivets'ka (Chernivtsi), Dnipropetrovs'ka (Dnipropetrovs'k), Donets'ka (Donets'k), Ivano-Frankivs'ka (Ivano-Frankivs'k), Kharkivs'ka (Kharkiv), Khersons'ka (Kherson), Khmel'nyts'ka (Khmel'nyts'kyy), Kirovohrads'ka (Kirovohrad), Kyyiv**, Kyyivs'ka (Kiev), Luhans'ka (Luhans'k), L'vivs'ka (L'viv), Mykolayivs'ka (Mykolayiv), Odes'ka (Odesa), Poltavs'ka (Poltava), Respublika Krym* (Simferopol'), Rivnens'ka (Rivne), Sevastopol'**, Sums'ka (Sevastopol'), Ternopil's'ka (Ternopil'), Vinnyts'ka (Vinnytsya), Volyns'ka (Luts'k), Zakarpats'ka (Uzhhorod), Zaporiz'ka (Zaporizhzhya), Zhytomyrs'ka (Zhytomyr) note: names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from oblast' name Independence: 1 December 1991 (from Soviet Union) National holiday: Independence Day, 24 August (1991) Constitution: using 1978 pre-independence constitution; new constitution currently being drafted Legal system: based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal

Effective Study Habits Worksheet

University of Phoenix Material Effective Study Habits Worksheet Respond to the following in 50 to 100 words each: 1. Describe your ideal study environment. I would describe my ideal study environment up in my home office away from everyone. A quiet place is where I can focus and concentrate on my assignement. I can brainstorm and jott my ideas freely when I am distraction free. I can usually complete my assignment in a timely manner when I am relaxed and comfortable. 2.List some of the distractions that might hinder your study progress or your performance in an online classroom. Some of the distractions that might hinder my study progress or performance from being in an online classroom are: watching television, listening to music, cooking dinner, eating dinner, children up and about, telephone ringing, visitors coming by home, and getting sleepy or not getting the proper rest will easily cause you to become distracted and unable to focus on your assignment. 3. What actions can you t ake to manage and eliminate distractions?The actions that I can to take to manage and eliminate distractions are: recording my favorite television shows for later playback, elimating distracting music, cooking/ eating dinner before beginning my homework, turning my telephone off and making sure that get the proper rest before sitting down to complete my assignments. 4. How will you apply your personal learning style? How does your personal Learning style affect your study habits? My personal learning style is somewhat complicated and complexed.I would say that my style is not structured because I really learn from doing. I am a very hands on learner so it is very challenging for me to understand just from reading/doing alone. I feel that my personal learning style can hinder my study habits because I am not in a classroom physically where I the instructor can demonstrate or teach in person. Whereas, I have to create ways for me to comprehend what I am learning myself. 5. List 5 effe ctive study strategies from this week that you will use.Explain why you selected them and why they are effective strategies for online learning. The strategies that I will use are visual, musical, verbal, logic and interpersonal. Visually I can take notes and create charts and timelines that will assist me highlighting important points. Music- I will incorporate music with my learning by allowing myself to medicate on music that relax me before actually starting my assignments. Verbal- I plan to read and ask questions from others that will assist me in understaning the lesson as well as provide feedback to others.Logic- I fell that I use the logic strategy a lot. I always apply my assignments to my real-life situations in order to comprehend what I am learning better. Interpersonal- This is one I feel that I am not that good at but plan to do my best at. Studying in groups is very new to me. I feel that it really is a great way to learn from others on their thoughts and views on a g iven assignment. 6. Identify one change you can make immediately to increase the effectiveness of your study habits. Explain how this will help you become more effective.One change that I can make immediately will be to utilize the logic method more efficiently. I feel that if I ask others more and interact more, then I would be able to express my thoughts and views on each assignment more better. I always feel that I would be embarrassed if I asked certain questions to my peers, so I don’t ask at all, then feel bad because I don’t know or feel somewhat confused about an assignment. I know that if I start utilizing this method more, then it would really increase my study habits.

Brutus and Antony

What can you do to be seen as an exceptional adequate speaker? Brutus and Antony are both noble people that are both fair speakers in William Shakespeare’s play, Julius Cesar. Both people spoke at Cesar’s funeral trying to persuade their audience about his death. Brutus, who killed Cesar, tries to explain to the audience why he did such a thing, and Antony explains why what Brutus did was wrong. Although Brutus was a good orator and uses rhetoric well, Antony had the more persuasive speech overall. Antony had better use of emotional appeals, loaded words, and tone. Emotional appeals are arguments that attempt to persuade by feelings.Since Antony can’t say that Brutus is a bad person, he starts off with an ethical appeal. â€Å"The noble Brutus† (5). However, he says that line sarcastically, and soon proves to his audience that Brutus is wrong about Cesar by using an emotional appeal. â€Å"Hath told you Cesar was ambitious If it were so, it was grievous f ault, And grievously hath Cesar answered it† (6-8). He’s great at getting the audience thinking about if Brutus is actually noble and is one reason why Antony is a better speaker than Brutus. Second, loaded words are words that have strong emotional tones beyond its meaning.Antony uses loaded words to sway the people into his thinking that Caesar was good. â€Å"For Brutus is an honorable man, So are they all, all honorable men†(11-12). â€Å"Yet Brutus says he was ambitious; And yet Brutus is an honorable man†(25-26). He repeats these lines often throughout his speech. Antony uses words like honorable and ambitious. This can be seen as a momentum that pushes his argument further. By the use of loaded words, Antony catches the attention of the of his audience and persuades them in a great manor. Lastly, tone, which is the speaker’s attitude toward the audience.Mark Antony uses a subtle and eloquent tone in his speech. This is in contrast to the rati onal tone of Brutus's speech. â€Å"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears;† (1). Whereas Brutus’ speech starts off more weak and and calmer which wouldn’t grab the audience’s attention as much as Antony’s beginning speech. Overall, Antony had a more persuasive speech and it probably made the audience feel more included. He used a lot of appeals that let his audience to be more persuaded by his speech. He had a more stronger connection towards the audience and used skilled rhetoric, iambic meter, and manipulation in his speech.

Special Situations In Trauma Recognition Health And Social Care Essay

The earliest recordings of Crush syndrome, which is besides known as Traumatic rhabdomyolysis or Baywaters ‘ syndrome are from 1910, when German writers described symptoms of hurting, failing and brown-coloured piss in soldiers rescued after being buried under structural dust [ 1 ] . The status was decently classified in 1941 during the London blitz in patients showing with symptoms of daze, conceited appendages, tea coloured urine and nephritic failure, by British nephrologist Eric Bywater [ 1 ] . In more recent times, instances of crush syndrome have been seen in greatest Numberss following natural catastrophes such as temblors. Clinical profiling of the types of hurts treated in local infirmaries following a natural catastrophe give an indicant of the prevalence of this type of hurt in such state of affairss. Following the Wenchuan temblor in China in 2008, a sum of 19 out of 205 patients admitted to two local learning infirmaries were enduring from crush syndrome [ 2 ] , while the instances of crush syndrome reported following the 1999 Marmara temblor in Turkey were every bit high as 17 % of reported hurts [ 3 ] . While the Numberss may change, one thing that is evident is that crush syndrome is a really existent hurt menace in such state of affairss, and that acknowledgment of the marks of this hurt, and an apprehension of the right intervention methods may good ensue in lives being saved in such scenarios.Crush syndrome – Mechanism of actionCrush syndrome occurs as the consequence of a localized crush hurt. As a consequence of compaction of the musculus mass, the musculus fibers are deprived of blood and can go ischemic. With drawn-out ischaemia of greater than 6 hours in continuance, tissue mortification occurs. Direct hurt signifier the suppression force besides causes harm to the cell membrane, which consequences in the gap of intracellular Na and Ca channels with a attendant inflow of Na and Ca into the cell. This influx consequences in increased harm to the musculus fibers and accordingly exacerbates cell membrane disfunction and causes the release of ATP-inhibiting nucleases, farther damaging the cells. With the return of circulation to the ischaemic tissue country following extraction or deliverance, comes farther tissue harm. Tissue reperfusion consequences in an addition in neutrophil activity and the release of free groups. The reaction of H peroxide and the anionic signifier of O ( superoxide ) , consequences in the formation of hydroxyl groups in big concentrations which further amendss cellular constituents and causes lipid peroxidation. The attendant lipid peroxidation leads to the devastation of the cell membrane and cell lysis ( reperfusion syndrome ) .Acute kidney hurtThe major effect of rhabdomyolysis is acute kidney hurt, which if left untreated can take to kidney failure. Acute kidney injure can happen as a effect of: Nephritic vasoconstriction Tubular obstructor due to the formation of dramatis personaes Direct heme induced cytotoxicity Myoglobin is an iron-containing protein found in skeletal musculus that is structurally similar to haemoglobin, but binds one instead than four molecules of O. Its concentration is greatest in musculuss specialised for sustained contraction, where myoglobin may supply O when blood flow is cut off due to its greater affinity for O. Like hemoglobin, myoglobin is filtered through the glomeruli of the kidneys and reabsorbed in the proximal convoluted tubules by endocytosis. Within lysosomes in the cells of the tubules, the hematohiston concatenation offprints from the Fe incorporating part of the molecule ( ferrihemate ) , the free Fe is so converted to ferritin. The big volumes of myoglobin delivered to the tubule cells overwhelm the cells ability to change over Fe to ferritin. The effect of this is a build-up intracellular ferrihemate. Oxidative emphasis harm to the cannular cells consequences from the coevals of free groups by the Fe molecules. The inordinate degrees of Fe in the cannular cells, causes their resorption to be inhibited. The concentration of Fe in the piss is further increased due to resorption of the H2O in the tubules due to systemic vasoconstriction and hypovolaemia [ 4 ] . The increased concentrations of Fe in the urine consequence in the formation of dramatis personaes which cause obstructor of the nephritic tubules. The nephritic tubule obstructor by the myoglobin dramatis personaes, the free extremist formation and the vasoconstriction and hypoxia caused by hypovolaemia are the chief causes of acute nephritic failure.Alternate causes of rhabdomyolysisWhile crush syndrome is a major cause of rhabdomyolysis in comparatively important Numberss, it is non the lone cause of this hurt. There are legion other possible causes, that, while rare, are no less life endangering. These include: Other causes of musculus hurt such as electric dazes and ictuss Certain toxins such as ecstasy and cocaine Cholesterol take downing drugs such as lipid-lowering medicines and fibrates Certain viral ( Epstein Barr virus, HIV ) and bacterial ( Legionella ) infections Certain familial familial upsets such as Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2 lack and McArdle ‘s disease Electrolyte lacks such as hypophosphatemia and hypokalaemiaDiagnosis of rhabdomyolysisThe most dependable trial for the diagnosing of rhabdomyolysis is a step of plasma creatinine kinase degrees. The enzyme is released into the blood following cell rupture and the concentration of the enzyme in the blood is relative to the extent of musculus hurt. Blood degrees more than five times above the upper bound of normal are a definite index of the presence of rhabdomyolysis. The presence of urinary myoglobin is another index of rhabdomyolysis. High go arounding concentrations of myoglobin will do myoglobin carbamide, which will ensue in a chocolate-brown stain of the patient ‘s piss. Standard urine dipstick trials detect heme and are unable to distinguish between hematurias, haemoglobinurea and myoglobin carbamide, and as such can non be used as a definite index of rhabdomyolysis. The absence of myoglobinurea can non be used to govern out a diagnosing of rhabdomyolysis either, as myoglobin is quickly metabolised by the liver. Elevated degrees of lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase in the blood are other utile indexs of the presence of rhabdomyolysis.TreatmentThe first intervention measure should be the remotion of the oppressing force, nevertheless if the victim has been trapped for an drawn-out period of clip, remotion of the force may ensue in reperfusion syndrome which may ensue in sudden decease. Initial medical intervention, whether in a infirmary scene or in the field, should get down with aggressive rehydration of the patient. Treatment guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommend the disposal of 1500 milliliter of endovenous fluids per hr, with disposal of endovenous fluids with Osmitrol to keep diuresis at 300 milliliters per hr, with the purpose of forestalling nephritic failure [ 5 ] . The same guidelines recommend that in the instance of intervention in a pre-hospital scene, disposal of endovenous fluids should get down prior to the realease of the crushed portion [ 5 ] . During the first 24 hours of intervention, up to 12 liters of endovenous fluids should be administered. [ 6 ] . Other fluid intervention regimens recommend the disposal of 1 liter of isosmotic saline with 1 liters of 5 % dextroglucose to which 100 mmol of Na hydrogen carbonate has been added [ 7 ] . The purpose of this intervention is to rectify metabolic acidosis in add-on to rinsing the myoglobin out of the patients system and cut downing the formation of dramatis personaes. In add-on to the remotion of myoglobin and dramatis personaes from the patients system, endovenous fluid disposal besides aims at rectifying possible electrolyte upsets. If initial fluid intervention does non turn out effectual, dialysis intervention may be required [ 7 ] . With prompt and right medical intervention, the endurance rate for rhabdomyolysis induced acute nephritic failure is near to 80 % [ 8 ] .DecisionAlthough natural catastrophes remain rare in Western Europe, there remains the possibility the crush syndrome may happen in any catastrophe state of affairs such as route clangs or detonations. While crush syndrome and the potency for acute nephritic failure triggered by rhabdomyolysis carry a terrible menace of mortality, prompt and right intervention has the possible to salvage the lives of the bulk of crush syndrome sick persons.

Twilight 12. BALANCING

12. BALANCING â€Å"Billy!† Charlie called as soon as he got out of the car. I turned toward the house, beckoning to Jacob as I ducked under the porch. I heard Charlie greeting them loudly behind me. â€Å"I'm going to pretend I didn't see you behind the wheel, Jake,† he said disapprovingly. â€Å"We get permits early on the rez,† Jacob said while I unlocked the door and flicked on the porch light. â€Å"Sure you do,† Charlie laughed. â€Å"I have to get around somehow.† I recognized Billy's resonant voice easily, despite the years. The sound of it made me feel suddenly younger, a child. I went inside, leaving the door open behind me and turning on lights before I hung up my jacket. Then I stood in the door, watching anxiously as Charlie and Jacob helped Billy out of the car and into his wheelchair. I backed out of the way as the three of them hurried in, shaking off the rain. â€Å"This is a surprise,† Charlie was saying. â€Å"It's been too long,† Billy answered. â€Å"I hope it's not a bad time.† His dark eyes flashed up to me again, their expression unreadable. â€Å"No, it's great. I hope you can stay for the game.† Jacob grinned. â€Å"I think that's the plan – our TV broke last week.† Billy made a face at his son. â€Å"And, of course, Jacob was anxious to see Bella again,† he added. Jacob scowled and ducked his head while I fought back a surge of remorse. Maybe I'd been too convincing on the beach. â€Å"Are you hungry?† I asked, turning toward the kitchen. I was eager to escape Billy's searching gaze. â€Å"Naw, we ate just before we came,† Jacob answered. â€Å"How about you, Charlie?† I called over my shoulder as I fled around the corner. â€Å"Sure,† he replied, his voice moving in the direction of the front room and the TV. I could hear Billy's chair follow. The grilled cheese sandwiches were in the frying pan and I was slicing up a tomato when I sensed someone behind me. â€Å"So, how are things?† Jacob asked. â€Å"Pretty good.† I smiled. His enthusiasm was hard to resist. â€Å"How about you? Did you finish your car?† â€Å"No.† He frowned. â€Å"I still need parts. We borrowed that one.† He pointed with his thumb in the direction of the front yard. â€Å"Sorry. I haven't seen any†¦ what was it you were looking for?† â€Å"Master cylinder.† He grinned. â€Å"Is something wrong with the truck?† he added suddenly. â€Å"No.† â€Å"Oh. I just wondered because you weren't driving it.† I stared down at the pan, pulling up the edge of a sandwich to check the bottom side. â€Å"I got a ride with a friend.† â€Å"Nice ride.† Jacob's voice was admiring. â€Å"I didn't recognize the driver, though. I thought I knew most of the kids around here.† I nodded noncommittally, keeping my eyes down as I flipped sandwiches. â€Å"My dad seemed to know him from somewhere.† â€Å"Jacob, could you hand me some plates? They're in the cupboard over the sink.† â€Å"Sure.† He got the plates in silence. I hoped he would let it drop now. â€Å"So who was it?† he asked, setting two plates on the counter next to me. I sighed in defeat. â€Å"Edward Cullen.† To my surprise, he laughed. I glanced up at him. He looked a little embarrassed. â€Å"Guess that explains it, then,† he said. â€Å"I wondered why my dad was acting so strange.† â€Å"That's right.† I faked an innocent expression. â€Å"He doesn't like the Cullens.† â€Å"Superstitious old man,† Jacob muttered under his breath. â€Å"You don't think he'd say anything to Charlie?† I couldn't help asking, the words coming out in a low rush. Jacob stared at me for a moment, and I couldn't read the expression in his dark eyes. â€Å"I doubt it,† he finally answered. â€Å"I think Charlie chewed him out pretty good last time. They haven't spoken much since – tonight is sort of a reunion, I think. I don't think he'd bring it up again.† â€Å"Oh,† I said, trying to sound indifferent. I stayed in the front room after I carried the food out to Charlie, pretending to watch the game while Jacob chattered at me. I was really listening to the men's conversation, watching for any sign that Billy was about to rat me out, trying to think of ways to stop him if he began. It was a long night. I had a lot of homework that was going undone, but I was afraid to leave Billy alone with Charlie. Finally, the game ended. â€Å"Are you and your friends coming back to the beach soon?† Jacob asked as he pushed his father over the lip of the threshold. â€Å"I'm not sure,† I hedged. â€Å"That was fun, Charlie,† Billy said. â€Å"Come up for the next game,† Charlie encouraged. â€Å"Sure, sure,† Billy said. â€Å"We'll be here. Have a good night.† His eyes shifted to mine, and his smile disappeared. â€Å"You take care, Bella,† he added seriously. â€Å"Thanks,† I muttered, looking away. I headed for the stairs while Charlie waved from the doorway. â€Å"Wait, Bella,† he said. I cringed. Had Billy gotten something in before I'd joined them in the living room? But Charlie was relaxed, still grinning from the unexpected visit. â€Å"I didn't get a chance to talk to you tonight. How was your day?† â€Å"Good.† I hesitated with one foot on the first stair, searching for details I could safely share. â€Å"My badminton team won all four games.† â€Å"Wow, I didn't know you could play badminton.† â€Å"Well, actually I can't, but my partner is really good,† I admitted. â€Å"Who is it?† he asked with token interest. â€Å"Um†¦ Mike Newton,† I told him reluctantly. â€Å"Oh yeah – you said you were friends with the Newton kid.† He perked up. â€Å"Nice family.† He mused for a minute. â€Å"Why didn't you ask him to the dance this weekend?† â€Å"Dad!† I groaned. â€Å"He's kind of dating my friend Jessica. Besides, you know I can't dance.† â€Å"Oh yeah,† he muttered. Then he smiled at me apologetically. â€Å"So I guess it's good you'll be gone Saturday†¦ I've made plans to go fishing with the guys from the station. The weather's supposed to be real warm. But if you wanted to put your trip off till someone could go with you, I'd stay home. I know I leave you here alone too much.† â€Å"Dad, you're doing a great job.† I smiled, hoping my relief didn't show. â€Å"I've never minded being alone – I'm too much like you.† I winked at him, and he smiled his crinkly-eyed smile. I slept better that night, too tired to dream again. When I woke to the pearl gray morning, my mood was blissful. The tense evening with Billy and Jacob seemed harmless enough now; I decided to forget it completely. I caught myself whistling while I was pulling the front part of my hair back into a barrette, and later again as I skipped down the stairs. Charlie noticed. â€Å"You're cheerful this morning,† he commented over breakfast. I shrugged. â€Å"It's Friday.† I hurried so I would be ready to go the second Charlie left. I had my bag ready, shoes on, teeth brushed, but even though I rushed to the door as soon as I was sure Charlie would be out of sight, Edward was faster. He was waiting in his shiny car, windows down, engine off. I didn't hesitate this time, climbing in the passenger side quickly, the sooner to see his face. He grinned his crooked smile at me, stopping my breath and my heart. I couldn't imagine how an angel could be any more glorious. There was nothing about him that could be improved upon. â€Å"How did you sleep?† he asked. I wondered if he had any idea how appealing his voice was. â€Å"Fine. How was your night?† â€Å"Pleasant.† His smile was amused; I felt like I was missing an inside joke. â€Å"Can I ask what you did?† I asked. â€Å"No.† He grinned. â€Å"Today is still mine.† He wanted to know about people today: more about Ren? ¦e, her hobbies, what we'd done in our free time together. And then the one grandmother I'd known, my few school friends – embarrassing me when he asked about boys I'd dated. I was relieved that I'd never really dated anyone, so that particular conversation couldn't last long. He seemed as surprised as Jessica and Angela by my lack of romantic history. â€Å"So you never met anyone you wanted?† he asked in a serious tone that made me wonder what he was thinking about. I was grudgingly honest. â€Å"Not in Phoenix.† His lips pressed together into a hard line. We were in the cafeteria at this point. The day had sped by in the blur that was rapidly becoming routine. I took advantage of his brief pause to take a bite of my bagel. â€Å"I should have let you drive yourself today,† he announced, apropos of nothing, while I chewed. â€Å"Why?† I demanded. â€Å"I'm leaving with Alice after lunch.† â€Å"Oh.† I blinked, bewildered and disappointed. â€Å"That's okay, it's not that far of a walk.† He frowned at me impatiently. â€Å"I'm not going to make you walk home. We'll go get your truck and leave it here for you.† â€Å"I don't have my key with me,† I sighed. â€Å"I really don't mind walking.† What I minded was losing my time with him. He shook his head. â€Å"Your truck will be here, and the key will be in the ignition – unless you're afraid someone might steal it.† He laughed at the thought. â€Å"All right,† I agreed, pursing my lips. I was pretty sure my key was in the pocket of a pair of jeans I wore Wednesday, under a pile of clothes in the laundry room. Even if he broke into my house, or whatever he was planning, he'd never find it. He seemed to feel the challenge in my consent. He smirked, overconfident. â€Å"So where are you going?† I asked as casually as I could manage. â€Å"Hunting,† he answered grimly. â€Å"If I'm going to be alone with you tomorrow, I'm going to take whatever precautions I can.† His face grew morose†¦ and pleading. â€Å"You can always cancel, you know.† I looked down, afraid of the persuasive power of his eyes. I refused to be convinced to fear him, no matter how real the danger might be. It doesn't matter, I repeated in my head. â€Å"No,† I whispered, glancing back at his face. â€Å"I can't.† â€Å"Perhaps you're right,† he murmured bleakly. His eyes seemed to darken in color as I watched. I changed the subject. â€Å"What time will I see you tomorrow?† I asked, already depressed by the thought of him leaving now. â€Å"That depends†¦ it's a Saturday, don't you want to sleep in?† he offered. â€Å"No,† I answered too fast. He restrained a smile. â€Å"The same time as usual, then,† he decided. â€Å"Will Charlie be there?† â€Å"No, he's fishing tomorrow.† I beamed at the memory of how conveniently things had worked out. His voice turned sharp. â€Å"And if you don't come home, what will he think?† â€Å"I have no idea,† I answered coolly. â€Å"He knows I've been meaning to do the laundry. Maybe he'll think I fell in the washer.† He scowled at me and I scowled back. His anger was much more impressive than mine. â€Å"What are you hunting tonight?† I asked when I was sure I had lost the glowering contest. â€Å"Whatever we find in the park. We aren't going far.† He seemed bemused by my casual reference to his secret realities. â€Å"Why are you going with Alice?† I wondered. â€Å"Alice is the most†¦ supportive.† He frowned as he spoke. â€Å"And the others?† I asked timidly. â€Å"What are they?† His brow puckered for a brief moment. â€Å"Incredulous, for the most part.† I peeked quickly behind me at his family. They sat staring off in different directions, exactly the same as the first time I'd seen them. Only now they were four; their beautiful, bronze-haired brother sat across from me, his golden eyes troubled. â€Å"They don't like me,† I guessed. â€Å"That's not it,† he disagreed, but his eyes were too innocent. â€Å"They don't understand why I can't leave you alone.† I grimaced. â€Å"Neither do I, for that matter.† Edward shook his head slowly, rolling his eyes toward the ceiling before he met my gaze again. â€Å"I told you – you don't see yourself clearly at all. You're not like anyone I've ever known. You fascinate me.† I glared at him, sure he was teasing now. He smiled as he deciphered my expression. â€Å"Having the advantages I do,† he murmured, touching his forehead discreetly, â€Å"I have a better than average grasp of human nature. People are predictable. But you†¦ you never do what I expect. You always take me by surprise.† I looked away, my eyes wandering back to his family, embarrassed and dissatisfied. His words made me feel like a science experiment. I wanted to laugh at myself for expecting anything else. â€Å"That part is easy enough to explain,† he continued. I felt his eyes on my face but I couldn't look at him yet, afraid he might read the chagrin in my eyes. â€Å"But there's more†¦ and it's not so easy to put into words -â€Å" I was still staring at the Cullens while he spoke. Suddenly Rosalie, his blond and breathtaking sister, turned to look at me. No, not to look – to glare, with dark, cold eyes. I wanted to look away, but her gaze held me until Edward broke off mid-sentence and made an angry noise under his breath. It was almost a hiss. Rosalie turned her head, and I was relieved to be free. I looked back at Edward – and I knew he could see the confusion and fear that widened my eyes. His face was tight as he explained. â€Å"I'm sorry about that. She's just worried. You see†¦ it's dangerous for more than just me if, after spending so much time with you so publicly†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He looked down. â€Å"If?† â€Å"If this ends†¦ badly.† He dropped his head into his hands, as he had that night in Port Angeles. His anguish was plain; I yearned to comfort him, but I was at a loss to know how. My hand reached toward him involuntarily; quickly, though, I dropped it to the table, fearing that my touch would only make things worse. I realized slowly that his words should frighten me. I waited for that fear to come, but all I could seem to feel was an ache for his pain. And frustration – frustration that Rosalie had interrupted whatever he was about to say. I didn't know how to bring it up again. He still had his head in his hands. I tried to speak in a normal voice. â€Å"And you have to leave now?† â€Å"Yes.† He raised his face; it was serious for a moment, and then his mood shifted and he smiled. â€Å"It's probably for the best. We still have fifteen minutes of that wretched movie left to endure in Biology – I don't think I could take any more.† I started. Alice – her short, inky hair in a halo of spiky disarray around her exquisite, elfin face – was suddenly standing behind his shoulder. Her slight frame was willowy, graceful even in absolute stillness. He greeted her without looking away from me. â€Å"Alice.† â€Å"Edward,† she answered, her high soprano voice almost as attractive as his. â€Å"Alice, Bella – Bella, Alice,† he introduced us, gesturing casually with his hand, a wry smile on his face. â€Å"Hello, Bella.† Her brilliant obsidian eyes were unreadable, but her smile was friendly. â€Å"It's nice to finally meet you.† Edward flashed a dark look at her. â€Å"Hi, Alice,† I murmured shyly. â€Å"Are you ready?† she asked him. His voice was aloof. â€Å"Nearly. I'll meet you at the car.† She left without another word; her walk was so fluid, so sinuous that I felt a sharp pang of jealousy. â€Å"Should I say ‘have fun,' or is that the wrong sentiment?† I asked, turning back to him. â€Å"No, ‘have fun' works as well as anything.† He grinned. â€Å"Have fun, then.† I worked to sound wholehearted. Of course I didn't fool him. â€Å"I'll try.† He still grinned. â€Å"And you try to be safe, please.† â€Å"Safe in Forks – what a challenge.† â€Å"For you it is a challenge.† His jaw hardened. â€Å"Promise.† â€Å"I promise to try to be safe,† I recited. â€Å"I'll do the laundry tonight – that ought to be fraught with peril.† â€Å"Don't fall in,† he mocked. â€Å"I'll do my best.† He stood then, and I rose, too. â€Å"I'll see you tomorrow,† I sighed. â€Å"It seems like a long time to you, doesn't it?† he mused. I nodded glumly. â€Å"I'll be there in the morning,† he promised, smiling his crooked smile. He reached across the table to touch my face, lightly brushing along my cheekbone again. Then he turned and walked away. I stared after him until he was gone. I was sorely tempted to ditch the rest of the day, at the very least Gym, but a warning instinct stopped me. I knew that if I disappeared now, Mike and others would assume I was with Edward. And Edward was worried about the time we'd spent together publicly†¦ if things went wrong. I refused to dwell on the last thought, concentrating instead on making things safer for him. I intuitively knew – and sensed he did, too – that tomorrow would be pivotal. Our relationship couldn't continue to balance, as it did, on the point of a knife. We would fall off one edge or the other, depending entirely upon his decision, or his instincts. My decision was made, made before I'd ever consciously chosen, and I was committed to seeing it through. Because there was nothing more terrifying to me, more excruciating, than the thought of turning away from him. It was an impossibility. I went to class, feeling dutiful. I couldn't honestly say what happened in Biology; my mind was too preoccupied with thoughts of tomorrow. In Gym, Mike was speaking to me again; he wished me a good time in Seattle. I carefully explained that I'd canceled my trip, worried about my truck. â€Å"Are you going to the dance with Cullen?† he asked, suddenly sulky. â€Å"No, I'm not going to the dance at all.† â€Å"What are you doing, then?† he asked, too interested. My natural urge was to tell him to butt out. Instead, I lied brightly. â€Å"Laundry, and then I have to study for the Trig test or I'm going to fail.† â€Å"Is Cullen helping you study?† â€Å"Edward,† I emphasized, â€Å"is not going to help me study. He's gone away somewhere for the weekend.† The lies came more naturally than usual, I noted with surprise. â€Å"Oh.† He perked up. â€Å"You know, you could come to the dance with our group anyway – that would be cool. We'd all dance with you,† he promised. The mental image of Jessica's face made my tone sharper than necessary. â€Å"I'm not going to the dance, Mike, okay?† â€Å"Fine.† He sulked again. â€Å"I was just offering.† When the school day had finally ended, I walked to the parking lot without enthusiasm. I did not especially want to walk home, but I couldn't see how he would have retrieved my truck. Then again, I was starting to believe that nothing was impossible for him. The latter instinct proved correct – my truck sat in the same space he'd parked his Volvo in this morning. I shook my head, incredulous, as I opened the unlocked door and saw the key in the ignition. There was a piece of white paper folded on my seat. I got in and closed the door before I unfolded it. Two words were written in his elegant script. Be safe. The sound of the truck roaring to life frightened me. I laughed at myself. When I got home, the handle of the door was locked, the dead bolt unlocked, just as I'd left it this morning. Inside, I went straight to the laundry room. It looked just the same as I'd left it, too. I dug for my jeans and, after finding them, checked the pockets. Empty. Maybe I'd hung my key up after all, I thought, shaking my head. Following the same instinct that had prompted me to lie to Mike, I called Jessica on the pretense of wishing her luck at the dance. When she offered the same wish for my day with Edward, I told her about the cancellation. She was more disappointed than really necessary for a third-party observer to be. I said goodbye quickly after that. Charlie was absentminded at dinner, worried over something at work, I guessed, or maybe a basketball game, or maybe he was just really enjoying the lasagna – it was hard to tell with Charlie. â€Å"You know, Dad†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I began, breaking into his reverie. â€Å"What's that, Bell?† â€Å"I think you're right about Seattle. I think I'll wait until Jessica or someone else can go with me.† â€Å"Oh,† he said, surprised. â€Å"Oh, okay. So, do you want me to stay home?† â€Å"No, Dad, don't change your plans. I've got a million things to do†¦ homework, laundry†¦ I need to go to the library and the grocery store. I'll be in and out all day†¦ you go and have fun.† â€Å"Are you sure?† â€Å"Absolutely, Dad. Besides, the freezer is getting dangerously low on fish – we're down to a two, maybe three years' supply.† â€Å"You're sure easy to live with, Bella.† He smiled. â€Å"I could say the same thing about you,† I said, laughing. The sound of my laughter was off, but he didn't seem to notice. I felt so guilty for deceiving him that I almost took Edward's advice and told him where I would be. Almost. After dinner, I folded clothes and moved another load through the dryer. Unfortunately it was the kind of job that only keeps hands busy. My mind definitely had too much free time, and it was getting out of control. I fluctuated between anticipation so intense that it was very nearly pain, and an insidious fear that picked at my resolve. I had to keep reminding myself that I'd made my choice, and I wasn't going back on it. I pulled his note out of my pocket much more often than necessary to absorb the two small words he'd written. He wants me to be safe, I told myself again and again. I would just hold on to the faith that, in the end, that desire would win out over the others. And what was my other choice – to cut him out of my life? Intolerable. Besides, since I'd come to Forks, it really seemed like my life was about him. But a tiny voice in the back of my mind worried, wondering if it would hurt very much†¦ if it ended badly. I was relieved when it was late enough to be acceptable for bedtime. I knew I was far too stressed to sleep, so I did something I'd never done before. I deliberately took unnecessary cold medicine – the kind that knocked me out for a good eight hours. I normally wouldn't condone that type of behavior in myself, but tomorrow would be complicated enough without me being loopy from sleep deprivation on top of everything else. While I waited for the drugs to kick in, I dried my clean hair till it was impeccably straight, and fussed over what I would wear tomorrow. With everything ready for the morning, I finally lay in my bed. I felt hyper; I couldn't stop twitching. I got up and rifled through my shoebox of CDs until I found a collection of Chopin's nocturnes. I put that on very quietly and then lay down again, concentrating on relaxing individual parts of my body. Somewhere in the middle of that exercise, the cold pills took effect, and I gladly sank into unconsciousness. I woke early, having slept soundly and dreamlessly thanks to my gratuitous drug use. Though I was well rested, I slipped right back into the same hectic frenzy from the night before. I dressed in a rush, smoothing my collar against my neck, fidgeting with the tan sweater till it hung right over my jeans. I sneaked a swift look out the window to see that Charlie was already gone. A thin, cottony layer of clouds veiled the sky. They didn't look very lasting. I ate breakfast without tasting the food, hurrying to clean up when I was done. I peeked out the window again, but nothing had changed. I had just finished brushing my teeth and was heading back downstairs when a quiet knock sent my heart thudding against my rib cage. I flew to the door; I had a little trouble with the simple dead bolt, but I yanked the door open at last, and there he was. All the agitation dissolved as soon as I looked at his face, calm taking its place. I breathed a sigh of relief – yesterday's fears seemed very foolish with him here. He wasn't smiling at first – his face was somber. But then his expression lightened as he looked me over, and he laughed. â€Å"Good morning,† he chuckled. â€Å"What's wrong?† I glanced down to make sure I hadn't forgotten anything important, like shoes, or pants. â€Å"We match.† He laughed again. I realized he had a long, light tan sweater on, with a white collar showing underneath, and blue jeans. I laughed with him, hiding a secret twinge of regret – why did he have to look like a runway model when I couldn't? I locked the door behind me while he walked to the truck. He waited by the passenger door with a martyred expression that was easy to understand. â€Å"We made a deal,† I reminded him smugly, climbing into the driver's seat, and reaching over to unlock his door. â€Å"Where to?† I asked. â€Å"Put your seat belt on – I'm nervous already.† I gave him a dirty look as I complied. â€Å"Where to?† I repeated with a sigh. â€Å"Take the one-oh-one north,† he ordered. It was surprisingly difficult to concentrate on the road while feeling his gaze on my face. I compensated by driving more carefully than usual through the still-sleeping town. â€Å"Were you planning to make it out of Forks before nightfall?† â€Å"This truck is old enough to be your car's grandfather – have some respect,† I retorted. We were soon out of the town limits, despite his negativity. Thick underbrush and green-swathed trunks replaced the lawns and houses. â€Å"Turn right on the one-ten,† he instructed just as I was about to ask. I obeyed silently. â€Å"Now we drive until the pavement ends.† I could hear a smile in his voice, but I was too afraid of driving off the road and proving him right to look over and be sure. â€Å"And what's there, at the pavement's end?† I wondered. â€Å"A trail.† â€Å"We're hiking?† Thank goodness I'd worn tennis shoes. â€Å"Is that a problem?† He sounded as if he'd expected as much. â€Å"No.† I tried to make the lie sound confident. But if he thought my truck was slow†¦ â€Å"Don't worry, it's only five miles or so, and we're in no hurry.† Five miles. I didn't answer, so that he wouldn't hear my voice crack in panic. Five miles of treacherous roots and loose stones, trying to twist my ankles or otherwise incapacitate me. This was going to be humiliating. We drove in silence for a while as I contemplated the coming horror. â€Å"What are you thinking?† he asked impatiently after a few moments. I lied again. â€Å"Just wondering where we're going.† â€Å"It's a place I like to go when the weather is nice.† We both glanced out the windows at the thinning clouds after he spoke. â€Å"Charlie said it would be warm today.† â€Å"And did you tell Charlie what you were up to?† he asked. â€Å"Nope.† â€Å"But Jessica thinks we're going to Seattle together?† He seemed cheered by the idea. â€Å"No, I told her you canceled on me – which is true.† â€Å"No one knows you're with me?† Angrily, now. â€Å"That depends†¦ I assume you told Alice?† â€Å"That's very helpful, Bella,† he snapped. I pretended I didn't hear that. â€Å"Are you so depressed by Forks that it's made you suicidal?† he demanded when I ignored him. â€Å"You said it might cause trouble for you†¦ us being together publicly,† I reminded him. â€Å"So you're worried about the trouble it might cause me- if you don't come home?† His voice was still angry, and bitingly sarcastic. I nodded, keeping my eyes on the road. He muttered something under his breath, speaking so quickly that I couldn't understand. We were silent for the rest of the drive. I could feel the waves of infuriated disapproval rolling off of him, and I could think of nothing to say. And then the road ended, constricting to a thin foot trail with a small wooden marker. I parked on the narrow shoulder and stepped out, afraid because he was angry with me and I didn't have driving as an excuse not to look at him. It was warm now, warmer than it had been in Forks since the day I'd arrived, almost muggy under the clouds. I pulled off my sweater and knotted it around my waist, glad that I'd worn the light, sleeveless shirt – especially if I had five miles of hiking ahead of me. I heard his door slam, and looked over to see that he'd removed his sweater, too. He was facing away from me, into the unbroken forest beside my truck. â€Å"This way,† he said, glancing over his shoulder at me, eyes still annoyed. He started into the dark forest. â€Å"The trail?† Panic was clear in my voice as I hurried around the truck to catch up to him. â€Å"I said there was a trail at the end of the road, not that we were taking it.† â€Å"No trail?† I asked desperately. â€Å"I won't let you get lost.† He turned then, with a mocking smile, and I stifled a gasp. His white shirt was sleeveless, and he wore it unbuttoned, so that the smooth white skin of his throat flowed uninterrupted over the marble contours of his chest, his perfect musculature no longer merely hinted at behind concealing clothes. He was too perfect, I realized with a piercing stab of despair. There was no way this godlike creature could be meant for me. He stared at me, bewildered by my tortured expression. â€Å"Do you want to go home?† he said quietly, a different pain than mine saturating his voice. â€Å"No.† I walked forward till I was close beside him, anxious not to waste one second of whatever time I might have with him. â€Å"What's wrong?† he asked, his voice gentle. â€Å"I'm not a good hiker,† I answered dully. â€Å"You'll have to be very patient.† â€Å"I can be patient – if I make a great effort.† He smiled, holding my glance, trying to lift me out of my sudden, unexplained dejection. I tried to smile back, but the smile was unconvincing. He scrutinized my face. â€Å"I'll take you home,† he promised. I couldn't tell if the promise was unconditional, or restricted to an immediate departure. I knew he thought it was fear that upset me, and I was grateful again that I was the one person whose mind he couldn't hear. â€Å"If you want me to hack five miles through the jungle before sundown, you'd better start leading the way,† I said acidly. He frowned at me, struggling to understand my tone and expression. He gave up after a moment and led the way into the forest. It wasn't as hard as I had feared. The way was mostly flat, and he held the damp ferns and webs of moss aside for me. When his straight path took us over fallen trees or boulders, he would help me, lifting me by the elbow, and then releasing me instantly when I was clear. His cold touch on my skin never failed to make my heart thud erratically. Twice, when that happened, I caught a look on his face that made me sure he could somehow hear it. I tried to keep my eyes away from his perfection as much as possible, but I slipped often. Each time, his beauty pierced me through with sadness. For the most part, we walked in silence. Occasionally he would ask a random question that he hadn't gotten to in the past two days of interrogation. He asked about my birthdays, my grade school teachers, my childhood pets – and I had to admit that after killing three fish in a row, I'd given up on the whole institution. He laughed at that, louder than I was used to – bell-like echoes bouncing back to us from the empty woods. The hike took me most of the morning, but he never showed any sign of impatience. The forest spread out around us in a boundless labyrinth of ancient trees, and I began to be nervous that we would never find our way out again. He was perfectly at ease, comfortable in the green maze, never seeming to feel any doubt about our direction. After several hours, the light that filtered through the canopy transformed, the murky olive tone shifting to a brighter jade. The day had turned sunny, just as he'd foretold. For the first time since we'd entered the woods, I felt a thrill of excitement – which quickly turned to impatience. â€Å"Are we there yet?† I teased, pretending to scowl. â€Å"Nearly.† He smiled at the change in my mood. â€Å"Do you see the brightness ahead?† I peered into the thick forest. â€Å"Um, should I?† He smirked. â€Å"Maybe it's a bit soon for your eyes.† â€Å"Time to visit the optometrist,† I muttered. His smirk grew more pronounced. But then, after another hundred yards, I could definitely see a lightening in the trees ahead, a glow that was yellow instead of green. I picked up the pace, my eagerness growing with every step. He let me lead now, following noiselessly. I reached the edge of the pool of light and stepped through the last fringe of ferns into the loveliest place I had ever seen. The meadow was small, perfectly round, and filled with wildflowers – violet, yellow, and soft white. Somewhere nearby, I could hear the bubbling music of a stream. The sun was directly overhead, filling the circle with a haze of buttery sunshine. I walked slowly, awestruck, through the soft grass, swaying flowers, and warm, gilded air. I halfway turned, wanting to share this with him, but he wasn't behind me where I thought he'd be. I spun around, searching for him with sudden alarm. Finally I spotted him, still under the dense shade of the canopy at the edge of the hollow, watching me with cautious eyes. Only then did I remember what the beauty of the meadow had driven from my mind – the enigma of Edward and the sun, which he'd promised to illustrate for me today. I took a step back toward him, my eyes alight with curiosity. His eyes were wary, reluctant. I smiled encouragingly and beckoned to him with my hand, taking another step back to him. He held up a hand in warning, and I hesitated, rocking back onto my heels. Edward seemed to take a deep breath, and then he stepped out into the bright glow of the midday sun.