http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/28/derrion-albert-beating-de_n_302321.html
A video titled "Why Kids Don't Snitch" is how I found this article about a young boy named Derrion Albert who was beaten to death while trying to leave school one afternoon. Derrion was the perfect example of an innocent bystander. He was an honor role student who attended Christian Fenger Academy High School in Chicago. Gang violence and crime is known to be extremely high within this particular school district. There were a total 34 deaths and 290 shootings just during the past school year.
From what I gathered while reading, Derrion exited school on a typical afternoon and unkowingly happened to walk directly through a dispute going on between two separate gangs. Large wooden planks were being swung, punches were thrown and somewhere amidst the chaos Derrion was struck. He blacked out and upon wakening tried to pick himself up but was punched then kicked in the face. Many, if not hundreds of his classmates were surrounding him watching the whole fight play out. One kid managed to catch the entire brawl on tape using his phone. The question I asked myself is why didn't he use that phone to call for help and possibly save this poor boy's life?
Four kids were arrested and charged with Derrion's murder. Three are being tried as adults for first degree murder while the other is only being charged for not taking action and standing by as a witness. Why then, are the other students who gathered around to watch not in just as much trouble for not attempting to call the police or run and get help? As I stated at the beginning of this summary, I watched a video about this case in which a news caster travels to Fenger High School and sits down to interview a group of students about this tragedy. He asks why no one had the guts to stand up and do something to help Derrion and every student's answer was the same. None of them wanted to be considered a snitch.
I found this whole thing to be very sad. That we live in a time where children are willing to risk someone's life in order to keep their own reputation's clean. The students that were interviewed go on to explain that ratting out the four main boys responsible for Derrion's death could have left them with just the same fate. Unfortunately, I am afraid to say violence will never be something that completely goes away. In this situation the death of an innocent young man could have easily been prevented. I hope everyone standing around watching Derrion get brutally beaten feels just as guilty as the four boys who will rot away in jail.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Monday, December 14, 2009
Diversity in the Workplace
Article found by searching "diversity in workplace" using rod library
There are four basic communication styles: expressive, systematic, sympathetic, and direct. Our communication styles affect how others' react to and perceive us. Knowing your communication style and knowing how to manage others' communication styles can reduce conflict, increase productivity, and improve teamwork in the workplace.
Generally, diversity training and seminars about generational differences seek to increase cultural awareness, reduce conflict, and promote teamwork. Being aware of cultural and generational differences can improve employee productivity, enhance the work environment, and contribute toward greater understanding of one another. Knowing how to adapt their communication styles to complement someone else's style will enable employees to sustain productivity and create a harmonious work environment.
Furthermore, recognizing your communication style can help you to understand how your actions are perceived by others. Centuries ago, the Greek physician Hippocrates studied people's personality types. Instead of using basic terms that today's researchers associate with certain personality types, Hippocrates determined one to be sanguine, phlegmatic, melancholic, or choleric. Although he believed that certain body fluids such as blood, phlegm, bile, and black bile determined one's temperament, he was on to something.
Conflicting situations are bound to occur in the workplace, but unlike Hippocrates, we can take an active approach by being aware of others' communication styles and then adapting our style to find that balance.
There are typically four basic communication styles. Today, researchers use the terms expressive, systematic, sympathetic, and direct. Modern researchers have also differentiated the terms personality and communication style. In fact, communication styles are probably more determined by our needs at a given moment than by our personalities, which tend to be constant traits.
For example, someone who is generally a nice person could be having a bad day. Or, a generally positive co-worker could be experiencing symptoms of depression following the loss of a loved one. Temporary occurrences like these don't reflect our personalities but can affect how we communicate with one another.
We can avoid conflict and misunderstandings by paying close attention to how those around us communicate. Communication can be verbal or nonverbal, in the form of body language. If you sense an imbalance, then adjust the way you're communicating either verbally or physically. For example, if you sense that the person you are speaking to is nervous because you're standing over him, then try sitting down.
The basic communication styles
Here is a list of the four basic communication styles and an explanation of how certain types are perceived. You may want to take an assessment to learn your general style. Following the assessment, take into consideration that no one style is better than another. You may also discover that your style is a mix of all four styles.
1 Expressives tend to have high energy, speak quickly, and focus on the big picture. They generally find conflict or differences in opinion invigorating. Others can perceive expressives as overly cheerful, vain, or unpredictable.
2 Systematics focus on the facts and details, and not the big picture. They're generally not comfortable with conflict. Others can perceive systematics as unemotional or nonchalant.
3 Sympathetics like to focus on people and relationships. They are good listeners and generally concerned with everyone's needs. Sympathetics typically don't like conflict. Others can perceive sympathetics as soft-hearted or overly helpful. They can also appear to be procrastinators when distracted.
4 Directs generally keep conversation brief and are often involved in many things at once. They tend to see the big picture and are more focused on the outcome than on smaller tasks. Directs can appear self-confident, intimidating, and opinionated.
Communication styles in the workplace
Discovering your communication style is the first step. Now you need to learn how to adjust your style according to the situation. Expressives, for example, tend to be hyperactive. When dealing with an expressive, it's necessary to remain calm, speak slowly, and control the pace of the interaction.
Systematics are characterized as orderly, but careful when carrying out tasks. Sometimes they can be overly cautious. For example, a systematic who is learning a new computer skill may be hesitant to touch his keyboard out of fear that he will break something. When dealing with systematics, be patient, be their guide, and give them confidence to complete tasks.
Sympathetics are nurturing and born socializers. However, they may spend too much time socializing instead of focusing on more important matters. When you encounter sympathetics, share their concern and be supportive, but inform them that you must stay on task and that you've got work to do.
Lastly, directs are generally pressed for time. They're usually not concerned with the details but just want to know the facts, and they want to know them in a hurry. Because they usually run from meeting to meeting, they are sometimes seen as lacking emotion. Don't take this perceived lack of emotion personally. In the presence of a direct, be direct but detailed, and politely speak up if you feel that her demands are unreasonable. It's better to let directs know up front if you'll not be able to meet their request, than for them to find out later.
Experienced training professionals know all too well how their communication styles affect learning, and that the interactions that take place during training can have an effect on desired outcomes. When it comes to training, practicing good communication techniques is a must, and knowing your communication style certainly helps. Training professionals can teach their good communication practices to the rest of the organization in an effort to maintain or restore balance where conflict, productivity, and teamwork are lacking.
When I hear the word diversity the first thing that comes to my mind is a difference in race. For years this visible, cultural difference has been the cause of many conflicts. After reading this most recent article my eyes have been opened to just how many meanings diversity actually has. In the workplace the number one issue diversity brings to the table is varrying communication styles. There are four basic types: systematic, direct, sympathetic and expressive. The way we communicate is everything. Once you discover how your personality is perceived by those around you, you will have a better understanding on what kinds of people you should surround yourself with and how to handle those in which you do not see eye to eye.
This article has the potential to affect any age who reads it. The author breaks down the four main styles of communication. Expressive is generally energetic, focus on the big picture and find conflict when others disagree in opinion. systematic are opposite and focus on fine details. Sympathetics love people, they listen well and care about others well being. Finally, directs are involved in many things at once, they are more concerned with the final outcome of things rather than smaller detailed tasks. The author goes into depth one step further with each of these topics and describes how to adjust your own personal style depending the situation you are put in.
It is my belief that diversity is what keeps our world from falling into black and white. As literal as that sounds, I don't mean it in a way of Caucasions vs. African Americans. I mean in every aspect. Without the shy, smart, energetic, optimistic personalities, without Mexicans, Asians, Africans, jews, christians, muslims our lives would lack varrying experiences and ideas. It is completely necessary we all get a taste of as many walks of life as possible during the remainder of our existence on earth. Opening your eyes to those who share different opinions or racial backgrounds is what strengthens the heart to grow. Diversity is visible everywhere, not just in the workplace. Take a look around.
There are four basic communication styles: expressive, systematic, sympathetic, and direct. Our communication styles affect how others' react to and perceive us. Knowing your communication style and knowing how to manage others' communication styles can reduce conflict, increase productivity, and improve teamwork in the workplace.
Generally, diversity training and seminars about generational differences seek to increase cultural awareness, reduce conflict, and promote teamwork. Being aware of cultural and generational differences can improve employee productivity, enhance the work environment, and contribute toward greater understanding of one another. Knowing how to adapt their communication styles to complement someone else's style will enable employees to sustain productivity and create a harmonious work environment.
Furthermore, recognizing your communication style can help you to understand how your actions are perceived by others. Centuries ago, the Greek physician Hippocrates studied people's personality types. Instead of using basic terms that today's researchers associate with certain personality types, Hippocrates determined one to be sanguine, phlegmatic, melancholic, or choleric. Although he believed that certain body fluids such as blood, phlegm, bile, and black bile determined one's temperament, he was on to something.
Conflicting situations are bound to occur in the workplace, but unlike Hippocrates, we can take an active approach by being aware of others' communication styles and then adapting our style to find that balance.
There are typically four basic communication styles. Today, researchers use the terms expressive, systematic, sympathetic, and direct. Modern researchers have also differentiated the terms personality and communication style. In fact, communication styles are probably more determined by our needs at a given moment than by our personalities, which tend to be constant traits.
For example, someone who is generally a nice person could be having a bad day. Or, a generally positive co-worker could be experiencing symptoms of depression following the loss of a loved one. Temporary occurrences like these don't reflect our personalities but can affect how we communicate with one another.
We can avoid conflict and misunderstandings by paying close attention to how those around us communicate. Communication can be verbal or nonverbal, in the form of body language. If you sense an imbalance, then adjust the way you're communicating either verbally or physically. For example, if you sense that the person you are speaking to is nervous because you're standing over him, then try sitting down.
The basic communication styles
Here is a list of the four basic communication styles and an explanation of how certain types are perceived. You may want to take an assessment to learn your general style. Following the assessment, take into consideration that no one style is better than another. You may also discover that your style is a mix of all four styles.
1 Expressives tend to have high energy, speak quickly, and focus on the big picture. They generally find conflict or differences in opinion invigorating. Others can perceive expressives as overly cheerful, vain, or unpredictable.
2 Systematics focus on the facts and details, and not the big picture. They're generally not comfortable with conflict. Others can perceive systematics as unemotional or nonchalant.
3 Sympathetics like to focus on people and relationships. They are good listeners and generally concerned with everyone's needs. Sympathetics typically don't like conflict. Others can perceive sympathetics as soft-hearted or overly helpful. They can also appear to be procrastinators when distracted.
4 Directs generally keep conversation brief and are often involved in many things at once. They tend to see the big picture and are more focused on the outcome than on smaller tasks. Directs can appear self-confident, intimidating, and opinionated.
Communication styles in the workplace
Discovering your communication style is the first step. Now you need to learn how to adjust your style according to the situation. Expressives, for example, tend to be hyperactive. When dealing with an expressive, it's necessary to remain calm, speak slowly, and control the pace of the interaction.
Systematics are characterized as orderly, but careful when carrying out tasks. Sometimes they can be overly cautious. For example, a systematic who is learning a new computer skill may be hesitant to touch his keyboard out of fear that he will break something. When dealing with systematics, be patient, be their guide, and give them confidence to complete tasks.
Sympathetics are nurturing and born socializers. However, they may spend too much time socializing instead of focusing on more important matters. When you encounter sympathetics, share their concern and be supportive, but inform them that you must stay on task and that you've got work to do.
Lastly, directs are generally pressed for time. They're usually not concerned with the details but just want to know the facts, and they want to know them in a hurry. Because they usually run from meeting to meeting, they are sometimes seen as lacking emotion. Don't take this perceived lack of emotion personally. In the presence of a direct, be direct but detailed, and politely speak up if you feel that her demands are unreasonable. It's better to let directs know up front if you'll not be able to meet their request, than for them to find out later.
Experienced training professionals know all too well how their communication styles affect learning, and that the interactions that take place during training can have an effect on desired outcomes. When it comes to training, practicing good communication techniques is a must, and knowing your communication style certainly helps. Training professionals can teach their good communication practices to the rest of the organization in an effort to maintain or restore balance where conflict, productivity, and teamwork are lacking.
When I hear the word diversity the first thing that comes to my mind is a difference in race. For years this visible, cultural difference has been the cause of many conflicts. After reading this most recent article my eyes have been opened to just how many meanings diversity actually has. In the workplace the number one issue diversity brings to the table is varrying communication styles. There are four basic types: systematic, direct, sympathetic and expressive. The way we communicate is everything. Once you discover how your personality is perceived by those around you, you will have a better understanding on what kinds of people you should surround yourself with and how to handle those in which you do not see eye to eye.
This article has the potential to affect any age who reads it. The author breaks down the four main styles of communication. Expressive is generally energetic, focus on the big picture and find conflict when others disagree in opinion. systematic are opposite and focus on fine details. Sympathetics love people, they listen well and care about others well being. Finally, directs are involved in many things at once, they are more concerned with the final outcome of things rather than smaller detailed tasks. The author goes into depth one step further with each of these topics and describes how to adjust your own personal style depending the situation you are put in.
It is my belief that diversity is what keeps our world from falling into black and white. As literal as that sounds, I don't mean it in a way of Caucasions vs. African Americans. I mean in every aspect. Without the shy, smart, energetic, optimistic personalities, without Mexicans, Asians, Africans, jews, christians, muslims our lives would lack varrying experiences and ideas. It is completely necessary we all get a taste of as many walks of life as possible during the remainder of our existence on earth. Opening your eyes to those who share different opinions or racial backgrounds is what strengthens the heart to grow. Diversity is visible everywhere, not just in the workplace. Take a look around.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Defining Hate Crimes
The 1960s was a very ugly time for America. Whites and blacks were kept seperate by law. Although both groups were claimed to have been treated equally, history shows us blacks were generally looked down upon with disgust by whites. This division of people was created based solely on the fact that blacks were different and different meant they didn't deserve the same rights as the "normal" white people.
Unfortunately today this lack of acceptance does not just have to do with race. Religion, gender, disability and sexual orientation are other factors that come into play as reasons to hate. Since the beginning of time this strong emotion has driven people to do stupid and crazy things. When these crazy things happen to break the law they are defined as a hate crime. Now how, do you ask, is a hate crime any different from a normal crime? The answer is, a criminal must be "motivated by hostility as a member of a group (as one based on color, creed, gender, or sexual orientation)." in order for a normal crime to be transformed into a hate crime.
It has been said that "hate crimes are message crimes." They are trying to communicate a message to a certain group that they are unwelcome. My question is why? I am a very strongly opinionated person and if someone challenges an idea of mine I will fight to show my beliefs, but I still find a way to listen and accept what others have to say no matter how much I disagree with the words leaving their mouths. How someone could disagree with such passion to harm other people in order to prove a point is beyond me.
I have a very hard time coming to grips with this concept. If not all, I would guess a large amount of crimes committed are driven by hate. Unless the criminal admits to acting out to specifically target a certain "type" of person I believe most hate crimes would be hard to prove. America has come a long way since the 60s but still has a ways to go. It is my hope that someday everyone will take the examples that others have left before us and learn from them.
Unfortunately today this lack of acceptance does not just have to do with race. Religion, gender, disability and sexual orientation are other factors that come into play as reasons to hate. Since the beginning of time this strong emotion has driven people to do stupid and crazy things. When these crazy things happen to break the law they are defined as a hate crime. Now how, do you ask, is a hate crime any different from a normal crime? The answer is, a criminal must be "motivated by hostility as a member of a group (as one based on color, creed, gender, or sexual orientation)." in order for a normal crime to be transformed into a hate crime.
It has been said that "hate crimes are message crimes." They are trying to communicate a message to a certain group that they are unwelcome. My question is why? I am a very strongly opinionated person and if someone challenges an idea of mine I will fight to show my beliefs, but I still find a way to listen and accept what others have to say no matter how much I disagree with the words leaving their mouths. How someone could disagree with such passion to harm other people in order to prove a point is beyond me.
I have a very hard time coming to grips with this concept. If not all, I would guess a large amount of crimes committed are driven by hate. Unless the criminal admits to acting out to specifically target a certain "type" of person I believe most hate crimes would be hard to prove. America has come a long way since the 60s but still has a ways to go. It is my hope that someday everyone will take the examples that others have left before us and learn from them.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
In today’s lesson you are asked to analyze a song for its representation/expression of a social issue. You are asked to choose a song that addresses a social issue in its lyrics. The song may be aimed at a person, event, institution, social pattern, etc. You will then analyze the representation of that issue in the song, research the social issue, and use your research to support your argument in agreement with or opposition to the song artist.
Song: I Believe (Obama Tribute)
Artist: R. Kelly
Genre: R&B/Soul
Time period/year of release: 2009
What is the issue being addressed by the song? Political Diversity/Acceptance
What is the song artist’s point of view or opinion? The victory of Obama becoming president shows just how far America has come since the days when blacks and whites were treated as separate rather than equal.
Cite song lyrics (or music video images) to support and fully develop the artist’s perspective.
What are contextual factors surrounding the writing of this song? (Were there any major social events taking place around the time of the song’s writing? Examples: war, oppression, economic crisis, social liberty success or struggle.) This song was made in regards to the Presidential election of 2008. "Got to the mountain and lead the path for me your victory made history and now I believe." In this example of lyrics he is describing how Obama's victory has shown minority that the world is changing and anything is possible.
Research (Include a list of resources at the end of your paper)
Use online resources to research the social issue discussed in the song. Collect facts and statistics, identify key people and events, and summarize the public’s attitude towards the issue.
What is the issue?
Who is affected?
Identify the varying perspectives of the public towards the issue. (Who is supportive, opposing, what are their views and arguments)
What is the severity of the issue? (How many people affected, how much damage, etc.)
What is the significance of the issue? (What’s the big deal?)
Is this a moral, political, economic, ethical issue?
Is there any one in control of the issue, or who has strong influence over the issue?
What has been done or is being done to address the issue?
Is the issue being resolved or becoming more controversial?
Critique
Did you find information in your research that supported the artist’s point of view? Identify parts of the artist’s opinion that were supported by your research and explain how they were supported using the information from your research.
Identify parts of the artist’s opinion that were not supported by your research and explain how your research opposed the artist’s view.
Do you share the artist’s opinion on this issue? Why or why not? Support your arguments with your research.
Paper
Part I: Song Analysis (2 pts.) Part III: Critique (4 pts.)
Part II: Research Summary (4 pts.) Part IV: Resources Page
Song: I Believe (Obama Tribute)
Artist: R. Kelly
Genre: R&B/Soul
Time period/year of release: 2009
What is the issue being addressed by the song? Political Diversity/Acceptance
What is the song artist’s point of view or opinion? The victory of Obama becoming president shows just how far America has come since the days when blacks and whites were treated as separate rather than equal.
Cite song lyrics (or music video images) to support and fully develop the artist’s perspective.
What are contextual factors surrounding the writing of this song? (Were there any major social events taking place around the time of the song’s writing? Examples: war, oppression, economic crisis, social liberty success or struggle.) This song was made in regards to the Presidential election of 2008. "Got to the mountain and lead the path for me your victory made history and now I believe." In this example of lyrics he is describing how Obama's victory has shown minority that the world is changing and anything is possible.
Research (Include a list of resources at the end of your paper)
Use online resources to research the social issue discussed in the song. Collect facts and statistics, identify key people and events, and summarize the public’s attitude towards the issue.
What is the issue?
Who is affected?
Identify the varying perspectives of the public towards the issue. (Who is supportive, opposing, what are their views and arguments)
What is the severity of the issue? (How many people affected, how much damage, etc.)
What is the significance of the issue? (What’s the big deal?)
Is this a moral, political, economic, ethical issue?
Is there any one in control of the issue, or who has strong influence over the issue?
What has been done or is being done to address the issue?
Is the issue being resolved or becoming more controversial?
Critique
Did you find information in your research that supported the artist’s point of view? Identify parts of the artist’s opinion that were supported by your research and explain how they were supported using the information from your research.
Identify parts of the artist’s opinion that were not supported by your research and explain how your research opposed the artist’s view.
Do you share the artist’s opinion on this issue? Why or why not? Support your arguments with your research.
Paper
Part I: Song Analysis (2 pts.) Part III: Critique (4 pts.)
Part II: Research Summary (4 pts.) Part IV: Resources Page
Monday, November 9, 2009
Fort Hood
1. What are your thoughts, feelings, etc, as you read these articles?
After reading this article, I can't help but feel very sad for everyone involved. In the past I have researched details about the massacres that occured at Columbine, Virginia Tech and The Texas Clock Tower. I am shocked to see we have yet to learn. Violence will never be a smart solution to any problem.
2. What role do you think terrorism played in this massacre, if any? Why? Do you think that there was an terrorist organization behind the shooting?
It is so hard to say if this was an act based on race, religion or just plain insanity. I visited a memorial museum recently about the acts of terrorism that took place on 9/11 and sadly I must admit learning about that tragic day forever placed a biased opinion in my mind about people who share the same "muslim" look.
3. What role did racism or religious persecution play in this incident? Why?
If this man were of a different race, white for instance, he would instantly be placed in the psycho category. However, since he was muslim he was instantly judged based on what his own personal beliefs may or may not be.
4. Do you think a lot of Muslim Americans have the same feelings as this man? Why or why not?
Some probably do, but definitely not all. I think there are a lot of innocent Muslim Americans who just long for peace and the right to be able to walk into an airport without instantly being judged.
5. What do you think the military could have done to prevent this from happening? Why do you believe this? Were there signs that this man had the potential to do something like this? What were they?
In this particular situation I am not so sure there is much the military could have done to prevent this shooting rampage. He was a quiet man who was professionally trained to keep people from snapping and doing exactly what he did.
6. Talk about the leadership of Kimberly Munley (the woman who stopped the shooter). What did she do? How would you have reacted in the same situation?
Kimberly began shooting at the man who snapped because after witnessing what he had already done she knew someone needed to take control. She was shot 3 times in the process but eventually was able wound the shooter enough to end his rampage. I think I can safely say I would have never been able to step up and do the same. Knowing my life was on the line would be too much to have to handle.
7. What does this incident say about race relations in America? Specifically with Arab-Americans and Muslims? Is there a reason that Muslims and people from the Arab world feel a certain way about America?
I don't believe our country will ever view Arab-Americans and muslims the same since the attacks on the world trade center in 2001. Unfortunately that day a picture was painted that anyone of that certain descent was dangerous to our society. This triggered an incredible hate war and because of all the innocent people who were killed in search of the man who planned 9/11 I'm sure most Muslims and Arab people share a hate and sense of danger for Americans as many of us do for them.
After reading this article, I can't help but feel very sad for everyone involved. In the past I have researched details about the massacres that occured at Columbine, Virginia Tech and The Texas Clock Tower. I am shocked to see we have yet to learn. Violence will never be a smart solution to any problem.
2. What role do you think terrorism played in this massacre, if any? Why? Do you think that there was an terrorist organization behind the shooting?
It is so hard to say if this was an act based on race, religion or just plain insanity. I visited a memorial museum recently about the acts of terrorism that took place on 9/11 and sadly I must admit learning about that tragic day forever placed a biased opinion in my mind about people who share the same "muslim" look.
3. What role did racism or religious persecution play in this incident? Why?
If this man were of a different race, white for instance, he would instantly be placed in the psycho category. However, since he was muslim he was instantly judged based on what his own personal beliefs may or may not be.
4. Do you think a lot of Muslim Americans have the same feelings as this man? Why or why not?
Some probably do, but definitely not all. I think there are a lot of innocent Muslim Americans who just long for peace and the right to be able to walk into an airport without instantly being judged.
5. What do you think the military could have done to prevent this from happening? Why do you believe this? Were there signs that this man had the potential to do something like this? What were they?
In this particular situation I am not so sure there is much the military could have done to prevent this shooting rampage. He was a quiet man who was professionally trained to keep people from snapping and doing exactly what he did.
6. Talk about the leadership of Kimberly Munley (the woman who stopped the shooter). What did she do? How would you have reacted in the same situation?
Kimberly began shooting at the man who snapped because after witnessing what he had already done she knew someone needed to take control. She was shot 3 times in the process but eventually was able wound the shooter enough to end his rampage. I think I can safely say I would have never been able to step up and do the same. Knowing my life was on the line would be too much to have to handle.
7. What does this incident say about race relations in America? Specifically with Arab-Americans and Muslims? Is there a reason that Muslims and people from the Arab world feel a certain way about America?
I don't believe our country will ever view Arab-Americans and muslims the same since the attacks on the world trade center in 2001. Unfortunately that day a picture was painted that anyone of that certain descent was dangerous to our society. This triggered an incredible hate war and because of all the innocent people who were killed in search of the man who planned 9/11 I'm sure most Muslims and Arab people share a hate and sense of danger for Americans as many of us do for them.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Leadership Article #2
"Know You Are More Than Enough", the title is what drew me to read this article. Strong self esteem and confidence is something I have struggled with my entire life. The article focusses on inspiring the reader to love yourself for who you are, not what you have. The author makes a great point "the majority of the the probems we create for ourselves in life, stems from a weak self-image." I could not agree with this more! Everything in life truly begins and ends in your hands and the attitude you have while trying to complete a task determines your success. I believe this article is used to motivate rather than to inform.
This idea of self worth is one which has taken me a long time to grasp. I am finally at a place in my life where I am satisfied with the person I am. I have always been one to wonder what else is out there. Ever since I can remember I have taken what I've been given for granted. I have a nice house, my own car, lots of nice clothes, food provided daily and a set of parents who have been happily married for quite some time. Yet I would often find myself searching for just a little bit more. Until just recently I started approaching my issues in a little different way.
I can normally relate anything I do, see or hear to a song in some way. This time the line that came to mind was one from the song Desperado by The Eagles. "It seems to me some fine things have been laid upon your table, but you only want the ones that you can't get. " If you are ever feeling down and low start by searching yourself for the heart of the problem. Too often people throw their issues onto others shoulder's because at the time that seems like the easiest escape. However, this only results in the problem being buried away until it has grown to be uncovered again. You must find happiness within what you already have if you ever want to be able to move on to bigger and better things.
This idea of self worth is one which has taken me a long time to grasp. I am finally at a place in my life where I am satisfied with the person I am. I have always been one to wonder what else is out there. Ever since I can remember I have taken what I've been given for granted. I have a nice house, my own car, lots of nice clothes, food provided daily and a set of parents who have been happily married for quite some time. Yet I would often find myself searching for just a little bit more. Until just recently I started approaching my issues in a little different way.
I can normally relate anything I do, see or hear to a song in some way. This time the line that came to mind was one from the song Desperado by The Eagles. "It seems to me some fine things have been laid upon your table, but you only want the ones that you can't get. " If you are ever feeling down and low start by searching yourself for the heart of the problem. Too often people throw their issues onto others shoulder's because at the time that seems like the easiest escape. However, this only results in the problem being buried away until it has grown to be uncovered again. You must find happiness within what you already have if you ever want to be able to move on to bigger and better things.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Leadership Article Summary
Karen Engels
11/3/09
Article Summary
“Yes, reading and math are important. But what matter most is what kinds of human beings are reading the books and doing the math.” this line is what hooked me in to reading the remaining 10 pages of this scholarly article. The author of this paper, Charles C. Haynes, goes on to give multiple examples of random acts of ethical behavior. The most interesting case to read was one about a man whose parents were survivors of the Holocaust. He told a story of the day the jews were being separated in Auschwitz.
A guard asked for anyone who was a welder to step to the front. Out of impulse this man’s father stepped forward, he had never welded a day in his life but he believed that if he could complete the task given to him he would have a better chance of staying alive. Each “welder” was asked to produce a piece of work to inspect. The German foreman in charge gave this man’s father a perfectly finished project helping him pass inspection, because of this cover up he survived the camp without ever speaking a word to this kind German man.
These acts of leadership are what make our world a better place. These are the kind of stories children need to be learning about. Hearing of these situations could inspire anyone to become more morally correct. In this paper the act of learning how to become ethical leaders is referred to as schools of conscience and the quote I started off the first paragraph with truly explains it all.
Of all the articles I have had to read this semester, I would say this one dealing with educational leadership has been my favorite to work with. I can’t put my finger on the exact reason why this article had such a large impact on me, but I think it has to do with the fact that the information within the paper relates directly to my life. I know I am not alone in saying that some of the knowledge I have gained from school is completely pointless and doesn’t connect me to the path of my future. Certain careers in this world don’t call for advanced math techniques, some don’t call for a background in earth science, but all call for ethical leadership. This is why educating our youth to “develop moral habits of the heart” is so important. It is one specific characteristic everyone will need to carry with them in the long run
11/3/09
Article Summary
“Yes, reading and math are important. But what matter most is what kinds of human beings are reading the books and doing the math.” this line is what hooked me in to reading the remaining 10 pages of this scholarly article. The author of this paper, Charles C. Haynes, goes on to give multiple examples of random acts of ethical behavior. The most interesting case to read was one about a man whose parents were survivors of the Holocaust. He told a story of the day the jews were being separated in Auschwitz.
A guard asked for anyone who was a welder to step to the front. Out of impulse this man’s father stepped forward, he had never welded a day in his life but he believed that if he could complete the task given to him he would have a better chance of staying alive. Each “welder” was asked to produce a piece of work to inspect. The German foreman in charge gave this man’s father a perfectly finished project helping him pass inspection, because of this cover up he survived the camp without ever speaking a word to this kind German man.
These acts of leadership are what make our world a better place. These are the kind of stories children need to be learning about. Hearing of these situations could inspire anyone to become more morally correct. In this paper the act of learning how to become ethical leaders is referred to as schools of conscience and the quote I started off the first paragraph with truly explains it all.
Of all the articles I have had to read this semester, I would say this one dealing with educational leadership has been my favorite to work with. I can’t put my finger on the exact reason why this article had such a large impact on me, but I think it has to do with the fact that the information within the paper relates directly to my life. I know I am not alone in saying that some of the knowledge I have gained from school is completely pointless and doesn’t connect me to the path of my future. Certain careers in this world don’t call for advanced math techniques, some don’t call for a background in earth science, but all call for ethical leadership. This is why educating our youth to “develop moral habits of the heart” is so important. It is one specific characteristic everyone will need to carry with them in the long run
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