Dazzling Danielle

RDB Emmerson's "The Windhover"

2008-04-21T23:02:00.001-07:00

“To Christ our Lord

I CAUGHT this morning morning’s minion, king-
dom of daylight’s dauphin, dapple-dawn-drawn Falcon, in his riding
Of the rolling level underneath him steady air, and striding
High there, how he rung upon the rein of a wimpling wing
In his ecstasy! then off, off forth on swing, 5
As a skate’s heel sweeps smooth on a bow-bend: the hurl and gliding
Rebuffed the big wind. My heart in hiding
Stirred for a bird,—the achieve of; the mastery of the thing!

Brute beauty and valour and act, oh, air, pride, plume, here
Buckle! AND the fire that breaks from thee then, a billion 10
Times told lovelier, more dangerous, O my chevalier!

No wonder of it: shéer plód makes plough down sillion
Shine, and blue-bleak embers, ah my dear,
Fall, gall themselves, and gash gold-vermillion."- Gerard Manley Hopkins

When I first read Hopkins’ poem “The Windhover”, I was positive that the poem was merely about a Falcon’s fall from the sky; however, once I noticed Hopkins’ opening lines “To Christ our Lord”, a whole new hidden meaning seeped onto the page from the intricately planned stanzas. The journey of the hawk seems to personify the life and death of Jesus Christ and provides a glimpse at mankind’s relationship with Him. By contrasting the bird’s absolute power and majesty at the beginning of the poem with the of elimination of dignity and pride towards the end, Hopkins creates a parallel to Christ's sacrifice of His divinity to win man's salvation.

The stanza,

“Brute beauty and valour and act, oh, air, pride, plume, here
Buckle! AND the fire that breaks from thee then, a billion 10
Times told lovelier, more dangerous, O my chevalier!”

is truly the pivotal point in the poem.

Hopkins begins by establishing the grandeur of Christ, or in this case the Falcon, in the list of “ brute, beauty, valour”, and then portrays the sacrifice of these things by saying “and act, oh, air, pride, plume, here Buckle!” (Hopkins 9-10). “Buckle” contains a great connotation in that it represents the diminishing of Christ’s human spirit. The next line, “AND the fire that breaks from thee then, a billion 10
Times told lovelier, more dangerous, O my chevalier!”, portrays Christ as conqueror or “ chevalier” over death and depicts the arising of the incredible promise of eternal life through Him for the believer in “the fire that breaks from thee” (Hopkins 10-11).

The last stanza
No wonder of it: shéer plód makes plough down sillion
Shine, and blue-bleak embers, ah my dear, 13
Fall, gall themselves, and gash gold-vermillion.

discusses the promise of the cross and the struggles that are overcome through it. While some may find “no wonder” in the cross, its true message of the omnipotent and loving God “makes down sillion (the immense suffering of Christ) shine”. Even though “The blue-bleak embers (or the nonbelievers betray Christ and) fall, gall themselves, and gash gold-vermillion (the Blood of Christ), the glory of God shines through in Jesus’ Resurrection (Hopkins 12-14). Though this poem can be interpreted in many different ways, I find this interpretation to make perfect sense with Hopkins’ choice of prose and diction. Through his personification of the Hawk, I was able to discover new meaning in the persecution, Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ.

RDB Gender and Diversity

2008-04-09T23:09:00.000-07:00

"When the earliest settlers poured into a wild continent (which was to become America), there was no one to ask them where they came from…the land flourished because it was fed from so many sources—because it was nourished by so many cultures and traditions and people.” (859C). While America is even more so a melting pot of an infinite variety of backgrounds, races, and cultures today, the acceptance of all hardworking and dedicated people has plummeted to an all time low in which people have lost all connection with their individual identities.
Though our generation is the most open-minded and diverse America has seen thus far, we represent a new breed of Americans who find a constant need to prove ourselves to others by altering our identities to fit society’s definition of what is acceptable. Even though we are stuck in the battle of conformity, we still long to be individualistic, and we struggle to find our niche while are constantly striving to make ourselves unique. Many of the author’s of the essays discussing gender and diversity, mentioned this struggle and related it to a journey of self discovery that is “characterized by a patchwork quilt of custom and assimilation, of resistance and complicity, and of understanding and confusion” (Anadrade 214). It is hard for us to imagine another’s hopes, dreams, and feelings because we are so wrapped up in our own lives, and we often times cast the thought of them aside completely. ((It is hard to practice our sympathetic imagination and put ourselves in another's position.)

The views of society have engrained in our minds that we must look and act a certain way in order to be successful, and we often apply these views in our everyday life without a second thought. Norma Anadrade said that “I had been trained to look at people’s color my entire life”, and I think that this is probably the truth for most of us (224). Stereotypes of certain groups of people have become so prevalent that people have forgotten how to acknowledge other’s identities as well as their own. One group of people that I have noticed that I discriminate against in my life is the homeless. While I have often thought of them as just lazy bums who do not want to work for a living and just pester me for money as I walk up and down the drag, I have started to realize that each of them is a person with a story. Recently, I have made an effort to smile and make eye contact with them as I pass by or speak to them when they speak to me. Last week, I even talked to a homeless man named Ben for a while after I gave him my leftovers, and he surprised me with his ramblings of the things he had experienced in his life. I have realized that the homeless, much like myself, simply yearn to be acknowledged and have their identity recognized by another. I believe that it is important for us to remember that although everyone’s lives have encompassed different circumstances and situations, we are all still related through the fact that we are human and for the most part have the same desires and endure similar human sufferings. Vincent Ng said in his essay , “While I see my roots as an important connection to my past, I do not see them defining my future.” (257). Our identities are innate within all of us, but, they do not define us, we define them. It is up to us to discover who we are, and to listen to the stories of others so that they might be able to do the same. There are so many people in the world yearning to be someone, longing to possess some sort of identity, and it is up to us to help them discover the endless possibilities that lay within themselves.

P5 Igniting the Flame: My Leadership Vision

2008-03-30T13:02:00.001-07:00

Ever since I was little, I have had a sincere desire to help others. My aspiration to become a doctor was derived from this yearning to be an active participant in other’s lives and to somehow make a difference.

[1] ((When I was younger, I used to play doctor and dream of the day I could help others.))

To me, a doctor had the capability to change all aspects of a patient’s life and represented a cure to all their physical and mental suffering. Recently, however, I have realized that my desire to help others is not just merely found in a need to help their physical being, but also in one to touch and change their hearts. [2]((Healing a Hurting Heart))

It is my belief that the heart is the key to the human persona, and often the part of the body that endures the most confusion and pain. Thus, I have decided that the medical field itself is not capable of fulfilling my ideal vision for my future. Rosabeth Moss Kanter once said, “A vision is not just a picture of what could be; it is an appeal to our better selves, a call to become something more [1].” While I still wish to somehow empathize with other’s physical distress, my new vision is to do just that, connect with others on a deeper level and work towards change in individuals through example, boundless love, and the offering of hope in my community and the world at large.

Though I know that I will need to take some much larger steps in fulfilling my vision in the future, I have commenced on my journey this year my becoming a volunteer for Young Life. [3]

Young Life is a Christian ministry that focuses on introducing kids to Jesus Christ. I was recently placed as a middle school Wyldlife leader in West Austin, and have felt an abundant sense of compassion and love for these kids ever since. From supporting them at their sporting events to listening to them talk about what is important to them, leaders like myself are committed to being involved with kids' lives. We help kids consider the direction of their lives, and offer hope for their future by building relationships with them and sharing the Gospel in casual, non-threatening environments. [4]
By simply making kids laugh and enjoying life with them, we ourselves are secretly making a huge impact on the way they think, feel, and live. While many of these children struggle daily with things I could never even imagine, I am there to offer them support and guidance in their pursuit of Christ and of others. I plan to continue being a leader throughout my four years in college, and hope to get more and more involved as the year progress. Young Life has provided me with the opportunity to connect with kids on a deeper level than I ever thought possible, and has instilled me with an incredible hope of what my future in the pursuit of changing kid’s lives might behold.
[5]
Although I already sponsor a child in Kenya, I plan to continue trying to make a difference abroad for many years to come. Sponsoring Nyamvula through Compassion International has already taught me the concept of solidarity, which is so important when trying to communicate with anyone from a foreign culture. Though our communication is
from two different continents, my love for Nyamvula transcends geographic borders. [6] ((Children of an African children’s choir praying before a performance))

My donation has provided her with the opportunity to go to school and to come to know and love God. Her letters beam of joy and appreciation of my sponsorship and encourage me to become more active in Compassion’s ministry. I plan to persuade others to sponsor a child, and hope to take a mission trip to Africa to work in an orphanage next summer. Also, I am looking into sponsoring another child from another country so that I might be able to change another child’s life in the same way.
[7]

Similarly, a few friends and I began working with Children’s Hope International, an international adoption agency, our senior year of high school for a social justice project on the One Child Policy in China. [8]

Since then we have become junior ambassadors for the foundation, and have been able to raise enough money to fund several international adoptions for a families across the United States. Since adoption is already quite an emotionally draining process, eliminating the stress of having to supply the appropriate funds allows the child and its new parents to interact and connect more instantly. The adoption permits both parent and child to be part of a type of loving family that they have never experienced before. ((Offering hope and love across the globe))[9]

I hope to continue to work with Children’s Hope International in order to fund more international adoptions and help provide both child and family with happier lives by giving them the opportunity to be in each other’s. I believe that by expanding my love across borders and trying to make a difference that others will be encouraged to do the same.[10]

Sometime in the near future, I would love to start a camp for kids of all ages to encourage mutual respect and support for one another. The camp would be would be a refuge of adventures and activities that would allow children to relate to one another instead of partaking in all of the temptations that are so easy for kids to get involved with these days. [11]
An outlet for creativity and mutual growth in Christ, it would allow students to be themselves among their peers without fear of judgment or mockery. With everything from sports to excursions to food to counseling, it would create a community of people who loved being with each other, and who would in return go out and love others. By concentrating on a few students at first, the camp would be able to spread the love of Christ the same way Jesus did. [12]((Children forming a community and supporting one another.)

In the Master Plan for Evangelism, Coleman states that, “though (Jesus) did what he could to help the multitudes, he had to devote himself primarily to a few men, rather than the masses, so that the masses could at last be saved” (29) [2]. The camp would take on the same approach that would eventually help change a community and hopefully the world at large.
[13]
While none of my classes coincide with my leadership vision at the moment, I do believe that they will benefit me in the long run. My natural science classes such as chemistry and biology will be helpful if I decide to continue pursuing the medical profession. Though they appear an obstacle now, their benefits in my future will far outweigh the problems they are causing me. Plan II Math, Illness and Meaning, and World Literature all help me examine the world around me in new and exciting ways, and allow me to develop my own personal opinions on many matters in my life. [14]
World Literature has especially encouraged me to take a look at myself and my convictions and learn to apply them on an everyday basis. Though some assignments have been more beneficial than others, projects four and five have made me discover where my true passions lie and apply them in creating my own leadership vision. This assignment truly brought my focus away from all the worldly distractions I encounter each day and back to the children and how I can benefit them the most. Now, I have something to focus my attention and love on, and I cannot wait to put it into action.
According to Warren Bennis, “leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality [3]." Through all of the steps listed above, I hope to translate my vision of loving children and changing their lives into a reality and at last become a leader.

[15] ((Matthew 19:14: Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."))

By throwing my entire being into loving and caring about these kids, I know that I will be able to connect with that which is greater than myself and experience the power of infinite love such as Christ has offered me take hold of my life. I am ready to be a vessel of love that will bring this hateful world out of its darkness. I am ready to confront what lies ahead of me, triumph and failure alike, and meet it with open arms. The flame in my heart has been ignited and it keeps glowing brighter everyday.
[16]

Word Count Including Quotes: 1,460

Word Count Excluding Quotes: 1,404

Text Citations:

[1]- Rosabeth Moss Kanter. http://thinkexist.com/quotation/creativity_is_a_lot_like_looking_at_the_world/149380.html. 29 March 2008.

[2] - Coleman, Robert E. Baker: 2006.

[3]- Beennis, Warren. http://www.quoteworld.org/quotes/1220. 29 March 2008.

Photo Citations:

[1]- Playing Doctor- http://www.thechildrenshospital.org/visit/type/surgery/siblings.aspx

[2]- Healing HEART- http://pro.corbis.com/images/S0536-19.jpg?size=572&uid=%7B3516795E-3638-4F1D-A288-E15816539EB5%7D

[3]- YL LOGO- http://wallawallayounglife.org/YL%20Color.jpg

[4]- Kids laughing- http://www.magicnorm.com/kids%20laughing.jpg

[5]- African child- http://www.worldofstock.com/slides/PCH5936.jpg

[6] Kid’s Praying- http://www.charismamag.com/images/choir-kidsnews.jpg

[7]- Nambia child- http://newmexiken.com/images/2006/02/_620.jpg

[8]- Chi- picasaweb.google.com

[9]- Globe- http://www.crossroadsadoption.com/Portals/0/images/International.jpg

[10]- Hoola Hoop http://www.vcss.k12.ca.us/Portals/VcssoPortals/afterschool/j0428516.jpg

[11]- Diversity- http://pro.corbis.com/images/RF4467343.jpg?size=572&uid=%7B9FA215B9-7763-44A6-9A9F-2B80C0C5E3A7%7D

[12]- Community- http://www.suzylamplugh.org/files/images/Training/community_pic.jpg

[13]- Kid’s Playing- http://thefuntimesguide.com/images/blogs/harry-potter-quidditch-game.jpg

[14]- World connection: http://www.balancedweightmanagement.com/World%20Connection.jpg

[15]- Jesus and Children- http://www.youarelovedchildcare.com/jesus_w_children_600.jpg

[16]- Flame: http://tinypic.com/8wcqqh.jpg

The Bluest Eye II

2008-03-26T23:53:00.000-07:00

In Isaiah 53:2-3, Jesus is described as “a tender plant, and as a root (growing) out of dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hide as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not” (Bump 67). Similar to the world’s actions towards Jesus, Pecola in Toni Morrison’s, The Bluest Eye, was completely cast aside as a recluse from society. Pecola’s own ugliness made her “despised…by teachers and classmates a like” (Morrison 45). Though both Pecola and Jesus endured lives of extreme hardship and suffering, both essentially became saviors in their own ways. Christians look to the symbol of Jesus crucified on a cross as a reminder that that Jesus lived the perfect sacrificial life and that through His eternal love, all of our sins are forgiven. Through Jesus’ divine grace, we are given new life and hope towards the future.

Similarly, Pecola’s life and insanity brings a new appreciation of life to the people in her community. Her ugliness makes everyone feel beautiful, her endless suffering brings gratitude for their comparatively easy lives, and her desire for acceptance humbles them. She remains a symbol of all that hatred and human suffering can be, and encourages them to be compassionate towards one another. She serves as a beacon of hope “among all of the waste and beauty of the world- which is what she herself was. All of our waste which we dumped on her and which she absorbed. And all of our beauty, which was hers first and which she gave to us. All of us—all who knew her—felt so wholesome after we cleansed ourselves on her” (Morrison 205). Though unlikely heroes, both Jesus and Pecola have the ability to enlighten their communities and to bring them out of eternal darkness.

The Bluest Eye I

2008-03-24T21:35:00.001-07:00

In Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye, all the protagonist Pecola wants is to have blue eyes so that she can become her definition of beautiful. Through all of the horrible things that happen in her life, she places the blame for the occurrences on the fact that she herself is ugly and unworthy and grasps on to the hope that one day she will be loved when she receives her blue eyes. “It had occurred to Pecola some time ago that if her eyes, those eyes that held the pictures, and knew the sights—if those eyes of hers were different, that is to say, beautiful, she herself would be different.” (Morrison 46). She believes that blue eyes will solve her every problem and in some way replace the pain and fear in her heart with joy. What seems like an instant fix to a little girl, however, serves merely as a Band-Aid to cover the wounds which she has for so long endured. Even as Pecola, in a state of insanity, receives her prized blue eyes, she is still filled with an emptiness leaving her yearning for more.

Today, our generation is characterized by this constant struggle for wanting more and for settling for instant gratification that leaves us miserable and confused in the long run. Constantly conforming to society’s standards of “beauty” and appearance, the youth of today has become increasingly self absorbed and indifferent towards the mind-set and insecurities of others. Though we all have our own personal struggles with self-confidence raging within us that we feel a need to deal with, we are not for a moment concerned that our peers are for the most part facing the same daily struggles. Often times we think that others cannot possibly understand how we feel and are scared to seek counsel from them because they are different from us, but are not all humans capable of understanding human suffering?
Pauline says is well when she says, “I hurt just like them white women. Just ‘cause I wasn’t hoping and hollering before didn’t mean I wasn’t feeling pain” (Morrison 125).Many of us, like myself, have learned to disregard the emotions we are experiencing, and turn to superficial things such as alcohol and money to try to erase this hurt that arises when we actually come face to face with our problems. What we must realize is that we cannot remove our past from our present and that we must confront our problems because they make up and huge part of who we are. Last year, I experienced a lot of bullying from a particularly hateful individual in my grade. Much like Pecola, I was ridiculed and “insult(ed) (about things) above which (I) had not control” (Morrison 65). This tormenting left my self esteem at an all time low and it was not until I actually acknowledged the pain I was feeling that I was able to become confident again and cast away all of my temporary solutions.
The Dove Campaign for real beauty encourages girls to accept themselves for who they are.

The ever raging battle of self acceptance is one that our society needs to embrace in order to ease the inner turmoil in so many lives in the world. We must remember to be compassionate towards others because we would want them to be compassionate towards us in our time of need. “To imagine what it is like to be (another), to feel (their) pain, is to take the first step toward breaking the habits of racism and judging by appearance that “created” (them)” (Bump193). Most of all, we must accept ourselves with all of our imperfections and strive to let our inner beauty shine through and become the beautiful that so many of us our striving for. Only when we think we are beautiful, will the world be able to view us in the same light.

RDB Gandhi and MLK

2008-03-03T20:58:00.001-08:00

Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred….(we must) continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive” (122). This attitude of Ahimsa, taken on by the some of the greatest leader’s to ever to walk this Earth, seems to be a driving force behind some of the most monumental milestones throughout history.

While Jesus, Martin Luther King Jr., and Gandhi, all came close to perfecting the methods of Ahimsa, its ways remain a challenge to the common man such as me. Though I understand its basic concepts, the challenge lies in actually putting these principles into practice. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “If a man beats you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If a man takes away your coat, give him your shirt also” (16). Being a Christian, I try to live my life by these words of Christ, but it is definitely not easy. While I know that hating others and becoming angry about certain circumstances definitely does not qualify as Ahimsa or the way of God, I personally struggle daily with these issues. My goal in life is to help transform others into the people they are meant to become and help provide them with insight into a better life, but I realize that this dream cannot become a reality unless I take a stronger grasp onto the notions that these famous leaders so fearlessly lived their lives by. The only way that I will be able to live my life the way I want to live it is to convert any disdain I feel towards others into selfless love that will hopefully spark interest in the individual that observes it.
Les Miserbales, 1978

In Les Miserables, the Bishop of Digne allows Jean Valjean to stay with him after he has been released from jail and condemned by the rest of society. One night when the bishop is sleeping, Valjean decides to repay the Bishop’s favor by stealing all of his silver and running away. When the police catch Valjean and bring him back to the home of the Bishop, the Bishop lies to the police saying that he gave the silver to Valjean and ultimately saves him from a life of imprisonment. After the Bishop saves and forgives Valjean for stealing,  he gives Valjean the silver candlesticks on the mantel along with everything else he had previously stolen. The Bishop’s last words to Valjean are,  "But remember this, my brother.  See in this some higher plan.  You must use this precious silver  to become an honest man.  By the witness of the martyrs,  by the Passion and the Blood,  God has raised you out of darkness,  I have bought your soul for God!" (Les Miserables). The Bishop’s words of forgiveness and hope challenge Valjean to start anew, and he does, changing his life forever. The affect that the Bishop instantly has on Valjean’s life is the kind of effect that I wish to have on the lives of others. To do so, I must practice solidarity and alter my entire being into existing in pursuit of others. Gandhi once said that “my life is a message,” and by existing as a living beacon of Ahimsa and the love of Jesus Christ, I just might be able to spread this enduring message of compassion, and transform the world for the better.(Gandhi 119).

A Peacemaker's Enlightenment

RBD Gawain and the Green Knight

2008-02-25T23:00:00.001-08:00

In Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Sir Gawain embarks on a journey “the dunte that schulde hym deve, and nedez hit most be done (to stand a crushing blow in helpless sufferance),” because of the deal he made with the Green Knight (1285-86). This scenario brought upon by various choices made by Sir Gawain, fits perfectly with Campbell’s description of a hero as a “man of self-achieved submission” (16). Gawain accepts his unfavorable fate without question, knowing that he brought it upon himself, and continues to live his life chivalrously. When he stops at the castle on his quest to find the Green Knight a year later, Gawain is presented with an offer that he finds hard to refuse. The lord of the castles tells him that he can have anything he kills on his hunt if Gawain in return will give the lord whatever he receives from relaxing with his wife all day. Even though he is quite frequently tempted by the lord’s wife, Gawain chooses truth instead of the enticement, and always puts his word into action by giving the lord exactly what he receives. On the eve of his encounter with the Green Knight, however, Gawain’s gallant spirits falter and he chooses to keep the scarf that the lord’s wife gives him for protection in secrecy. The next day when he meets with the Green Knight, it is revealed that the lord and the Green Knight are actually the same person and that he is aware of Gawain’s betrayal. In this revelation, the Green Knight says, “and the wowing of my wyf: I woght it myselven. I sende hir to asay the, and sothly me thynkkez on the fautlest freke that ever on fote yede…bot here yow lakked a lyttel…and lewte yow wonted” (I arranged it myself. I sent her to test you, and to me truly you seem to be one of the most perfect men who ever walked the earth,” but “only here you fell short… and lacked fidelity) (2361-66).

This story of Gawain and the Green Knight is similar to Adam and eve's temptation in the Garden of Eden.

Gawain’s moment of weakness in his loyalty to the Green Knight and his cause of chivalry should have been one of utter embarrassment and shame, but the Green Knight’s reply was, “ thou art confessed so clene, beknown of thy mysses, and hatz penaunce apert of the point of myn egge, I halde thepolysed of that plight, and pured as clene as thou hadez never forfeted sythen thou watz first borne” (you have so cleanly confessed yourself, admitted your fault, and done honest penance on the edge of my blade. I declare you absolved of that offence, and washed as clean as if you had never transgressed since the day you were born) (2391-94). In my opinion, the characters in this epic poem are representative of something greater than just their names. We have all been challenged in this lifetime and this story portrays how we as humans should deal with temptation and unfaithfulness. Gawain, symbolic of the human race, is good and pure and falters for a brief moment in his journey due to the overwhelming powers of the lord’s wife of temptation (Satan). Instead of holding his fault against him, the Green Knight (God/humanity) forgives Gawain through his penance and sets him free, selflessly giving him his sash as well. While we might not all see these characters as the same images, we can follow their example of upholding the values of chivalry and truth in our lives. We all make mistakes and by learning to sincerely accept them, we become all the more courageous. Thus, just as Gawain was honored for learning this lesson, we can say, “Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense” (shame upon him who thinks evil of it) and transform our failures into daring successes.

A Love That Awakens the Soul P4

2008-02-20T10:02:00.001-08:00

((There's just something about a child's spirit that is so simple, pure and innocent and I think that it's something that adults lose touch in sometimes. If we could remember the simplicities of life then maybe our world would seem a little more friendly.))

Denis Diderot once said that, “Only passions, great passions, can elevate the soul to (accomplish) great things [1]”. Our passions set our hearts and souls ablaze with a desire and purpose to live and thrive for a specific cause. Through the exploration of our passions, we are forced to look deep into our souls and examine our heart’s deepest aspirations. New sensations and desires emerge in us that we have never experienced before while we are simultaneously converted into the people we are meant to become. We are transformed as much by our passions, as they are transformed by us, and we surrender to them as they take hold of our lives and guide us towards our destiny.
((My Sisters and me as children: Danielle, Adriana, Gabriella from top to bottom)) [1]

While I have had an incredibly hard time figuring out what my passion in life is in the past, I have now come to the realization that my passion is none other than life itself. Not only do I possess an incredible yearning to share the joy that I receive through living with the world, but also love to do so through showing compassion to others. Mother Teresa once said that, “Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls. A joyful heart is the inevitable result of a heart burning with love [2]”. It is with children, those who are as full of joy and life as I am, that I am most passionate about and find the most delight in bestowing love upon. ((My niece Lila showing her joy.))[2]

Children find satisfaction in the smallest things. They are appreciative of all around them, and love without notion or regret. Every movement and every thought of a child bursts with happiness and life. There is joy in their laughter, enchantment in their eyes, love in their smiles, devotion in their touch, and hope in their existence. They are truly a light and beacon of faith in the dark world of today. By realizing my passion for children, my heart and soul have been ignited with an enthusiastic fervor to shower them with love and provide them with hope towards a better life and future.
((My Family))[3]

Growing up in a large family, I have always been surrounded by children ranging from infants to toddlers to teenagers. While I always loved their company, I never really developed an appreciation for the spirit of a child until I was introduced to my nieces and nephews. Although she is only three, my oldest niece, Katherine, embodies everything that a child should be. ((My niece Katherine))[4]

She is lively, imaginative, and throws her heart into all that she does. One of the most sincerely affectionate children I know, Katherine cares about all the people in her life and radiates love everywhere she goes. When I look into her eager young eyes, my heart melts and I know in that instant, that I mean the world to someone. To me, Katherine represents all children in the world. [5]
Though they are not all exactly the same, children always remain pure of heart and are grateful even in the most dire of circumstances. Because of her abundant glee and youthfulness, Katherine sparked a need within me to ensure this kind of happiness in all children, and inspired me to start working towards this goal of living a sacrificial life for the needs of others.

After receiving such an epiphany from observing Katherine, I started to try to imitate her actions and exude love with my presence as she did.

((A smile goes a long way))[6]

While I had always smiled everywhere I went, I began to make eye contact with people to ensure they knew it was intended for them. By simply saying hello to someone new at school or offering myself to someone who needed assistance, I began to fill satisfied and redeemed. Expanding on this life change, I commenced on a journey of volunteer work in my community that continued throughout my middle school and high school years. My seventh grade year, my family began participating in a program called Bicycles and Bibles in which we were given the opportunity to provide the children of numerous unfortunate families in our community with an extravagant Christmas celebration. [7]From the cotton candy and pizza, to Santa Clause and the clowns, to the Christmas decorations and bicycles, each particular element of the festivities was designated to ensure the happiness of the children who attended the event. I have never seen as many thrilled and thankful faces as I did that day, and those faces were a source of unexplainable bliss within me. [8]As my family and I continue to be involved in this event every year, the number of faces of absolute elation and the smiles of utter amusement only continue to grow. Such excitement brought upon by as little as a gift confirmed my previous notions of the innocent charm of children and only left me thirsting for more.

As the years went by, I brought my level of volunteering to the next level by actually taking on the role of caretaker. I began to work at the Shorkey Cerebral Palsy Center after school, and offer my assistance to their patients as well as becoming the chairperson of their annual fundraiser.
((A child at the Shorkey Center in Beaumont, Texas))[9]

While many of these kids had troubles with everyday things, they still found pleasure in everything they could do such as making Christmas cards and the ability they had left to function. The children’s intelligence shined through in their determination as they attempted the impossible. I remember being amazed by their perseverance and strength at such a young age and their ability to adjust to whatever new and challenging circumstance was put before them. Later, I became a counselor at Camp Waldemar for Girls where my love for children continued to grow. ((My sisters and me when I was a counseor at Waldemar))[10]

Taken away from their parents and thrown into a new active environment, these girls often struggled with homesickness and fear. Not once in this uncertainty, however, did they question my capabilities, but immediately accepted me for who I was and loved me for being me. It was quite rewarding to see their confidence grow as they attempted new things and formed new friendships. In both instances of the Shorkey Center and Camp Waldemar, the approval that I was instantly granted gave me further insight into the compassionate nature of a child, and made me want to mimic their actions even more. I received instant gratification from both experiences and knew that children would play a very important role in my life from then on out.

Though I helped with change in my community, I began to wonder if I could make a difference in children’s lives around the world. <((And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me-Matthew18:5))[11]

I never really found an opportunity to do so until I attended Big Stuf camps in Panama City, Florida. There, I was introduced to a program called Compassion International that helps gain sponsorships for children in third world countries around the globe. After much deliberation I decided to sponsor a little girl named Nyamvula Abdala Makami in Kenya. Despite the fact that I never have actually met her, I am blessed through our communication by our letters and am always filled with great contentment to hear what offerings my sponsorship has brought to her life. [12] Her letters and drawings that I receive burst with the same childlike joy that I have so gratefully experienced in my encounters with children here. Nyamvula attends school and plays with friends in the midst of a country plagued by terrible poverty and war. I am mystified by the fact that such exuberance still exists in a place where people struggle to live each day and such beauty and composure exists in a child of merely eight years of age. I hope to one day get to chance to meet her and plan to go on mission trip to continue my efforts in places outside of my own community.

[13]

[14]

My experiences with children have inspired me to try to connect to something greater than myself and offer my entire being to preserving the happiness and lives of others in my community and around the world. Children’s sincerity instills joy in my heart and encourages me to try to view others the way they would perceive them. Their undying devotion to those they love and their constant enthusiasm for any situation heartens my need to stay as optimistic as possible.((My neice and me))[15]
While I often long to return to the bliss and innocence of my childhood, my past is not what lies ahead of me, and I know that I must do everything within my power to defend childhood simplicity for those who are still fortunate enough to have it. Children are the future of our world, the pride of our communities and families, the light in our present darkness, and the everlasting love embedded in our hearts. ((childhood bliss)) [16]

Luisa Sigea once said to “blaze with the fire that is never extinguished,[3]” and that is how I plan to continue living out my passion for children in my everyday life, taking the flame from their compassion for others and igniting it with my own.

[17]

Word Count Including Quotes: 1,505
Word Count Without Quotes: 1, 461

Text Citations:
[1]- Diderot, Denis. 1796. The Quotations Page
http://www.quotationspage.com/quote/33491.html (accessed February 20, 2008).

[2] -Mother Teresa. ThinkExist.com. http://thinkexist.com/quotation/joy-is-a-net-of-love-by-which-you-can-catch-
souls/535145.html (accessed February 20, 2008).

[3]- Sigea, Luisa. 2003. O Magazine. http://www.quotationspage.com/quote/33491.html (accessed February 20, 2008).

Photo Citations:

[1]- My Sisters and Me. (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/R70qmWtgM9I/AAAAAAAAASs/8nziWQcvfrI/s1600-
h/Three+Girls+-+baby+bed.jpg).

[2]- Lila. (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/R70jDWtgM7I/AAAAAAAAASc/MRMI5tkTdvw/s1600-h/lila.jpg).

[3]- Family. (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/R70rp2tgM_I/AAAAAAAAAS8/kj2nijnoxKQ/s1600-
h/Christmas+06+001.JPG).

[4]-Katherine. (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/R70ezWtgM6I/AAAAAAAAASU/w72lSg9g-Zk/s1600-h/get-
attachment.aspx.jpg).

[5]- Happy Children. http://www.mama-children.org/english/images/Happy-children.jpg).

[6]- Laughing Child. (http://www.liquidelearning.com/uploaded_images/child-laughing-sxc-732315.jpg).

[7]- Present. (http://www.demossnewspond.com/occ/photos/2003Distributions/Cambodia0401DL-E174.jpg).

[8]- Santa. (http://www.nwl.co.uk/Santa_and_child_(WEB).jpg).

[9]- Cerebral Palsy. (http://cerebralboy.com/cp/pics/micahinpool.jpg).

[10]- Waldemar. (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/R70rQmtgM-I/AAAAAAAAAS0/anzsLlUFXdQ/s1600-
h/Waldemar+002.JPG).

[11]- Matthew 8:15. (http://www.savethechildren.ca/canada/media/images/resources/Children_Garissa.jpg).

[12]- Kenyan Children. (http://www.shonda.org.uk/images/homepage-3.jpg).

[13]- Joy. (http://www.llandudnochurches.org.uk/ugandaB7A.jpg).

[14]- Happiness. (http://cache.viewimages.com/xc/3316965.jpg?
v=1&c=ViewImages&k=2&d=11B127B063386F6137B9C905704A1438A55A1E4F32AD3138).

[15]- Danielle and Lila. (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/R70p_2tgM8I/AAAAAAAAASk/sT0v3Y9g0-s/s1600-
h/Danielle+%26+Lila.jpg).

[16]-Childhood Bliss. (http://sethar.files.wordpress.com/2006/11/childhood-innocence.jpg).

[17]-Candle. (http://www.cardsunlimited.com/largeimage/Candles.jpg).

RDB Psychological Types

2008-02-18T22:49:00.000-08:00

The Meyers-Briggs Personality Type Test really taught me a lot about myself. By completing this test, I realized that I am an ESFJ or a “Provider Guardian”. I am a slightly expressed extravert, a slightly expressed sensing personality, a moderately expressed feeling personality, and slightly expressed judging personality. The descriptions of all of these character traits seemed to describe me exactly, and point out things about myself that I already knew but never really considered. While, I have know that I am an extravert for quite sometime now, I was not always so. I grew up in an extremely extraverted family and always felt out of place being an introvert. In grade school and middle school, I enjoyed quiet activities and loved keeping to myself while everyone else in my family was constantly demanding to be the center of attention at all times. Though the Oxford personality has definitely emerged over the years, I feel like my time spent as an introvert gave me experience in understanding the mindset that introverted people live in. All parts of my personality combine like this puzzle to make me uniquely who I am.

Although I sometimes retreat to my extremely introverted self, I enjoy being my extraverted self on a daily basis. I think it is the combination of these two selves that make me who I am and allow my other characteristics to shine through. My extraverted trait seems to act without reason. Just like the description says, I tend to “think out loud” and have a very “short attention span” (396). As for learning, I tend to prefer by Plan II classes over my Natural Sciences classes. While I never understood why this was before, when I heard that extraverted people “prefer brainstorming” and “active exercises-just lecture can bore”, it all made sense (396). ). In regards to my writing, my writing style followed right along with the description of the process that an extravert follows. “Free writing is a good method of developing ideas, for extraverts will think better when writing quickly, impulsively, and uncritically. They usually pause when blocked, and the blocks are best overcome by activity” (398). When writing a paper, my writing tends to flow better if I do not think about it as much. Also, I gain inspiration through outside interactions and sources when I cannot thin of anything else to write about. Also, many of the characteristics of a Sensing individual seem to be present in my persona. The fact that Sensing people “want the practical… in concrete terms” seems to be very true in my studies (394). I do not enjoy math or logic, and do not enjoy solving a problem for an answer that I can already have. I “like to use skills (I have) already learned” and tend to be very “present oriented” in the application of all things I have learned (394). I pay very close attention to details and often find it very “hard to take notes because (I) feel like everything is important”(394).
Being able to “cut, paste, (and) fingerpaint” was listed in the description of a Sensing person, and my creative attributes are actually something I take great pride in. I love doing anything and everything creative whenever I get the chance. While the previous characteristics were already things that I was aware of, the Feeling and Judging qualities of my self were actually pretty hard for me to absorb. The Feeling person was described as someone who “need(s) praise, approval, and support; some one who is “motivated by others… and takes criticism personally” (395). While I know that these characteristics exist in everyone, I was surprised to see that they were so prevalent in my personality. I have always prided myself on being independent and realizing that I am actually someone who depends on others a lot more than I thought was a very strange experience. Though it may seem like Feelings oriented people are weak and vulnerable, it was gratifying to me to see that they actually help make others stronger as well. Feelings people are “more supportive than critical” which I think is a very strong attribute to possess (395). While they do need encouragement, Feelings people encourage and support others who so graciously support them. On the Judging side, I had only a 1% strength of preference. Despite the fact that this is a very low percentage, I was able to identify with a few of the characteristics of this type. Judging people “prefer a plan” and their schedule(s) (are very) important” to them (393). I hate wasting time and try to maximize the amount of things I can do in the certain amount of time available each day. I am also the event coordinator amongst my group of friends and plan our outings because I get frustrated when we cannot make decisions as a group. I also “get pleasure from finishing” any task that I am working on and love crossing things off my list when I they are complete (395). These Judging features appear in only small amounts, but still exist all the same. Recognizing my various character traits has allowed me to further grasp the expanse of my personality. While the test says I am an ESFJ, I am not going to limit myself to or abide by these definitions or analyzes, but plan to take their consideration into further understanding who I am as a person. For now, I am who I am. I am Danielle Oxford. I am me.

Your Type is:
ESFJ
Extraverted Sensing Feeling Judging
Strength of the preferences %
11 12 50 1

Qualitative analysis of your type formula
You are:
Provider Guardians take it upon themselves to arrange for the health and welfare of those in their care, but they are also the most sociable of all the Guardians, and thus are the great nurturers of established institutions such as schools, businesses, churches, social clubs, and civic groups. Wherever they go, Providers take up the role of social contributor, happily giving their time and energy to make sure that the needs of others are met, that traditions are supported and developed, and that social functions are a success.

Providers are very likely more than ten percent of the population, and this is very fortunate for the rest of us, because friendly social service is a key to their nature. Highly cooperative themselves, Providers are skilled in maintaining teamwork among their helpers, and are also tireless in their attention to the details of furnishing goods and services. They make excellent chairpersons in charge of social events. They are without peer as masters of ceremonies, able to approach others with ease and confidence, and seemingly aware of what everyone's been doing. And they are outstanding hosts or hostesses, able to remember people's names, usually after one introduction, and always concerned about the needs of their guests, wanting to insure that all are involved and provided for.

Providers are extremely sensitive to the feelings of others, which makes them perhaps the most sympathetic of all the types, but which also leaves them rather self-conscious, that is, highly sensitive to what others think of them. Because of this Providers can be crushed by personal criticism, and will work most effectively when given ample appreciation both for themselves personally and for the service they give to others. This is not to say that Providers are afraid to express their own emotional reactions. They are quick to like and dislike-and don't mind saying so-tending to put on a pedestal whatever or whoever they admire, and to come down hard on those people and issues they don't care for.
In their choice of careers, Providers may lean toward sales and service occupations. They have such pleasant, outgoing personalities that they are far and away the best sales reps, not only regularly winning sales contests, but earning seniority in any sales group within an organization. Observing Providers at work in a sales transaction reveals clearly how this type personalizes the sale. They are visibly-and honestly-concerned with their customer's welfare, and thus the customer is not simply buying the product, but is buying personally from the Provider. This same characteristic causes them to be good in many people-to-people jobs, as teachers, clergy, coaches, social workers, office receptionists, and so on. Providers seldom become a source of irritation in the workplace; on the contrary, they are unflagging in their devotion to their company, and show such personal loyalty to their immediate superiors that they make invaluable personal secretaries.
William Howard Taft, Barbara Walters, J C Penney, Ray Kroc, Louis B. Mayer, Sam Walton, Dolley Madison, and Dave Thomas are examples of Provider Guardians.

St. Valentine's Day Extra Credit

2008-02-13T19:57:00.000-08:00

"Only connect! That was the whole of her sermon. Only connect the prose and the passion, and both will be exalted, and human love will be seen at its height. Live in fragments no longer.” (E. M. Forster, Howards End (1910), ch. 22).[1] This quote, which has served as one of our main themes this year seems to fit perfectly into the history and mythology of St. Valentine’s Day. While there are several different stories to the origins of St. Valentine’s Day, all of the tales seem to coincide with connecting prose and passion and exalting human love. One of the most famous legends is that of the priest Valentine who was a member of the clergy during the third century in Rome. During a time of war, the Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage amongst young men and women because he believed that marriage would make his soldiers weaker. Valentine, feeling compassion for young lovers, continued to perform secret marriage ceremonies despite the Emperor’s decree. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, he was thrown in jail and sentenced to death. While in jail, it is said that he fell in love with the jailer’s daughter. Other accounts say that he converted the jailer to Christianity by healing his daughter’s blindness, and later fell in love with her. Either way, their love was the inspiration for the first valentine. Before his execution, Valentine wrote the young girl a letter expressing his affection for her, and signed it ‘From Your Valentine’, an expression still used today. Although this story is a tragic one, Valentine was a martyr and a leader, who’s passion for uniting others in love lead to his death. Other stories suggest that Valentine was killed for helping Christians escape from Roman prisons during a time of Christian persecution. In both separate stories, Valentine’s heroism is due much to his ability to use the sympathetic imagination. Adam Smith once said that, “as we have no immediate knowledge of what other men must feel, we can form no idea of the manner in which they are affected, but by conceiving what we ourselves should feel in the like situation” (132). [2] Valentine’s ability to sympathize with others, and continue to preserve their love and virtues in a time of utter hopelessness makes him a leader and role model. While some believe that we celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th to honor St. Valentine’s death, others believe that Valentine’s Day was formed by the Christian Church to cover up its original origins of a pagan festival. This festival in ancient Rome, known as Lupercalia, was a fertility festival dedicated to various Roman gods. After sacrificing a number of animals to these Roman gods, the townspeople participated in a celebration of sprinkling the sacrificial animal’s blood on their crops and women so that they would both be fertile and fruitful in the upcoming year. Next, each woman would put her name in an urn, and each man would take his respective turn to draw a woman’s name out of the same urn. These matchings often resulted in love and marriage, hints the enduring theme of adoration on this day. In 498 A.D., Pope Gelasius declared February 14th St. Valentine’s Day. While he declared most of these customs not appropriate for the Christian faith, he still respected diversity by declaring this date a sacred holiday. It is also said that February 14th is typically the day on which birds begin to mate. The observance of this occurrence often enticed lovers to right letters of admiration to each other. The act of actually CONNECTING the passion felt between two lovers into prose in a valentine is a tradition that has continued on through out the generations. No matter the origins of this passionate day, St. Valentine’s Day remains one of the most celebrated feasts throughout the year.
Lee Hays and Pete Seeger once wrote, “If I Had a Hammer.... I'd hammer out love between my brothers and my sisters all over this land.” (words and music by Lee Hays and Pete Seeger).[3] This is what St. Valentine’s Day does, unites and connects the world for a small instant through love and passion, and allows us to express this love that we might not express otherwise.

[1] E603A Course Description (http://www.cwrl.utexas.edu/%7Ebump/E603A07/course.html)
[2] Bump, Jerome. Composition and Reading in World Literature. 2008.
[3] E 603 Course Description (http://www.cwrl.utexas.edu/%7Ebump/E603A07/course.html)

Referred to for Information:
-(http://www.history.com/minisites/valentine/)
-(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine's_Day)

RDB D'Souza 3 (Role Reversal)

2008-02-13T12:03:00.000-08:00

In “The Enemy at Home” , D’Souza states that, “Contrary to the multicultural mantra, true understanding does not involve a suspension of judgment about other cultures, or a double standard that routinely condemns western culture and exalts non-western culture. Rather, it involves a willingness to critically and open-mindedly evaluate other cultures, as well as our own culture.” (73).[1] When I read this statement now I feel like D’Souza could not have said it any better, but on September 11, 2001 my opinion was completely different. Just as our parents remember the day when JFK was assassinated, I remember exactly where I was when I heard the news about the attacks on the twin towers. I was sitting in my seventh grade science classroom when a voice came over the loud speaker and told us about the planes crashing into the World Trade Center. At first I found it rather ironic and annoying that I could not attend a field trip to a workshop on decreasing teen violence because of something that had happened in New York, but after I saw the images of what had happened, I was immediately overcome with a sense of terror and grief. I was so confused and wondered what the terrorist’s reasons were for attacking our perfect country. I was sure that we were one nation under God, and that anyone who would attack us was surely evil. While September 11 was truly a horrible day in America, I have come to realize over the years that the ignorance and the “the embarrassingly poor knowledge that many Americans (and other people around the world) have of other cultures”, probably played a great role in the terrorist acts of that day(68).[2] “The unbridgeable gulf between Western Civilization and Islamic Civilization” lies in the misunderstanding of each nation’s devotion and acceptance of the institution of religion. (175)[3]. In our culture today, many Americans claim to be Christian, but do not lead a Christian lifestyle, while for Muslims, Islam is their life. D’Souza discusses this conflicting relationship when he says, “Unlike many Christians who have multiple identities only one of which is they happen to be Christian, Muslims typically regard their religion as central to both private and public identity, and consider all other affiliations secondary or derivative.’ (87)[4]. By taking on the perspective of a Muslim, whose only duty in life is to glorify their God, then it is easier to understand where the September 11th attacks came from. Like in Christianity, Islam glorifies martyrs. Eyad Al-Sarraj stated that, “Martyrs (in the Muslim faith) are at the level of prophets. They are untouchable. I can denounce suicide bombings, which I have many times, but not the martyrs themselves, because they are like saints. The martyr sacrifices himself for his nation. If you want to be part of this culture, you have to understand this.” (89).[5] Al-Sarraj does not necessarily agree with the attacks that the martyrs preformed, but he says that they are martyrs all the same, and were willing to devotedly die for their faith and the God that they believed in. “While both Christianity and Islam share a concept of martyrdom, the martyr in Christianity is one who voluntarily endures suffering and death rather than relinquish the faith. In Islam, by contrast, a martyr is one who dies fighting for the faith”, and that is exactly what the suicide bombers did on September 11th , 2001 (89).[6] Though we as well as other Muslims might see these actions as extreme and radical, these extremists took their faith and devotion to the next level by selflessly dying for their beliefs. The first martyr for Christianity was Stephen. While he was being tried and stoned to death, he still did not renounce his faith. In Acts 7:59 the author says that , “While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.” [7] Though this type of martyrdom is not exactly the same as the kind we have experienced with suicide bombers, the story of Stephen still portrays an individual so strong in his convictions that he willingly surrenders his life to God rather than live and renounce his faith. The concept of selflessness remains constant through both religions and provides a common link between the battling nations of Christainity and Islam. “Ultimately it is not possible to eradicate Islam from the hearts of Muslims”, as it is not possible to eliminate Christianity from the hearts of true Christians (177).[8] While we continue to battle over our differences, we should really begin to recognize our similarities. With knowledge and study of each other’s lives and customs, comes a further and deeper understanding into each other’s hearts and souls. Ultimately, we should reevaluate ourselves and “ should try to see ourselves as they see us” so that we may ultimately view each other in a new and more respectable light (72).[9]

[1] D'Souza, Dinesh. The Enemy at Home: The Cultural Left and Its Responsibility for 9/11. 2007.
[2] D'Souza, Dinesh. The Enemy at Home: The Cultural Left and Its Responsibility for 9/11. 2007.
[3] D'Souza, Dinesh. The Enemy at Home: The Cultural Left and Its Responsibility for 9/11. 2007.
[4] D'Souza, Dinesh. The Enemy at Home: The Cultural Left and Its Responsibility for 9/11. 2007.
[5] D'Souza, Dinesh. The Enemy at Home: The Cultural Left and Its Responsibility for 9/11. 2007.
[6] D'Souza, Dinesh. The Enemy at Home: The Cultural Left and Its Responsibility for 9/11. 2007.
[7] Acts 7:59, Bible, New International Version.
[8] D'Souza, Dinesh. The Enemy at Home: The Cultural Left and Its Responsibility for 9/11. 2007.
[9] D'Souza, Dinesh. The Enemy at Home: The Cultural Left and Its Responsibility for 9/11. 2007.

Censorship RDB

2008-02-11T21:04:00.000-08:00

Our generation has been exposed to violence and sex since the day we started watching cartoons on Nickelodeon. While we were not aware of it at the time, we were targets of Walt Disney’s subliminal messages through movies such as The Lion King, Aladdin, and The Little Mermaid. The stars in this scene in the Lion King spell "sexy".What appears to be a image of the male genitalia appears in the castle on the cover of The Little Mermaid.

Though our parents thought we were merely watching kid’s shows, we were actually being enticed into the same violence filled, sex obsessed culture that we live in today. Once upon a time, fighting used to be honorable and sex used to be special, but nowadays both are all too common and commercialized. Although I know it is not possible to return to the past or totally outlaw the very foundations of freedom that our country was founded on, I think it is time to reevaluate the excessive use of sex and violence in our modern culture. Thus, I am endorsing Candidate D, who proposes limited censorship of sex and violence in popular culture multimedia.

Violence appears so frequently in movies and on television that it does not even faze us anymore. While thousands die around the world each day as a result of genocide and war, we simply take violence as a form of entertainment value, an exciting way to be thrilled and shocked by the most grotesque things possible. I took me quite off guard the other day when my friends and I were watching Braveheart and started laughed when a man’s head was crushed in by a ball and chain. I know this reaction might seem strange, but I actually think it is quite common for people in our world today to not be upset by such violence. In Ishmael Beah’s “A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier,” he talks of his experiences as a boy soldier in Sierra Leone. After many tragic experiences and overcoming the hate he feels for the world, Ishmael is able to escape the violence and move to New York to become a beacon of peace. The opening paragraph of the book reads:

“My high school friends in News York City have begun to suspect I haven’t
told them the full story of my life.
“Why did you leave Sierra Leone?”
“Because there is a war.”
“Did you ever witness some of the fighting?”
“Everyone in the country did.”
“You mean you saw people running around with guns shooting each other?”
“Yes, all the time.”
“Cool.”
I smile a little.
“You should tell us about it sometime.
“Yes, sometime.” (Beah 1). [1]

While I do enjoy the occasional war film and battle scene, reading this book written by someone that has experienced violence firsthand really opened my eyes and evoked new emotions towards violence that I had never felt before. If the portrayal of violence is necessary to tell a story and to get a point across, then I believe it is worthwhile and much more respectable, but what about the way other people view violence? Ishmael’s friend’s fascination with the idea of seeing people being killed is quite disturbing and parallels the way we as Americans think of violence. It is almost as if it is natural and desired. Each day more and more incidents of students walking into schools and shooting others in revenge, a rise in crime and gang activity, brutal murders and terrorism plague our world because some people are not capable of separating fiction from reality. While movie ratings limit content to its appropriate ages, some things should just not be seen at all. It is these things such as ruthless killing, murdering, and terrorism that should be censored and stop polluting the minds of our youth and every individual that watches them.

As for sex, the media has made one of the most intimate experiences a person can have a public phenomenon. From movies such as American Pie and Superbad that encourage sex in teens to TV shows such as Grey’s Anatomy and Desperate Housewives that glorify affairs and meaningless sexual relationships, the media’s message is definitely one of lust. While I do admit that I am addicted to Grey’s Anatomy and other such shows, I still feel like they are sending the wrong idea to the public. In 1 Corintheans 13:4-8 the author says, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.”[2] Although I realize we are not all Christians, I believe that this quote represents an ideal that we as a society should aim for. Humans have always been sexual beings, but have never portrayed sex in such vulgar and animalistic ways before. What was once a symbol of love and beauty has become just as ordinary as sliced bread. I realize the need to express the emotions and passions that people experience during a sexual encounter, but I think that such a powerful thing should be reserved for a more mature audience. Thus, I believe that sex should be censored in a restricted manner in order to preserve the mystery and joy that lies in its meaning.
As you can see, Candidate D upholds the beliefs that I most believe in. I believe that if the limited censorship of sex and violence in popular culture multimedia were to be put into action, a whole new way of thinking and life would arise. I look forward to the day when we as the human race begin to respect ourselves and the value of our lives again, but until that day I remain open to whatever the world throws at me.

[1]Beah, Ishmael. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier 2007.
[2] 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. Bible, New International Version.

RDB Qur'an and Sayings of Muhammad

2008-02-04T17:11:00.000-08:00

In Church last Thursday, our preacher discussed the topic of death. He asked us what we would do with the last hours of our lives if we knew exactly when we were going to die. Since I have never really considered my mortality, this question really struck me hard. If I died tomorrow, what would I do tonight? Well, I know I would want to die doing something that would make a difference or at least die knowing that I had made a difference at some point in my life, but I am not really quite sure what that would entail. Jonathan Edwards, one of the most famous preachers of all time, wrote in his 7th Resolution that he, “Resolved, never to do anything, which (he) should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of (his) life (The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards, Resolution # 7).Jonathan Edwards

I think the lesson here was not really what I would do with my last hour, but living each day like I only had only one hour left to live. If I knew I was about to die I am sure that I would be more faithful than ever, and I believe that this is how God wants us to live everyday, full of faith and love for Him. In the movie Braveheart, William Wallace delivers a beautiful speech at the forefront of a major battle. While his countrymen want to retreat in fear of death, he challenges them to stay and fight for what they believe in.

Mel Gibson’s character delivers the famous lines, “Fight and you may die. Run and you will live, at least awhile. And dying in your bed many years from now, would you be willing to trade all the days from this day to that for one chance, just one chance, to come back here as young men and tell our enemies that they may take our lives but they will never take our freedom!” (Mel Gibson, William Wallace, Braveheart 1995).

As William Wallace offers hope for the future to the Scottish troops, God’s promise for our future has been evident to His followers for all of eternity. The author of the Qur’an illustrates this hope through a metaphor by saying, “God is the light of the heavens and the earth. The parable of divine light is as if there was a niche and within it a lamp; the lamp enclosed in glass; the glass as it were a shining star; lit from a blessed olive tree, neither of the East nor of the West, whose oil is well-nigh luminous even without fire touching it. Light upon light: God guides whom God wills to divine light. God sets forth parables for men, and God does know all things” (Qur’an 24:35, “The Qur’an and Sayings of the Prophet Muhammad” 19). " God guides whom God wills to divine light. "

Like a light out of darkness, God’s love illuminates and ignites all things. To me it was amazing to see that this belief of my Christian religion was also highly important in Islam. The quote that says God is “neither of the East or the West” further emphasizes the fact that God is omnipresent and eternal. The author of the Qur’an also writes that, “Our God and your God is One, and it is unto God that we surrender ourselves”, further proving that God is not the God of Christianity nor the God of Judaism nor the God of Islam, He is the God of the universe (Qur’an 29:46, The Qur’an and Sayings of the Prophet Muhammad”149). While I have been battling with the idea of the interconnectedness of all monastic religions for quite sometime, these two statements really seemed to exemplify the strength and community found by being united under one God. For followers of these religions to have such faith and solidarity, fills my heart with joy and ignites in me a desire to learn and grow in my faith even more. While I am still not really quite sure what I would do with the last hours of my life, I am positive that I would be praising God in with all of my heart, and fighting for something I truly believe in. Until that day, I plan to live each day to its fullest with as much faith as possible, and continue to grow in love and community with all the other believers around the world. For, “who is better in faith than the one who willingly surrenders his being to God, and is the doer of good, and follows the way of Abraham the rightly oriented?” (Qur’an 49:14, “The Qur’an and Sayings of the Prophet Muhammad” 85).

RDB Jesus

2008-01-30T16:21:00.001-08:00

In 2 Corinthians 4:6 it is written that, “ For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 4:6). To me, this quote perfectly depicts the reason for Jesus Christ’s life on this Earth. Jesus lived the perfect life in God’s eyes and continues to be an example to millions of Christians around the world today. Although His life ended in His Crucifixion, this final act of ultimate sacrifice and love gives me hope, and allows me to grasp the idea of the type of selfless life I wish to live. I have always known that I want to do something great with my time on this earth, and as I said in class, my greatest fear is running out of time to do it in. I truly want to make a difference in other people’s lives, and have realized over the last couple of weeks more than ever that I want to serve and glorify God in as many ways as possible. Recently, I have started training to become a Young Life Leader, which will allow me to declare my faith to children and help them embark on their own personal religious journeys. I have also volunteered to attend Bigstuf with Netcasters, my youth group back home, which will allow me to interact with the students in the first place that I ever truly felt the presence of God. While I am not certain about exactly what I am going to end up doing with my life, I feel like these things will lead me to where I am supposed to be. I cannot think of a better way to spend my life than by offering love and service to as many people as I can, while hopefully living the life God wants me to live. In 1 John 4:7, 11-12, John says, "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God and knoweth God ... Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us"  (1 John 4:7, 11-12). With this mindset, I look towards the future. By seeking out the best in everything and everyone, I hope to come to understand the way God looks down with love upon His creation. I know that I have struggled a lot with my faith being questioned by myself and by others in the past, and I know that many more such instances will present themselves in the future, but I believe that through God my faith will always prevail over these troubles. In 2 Corinthians 4:7-12, 16-18, it says, “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you…16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:7-12, 16-18).

RDB Isaiah, Psalms, Virgil, Socrates

2008-01-28T16:58:00.001-08:00

The Death of Socrates

In Plato’s “The Apology of Socrates” Socrates declares that, “The difficulty, my friends, is not in avoiding death, but in avoiding unrighteousness; for that runs faster than death” (Plato 1). I think Socrates hit the nail right on the head with these famous last words. All too much, people fear the thought of death and let their earthly life consume them. While the question of what I want to do with my life before I die has plagued my mind for many years, I have recently realized that it really does not matter what I do with my life, it simply matters how I live it. When God “breathed into (us)…a breath of life, and (we) became living being(s),” I believe he endowed us with all that we need to make this life full and complete (Genesis 741 B). By creating us in His image, he not only gave us a heart and spirit to evoke His presence and to share His love and compassion with the world, but also provided us with a body through which we can inspire others through our actions. The selections from the works of Isaiah, Psalms, Plato, and Virgil, truly present their reader with a confirmation of God’s omniscience and omnipotence, and challenge believers to be vessels of God’s glory. Though we as humans may consider ourselves the most important inhabitants of this earth, we must remember that we are only an insignificant part of God’s vast creation. As Plato says, “for not caring about what for which (we) ought to care, and thinking that (we) are something when (we) are really nothing”, we should be reprimanded, and it is up to God’s servants to reveal this to us (Plato 3). It is the responsibility of the “chosen few” to uplift us from our present state of unrighteousness and corruption and lead us back to the righteous path. In a world full of violence and hatred, it is sometimes hard to see the original plan of peaceful coexistence that God desired for us all. Edward Hick’s painting “Peaceable Kingdom” is an illustration of Isaiah 11:6-9, and perhaps a representation of how the earth will be restored with the coming of our salvation. “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid… they shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of knowledge of the Lord, as waters cover the sea” (Isaiah 11:6-9). Someday the world will return to a state of peace, and like the beastly nature within the leopards, lions and bears in Hick’s painting, the evil tendencies of the world will subside, and “the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it TOGETHER: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it” (Isaiah 40:5).

Peaceful Coexistence TOGETHER

ODB Religious Literacy and Asian Religions

2008-01-23T10:13:00.000-08:00

Tuesday’s discussion really baffled me. Although I respected everyone’s opinions, I felt like my religion was being targeted more than others. At first, I was really thrown off by it and started to long for a “ seemingly less complicated era when constant questioning of religious beliefs and practices (were) not so apparent”, but then I realized that through all of their questioning, I was forced to reevaluate my beliefs and discover why I trusted in them (292). Last night and all of today, I really contemplated upon everyone’s reasonings and my own, and truly reached a better understanding where I stood in my religious journey. While I am certain that I believe in a Christian God, I also believe that all religion is somehow complexly connected and that although each is distinct from another, the similarities are universal. Sivananda states in “Bliss Divine” that “the one message of all saints and prophets of all times and climes, is the message of love” (114). Love (Ahisma), combined with faith seems to unite all religions across the world. Love and faith “(are) the noblest and best of traits that are found expressed in daily life and activities of perfected souls” (Sivananda 38). Thus, with an understanding of these two concepts, comes an understanding and testimony to the importance of religion. Although the world has constantly been evolving and changing since its creation, religion has remained a constant staple throughout history. In today’s society, however, religion has been cast aside for a more self-obsessed culture. People have begun to drift away from organized religion and possess little faith in anything at all. Many have come to see religion as a threat, an excuse for people to stop doing things on their own, a thing to only turn to in the bad times. An institution that used to be based on faith, love, and community, “in conforming (itself) to American culture, (has transformed) Protestantism, Catholicism, and Judaism (to) a little more than parallel paths up the mountain of the American dream” (Prothero 7). While some might argue that the demise of religion is long overdue, we must remember “the fact…that for good or for ill, nearly everything in our culture worth transmitting, everything which gives meaning to life, is saturated with religious influences” (Prothero 128). “Music without sacred music, architecture minus the cathedrals, or painting without the scriptural themes would be eccentric and incomplete, even from a secular point of view” (Prothero 128). History beams with the triumphs of those who were spiritually invested while millions around the world today still practice their religions devoutly. I feel that since religion has endured the tests of time, has influenced some of the most widely known names in history, and still remains a widely essential institution worldwide, that there must be some greater purpose for us all. I like to believe that we are all united through the common links of faith and love and that they will continue to guide us into the future as they have our ancestors before us.

RDB 15 Bhagavad Gita II

2008-01-21T17:12:00.001-08:00

This whole idea of love with detachment has really puzzled me since we began our discussions on it. I have always believed that if I throw my heart fully into everything that I do that the results will reflect my passion and my effort. At first I was really bummed when people started questioning everything that I believed in, but now I have come to understand their thinking more fully. In my TC class on Friday, we watched a Canadian film titled “Away From Her”.
This movie tells the story of a couple in love torn apart by one spouses fight with Alzheimer’s. Although the husband does everything in his power to keep their love alive and strong, his wife’s deteriorating mind tears them apart. While his wife struggles with the confusion of her memories vanishing before her eyes and begins to take interest in an old childhood friend that lives at the same nursing home, her husband stands beside her and continues to visit her everyday no matter the circumstances. Towards the end, the husband selflessly brings this childhood friend turned sweetheart to visit his wife in order to ensure her happiness. Even though he obviously still loves his wife, the husband realizes his need to move on and to continue living, not dwelling on what could have been. Though this film taught me that love is “an ever-fixed mark” and continues even through the most dismal of situations, it also showed me that love with detachment is a valuable lesson to learn (Sonnet 16). I now realize that from such passion and zeal can come obsession. The Bhagavad-Gita mentions that “passion, engendered by thirst for pleasure and attachment, binds the soul”, and I believe that this is the form of passion that is most present in our world today. But is passion that is not in this form really all that bad? While Krishna is speaking to Arjula, he says, “those who surrender their actions to me…with no thought, save of me” (99). Another time he declares “those whose faith never fails and concentrate their whole nature on me…are my beloved” (103). Thus, I believe that if the nature of one’s passionate actions is to glorify God, then they are just. We must realize that we “are ruled by (God’s) will, and if we surrender ourselves to Him, then pursing our passions is worthwhile (71). When we are selfless and make sacrifices, I like to believe that others can see God through us and it is this idea that gives me hope and reassurance for the future.

RDB 14 Bhagavad Gita

2008-01-16T16:40:00.001-08:00

The Bhagavad-Gita incorporates inspiration and spiritual advice into an epic tale of the soldier, Arjuna’s meeting with Krishna at the forefront of a major battle. While Arjuna continuously questions Krishna throughout their meeting, he finally renounces his doubts and proclaims that he is ready to do God’s will. Though, I have been raised in the Christian Church, I found it intriguing that many of the same principles and beliefs that I possess guided this Hindu doctrine. As said in the discourses between Arjuna and Krishna, “In this world…there is a twofold path. There is the path of Wisdom for those who meditate and the Path of Action for those who work. No man can attain freedom from activity by refraining from action, nor can one reach perfection by merely refusing to act” (29). When Arjuna declares his willingness to put his faith in the Lord, he surrenders his life to God, ultimately partaking in “the noblest form of action, (sacrifice)” (27). This lesson of total submission and faith was the one that I took closest to heart. It offered me hope and made me realize that “even the most sinful (person), if he worship(s) with his whole heart, shall be considered righteous, for he is treading the right path” (75). I believe that the old saying “actions speak louder than words” continues to be true throughout the world today and I try to exude confidence and show my faith through my actions in my everyday life. I strive to glorify God through my existence here on Earth an am trying to understand the concept of “looking upon success and failure with an equal eye ”(19). Although I fear failure almost more than anything, it is comforting to know that even when I make mistakes and fail in my efforts, I will be forgiven because of the path I have chosen and be loved for who I am. In class we discussed the theme of detachment that is present in the Bhagavad-Gita. While I believe this is somewhat true, I actually see more of a lesson about passion and throwing your whole heart into things that you believe in. When Arjuna finally realizes the glory of God, he is immediately ready to do anything according to His will. While the discourses do mention that passion “fetter(s) the free Spirit of all beings”, I believe that putting your passion into action actually serves as an offering to God Himself and helps the soul grow and develop (113). “God dwells in the hearts of all beings” and by being zealous and courageous, we glorify Him in our efforts (149). We only have one chance to become the people we are meant to be, and we do not want to regret not doing it full heartedly.

RDB 13: Waller Creek

2007-11-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

In this “noisy, haste-harried, greed-ridden, indifferent seeming society” of today, nature is scarce and often taken for granted during the hustle bustle of our everyday lives (745) With problems plaguing us such as the War in the Middle East and an increasing rate of world violence, we seem to forget that “beauty is not a luxury, ...(but) a necessity, a positive agent of survival, a deterrent to the terrorism with which our world is infested” (746). When I was growing up, I would sit and play amongst the enormous trees in my backyard. I would find refuge in their mighty limbs and bask in the shade they cast upon the ground on a sunny day. My favorite among this grove of trees was a giant sycamore tree. Its peculiar bark and infinite limbs circling forever upwards intrigued my young mind. I found joy in its beauty and let my imagination soar for endless hours beside its mammoth trunk. It was a sad day when its mighty hull came crashing to the ground so that our house could be remodeled. As the sycamore lay on its side, its roots exposed to the world, I was sad that no one else would ever have the change to absorb its magnificence or even be able to “guess (at) the beauty (it had) been” (635). This sycamore is only one in many of a new “fresh and following folded rank" (634). Today, Nature is disappearing around us at an increasingly fast pace. Thus, I believe that cities should “be giving high priority to preserving every natural pocket still available” while they still last (746). Austin’s Town Lake is a prime example of nature preservation at its finest. Nestled in the middle of downtown, Town Lake provides a refuge for me when I become overwhelmed by the chaos of everyday life. I take delight in its simplistic beauty and enjoy running along the path and feeling the crisp air around me. The changes I see in all aspects of the path always remind me of the “continuity of life” (752).
From baby ducks following their mothers in a row to the changing leafs and wild life of every season, each transformation exudes hope of a future arising from the past. The tall skyscrapers of downtown Austin are a sharp contrast to this natural wonderland. With the Austin skyline visible throughout m y journey, I am reminded just how lucky I am to be in the lake’s unique atmosphere for just a little while. Just like Waller Creek, Town Lake offers renewal to all those who come upon its banks, and should continue to do so long into the future. As time goes on, we must remember the importance of nature and realize that it is irreplaceable. It is up to us to keep Mother Nature alive and thriving and keep the sun rising upon each new day.

P3:Creating My Own Leadership Identity Through Second Life

2007-11-26T17:09:00.001-08:00

[1]
My Father and Me Neches River Festival 2007.

An artist’s work typically begins with a sketch, a preliminary black and white drawing, giving the essential features without including all of the details. As the artist’s idea develops and evolves, color begins to penetrate the imagination and seep onto the page. The artist mixes a variety of shades on his palette to ultimately produce a coherent piece of work. Similar to this relationship between black and white and technicolor, our experiences in Second Life transformed our role models from ideal archetypes in Project One into real people in Project Two, as we began to discover and emulate them. We absorbed experience from all of our encounters and eventually reached a point of new appreciation and understanding for our role models and each other. In Disney’s movie Brother Bear, the Spirit Voices say “Everything will become clear to you when you see things through another's eyes... whatever's meant for you, you will find [1]”. Much like in this movie when the warrior Kenai is transformed into a bear, we, ourselves, were converted into our role models and were given the opportunity to view life from another perspective. Becoming my father allowed me to identify the admirable characteristics that we both shared and strive to develop them within myself. By discovering these attributes, putting them into action, and writing about them, I was provided with insight into my relationship with my father and began to see his true colors. Thus, through Projects One and Two, I was able to connect with my father and begin the process of composing my new self through forming a unique and inseparable bond by intertwining our thoughts and making them one.

Although I have always been Daddy’s little girl, writing Project One enabled me to see and comprehend my father in a new light. Instead of just seeing him as my Dad and role model, I began to see him as a significant leader in the community and in society at large. While I have always admired his loving nature and constant drive to accomplish everything he desires along with his unending enthusiasm for and devotion to his family, friends, and community, I had never really considered the possibility of him being a role model to anyone else but myself.
[2]
Hubert Oxford IV, Lila Oxford, Hubert Oxford V, and Hubert Oxford III

As I was forced to bring all of his marvelous features to the surface, I began to realize what a truly wonderful man he is. Not only is he courageous and successful, but he is also gentle, charismatic and inspiring. He always encouraged me to follow my dreams, no matter the cost and this is the most important lesson of all. Each trait that I focused on acted as a mirror in which I could catch a quick glimpse at my own image and remember the things I wished to imitate. By identifying these commendable characteristics in my father, I was able to piece together a definition of what I thought a leader should be and began to recognize some of these attributes within myself. Throughout his life my father has met struggles with optimism and has passionately strived to be all that he can be. His accomplishments are a reflection of his unwavering determination and drive, his incredible intelligence, and his clever zeal. Because of his strict discipline and dedication that he learned in the Corps at Texas A&M and his ability to solve problems with ease from his engineering background, he was promoted to Judge Advocate during the Vietnam War. As he courageously served his country, he traveled the world and experienced the diversity that it had to offer.
[3]
My Father in his Kilt, beaming of Scottish pride.

He lived across seas for years and was able to indulge in his Scottish heritage and to accumulate a fusion of the various cultures he experienced to become quite a cultivated person. His charismatic presence and pleasant personality won him many companions throughout his travels and presented him with unlimited opportunities. Thus, his risks in his early life paved the way for success in his future. Today, my father has not only won abundant awards and esteem in the community, but he has also been named one of the best lawyers in the United States. Over the years, the Bible has implanted the importance of love and family in his life and he has strived to make them his top priorities.
[4]
My Dad is the ideal family man and does everything in his power to make his children happy. Pictured here are my Mom, my sisters Gabriella and Adriana, my Dad, and Me.

He lives his daily life with a firm conviction to his faith and his beliefs while maintaining the composure needed in the business world. He constantly gives back to the community by participating in programs such as Bicycles and Bibles and the Beaumont Foundation and continues to transform the world one life at a time with his endless compassion for others. Although he has been met with countless struggles such as raising seven children and battling prostate cancer, he has overcome them with confidence and resolve, casting a ray of hope on all those around him. He looks to the future with anticipation and fortitude and lives each day to its fullest potential without ever looking back. Through writing about my Dad in Project One, I have come to see that individuality should be celebrated in everyone and that it is what makes us different that will ultimately make us great leaders and give us success in this life.

Furthermore, Second Life provided my fellow classmates and me with the opportunity to become our role models and see the world through their eyes. In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch says to his daughter Scout, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it [2]" (Lee 1960,36). Through Second Life, we were not only turned into our role model’s physical persona, but also actively participated in living life as them. Their past became our present and through their experiences and beliefs, we were able to penetrate and explore other realms of thought that we never thought possible.
[5]
My Avatar of my father, Hubert Oxford III

With all of my father’s qualities that I wished to emulate in mind, I set out on my adventure to create him mind, body, and soul in Second Life. Each change I made to his personal features made him seem even more alive and I began to feel a connection to him like I had never felt before. Our souls were united and our hearts beat as one whilst we simultaneously molded each other. Although I have known my father my entire life and have been an active participant in his, I never completely understood him until this experience forced me to become him and leap into his mind. His thoughts were mine, and mine were his. It was as if I was stuck in a trancelike state between fiction and reality. As our thoughts united, I began to recognize the similarities between us and reconstruct my character to match his. By trying to think how he would think, my innermost thoughts resurfaced and I was able to simultaneously interpret and separate the ones that we both shared. Actually taking on my father’s identity instilled me with a willingness to experience new sensations and become more vulnerable to accepting his ideas and the views of others. My father never told “me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it [3]” (Clarence Kelland). Thus, similar to in my real life, portraying him in Second Life enabled me to grow through example.

The Second life experience was very eye opening for me, and writing about it in Project Two allowed me to make connections that I had never considered before. “Every man takes the limits of his own field of vision for the limits of the world [4]”, but Second life made me take a walk in my father’s shoes and realize that there are infinite possibilities beyond what I could ever imagine (Arthur Schopenhauer). Incorporating my ideas from Project One into Project Two was quite challenging, but the same theme of better understanding my father remained consistent throughout the two projects and united them. Communication between Avatars served as a driving force behind much of Project Two and through discovery learning, we were able to determine more about each other’s identities and actually grasp the concepts of Second Life.
[6]
First Group Discussion on what the definition of a leader is. This conversation helped me form by own ideas on what being a leader entails.

Several Key elements such as passion, drive, and character seemed to guide the conversation and lead us in producing even more insightful ideas on what being a leader entails. We continually stressed the importance of a leader’s “ability to make everyone feel united towards a goal…and to want to pursue it together [5]” while still maintaining a courteous relationship with his supporters (Danielle Oxford, Avatar Chat, comment posted October 4, 2007, 9:21). Also, a great emphasis was put on a leader’s ability to form his own opinions without conforming to those of society and to express and live these ideas in his everyday life. Furthermore, from the second conversation we were able to see that leadership and diversity are closely interlinked.
[7]
Second Group Avatar Discussion on the relationship between leadership and diversity. By realizing the importance of this connection, I will now be able to become a stronger leader.

Leaders are able to promote diversity through their actions and words. They are capable of seeing things from another’s point of view and empathize and show compassion for their positions. Another idea that appeared frequently throughout this discussion was that the more experiences with diversity that a leader has had in his life, the more he will be able to relate to others and understand their situations. I also came to the conclusion that a leader does not wait for diversity to find him, he “seeks opportunities to experience diversity” and in doing so “go(es) outside of (his) comfort zone (to) break barriers [6]” for everyone (Danielle Oxford, Avatar Chat, comment posted October 4, 2007 ([9:59]). By participating in such dialogue and listening to others, my classmates and I ultimately took on leadership roles ourselves. It was interesting to see how reading and writing played a key role in the development of our role models. As we read each other’s opinions, and responded to them, we were able to connect through the expression of our ideas and combine our personal beliefs with those of our role models to develop a unique integration of thought and inspiration. Great leaders seem to have the ability to take ideas from materials they have read and put them into action, and this active learning process allowed us to take on this role. By better understanding what a leader is through Project Two, I was able to identify the type of leader I want to become and see it actively portrayed through the embodiment of my father.

Additionally, our Avatar chat paralleled Walter Jackson Bate’s definition of the sympathetic imagination. He states in “The Sympathetic Imagination in Eighteenth-Century English Criticism” that in order to truly understand an object, one must “actually (enter) into the object…to secure a momentary but complete identification with it [7]” (144-46). Thus, by dwelling as my father in Second Life, I was essentially taking part in his existence. As I delved into my father’s mind and produced his definition of leadership, we became a cohesive entity of expression. Because of this feeling of harmony, I believe I was more successful in translating my father’s leadership experience into words and relating this knowledge to how he acted as a leader throughout his life. Although I did not always interact in the discussion exactly how he would, I think I was able to capture the nature of his spirit and impart his beliefs to others. It was exhilarating to “throw (my) soul into the body of another man, and be at once possessed of his sentiments, adopt his passions, and rise to all the functions and feelings of his situation [8]” (Bate 144-46).

While I have learned a lot about my leadership role from illustrating and portraying my father in Projects One and Two, my peers have also paved the way to greater understanding of the meaning of leadership. Their influence has been just as strong as my father’s and my own. As A. Bartlett Giametti says, “The journey of education is lifelong; it began in your family and in your place of worship and in your earlier schools and in the spaces of your soul that are yours alone…[9]” and will continue to expand and be shaped by others throughout our lives, until the day we die (128). During the Avatar conversations, I was presented with ideas that had never crossed my mind and was challenged to interpret their meanings.
[8]
Me typing and communicating with my classmates during one of the Avatar Discussions.

With role models from different backgrounds and time periods all participating at once in the conversations, I was able to see that the idea of a leader has pretty much transcended time and is a universal concept. From Gandhi, to John Lennon, to Johnny Depp, to members of people’s families, each role model was unique and inspirational in their own way and provided their own insight into the conversations. Not only did my peers show me how to become a better leader through Second Life, but they also took the initiative to critique me in SWORD and make me a better leader through my writing in real life. Through their examples of leadership, I was able to further expand upon my construction of character that I began when I became my father in avatar form.

Just as Katherine Mansfield said, "By understanding myself, I better understand others and by understanding others, I better understand myself [10]”. Through the completion of Projects One, Two, and Three, I have discovered not only a new connection and appreciation of my father, but also a new person within myself that is ready to greet the world. Jumping into my father’s skin and observing the world through his eyes, provided me with more insight into who he was and allowed me to catch a glimpse at the bond that exists between us. Although our encounters were merely in a virtual world, I was still ignited with a sense of understanding and esteem for my Father that I believe will never be put out. That is how learning works. One suddenly understands something that they understood their entire life, but in a new way. It was really quite gratifying to realize that someone who I looked up to and admired so much was actually a great deal like me and had already had such a huge impact on my life. I now believe that the same is true for all role models. People try to become and emulate those that they admire because they see some unique part of themselves within their role models and only hope that they will someday amount to who they are by following in their footsteps. My Father is everything I want to amount to be and a little bit more. I only hope that I will one day be able to live the kind of life that he has lived while benefiting from all of the leadership capabilities he has endowed upon me. At the end of the day, Hubert Oxford III is my father, and I am his daughter and I am satisfied knowing that this is the most extraordinary and irreplaceable connection present in the world. My father has accomplished a great deal in his life and I look forward to the day that I will be able to live up to the legacy that he has left behind.
[9]
Dad and me in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. With one last glimpse behind us, we head into the future.

Word Count: 2, 512

Photo Citations:

[1]- Dad and Me Neches River Festival:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxuq7g7RC6I/AAAAAAAAAKM/WkfqbSfNnRY/s600-h/n1516410112_30071503_3485.jpg

[2]-Grandfather: - http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRivCb2CgI/AAAAAAAAAEc/zPBux72OuHc/s600-h/Grandfather.png

[3]- Kilt:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRh6Cb2CfI/AAAAAAAAAEU/i8E0qGl8owc/s1600-h/kilt.png 
[4]- Totem Pole:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/R0veFAu1uKI/AAAAAAAAAQk/f1m0C23E9LM/s1600-h/n1516410165_30100613_4424.jpg

[5]- Avatar:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxup5g7RC5I/AAAAAAAAAKE/Nbs0JOZhA9Q/s1600-h/Rm1_002.bmp

[6]- Group Discussion One:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RxuoKg7RC4I/AAAAAAAAAJ8/Ax_BwHUoBvw/s1600-h/1.jpg

[7]- Group Discussion Two:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxun1A7RC3I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/Zzpwjt-orzA/s1600-h/5B.jpg

[8]-Danielle, Crystal, Ryan:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxuncg7RC2I/AAAAAAAAAJs/O6XCdR-kw4w/s1600-h/DanielleCrystalRyan.jpg

[9]- Hall of Mirrors
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRjzCb2CiI/AAAAAAAAAEs/BiuV5H8OcvU/s1600-h/hall+of+mirrors.png  

Text Citations:

[1]- Brother Bear, DVD, directed by Aaron Blaise and Robert Walker (Orlando, Fl: Walt Disney Feature Animation, 2003).

[2]-Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird (New York: J. B. Lippincott, 1960), 36.

[3]- Clarence Kelland. Steve Brunkhorst, “15 Unforgettable Father Quotes.” Ezine Articles, http://ezinearticles.com/?15-Unforgettable-Father-Quotes&id=141974 (accessed October 16, 2007).

[4]- Arthur Schopenhauer. Jone Johnson Lewis, “Wisdom Quotes.”
http://www.wisdomquotes.com/

[5]- Danielle Oxford, Avatar Discussion 1, Group 1, [9:21].

[6]- Danielle Oxford, Avatar Discussion 2, Group 5, [9:59].

[7]- “The Sympathetic Imagination in Eighteenth-Century English Criticism” by Walter Jackson Bate ELH, Vol. 12, No. 2 (Jun., 1945), pp. 144-164. http://www.cwrl.utexas.edu/~bump/sympathetic%20imagination.html

[8]- “The Sympathetic Imagination in Eighteenth-Century English Criticism” by Walter Jackson Bate ELH, Vol. 12, No. 2 (Jun., 1945), pp. 144-164. http://www.cwrl.utexas.edu/~bump/sympathetic%20imagination.html

[9]- A. Bartlett Giametti, Composition and Reading in World Literature (Texas: Jerome Bump, 2007).

[10]-Katherine Mansfield. Dr. Mardy, “Dr. Mardy's Quotes of the Week -- January 9-15, 2005.” http://64.233.167.104/search?q=cache:KhDjaqx1CsUJ:www.chiasmus.com/archive/msg00210.html+katherine+mansfield+By+understanding+myself,+I+better+understand+others+and+by+understanding+others,+I+better+understand+myself&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=1&gl=us (accessed October 16, 2007).

RDB 12: Ramayana 3 and As You Like It

2007-11-26T17:07:00.000-08:00

The Catepillar asks Alice "Who are YOU?"

“Don’t you want to know who you are?” (1013).

This question seems to be the driving question behind all of life’s mysteries. Everyone is constantly seeking where his or her true identity lies and I do not believe that anyone ever really finds the answer. We are continuously growing and finding new things out about ourselves to the point where life almost becomes an infinite cycle of curiosity, discovery, and renewal. Much like a hermit crab, when we finally grow into our shell and begin to get too big for it, we move on in pursuit of something more. Essentially, each new period of our lives brings about a new self, yearning to live and grow. College has become yet another exploratory era of my life. While I was pretty sure of all of my opinions when I graduated from high school, encountering new people and new scenarios has broadened my mind and allowed me to consider things from different viewpoints. Although I continue to cling to my virtues and everything I have learned in the past, I have begun to add experience to these ideas and form a new respect for others views while really learning how to define my own. Each new day and each new encounter sheds new light onto the question of who I am supposed to become, and I believe I will continue to evolve into that person until the day that I die. While “One man in his time plays many parts”, a unique and individual self lies rooted deep within every person that guides us through all of these other experiences and molds us into who we truly are (1089). This cycle of constant restoration through understanding “has gone on without pause for millenniums”, and offers us hope in its continuity (1019). At the end of the day, no one every truly knows who they are, because life is the journey to uncover their own distinctive truth. When the time comes to find out my exact identity I “will not see; (I) will be” me (1019).

ODB St. Mary's Cathedral

2007-11-19T17:32:00.000-08:00

Our excursion to St. Mary’s Cathedral brought me back to my childhood and made me gain a new appreciation and respect for the Catholic faith. Although I have attended numerous masses with my family and at my Catholic high school over the years, I have never absorbed or come to understand more than I did yesterday. I have always known that Catholicism is a universal religion, but actually observing and taking part in a Spanish service made this concept become a reality to me. Seeing fellow believers of a different culture actively worshiping and professing their faith gave me a sense of hope and reassurance and made me realize the power of the message of Christianity. Even though the entire mass was in Spanish, I was able to understand just about everything and recognize its uniformity with services I had attended in the past. It seems to me that the Catholic Church remains an unwavering force in the changing world around us. The traditions and rituals remained the same as in previous Masses and their consistency only deepened my admiration for their significance. During the prayers, I was able to recall the words in English while interpreting their meanings in Spanish. Although the music was of a Spanish influence, its message was the same. The variety in songs and beats intrigued me and made it obvious how each culture has molded religion to make it unique and relevant to their surroundings. While I have always been skeptical of certain views and rules that the Catholic Church teaches, I now understand people’s attraction to its steadfast beliefs and values that are capable of breaking even the toughest of boundaries. Its unfaltering principles create its history and will continue to guide it into the future. Throughout the service, the story of the Tower of Babel kept entering my mind. I began to wonder if there was a deeper purpose to the story of God creating the language barrier between us. I now believe that it was to instill an even deeper understanding and commitment once we realize that although we may all be different, we are united in our devotion to Him. In Genesis 11:1 it says, “Now the whole world had one language and a common speech”, and I believe that it is up to us to reach this goal once again.

The architecture of St. Mary’s further reminds Christians of their conviction and faith. Nestled between modern buildings in downtown Austin, St. Mary’s Cathedral is reprieve from the busy world outside its doors. Its tall steeples and pointed windows reaching towards the heavens establish the purpose of this life on Earth. The rose window located in the center of the structure casts a warm light of hope upon the church and reminds believers of the incarnation and presence of the Holy Spirit. The statue of the Virgin Mary stands in front of the window welcoming all that come, and reminding us of her importance to our faith through this dedication. Inside the cathedral, the ceilings curve in a shape much like the hull of a ship. Similar to in the Episcopal Church, this shape of the sanctuary calls us to be fishers of men and proclaim our faith the world. The long aisle leads to the altar and the crucifix, maybe symbolizing each individual’s spiritual journey. The altar and crucifix lie below a beautiful blue dome endowed with stars that represents Heaven and our connection with nature. The altar is endowed with a tree that embodies the tree of life from which the first sin came and the simple, yet extraordinary cross above it signifies Jesus dieing for these very sins. The stain glass images that line the walls depict several important people and occurrences throughout the Bible while the Stations of the Cross remind us of Jesus’ painful journey to ensure our salvations. On each side of the altar are images of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a flaming heart shining with divine light, pierced by the lance-wound, and surrounded by a crown of thorns. This symbol is a devotion to Jesus' physical heart as the representation of the divine love for humanity and is an important symbol in the Catholic Church. Also, on the right side of the altar, is a statue of God and Son. This statue glorifies the foundations of the Christian faith. St. Mary’s Cathedral is overflowing with ornate religious symbolism and hidden meaning. It was exciting to explore its architecture and find hope in its significance.

RDB 11: Ramayana 2 and As You Like It

2007-11-14T11:01:00.000-08:00

A Journey through Reality

Exile into woods provides an escape to reality for the main characters of both the Ramayana and William Shakespeare’s “As You Like It”. Coming from a shelterd, court like atmosphere of power and conflict, the characters in both stories are given the chance to absorb and experience their surroundings in a way they never have before. They begin to see life for what it really is and appreciate the simplistic beauty around them. Inspired by the free spirit of their new home, they live and explore, finding love and themselves along the way. As Duke Senior says at the beginning of “As You like It”,

“And this our life exempt from public haunt
Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks
Sermons in stones and good in everything”

Sita and Ram, Orlando and Rosalind, Oliver and Celia, Silivus and Phebe, and Touchstone and Audrey, all unearth the good in each other from their encounters in the wood (1079). Sita and Ram, Orlando and Rosalind, Oliver and Celia, Silivus and Phebe, and Touchstone and Audrey, all unearth the good in each other from their encounters in the wood (1079). While the forest’s mysteries seem to unite everyone, it is not without conflict that they come together. Guise seems to play a key role in separating the characters from their happiness, and they must overcome it in order to reunite with it. Sita Asks Ram to capture the deer for her.

In the case of the Ramayana, Ram and Sita expect their “exile to pass like a glad dream” (1024); however, when Sita is hypnotized by the gazelle’s beauty and asks Ram to catch it for her, she unknowingly causes herself and Ram to fall into a trap of capture and separation by the enchantment of Ravana. Thus, Ram must go on a quest to save the one he loves. Similarly in “As You Like it”, Orlando confides in Ganymede who is actually Rosalind in disguise. Although this disguise ultimately brings them closer together, they must uncover and reveal their true identities in order to be together again. In both stories, after the trouble brought on by the guise is overthrown, the characters rejoice in each other’s presence. To the main characters in these stories, “this journey…is like a fulfillment of (their) former life” (1075). As the forest unites them, they receive self-awareness and gratitude for each other. Their exile humbles them and makes them stronger before they venture back home to the life they once knew.

I feel like I have already experienced so much of what these characters experienced during their exile this year. Coming from Beaumont to Austin has really provided me with a glimpse of reality. Everyone here is so diverse and different that it has really instilled me with an appreciation of the individuality and uniqueness within everything and everyone. I have started to see the world through new eyes and long to discover and encounter new things around me. Although my time here as not been without its struggle, I feel like my classmates and I share a special bond through experience and understanding.

My Peers support me through my struggles.

While I fight to maintain my grades and make everyday decisions, I notice the constant support and encouragement that I receive from my peers who are in the same situation as I am. Thus, I think that one of the main lessons to be learned from these stories and all of my experiences is the importance of self-discovery and the awareness of the impact others play along the way. As we go through this life we must remember that are not in it alone and when reality knocks on the door, we will ultimately rely on each other to make it through the day. As Duke Senior said,

“Support him by the arm. Give me your hand,
And let me all your fortunes understand.” (1090).

This significant lesson, as seen in the Ramayana and “As You like it”, is something that should be embraced and shared. It is up to us to face reality together and begin to appreciate it for the perspective that it brings us.

RDB 10: Ramayana 1

2007-11-12T13:57:00.000-08:00

The story of the Ramayana, “The Quest for Sita”, contains many hidden lessons in the depths of its epic tale. Although the original Ramayana did not include the story of the reincarnation of Ram and Sita through Swallow and the Sage, its addition adds a new aspect to the story of a pilgrimage of self-discovery. When Swallow is sold to Red Feather, she realizes that she must make this sacrifice for her family and that it will probably not be an easy one to make. As she takes one last glance at Mount Wu Shan, which has always offered her hope, she recites an ancient poem,

“Tis I must go
But the way is jagged,
Where shall I rest me?
Ah! Where rest my head?”

and sets out on her journey (1007). A swallow is a migratory bird and thus, Swallow sets out on her journey.

These stanzas prove to be a guiding force throughout the story in that although her chosen path presents her with many struggles, Swallow continues to search for her true identity or a place to rest her head. Her encounter with Ho marks the beginning of her transformation and sets her in the right direction to discovering who she really is. By saying, “You ought to look where you are going child. If you walk through life with the same evident carelessness as you cross country, you are unlikely to reach a respectable age,” Ho challenges Swallow to be more aware of her surroundings and appreciate her journey in a new way (1009). Her eyes are opened, and she begins to realize that things happen for a reason and that she came across Ho for a purpose far deeper than a disguise. After Swallow is introduced to and becomes the pupil of the Sage, she is presented with new ways of thinking and delves deeper into her soul than she ever has before. Through meditation and the acknowledgement of her past, Sita is able to encounter her true self and at last finds the contentment and happiness that she deserves.

My story is similar to that of Swallow, in that I am now “setting out on the journey (I have) so long wanted to make” (1011).
The University of Texas is my Wu Shan in that I am being challenged to discover and be true to myself in new situations and unfamiliar surroundings. Teachers “ impart to (me their) thoughts rather than instruct (me), and seem eager to draw out (mine) in response” (1017). My peers make me reexamine myself through their questions and passion for who they are and who they wish to become. Right now, “(my) past, (my) present and (my) future are hinged in a person that (I) think I may be” and that is not enough (1018). It is up to me to discover my true identity, my passions, my hopes, and my dreams so that I can share as much of myself with the world as possible. As I reexamine my past, embrace my present, and look forward to my future, I hope that I will someday break boundaries and “walk till the stream ends and sit to watch the clouds rise” on a new life of hope and certainty (1014).

I look forward to the day I can see how i have grown.

LBJ Library

2007-11-05T22:40:00.000-08:00

Lyndon Baines Johnson 1908-1963

From the time Lyndon Baines Johnson was born in 1908, to the time that he passed away in 1973, the world never once stopped changing. President during one of the most significant and controversial periods in US history, Johnson left behind a legacy that many have tried to live up to throughout the past generations. When I entered the LBJ Library and Museum, I had no idea what a truly influential man Johnson was, but when I left, I had found a new respect and admiration for this Texan man and hope that someday I might be as successful a leader as he was.

Growing up, Lyndon was intelligent and determined. His grades reflected the promise of a leader in the making and a life full of success in an era of innovation and growth. LBJ's grades reflected his promise at becoming somebody.

Not only was he intelligent, but also he was a family man. He cherished his time with his sisters Rebekah and Lucia and hi brother Sam Houston, and never hesitated to express his love for them. LBJ and his sister.

Similarly, during this time, Lady Bird Johnson, his future wife, excelled in her schoolwork and graduated at the young age of fifteen. With the emerging ideas of realists such as Hemingway, the carefree spirit of the 1920’s in the air, and the Great Depression looming on the horizon, Lyndon made his way to college at the University of Texas at Austin where he surpassed all expectations in all that he did. After being a prominent member of the debate team and graduating, Johnson went on to be a teacher to underprivileged kids.LBJ as a teacher at Welhausen Grade School.

It was during this time that Lyndon was first submerged in poverty and despair and which inspired him to strive towards his lifetime goal of uniting a divided country. He believed that all men should be able to justly aspire to live their dignity and this was the principle that guided him through his time in Congress and the Presidency.

Following his time as a teacher, LBJ was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1937, the U.S. Senate in 1948, the Vice President in 1960, and became the President in 1963 and again in 1964. Johnson was a man of action. He believed in building the nation up and enticing it to grow. In a time with heroes such as Martin Luther King Jr., JFK, and Rosa Parks, Johnson was dominant force behind all of their causes. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rosa Parks.

Through his charismatic prescience, knowledge of the legislation, tireless energy, powers of persuasion, and determination to succeed where others had failed, Johnson was able to help secure bills regarding such topics as minimum wage, federal housing, social security benefits, and creating an interstate high way system while also forming NASA and introducing the first Civil Rights legislation in 1875. A quote from the Book of Isaiah in the Bible, “Come now and let us reason together,” proved to be a very prominent idea throughout his time in office.

With the assassination of President Kennedy in 1963, Johnson was appointed President. During a time of utter crisis, Johnson stepped up and took charge without any hesitations. Although these circumstances were not ideal to become President, Johnson took on all responsibilities and went on to govern the nation through quite an eventful period. Johnson’s Presidency is marked with a both a peaceful time of exploration and discovery and a time of violence and controversy. From the first men to orbit the moon in 1968, to the advancement of American efforts in Vietnam, Johnson participated in all aspects of his country with a full heart. At the time of the Vietnam War, his enemies were communism and the atomic bomb, and his actions were the only way he saw to save his country from these threats. Even though Johnson made many mistakes throughout his Presidency and has received much criticism, he was a man of action and was willing to do anything in his power that he thought would benefit his country. With a nation on the brink of revolution, Johnson had to overcome many obstacles. From riots to the assassination of MLK, the country began to separate and crumble right in Johnson’s hands. In a final act heroic desperation and honor, Johnson declared that he would not seek renomination in the 1968 election. This seemed to reunify the nation for just a little while and achieve the goal that Johnson had been trying to accomplish all along. With his motto “We Shall Overcome” resounding in the distance, Johnson left the Presidency while managing to shape the modern vision of America.

Lyndon B. Johnson once said, “any jack ass can tear down a barn, but it takes a carpenter to build one.” Johnson was a carpenter. He was a man of visualization and honor and loved his country above all else. His devotion, dream, and determination are reflected in his book “The Vantage Point” which he published in 1969 after retiring to his ranch in the beloved hill country and in the LBJ Library and Museum in Austin, Texas. Lyndon B. Johnson still lives on today through the American people living the American dream and his vision continues to guide us into the future.
LBJ's legacy lives on today inspiring many through hid leeadership characteristics.

RDB 9 :The Garden of Eden

2007-11-05T14:54:00.000-08:00

The Garden of Eden

At the beginning of creation, “ the Earth was a formless void” (Genesis 1:2); however, once God molded and constructed everything from the birds in the sky to the fish in the sea, it was a bountiful land full of promise and opportunity. Similar to the garden in E.M Forester’s “The Other Side of the Hedge”, God created the Garden of Eden for mankind to grow and be fruitful in. This garden served as a haven to Adam and Eve amidst a new and strange land surrounding them. Unfortunately since Eve gave into temptation and ate Satan’s apple, mankind was cast out of the Garden of Eden to live on the ordinary terrain of the Earth to learn to thrive and develop alone until realizing the purpose of their journey and finding their way back home.
This picture represents the journey one must take to find his/her way back to the Garden of Eden.

Throughout my high school career, I knew exactly what I wanted and I pursued it without any hesitations. I saw every accomplishment as a way to get ahead and would do anything if it guaranteed success. I guess that I had been instilled with the idea that “every achievement is worthless unless it is a link in the chain of development” (Forester 732). Although I believed that I was living my life fully, I always felt as if I was trapped in this constant competition with those around me. Because of this sense of insignificance, I began to falter in my journey and doubt my abilities while seeking reassurance in many material things. Much like the narrator in “The Other Side of the Hedge”, “I was so tired that I sat down on a milestone to rest” and seemed to throw all of my goals and values away because of it (Forester 729). After some very big mistakes and mishaps along the road, “a little puff of air revived me” (Forester 730). As if by some greater power, I was given the opportunity to attend BigStuf camps in Panama City, Florida just when I thought everything was hopeless.
On the beach during quiet time at BigStuf, Panama City, Florida.

Here, my faith and understanding and appreciation for life were revived and, I left camp rejuvenated and hopeful. After an incredible week, “all of the things I was carrying were scraped off me” and I came to an understanding of my purpose in the world. I felt like I had “(risen) to the surface at last” and beamed with confidence and hope (Forester 730). I think this kind of revelation made me feel closer to God than I ever felt before and in a sense provided me with a glimpse at what life in Heaven or “The Garden of Eden” would be like.
Me and my friends and BigStuf.

Since then I continue to live life the best I can. Although this sense of complete happiness has faded away over time, I still encounter things that momentarily restore its splendor. My journey has continued on to the University of Texas at Austin and I am trying to absorb every minute of it I can. My time here has challenged me more than ever and has sparked passion and wonder in things I never would have imagined. I am constantly confronted with temptations and curiosities that I know are wrong, but end up teaching me a lesson in some peculiar way. I have already been challenged for my faith, learned the importance of time management, and realized that I do not always have to go to parties to have a good time. Similarly, the idea of the narrator’s brother entering the gates at the end of the narrative portrayed the connection amongst us all that should be embraced and cherished. Diversity shows a connection between us all. Here, all of the differnet kinds of people root for the same team.

Through the diversity here on campus, I have already started to appreciate each individual more for his or her own selves and believe that this connection is significant in the road to the “Garden of Eden”. Right now, having two tests, two papers, a ridiculous amount of homework, and my car keys being stolen, has put a significant amount of stress on me and has made me stray away from my faith; however, it is these times of utter frustration and exhaustion that I need to embrace this promise of hope and successes that has been offered to me. I realized as I was reading Forrester’s story that “this is the beginning (of my road) and though it seems to run straight away from (me most of the time), it doubles so often, that it is never far from (the) boundary (of sanctuary and joy) and sometimes (even) touches it” (Forester 732). For some reason, this comforted me and offered me hope. As my journey continues, I am sure I will face many more struggles, but I am sure that I will overcome them. As humankind left the gates that opened up to the world, I look forward to the day when the gates in the Garden will welcome me home, but for now, I push towards a goal, “to what goal (I) do not know…but that it (hopefully) goes forward. (I) strive to excel, (in my) own way, and (have) an impetus…” to live this life to its full potential (Forester 732).
I am not quite sure where my road will take me.

The Ramayana Ballet

2007-10-29T17:42:00.000-07:00

The Ramayana Ballet told the epic tale of a love torn apart by evil and jealousy and reunited through the gallant effort of the hero and his fellow supporters. Performed by the Shakti Dance Company, the presentation featured incredibly intricate dancing accompanied by ornate and elaborate costumes. The cast, including several very recognized dancers, portrayed the epic with grace and ease. Although the lyrics to all of the songs were in another language, I was able to interpret their meanings through the pantomime of the dancers. Each of their movements had a purpose and was significant to the progression of the story. Several spectacular numbers such as that of the bird and the monkey truly caught my eye and drew me even further into the storyline. It was enthralling to hear the chanting of the spiritual lyrics and to watch them accompanied by such divine dancing. The dancers moved with such rhythm and enthusiasm that I was inspired by their message. Even tough I am a horrible dancer, I was almost drawn out of my seat to dance along beside them. Their belief in and devotion to their god Ram shined through their performance and provided me with a glimpse at the common link between all religions that I had never seen before.

It was interesting for me to see the similarities between the life of Ram and that of Jesus.
In the Hindu faith, Ram is an incarnation of the god Vishnu, who is part of the Hindu Trinity. The main purpose of this incarnation is to demonstrate the righteous path for the life on earth. In the Christian faith, Jesus is a manifestation of God and part of the Holy Trinity. Jesus was sent to Earth to live amongst humans by his Father to demonstrate a righteous life and pay for our sins. Just as Ram was exiled to the woods by his father, Jesus spent forty days in the Wilderness praying to his Father. There, He was tempted by and the Devil similar to Shurpanakha tempting Ram. As Ram went on a quest to save his beloved Sita, Jesus was on a mission to save all of humanity from our sins. The monkeys, who helped Ram along on his voyage, could be compared to Jesus’ disciples who helped Him spread the word of God. While the monkeys built a bridge across the ocean so Ram could defeat Ravana, the Disciples paved the way for Jesus to conquer the Devil and make believers of the human race. After fourteen years, Ram returns home and is crowned king amongst much celebration. Following His Crucifixion and Resurrection, Jesus returned to the Kingdom of Heaven to be crowned and rule at the right hand of His Father. All of these common relationships really made me contemplate the concept of all religions being linked together for a reason. Although not all of these things occurred under the same circumstances, it really excited me to consider the possibility of all humans being more united and I instantly felt connected to everyone around me.

The Ramayana Ballet was a remarkable production full of joy, sorrow, triumph, and passion. Although I truly enjoyed the performance, I discovered so much more than a story by attending this program. I was not only inspired by the dancers performing with such delight and bliss, but also was aroused by the concept of all religion being connected in a way greater then we know. This traditional story of love also encouraged me that love will prevail through all things. With these to lessons in mind, I approach the future with a new understanding of this life and cannot wait until I unearth more unexpected insights into what this world has in store for me.

Alice II ODB

2007-10-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

We are all essentially heroes. Every single person has something unique about him or her that is admirable and heroic. Although we cannot all shoot spider webs at people or fly to someone’s rescue, we each live our lives the best we know how and make decisions concerning this life the best we can. Thus, when examining Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland and several aspects of his life, one can see the hero emerge in Alice and in Carroll himself.

Alice in Disney's version of Carroll's Alice in Wonderland

At the beginning of the tale, Alice is young and naïve. Although she is just a child, she seizes the opportunity to let her curiosity guide her down the rabbit hole. As Amber Berchiam states, “she is wiling to venture into the unknown, or that which is beyond self” without any hesitation (691A). Throughout her encounters in Wonderland, Alice is constantly questioning things and yearning for knowledge. She is brave in that she decides what she wants (to get into the garden) and does not stop until she reaches this destination. While Alice encounters some very strange creatures and is put in some interesting situations, she “rises to the challenge of survival in Wonderland” and is confident in herself and her abilities (Nash 691 C). For example, when the inhabitants such as the Caterpillar and the Cheshire cat present her with challenges yet provide no answers, Alice takes it upon herself to make the right decision and acts upon it.
The Cheshire Cat and the Caterpillar represent Alice being challenged to think for herself.

Though her instincts are not always correct, she grows and acquires understanding through experience and discovery learning. During her journey she maintains her childlike kindness and compassion by stopping to communicate with and help others along her way. She listens to Mock Turtle tell his story and aids the White Queen as she walks through the woods.

Alice listening to the Mock Turtle tell his story.

Not only does Alice find her way through Wonderland with gusto and zeal, but also maintains a respectful admiration for this peculiar place in which she finds herself. Although Alice is hesitant about growing up, she embraces this adventure in Wonderland with open arms and does everything in her power to absorb as much as she can from it. Therefore, in my eyes, Alice is a hero.

Lewis Carroll

Furthermore, the author of Alice in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll (Charles Dodgson), displays many of his heroic qualities in Alice and through the story itself. The many eccentric characters in the book parallel may of the peculiarities in Carroll’s life. The book, “full of donnish humor and playfulness…and light fantastic but serious bits of thought” is perhaps a glimpse at Carroll’s childlike nature (Rites and Wrongs 127). Since he longed to return to his adolescence, he found his creativity and comfort in the Liddell girls, especially Alice.
The Lidell Sisters: Edith, Lorena, and Alice

His love for Alice and the other girls has been frowned upon by many, but shows the genuineness of his spirit. His imagination has inspired generations and his words have remained carved throughout time. Dodgson was an intelligent professor, devoted to his art and courageous in exploring new realms of thought. “His whimsy and peculiarities ma(de) him for many the quintessential don” (Rites and Wrongs 130). Not only did he break boundaries through his writing, but also was also a gifted photographer. No matter what he was doing, Carroll was constantly emitting originality and uniqueness. This interesting man continues to influence people all over the world and I am sure he will continue to do so in the future.

Alice and Lewis Carroll, like many other unexpected people, are heroes in there own special way. They prove the point that every man has the potential to shine with greatness and success. It is up to us to determine our own destiny and become out own heroes so that we may someday inspire those around us.

Sea Monsters 3-D

2007-10-29T00:40:00.000-07:00

The IMAX “Sea Monsters 3-D” was quite the educational experience. While the IMAX was very entertaining, it incorporated discovery learning throughout the film. From the moment I put my 3-D glasses on, I felt like I was in another time and place. As the movie plunged us deep into the sea, I essentially felt like I was part of everything that was going on around me. All of the creatures seemed so realistic and accurate for the time era and made me instantly feel like a part of their environment. The story was focused around a newly formed family of Dolichorhynchops, an ancient fish that was somewhat of a combination between a penguin and a dolphin, and followed them throughout their life span. The main character is the female newborn who the narrator refers to as “Dolly”. We swam along with them as they searched for food and learned to live in the vast expanse of sea surrounding them. As they ventured out to sea, we were introduced to a number of curious creatures such as the long-necked Styxosaurus, giant turtles, enormous fish, fierce sharks, and the most dangerous sea monster of all, the Tilosaurus.

This ocean was the most dangerous of all time and provides the audience with a number of thrilling adventures as they come face to face with some of the most awe inspiring creatures ever to set foot on this planet. Although the Dolly is young, she is still faced with a number of serious struggles throughout the duration of the film. Not only is her mother killed, but also a Platecarpus eats her brother and she is bitten by a Cretoxyrhina, a huge shark.

These events help the audience fully comprehend the nature of these creatures. They allow them to see exactly how the food chain in this era functioned and how it was every animal for himself. As the Earth evolved, these amazing creatures died off, but somewhere in the soil, their legacy still lives on.

Similarly, a side plot of the film followed several paleontologists as they uncovered the secrets of the female Dolly’s life by digging her up at a campground located in Kansas. This modern day tale combined with the story of the Dolly made the movie more realistic and educational. Not only did it focus on this one specific instance of a fossil uncovering, but also related other creatures in the film back to their famous discoveries during recent history.
By linking these two ideas together, the movie was able to effectively prove the interconnectedness of all prehistoric creatures and living things in general. Although the Earth has evolved throughout time, we all still remain connected through the circle of life. This story illustrates merely one instance of this cycle of life beginning with the birth of the Dolly in the warm waters of the shore and continually returning there until her death many years later. This idea of life springing from death is a driving force behind the message of the film and is seen over and over again throughout history. It is up to us to uncover the secrets that the past holds in it depths, and the discovery of the Dolly with the shark’s tooth in her fin is only just the beginning.

Overall, “Sea Monsters 3-D” was an incredible experience. Not only did I learn a lot about prehistoric creatures of the deep, but also learned a lot about the Earth and its unique way of bonding everything together. The presentation was extremely entertaining and I would highly recommend it to anyone. I cannot wait for my next encounter with the IMAX so I can jump into another enlightening masterpiece.

The Texas Spirit

2007-10-28T22:52:00.000-07:00

Bob Bullock Texas State History Musuem

As I wandered through the various exhibits at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, a sense of pride and delight flowed through my veins knowing that I was part of such an amazing state. A special theme seemed to unite each display and make me feel more like a real Texan than ever before. From the early Indians, to the Spanish explorers and settlers, to the great innovators of today, the undying Texas Spirit lived in each of them.

The first floor of the museum was dedicated to the first encounters that took place on Texan soil. While the Native Americans adapted and prospered in the abundant frontier, a new spirit of adventure and hope at fortune began to stir in Europe. The Spanish conquistadors possessed such courage as they left home to explore new lands. As they began exploring and colonizing, they had to be intelligent and open to learning new tactics and experimentation. Each person that came over to America wanted an opportunity at freedom, a chance to make their dreams a reality, and the opportunity to search and gain prosperity. The early missionaries saw an opportunity in the Indians and made it their obligation to convert them no matter the cost. The early Texan’s faith in their causes gave them bravery and perseverance they needed in their difficult situations. This type of sacrifice for one’s beliefs is a theme that is seen predominantly throughout Texas History.

Today, The Texas Lone Star unites us with our past through our heritage and marks who we are as people, who the land has made us, and who we will become as Texans. The second floor told the story of how this “Lone Star Identity” came about. I believe that this time of revolution and success has ultimately formed and molded what it means to be a true Texan. As Stephen F. Austin said in is 1834 Mexico City jail diaries, Texas was “moved by one Spirit” as its inhabitants fought for their freedom from Mexico and more opportunities for their future. The leaders of this period cared more about their state than they did themselves. Although there was great suffering and loss during the Revolution, patience and fortitude drove the Texans to their ultimate goal of liberty and independence. During battles such as the Alamo, “Everyman wanted nothing more than fight” and even though they were outnumbered, fight they did (“Revolution!” Movie). Every sacrifice and every victory was felt by every man that was fighting for our freedom and, on April 21, 1836 at San Jacinto, after eighteen minutes of fighting, all of their hard work finally paid off. Texas gained its independence from Mexico and became a state of its very own.

After this period, came a time of new beginnings and opportunity. Although the Civil War divided the state and caused problems for a while, the Texan spirit prevailed and brought about an era of change and prospect. New dreams challenged new ideas and people began to search for their own identities. Texas became a place of possibilities. It challenged and inspired its inhabitants because these opportunities were made and not given. The cowboys prevailed on the wild frontier with their endurance, skill, patience, and self-reliance. Hollywood began to recognize the dominant characteristics of Texans and began portraying these ideas in films. The accomplishment in Texas became a partnership between people with vision and people of skill, hard work, and an enduring respect for nature. Endless possibilities lay within the seven different regions of the Texas terrain; however, with each region came new challenges. Texans gained success through numerous things such as farming, mining, and raising sheep, but the ultimate triumph came about with the discovery of oil at the Spindletop Gusher in Beaumont, Texas in 1901. This discovery changed the way people lived and worked forever. Texans also became predominant singers, athletes, doctors, and scientists. Dr. Denton Cooley opened up new frontiers by performing the first artificial heart transplant, while NASA pioneered the first voyage to the moon. Texans continue to break barrier and with the same Texan Spirit of our forefathers are doing things that no one ever though possible.

“The Star of Destiny” tied all of these ideas of the Texan Spirit into one coherent thought. Texans are daring and courageous. They are not afraid to go after their goals and do anything in their power to accomplish them. They are not afraid to take a journey into the unknown and explore other realms of possibility that remain untouched. The leaders of our past have inspired the leaders of our present and our future with their unwavering faith and devotion to their state and country. Our past shows us that through hardship and sacrifice, comes opportunity. For example, the tragedy in Galveston in 1900 demolished everything, yet Texans were able to rebuild it to become stronger than it was before. It goes to show that hard work and perseverance continue to help us thrive and grow today much as it did throughout our history. It is now up to us to continue living with this Texas Spirit and never forget that her destiny lies in our hands.

Ranch Party Pet Cemetery

2007-10-28T22:45:00.000-07:00

This was written at the Ranch Party during an on sight writing at the Pet Cemetery. Click on the images to make them larger.

Ranch Party Woods

2007-10-28T22:37:00.000-07:00

This was written at the Ranch Party during an on sight writing in a place I chose in the woods. Click on the images to see a larger view.

Becoming My Father: Finding a New Life in Second Life

2007-10-20T14:25:00.000-07:00

((My Dad and Me))

In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch says to his daughter Scout, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it [1]" (36). Although this quote is not meant for literal interpretation, Second Life provided my fellow classmates and me with the opportunity to do just that, to become our role models and see the world through their eyes. Not only were we turned into their physical persona, but also actively participated in living life as them. Their past became our present and through their experiences and beliefs, we were able to penetrate and “explore other realms of thought [2]” that we never thought possible (Danielle Oxford 10:00).

My father never told “me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it [3]” (Clarence Kelland). Thus, portraying him in second life proved to be quite satisfying. I have always admired his loving nature and constant drive to accomplish everything he desires along with his unending enthusiasm for and devotion to his family, friends and community. He is very intelligent and a thriving lawyer while he still possesses an undying conviction to his faith. Not only is he courageous and successful, but he is also gentle, charismatic and inspiring. He always encouraged me to follow my dreams, no matter the cost. With all of these qualities I wished to emulate in mind, I set out on my adventure to create him mind, body, and soul in Second Life. ((Me sitting at the computer communicating through Second Life))

As I sat on my computer and opened Second Life, I was warped into another time, another place, and another world. Forming my Father into an Avatar was like watching him be reborn within the computer screen and then evolving into a new self. Each change I made to his personal features made him seem even more alive and I began to feel a connection to him like I had never felt before. Our souls were united and our hearts beat as one whilst we unanimously molded each other. Although it was frustrating at first to not be able to capture his exact image, I was able to successfully portray my father, kilt and all, in the end. A great sense of accomplishment and anticipation flowed through my veins as my father and I made our way to Orientation Island.

((My Avatar of my father, Hubert Oxford III))

People say that one never truly knows a person until he takes a walk in his shoes. Although I have known my father my entire life and have been an active participant in his, I never completely understood him until I was forced to become him and leap into his mind. At first, living as my father was incredibly strange; however, with each step came a stronger sense of curiosity and understanding. With me learning how to instruct my Father to do things such as speak and walk, it was as if we had reversed our roles. I had essentially taken on his job of teacher and provider, while he had become the student. Learning to drive and fly were other great adventures within themselves. Each represented a special time my father and I had shared together, so the experience became even more real and important. Although we struggled with both at first, each proved to be incredibly useful to the Second Life experience when perfected. As we took flight and headed towards UT Island, I realized that only in a virtual world would one be able to travel at the speed of light to a world of their very own choosing. Arriving at the UT SL Island was very similar to a homecoming. Since we both were students at The University of Texas at Austin, this island linked my father and me even further together. The UT tower and other surrounding buildings provided a familiar setting in a new and alien environment. Although the island was configured to look like the campus, it was still foreign and exciting to explore. Considering we were the only people there, the island was small and got lonely after a while; however, once everyone else arrived, things got interesting.

When all the other Avatars ventured onto the island, it was thrilling to meet them and to begin to converse amongst ourselves. Through discovery learning, we were able to determine more about each other’s identities and actually grasp the concepts of Second Life. Next, we flew over the wall to our own domain and proceeded to our assigned groups for discussion. During the Avatar conversations, I became Hubert Oxford III. My father and I were one. His thoughts were mine, and mine were his. It was as if I was stuck in a trancelike state between fiction and reality. It was bizarre communicating with my classmates, who were sitting right beside me, through the computer; however, knowing they had shared similar experiences during the creation of their respective role models, only made me feel a stronger bond forming amongst us. Our goal was to participate fully in the discussions while still imitating our characters.
(((Me typing during one of the Avatar Dialogues.))

The conversations between us were very insightful, but in some cases progressed a little slowly. It was hard expressing exactly what I wanted to say while reading others responses due to the fact that everyone was communicating at once. Also, it was difficult to totally understand the meaning of others suggestions because unlike in a face-to-face conversation, we were not able to observe each other’s gestures or tone of voice. By taking on someone else’s identity, no one knew who anyone else was and therefore no preconceived judgments were formed. I believe that communicating as Avatars dressed as our role models enabled us to become our characters and not focus on our own personal beliefs and ideas. This way was more authentic than discussing our role model’s views as ourselves in our everyday clothes and added the aspect of inspiration through communicating as leaders. While I was speaking as my Father, my thoughts flowed differently and I began to respect his opinions more and fuse them with my own.

Throughout each of the dialogues, everyone’s thoughts gushed out of him as if from somewhere deep within his role model’s heart. By observing the opinions of the various role models represented, I was presented with numerous different ways to look at leadership that I had never considered before. The first group discussion focused mainly on what leadership was and the part that it had played in each of our hero’s lives, while the second group discussion was centered around the relationship between leadership and diversity. (((First Group Discussion))

Several Key elements such as passion, drive, and character seemed to guide the conversation and lead us in producing even more insightful ideas on what being a leader entails. We continually stressed the importance of a leader’s “ability to make everyone feel united towards a goal…and to want to pursue it together [4]” while still maintaining a courteous relationship with his supporters (Danielle Oxford [9:21]). Also, a great emphasis was put on a leader’s ability to form his own opinions without conforming to those of society and to “ express and live these ideas [5]” in his everyday life (Danielle Oxford [9:12]). Furthermore, from the second conversation we were able to see that leadership and diversity are closely interlinked. ((Second Group Discussion))

“Leaders are able to promote diversity through their actions and words [6]” (Danielle Oxford [9:46]). They are capable of seeing things from another’s point of view and empathize and show compassion for their positions. Another idea that appeared frequently throughout this discussion was that the more experiences with diversity that a leader has had in his life, the more he “will be able to relate to (others) and understand their situations [7]” (Danielle Oxford [9:56]). I also came to the conclusion that a leader does not wait for diversity to find him, he “seeks opportunities to experience diversity” and in doing so “go(es) outside of (his) comfort zone (to) break barriers [8]” for everyone (Danielle Oxford ([9:59]). By participating in such dialogue and listening to others, my classmates and I ultimately took on leadership roles ourselves. We were able to connect through the expression of our ideas and combine our personal beliefs with those of our role models to develop a unique integration of thought and inspiration.

Additionally, our Avatar chat paralleled Walter Jackson Bate’s definition of the sympathetic imagination. He states in “The Sympathetic Imagination in Eighteenth-Century English Criticism” that in order to truly understand an object, one must “actually (enter) into the object…to secure a momentary but complete identification with it [9]” (144-46). Thus, by dwelling as my father in Second Life, I was essentially taking part in his existence. As I delved into my father’s mind and produced his definition of leadership, we became a cohesive entity of expression. Because of this feeling of harmony, I believe I was more successful in translating my father’s leadership experience into words and relating this knowledge to how he acted as a leader throughout his life. Although I did not always interact in the discussion exactly how he would, I think I was able to capture the nature of his spirit and impart his beliefs to others. It was exhilarating to “throw (my) soul into the body of another man, and be at once possessed of his sentiments, adopt his passions, and rise to all the functions and feelings of his situation [10]” (Bate 144-46). (((Seeing the World through my father's eyes.))

I instantly was able to connect to my father’s outlook on life and understand how his experiences have formed his views and beliefs. I found a new respect and love for him and finally appreciated him for who he was. While I have always known that my father and I are two very different and distinctive people, this experience through Second Life showed me that in fact, we actually had a lot in common. By trying to think how he would think, my innermost thoughts resurfaced and I was able to simultaneously interpret and separate the ones that we both shared. It was really quite gratifying to realize that someone who I looked up to and admired so much was so much like me and had already had such a huge impact on my life. I now believe that the same is true for all role models. People try to become and emulate those that they admire because they see some unique part of themselves within their role models and only hope that they will someday amount to who they are and follow in their footsteps. Thus, we all have the potential to accomplish great things just like are role models have done before us and I owe this realization to Second Life.

In conclusion, this encounter with Second Life not only taught me more about my father, but also taught me a little something about myself. This newly formed relationship is reciprocal and unique. Just as Katherine Mansfield said, "By understanding myself, I better understand others and by understanding others, I better understand myself [11]”. Jumping into my father’s skin and observing the world through his eyes, provided me with more insight into who he was and allowed me to catch a glimpse at the bond that exists between us. Although our encounters were merely in a virtual world, I was still ignited with a sense of understanding and esteem for my Father that I believe will never be put out. I only hope that I will one day be able to live the kind of life that he has lived while benefiting from all of the leadership capabilities he has endowed upon me. At the end of the day, Hubert Oxford III is my father, and I am his daughter and I am satisfied knowing that this is the most extraordinary and irreplaceable connection present in the world.((Me and my Dad bonded forever))

Word Count: 1,801
Photo Citations:
Dad and Me, Neches River Festival:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxuq7g7RC6I/AAAAAAAAAKM/WkfqbSfNnRY/s1600-h/n1516410112_30071503_3485.jpg

Danielle, Crystal Avatar Discussions:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RxunCg7RC1I/AAAAAAAAAJk/JFa-00HiqIo/s1600-h/JuliePDanielleCrystal.jpg

Avatar1:
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxumew7RC0I/AAAAAAAAAJc/17vaAFc8rgo/s1600-h/Rm1_003.bmp

Danielle, Crystal, Ryan Avatar Disussions:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxuncg7RC2I/AAAAAAAAAJs/O6XCdR-kw4w/s1600-h/DanielleCrystalRyan.jpg

Group 1 Discussion:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RxuoKg7RC4I/AAAAAAAAAJ8/Ax_BwHUoBvw/s1600-h/1.jpg

Group 2 Discussion:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxun1A7RC3I/AAAAAAAAAJ0/Zzpwjt-orzA/s1600-h/5B.jpg

Avatar2:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxup5g7RC5I/AAAAAAAAAKE/Nbs0JOZhA9Q/s1600-h/Rm1_002.bmp

Dad and Me, Beaver Creek 2004:
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/Rxusgg7RC8I/AAAAAAAAAKc/qZ4I2l6qPls/s1600-h/img680.jpg

Text Citations:
[1]- Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird (New York: J. B. Lippincott, 1960), 36.

[2]- Danielle Oxford, Avatar Discussion 2, Group 5, [10:00].

[3]- Clarence Kelland. Steve Brunkhorst, “15 Unforgettable Father Quotes.” Ezine Articles, http://ezinearticles.com/?15-Unforgettable-Father-Quotes&id=141974 (accessed October 16, 2007).

[4]- Danielle Oxford, Avatar Discussion 1, Group 1, [9:21].

[5]- Danielle Oxford, Avatar Discussion 1, Group 1, [9:12].

[6]- Danielle Oxford, Avatar Discussion 2, Group 5, [9:46].

[7]- Danielle Oxford, Avatar Discussion 2, Group 5, [9:56].

[8]- Danielle Oxford, Avatar Discussion 2, Group 5, [9:59].

[9]- “The Sympathetic Imagination in Eighteenth-Century English Criticism” by Walter Jackson Bate ELH, Vol. 12, No. 2 (Jun., 1945), pp. 144-164. http://www.cwrl.utexas.edu/~bump/sympathetic%20imagination.html

[10]- “The Sympathetic Imagination in Eighteenth-Century English Criticism” by Walter Jackson Bate ELH, Vol. 12, No. 2 (Jun., 1945), pp. 144-164. http://www.cwrl.utexas.edu/~bump/sympathetic%20imagination.html

[11]- Katherine Mansfield. Dr. Mardy, “Dr. Mardy's Quotes of the Week -- January 9-15, 2005.” http://64.233.167.104/search?q=cache:KhDjaqx1CsUJ:www.chiasmus.com/archive/msg00210.html+katherine+mansfield+By+understanding+myself,+I+better+understand+others+and+by+understanding+others,+I+better+understand+myself&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=1&gl=us (accessed October 16, 2007).

Appendix:

Avatar Discussion 1, Group 1:

[9:08] You: Hello Lantz. What do you think a leader is?
[9:10] You: I think a leader is capable of leading others while still maintaining a respectful relationship with them.
[9:11] Lantz Pichot: Hey. A leader is someone who can connect with people and convey their feelings.
[9:12] Basic Chair: Right click me and choose 'Sit Here' to sit down
[9:12] You: Also, I think it is important that a leader knows what he believes and does not conform to society but expresses and lives these ideas and values.
[9:12] Lantz Pichot: That, I definitely agree with.
[9:13] Lantz Pichot: Leaders are people who dare to step out.
[9:13] You: I agree that connection is very important in any leader/follower relationship. ONLY CONNECT!
[9:13] Latte Littlething: Yes, I agree Alaina. I think individualismm is key. A leader accepts not only his own character, but the character of others.
[9:13] You: Yes, and are not afraid to do the unknown or be persecuted for it.
[9:13] Lantz Pichot: Haha, yeah, hammer your visions into unity while you're at it. :)
[9:13] Lantz Pichot: But actually, "hammering your visions" is pretty important.
[9:14] You: Individualism is very important but also being able to relate to others is very important. Someone cannot be too individualistic that they are unapproachable...
[9:14] Latte Littlething: Individualism is defined by passion, passion for life, for adventure, for discovery and exploration.
[9:14] Lantz Pichot: Leaders take stands on topics, and people follow because they're so confident.
[9:15] Nepal Bergamasco: Confidence is important because once a leader starts something, he must do everything to execute his goal
[9:16] You: I agree leaders should never quit, but I also think that a leader’s flaws make him more human. People don’t always want to follow a perfect man.
[9:16] You: A true leader can overcome any obstacle or flaw and turn it into a positive situation and aspect of their character.
[9:16] Nepal Bergamasco: You're right, a leader also must be human
[9:16] Latte Littlething: Well yes, confidence comes with an acceptance of your own passion. A leader pursues his/ her passion without any interest in the accomplishment. The interest drives their actions.
[9:16] Nepal Bergamasco: must*
[9:17] You: I think Passion is the most important aspect of a leader also. Without passion, a leader is not a leader.
[9:18] You: A leader must also take interest in his followers. He must be able to listen to them and put their needs and wants into action.
[9:18] Nepal Bergamasco: Yes, passion is the driving force in any leader.
[9:18] Latte Littlething: I always say. "Il faut aller voir". We must go and see for ourselves. This means that in pursuing our passions, we must become proactive, not observers, but active partcipants.
[9:18] Nepal Bergamasco: It's important to know the passion of your people as well if you are to become a leader
[9:18] Latte Littlething: A leader insists on involvement.
[9:19] Nepal Bergamasco: Once you connect with your people, and feel what they feel, only then will you see the real need in a group of people
[9:19] You: I think charisma and character are also two very important attributes of a leader.
[9:20] Nepal Bergamasco: Empathy is important in leadership.
[9:20] You: I agree and compassion.
[9:20] Latte Littlething: I agree Nepal, recognizing the individuality among your crewmembers creates a feeling of community.
[9:21] Nepal Bergamasco: The importance of vision in a leader is important
[9:21] Nepal Bergamasco: A leader should see ahead.
[9:21] Nepal Bergamasco: Look at the big picture
[9:21] You: The ability to make everyone feel united towards a goal
[9:22] Latte Littlething: I find that if I surround myself with a crew or team full of their own passions, I don't have to encourage them to work. An "esprit de corps" emerges. Everyone jumps on board and words as a body.
[9:22] You: and to want to pursue it together is key.
[9:23] You: I agree. A leader needs a group of supportive individuals that are just as passionate as he is or he will not be able to accomplish much.
[9:23] Nepal Bergamasco: Latte, I agree. I see a body with the same passion just like a boat, with all its passengers paddling, with the leader in the front to lead the direction.
[9:23] You: Again, I stress that a respectful relationship between all members of an involved party is so important.
[9:24] You: I also believe that a leader needs a personable side. He needs to be able to relate to others, to make jokes, and to not take himself too seriously.
[9:24] Latte Littlething: Yes, a unifying passion for life in all aspects, family, work, discovery, creates a balance on a level with which all in the crew can relate. Then, there are unifying feelings and experiences with which people may relate to each other.
[9:24] Nepal Bergamasco: Alaina, you're right because with respect, we get rid of the things that might complicate eachother's relationship
[9:25] Latte Littlething: Yes Nepal, a boat of discovery.
[9:25] Nepal Bergamasco: The little things always matter
[9:25] Nepal Bergamasco: yeah
[9:25] You: The little things are the foundation to accomplishing great things.
[9:25] You: A leader also needs experience.
[9:25] Nepal Bergamasco: It's important that a leader pays attention to little things, details
[9:25] Latte Littlething: Upon which, the shipmates explore themselves as well as each other
[9:26] Latte Littlething: What kind of details do you mean Nepal?
[9:26] You: They need to have encountered various situations and outcomes to truly know how to handle anything.
[9:26] Latte Littlething: I think you refer to the magic of the moments.
[9:27] Nepal Bergamasco: Details like, how each member in a group interact with the rest. A leader should pay attention to the smallest things like, how does one member of your group feel today?
[9:27] Latte Littlething: A leader should be able to recognize the magical moments of his/her life.
[9:27] You: I know my experiences in the air force truly made me a better leader because I was put in a situation I had never been in before and was forced to find myself and support those around me.
[9:27] You: It is the moments that make history.
[9:28] Latte Littlething: Oh, yes. The quirks and idiosyncracies of the crew.
[9:28] Latte Littlething: These are what defines them.
[9:28] Nepal Bergamasco: Alaina: describe one trait in a leader you feel you have had whhile in the air force
[9:28] Nepal Bergamasco: and tell us how it affected your experience there
[9:29] Latte Littlething: New situations induce new chances for exploration. They draw the attention away from the self and focus energies on others.
[9:30] Nepal Bergamasco: Latte: can you expand on that?
[9:31] You: Well just in general, teamwork was key. In the midst of a war, it was important to realize that I could depend on others because we were all there for the same reason. I cannot really think of any one experience that truly defined my time there but I was introduced to so many opportunities at being a leader such as serving as a captain and Judge Advocate.
[9:31] Nepal Bergamasco: Aliana: So teamwork and the feeling of having your back supported by your members all the time is important
[9:32] Nepal Bergamasco: That is true, but a leader must not forget that initiative is what the whole group needs
[9:33] Latte Littlething: Yes, I think what Alaina refers to is the moments in life that spur a realization of the insignificance of the individual. Happiness occurs when one ceases to focus inwardly, and begins to focus on the love for life and relationships with others. This creates a well rounded being.
[9:33] You: Yes, I would say so. Although, I know I can accomplish things on my own, accomplishing things is a group effort. It is up to the leader to initiate the goal and the followers to help make it happen.
[9:34] Latte Littlething: I send my crewmembers home once every six months for this purpose. To spend time with families, pursue other interests.
[9:35] Latte Littlething: When they are with me on my voyages, I encourage them to pursue their various other interests as well.
[9:35] You: It is always important to have a strong support group at home. I have learned that my family will always be there for me, through the good and the bad.
[9:35] Latte Littlething: And I find that their enthusiasm grows by leaps and bounds in this manner.
[9:35] Nepal Bergamasco: Latte: I see now that a leader must put emphasis on the exploration of each member's inner self
[9:35] Latte Littlething: Yes!
[9:35] You: A cultured person will most likely be a more successful leader because they know how to relate to others.
[9:35] Nepal Bergamasco: Alaina: Yes, a strong sense of family and community is important
[9:36] Latte Littlething: This emphasis creates a basis for personal relationships.
[9:36] Cameron Reinard shouts: until otherwise shown, we can
[9:36] Latte Littlething: Upon which, real power as a team rises.
[9:37] Latte Littlething: Nice talking with you all. Il faut aller voir.
[9:37] Nepal Bergamasco: Leading India and continuously leading those 1-month fast and upholding non-violence although the whole country was in chaos, having my family and core supporters were important in my mission
[9:38] Latte Littlething: Nepal, how did their support aid you in your work?
[9:39] Nepal Bergamasco: It was hard to lead the people to non-violence when the rest of the country was in chaos. However, having supporters during the Salt March where we walked and fasted for a month, it helped me realize that there are people with the same passion and dream for India.
[9:40] You: Leaders are able to think outside the bow. They are creative in ways to approach things.
[9:40] You: box**
[9:40] Nepal Bergamasco: Having people to lead with the same goals as me made the already difficult situation a little easier to accomplish.
[9:40] Latte Littlething: I see, your passions acted as a ripple, and collided with others all over India.

Avatar Discussion 2, Group 5:

[9:45] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it's great to be talking to you today
[9:45] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: thank you for coming
[9:46] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: first of all, i am true proponent of equality
[9:46] You: thanks you
[9:46] Alaina Felisimo: I think leaders promote diversity through their actions and their words.
[9:46] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i base my philanthropic work on that idea
[9:46] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i opened a school in Africa for women
[9:46] You: I think a leader has to be diversity mided to properly empathize
[9:46] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i agree
[9:46] You: people are diverse, therefore a leader must realize this
[9:47] You: what's good for one is not always good for all
[9:47] Alaina Felisimo: I agree. It is important for a leader to accept others ideas while still maintaining their own opinions.
[9:47] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i have to do that in my show
[9:47] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i have to respect my guests
[9:47] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it's key to allowing others to identify with me
[9:47] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i am a "celebrity" even though i dont like that word
[9:47] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: but i use it to my advantage to draw attention to diversity
[9:47] You: but you use your celebrity
[9:48] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: for example, i have a book club
[9:48] Alaina Felisimo: I think that when someone has experienced many things in their lives, they will be more open to diversity.
[9:48] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: and i pick books with cultural messages
[9:48] Alaina Felisimo: I respect you for that.
[9:48] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i try to educate people about diversity to combat ignorance
[9:48] You: diversity is how we grow culturally because of the exposure to different thoughts
[9:49] You: are you speaking strictly of racial diversity?
[9:49] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: and gender
[9:49] Alaina Felisimo: Whether they should be or not, celebrities are some of the most influential people and should promote what they believe in.
[9:49] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i try to work with female African Americans
[9:49] You: It is a celebrity’s right to be indifferent though
[9:49] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: but that doesn’t mean I don’t have attention for other races and genders
[9:49] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: I believe in gay rights
[9:49] You: you also work with Tom Cruise lol
[9:49] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: I did
[9:49] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: that was interesting
[9:49] Alaina Felisimo: What do you do in Africa?
[9:49] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: I had to be open minded
[9:49] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: for that interview
[9:49] You: how do you feel about scientology
[9:50] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: one Christmas i sent toys over there
[9:50] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i even went to deliver it with my best friend gale
[9:50] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i also opened a leadership academy gor girls in south Africa
[9:50] You: and feel free to speak candidly, tho this isn't off the record
[9:50] Alaina Felisimo: I AM Catholic and follow the laws of the Catholic Church but I am able to respect others beliefs.
[9:50] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it's great to respect other religions
[9:50] You: how can a catholic support a sexual devient
[9:51] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: you learn so much that way
[9:51] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: education is very important to leadership
[9:51] You: Despite their disalignment with my life, I am baptist
[9:51] Alaina Felisimo: I have become more accepting of other people in the recent years because of my daughter who is gay. She has taught me a lot.
[9:52] You: but Oprah Shabooty, how do you feel about scientology in particular and what is it like to be around such strong proponents of many different ideas
[9:52] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i try to stay grounded to my beliefs
[9:52] You: do you ever pick and choose from appealing philosophies?
[9:52] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i accept them as i do with opinions and nothing more
[9:52] You: to create your own ideology
[9:52] Alaina Felisimo: I think religion is somehow all interlinked.
[9:53] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i dont pass judgment unles it is warranted
[9:53] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: especially those dealing with social awareness
[9:53] Alaina Felisimo: Even though not all churches, share the same ideas, they all believe in a higher power.
[9:53] You: i agree, but it's always important to understand the circumstance
[9:53] Alaina Felisimo: The circumstance of what?
[9:53] You: except the church of atheism
[9:53] You: the circumstances of people's situations. For example
[9:54] Alaina Felisimo: Well atheism means they don’t believe in a higher power, so is it really a church?
[9:54] You: we shouldn't look at a homeless person and judge what they did in their past that got them there. It is not our right, nor does it help to get to the future
[9:54] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i'm seeking to deviate from the topic a bit, because i dont think i would be doing my job if i didnt ask this question
[9:55] You: similarly, I may not give a starving alocoholic money because I understand his or her problem
[9:55] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: how does diversity contribute to your leadership role?
[9:55] You: I would instead give them food
[9:55] Alaina Felisimo: I think people should be able to believe what they want to believe and leader should work towards what they want.
[9:56] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i believe diversity motivates me
[9:56] You: diversity helps us understand that we need many labels for people, but that those labels are not important beyond descriptors
[9:56] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it motivates me to hold episodes drawing attention to a plethora of issues
[9:56] You: We have to be diversity minded as diverse individuals
[9:56] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: diversity isnt just about race or gender but about thoughts too
[9:56] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: ideas
[9:56] Alaina Felisimo: I am a lawyer and I deal with many different types of people with different circumstances. I need to be able to relate to them and understand their situation before I can help fix it.
[9:56] You: very true
[9:56] You: cultural diversity is a huge barrier
[9:57] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it's so difficult to understand all cultures
[9:57] You: but acceptance doesn't rule out dissent
[9:57] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: but what we can do is just try to learn as much
[9:57] Alaina Felisimo: I think ideas and beliefs are some of the things people have the hardest time accepting.
[9:57] Alaina Felisimo: I think it is easier to understand a culture once you have experienced it.
[9:57] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: why do you think that Alaina?
[9:58] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: oh i see
[9:58] You: people need to be willing to let go of their beliefs for understanding sake, especially with religion
[9:58] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it's true...that's why i travel a lot
[9:58] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i think i am luckier in that i am given that opportnity
[9:58] You: it all comes back to empathy and understanding the circumstance
[9:58] Alaina Felisimo: Because people are very set in their ways and do not like accepting that their are other ideas out there.
[9:58] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it just seems that I guess its not people's fault if they're not given the opportunity to experience diversity
[9:58] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: and therefore don’t understand it
[9:59] Alaina Felisimo: I think that a true leader seeks opportunities to experience diversity.
[9:59] You: there is diversity everywhere. It is about growing as a person from learning about people rather than forcing others to conform to you
[9:59] Alaina Felisimo: They go outside of their comfort zone and break barriers.
[9:59] You: I think leaders happen upon diversity without seeking it out
[9:59] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: sorry, but who is Heidi
[9:59] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: she's annoying me
[9:59] You: leaders are those for whom
[9:59] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: cuz she keeps typing
[10:00] Alaina Felisimo: I do not see a Heidi.
[10:00] You: neither do i
[10:00] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: she's likea ghost to me then
[10:00] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: that's freaky
[10:00] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: but i am open to her
[10:00] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i accept her
[10:00] You: nice save
[10:00] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: haha
[10:00] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: anyway
[10:00] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: yes,
[10:00] You: that sounds a little disingenuous
[10:00] You: not gonna lie
[10:00] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it's good that you're honest
[10:00] Alaina Felisimo: I disagree with that. A leader should want to explore other realms of thought and want to seek out diversity whenever they can.
[10:01] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: honesty is a good trait in a leader
[10:01] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: wait, what do you disagree with alaina?
[10:01] You: it's not that they don't want to explore, it's that the diversity isn't an adverse issue because they bridge people together by default
[10:01] Alaina Felisimo: A person who is more cultured and diverse will be able to relate to more types of people and be a better leader.
[10:01] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: but sometimes it's difficult for people to do it
[10:01] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: they're not thrust into that chance
[10:02] You: true
[10:02] Alaina Felisimo: They cannot bridge people together without understanding who they are or what they want or need first.
[10:02] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: for example, children living in poverty stricken africa
[10:02] Alaina Felisimo: and..
[10:02] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: dont know anything outside of their village, let a lone a whole world of different people
[10:02] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it's unfortunate, but i seek to change that with books
[10:02] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i let them know that there is so much more to life than just death
[10:02] Alaina Felisimo: well I guess it’s all circumstantial
[10:03] You: we have established the need for empathy and understanding, but for the leaders, we often can set ourselves to their example. With the impovershed of africa, they are leaders in their own right by their great desire for knowledge
[10:03] You: I've never seen any group of kids so excited to go to school
[10:03] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it's amazing isnt it?
[10:03] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it makes me cry
[10:03] You: as those at your leadership academy
[10:03] Alaina Felisimo: one can be a leader within the community by recognizing and caring for the needs of their people.
[10:03] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: education was so important in my life
[10:04] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: battling racism was so important when i was a child
[10:04] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: and to fuse all these into a school is absolutely breathtaking for me
[10:04] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: and i feel great pride in it
[10:04] You: education teaches us that we need diffences to exist and progress
[10:04] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i was born in america, but my place is also africa
[10:04] Alaina Felisimo: you should.
[10:04] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: oh absolutely
[10:04] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: if we were all a homogenous society
[10:05] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: how would we know to do anything differently?
[10:05] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: conformists are just afraid to be different
[10:05] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: differences shouldnt be put down with sham
[10:05] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: e
[10:05] Alaina Felisimo: I was born in America and fought in the Vietnam war and traveled a lot so I have been exposed to so many different places that I feel like a fusion of all of their cultures.
[10:05] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i know people who are ashamed of their race
[10:05] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: and it is sad
[10:06] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: differences are what make us who we are
[10:06] Alaina Felisimo: I think a leader makes people feel proud of who they are by respecting them and being proud of who they are.
[10:06] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: my diversity allowed me to get where i am in life
[10:06] You: it's sad that socially it's still an issue. Even the best leaders are not entirely blind to differences
[10:06] Alaina Felisimo: Every leader has flaws.
[10:06] Alaina Felisimo: But they use them to their advantage.
[10:06] You: but diverse groups need to have a voice to get their interests represented
[10:07] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: my power as a woman and african american allowed me to get me where i am
[10:07] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: and now i draw attention to issues pertaining to them...that's what i contribute
[10:07] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: my flaws allow me to relate to my guestst and my viewers
[10:07] Alaina Felisimo: I think people possess a lot of respect for diverse leaders because you know they have to work harder to get to where they are.
[10:07] You: By all appearances I am an upper-middle class white male living in America, which makes me unaware normally of minorities
[10:07] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: so they dont think that i'm some goddess...i'm just a normal person
[10:08] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: born the same way as you and you
[10:08] You: however, being gay I am thrust into a minority that must face persecution along with all the others
[10:08] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i was born into rural poverty and was admitted into a predominantly white school
[10:08] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: which is just silly
[10:08] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i feel sorry
[10:08] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i empathize
[10:08] You: people born into minority roles I believe make better leaders because of their understanding
[10:09] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: people use to speculate my gay relationship with my bff gale
[10:09] You: mos def, but it's your perrogative
[10:09] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: and although i love her dearly and i support gay rights, i hate it when people lie and publish falsities
[10:09] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: it just adds to the ignorance of not understanding and not being openminded
[10:09] Alaina Felisimo: Being from a small town, people often though I would take over the family lumber business, but I have surpassed their expectations and made a name for myself.
[10:10] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: to solve the problem of the world
[10:10] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: is to open up
[10:10] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: is to accept diversity
[10:10] You: agreed
[10:10] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: is to accept everything, not to agree
[10:10] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: i love talking to you all
[10:10] You: agree to accept, not agree
[10:10] Shabootyflonclaya Miklos: thank you for coming
[10:10] You: it's an honor
[10:10] Alaina Felisimo: An understanding Diversity leads to greater leadership and the ability to relate to others ultimately resulting in achieving more things.

RDB 8 Expectations

2007-10-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

As I left Beaumont and headed to start my life in Austin, “ (my) dreams were as big as (my past) surroundings were small” (Hardy 651). So many doubted my abilities to even make it to where I was, yet I had always been determined to prove them wrong. UT had always been my Christminster. Just like Jude, I had longed to be part of its unique atmosphere from an early age, but was never quite sure if I would actually be able to take part in it. Coming from a small, Catholic school, it was very hard and competitive to be in the top ten percent and for four years, I was just outside of its cutoff point; however, my senior year, I finally broke through the boundary. Fortunately, my tale and Jude’s tale ended in different ways, with me being accepted into my “Oxford” and having the opportunity to live my dream.

At Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School, I had always been the top of my class and rarely had to open a book. I just eased right through everything without actually absorbing or retaining the material. (( My BEST friend rosemary and I at graduation))

I guess I thought UT would be the same. Although I had always seen “the University as ‘the tree of knowledge’ and ‘the paradise of the learned’”, I thought that I would fly right through all of my classes without encountering any problems and would have time to just hang out and socialize (Hardy’s Oxford: Jude the Obscure 687-88). Boy, was I wrong. Now, I realize that studying is a necessity. Without opening the book, I will not pass the course. Even if I study really hard for a test, chances are I will not always get an A. At first it was hard for me to accept, that I will not always be perfect or successful at everything that I do. It still is very challenging for me to understand that a B might be the best I can do or that I might not be the best or the brightest in my class; however, I have learned that if I try my hardest, the outcome is just as rewarding as being great at everything.

UT presented me with the chance to actually grow and learn things that were important to me. “I … really look(ed) forward to being challenged to think outside the box and encounter new things” (Danielle Oxford). “Basically (at my high school) we (had) always been taught to believe the same things and (had) not really (been) encouraged to explore and accept diversity (Danielle Oxford).” I always thought I knew exactly what I wanted before I came here. The plan was for me to graduate from high school, graduate from college, and become a doctor.
((Me at Med Camp))
Now, I am not so sure about that plan. It is strange that until one is on her own that she does not realize her “own” ideas, goals and beliefs have “been influenced by a great deal of unconscious material: parents’ preferences, childhood experiences, even movies” (Jung 170). Already, my experiences here and my classes have helped me really form my own beliefs. I have decided that instead of immediately becoming a doctor, I want to explore my options, travel the world, and come to understand even more about myself.

Before coming here, “I (was) really looking forward to meeting different types of people. I (had always) gone to (a) private school with the same people” and had really never been exposed to diversity (Danielle Oxford). At UT, I have encountered so many different types of people and have delved into their explanations about who they are to truly discover my own identity. The friends that I have made are all so different but all share the same characteristic of bringing out the best in me.

((Me and my friends dressed up as a surgeon, a scientist, the seventies, a strawberry, and a school girl.))

Instead of trying to fit in with others as I did at my high school, I can really be my goofy self around them and they appreciate me for who I am. I look forward to meeting more unique people like this and am sure that they will share some special part of them like my friends already have.
((Some of my friends an me before a rave.))

I still have so much more to accomplish and discover here at UT, but I can truly say that I can already see the difference that this magical place has made on my life. I have learned the importance of studying, forming ones own opinions, and discovering ones inner self. I have learned to interact with different types of people and appreciate them for being individuals. I have learned that life is too short to not follow your heart, discover your passions, and pursue them both. I know that a great adventure lies ahead of me here and I greet it with open arms. “How the world is made for each of us!” to explore, to thrive in, to leap into without looking back (Hardy 658).

Taniguchi Garden

2007-10-16T21:14:00.001-07:00

Hall of Wisdom

2007-10-16T14:25:00.000-07:00

((Click on the images to see a larger view! This was written during a class excursion to the Hall of Wisdom in the Library in the Tower.))

RDB7 Alice in Wonderland

2007-10-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

As Alice says in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, “Who in the world am I? Ah, that’s the great puzzle!” (Carroll 23). The search for the answer to this question seems to guide us through life and provoke a curiosity and enthusiasm towards how we should live it. I believe that a little bit of Alice lies within each of us. We are all trying to discover who we truly are through our encounters in our own personal “Wonderland”. Although we all fear growing older and encountering the unknown, the mystery is what makes life so interesting. The University of Texas at Austin has served as my “Wonderland” so far this year and I will continue to explore and grow here until I am able to understand and accept the revolving world around be and jump into it without any hesitations.

At first, coming into such an environment as UT was very confusing and different to me. Much like when Alice was falling down the rabbit hole, I was disoriented by my surroundings and felt like time stood still. Falling Down the Rabbit Hole was a scarey experience.

Similar to Alice’s situation with drinking the potion and eating the cake that changed her size, I was not used to making all of my own decisions and facing their consequences. Choosing the right door and path to follow has been quite an ordeal for me. Since I am now not really certain about which career I want to pursue, I have had a really hard time deciding what courses to take and accepting that I will not always be successful in everything. As I find myself surrounded by all of these doors of opportunity, I must realize that the right ones will open at the right times. I must try to take each day at a time and put my faith in the Cheshire Cat’s motto, “Oh, you’re sure to (get somewhere) if you only walk long enough.” (Carroll 65).

Me walking into the unknow, not knowing what lies ahead.

So far, my teachers have served as the driving forces behind my experiences here. Similar to the beginning of Alice’s expedition, the teachers are essentially the white rabbit in that they guide us down the rabbit hole into a whole new realm of discovery and learning.

Teachers such as Professor Bump are my "White Rabbit".

At first I held Alice’s view that “Lessons (only) teach you to do sums, and things of that sort”, but the teachers here have proved me wrong. (Carroll 253). Not only have things been presented to me in a whole new way, but I also feel like I have gained and retained new knowledge like I never have before. The teachers are so excited and passionate about what they do and it makes me want to actively participate in all aspects of class. It seems, that like the white rabbit, they are also in a continuous rush to teach us all that they can before it is time for us to leave and move on to our next adventure. I have come to see that after the teachers have endowed us with as much information as they possibly can, it is our duty to step through the looking glass and embark on our own personal journey to revelation.

Just as Alice explores the looking glass world, I wish to explore all things that the University of Texas as to offer. It has taken me a while to adjust to everything being “upside down and backwards”, but I am ready to take whatever it throws at me. Although I am jut one chess piece on the enormous chessboard of life here at the University, I know that I can make a unique impact on this place by just being myself. John Tenniel's Looking Glass Chessboard. (The chessboard of my life)

Similar to when Alice was crowned a Queen, I have accepted that I will not be a child forever and that this is my opportunity to grow up and strive for the impossible. I know that somewhere along the way I am bound to get lost in the woods and forget what I am after, but I am in charge of my own destiny and must realize that nothing is impossible. As the white Queen says, “sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast” (Carroll 199) and I am going to try to do the same.

Already, my experiences here have molded me into someone completely new and different from who I was when I first stepped foot onto the Forty Acres. As Alice says to Mock Turtle, “I could tell my adventures- beginning from this morning... but it’s no use going back to yesterday, because I was a different person then” (Carroll 105) I know that my time here will only spark more personal development and evolving interest. I cannot wait to discover my true passions and meet the person who I will become through my time here at the University of Texas at Austin, my “Wonderland”.

Me jumping into adventures and fun at the University of Texas at Austin.

Dress Up: Portrait and Performance in Victorian Photography

2007-10-11T12:21:00.000-07:00

Ellen Spiro once said, “The most interesting part of a photograph is that which is not seen.” It is the story behind the photograph that makes it intriguing and distinctive. I believe the same is true for just about everything. “The world is…made of stories” and it is our duty to tell them as accurately as we can (Ellen Spiro). When I visited the Dress Up: Portrait and Performance in Victorian Photography exhibit at the Harry Ransom Center, I was exposed to a number of these stories and their restorations. Crossing the exhibition’s threshold, I was immersed in its history, so that its past became my present.

As I entered the exhibit, the first artifact that I encountered was the Gutenberg Bible.
Seeing this celebrated Bible gave me a strange sense of comfort and excitement. It made me feel connected to all Christians past, present, and future. This piece of my history was one of forty-eight surviving copies and one of five complete copies left in the world today, so obviously this was a once in a lifetime experience. As I looked at its handwritten words, I found a new appreciation for the Bible and everyone involved in its creation and preservation. It was interesting to see the differences in the Bibles of early Christianity and the Bibles nowadays.
Not only was this Bible written in Latin, the language of our ancestors, but also each page contained unique intricate artwork that had survived the ages. I was overcome with a sense of joy and peace as I realized that I was part of something that went beyond my life and me, that had transcended centuries and that will continue to affect generations to come.

Next, the exhibit led to a wide array of Victorian photography. These pictures all demonstrated the Victorian elements of a controlled setting with a fixed identity. In the first set of photographs, all of the models were essentially “playing a part” instead being themselves. Each photo told a story and it was interesting trying to decipher through the artist’s creativity what it was supposed to be. One of my favorite photos was “The Lady of Shallot” by Henry Peach Robinson.
This photo was a reenactment of Alfred Lord Tennyson’s famous poem and captured the tragic nature of the poem perfectly. Another section of pictures was of people who’s photographers had put them in a fixed pose with corresponding items to reflect their status and who they really were. The images ranged from wealthy soldiers and royalty to paupers on the street. Each photo beamed with hope and self-awareness and was a unique tale within itself. The Victorian photographs accurately depicted the ideas of the era and allowed me to understand and be part of its significance.

My last stop in the exhibit was a camera in which I was to become the photographer and take a self-portrait, the only guidelines reading “BE YOURSELF.” At first I was confused and could not decide upon a pose, but after simply following the directions, it clicked. As I jumped into the air and giggled with glee, I knew that a part of me would be left there forever!

RDB6 "Liberal Education"

2007-10-08T16:09:00.000-07:00

Hermit crabs are very interesting creatures. As they grow and become too big for their shells, they search for a new shell that will accommodate their new size. When they find that shell, they live there and continue to thrive and grow until it is time to repeat the process. We are just like the hermit crab in that we are constantly “growing” as ourselves and expanding our knowledge in a specific place until it is time for us to move on and pursue something more adventurous and new. As A. Bartlett Giametti says, “The journey of education is lifelong; it began in your family and in your place of worship and in your earlier schools and in the spaces of your soul that are yours alone…” and will continue through our lives, until the day we die (128). My family was my initial source of education and enlightenment.

My journey has lead me to my new “shell” of the University of Texas at Austin. Here, the opportunities at obtaining knowledge are infinite. Through the Plan II program, I feel like I am embarking on a path of an ideal liberal education, which will lead to unlimited possibilities in my future. According to The Boyer Commission on Educating Undergraduates in the Research University a liberal education is a “rare execution of education and culture (which) with (a) mixture of (the) senses” covers a wide array of studies and is “directed to (the) general intellectual enlargement and refinement” of the human persona (318b). While those who strictly study the sciences will be successful, those who are more well rounded and cultured will be more beneficial to society. Plan II is meant to train “the free man” and as Dean Parlin once said, to provide an “education for life, not living” (Woodruff 1). I believe that Plan II allows students to discover their passions, to explore areas of study that are foreign and unknown to them, and to grow in the sense of experiencing new ideas and situations. Through discovery learning students determine how to interact with their peers and relate with others thoughts and beliefs to form their own opinions and become their own distinctive self. I have always been a big fan of discovery learning. Here my friend and I explore the danger of video games.

I do not believe that everyone at the University is fortunate enough to experience this type of liberal education. In my larger Natural Sciences classes, I do not feel a connection with the teachers and learning. As I copy down endless pages of notes, I feel distant and as they want me to fail or quit in order to weed me out of the Pre-Med Program. In my Plan II classes, I feel like the teachers will do anything in their power to help me succeed. Their interesting views and questions spark an interest in learning and “feed (their students) curiosity” (Woodruff 1). A unique bond has already formed within our world literature class and I can see the sense of community growing each day.
Everyone in Bump 603A discussing our childhoods.

In this class, we have been challenged to search our souls and to bear them and to express ourselves through rhetoric, the Internet, and group discussion. Second Life has provided us with a chance to become our role models and to experience what it would be like to be them. Walter Jackson Bate states that “almost all knowledge of the inner nature and feelings of others must come through the imagination: “As we have no immediate experience of what other men feel, we can form no idea of the manner in which they are affected, but by conceiving what we ourselves should feel in the like situation.” Through Second Life, we have used our imaginations to put ourselves in another’s shoes, and ultimately have come to discover more about our role models and ourselves. I believe that that is the purpose of a liberal education, to learn so much about others and various areas of study that you stumble across yourself along the way. It allows one to “make connections, connections in and through ideas …with other minds, past, present, and future,” while still inspiring new ideas and attitudes within oneself (Giametti 128). It is a journey, “an acquired illumination, …a habit, a personal possession, and an inward endowment.. It implies an action upon our mental nature, and the formation of a character; it is something individual and permanent” and I am glad to be part of it (Newman 977). My education has already begun to shape me as a person and I cannot wait to see what I am to become.

Me being excited about Liberal Education and what lies ahead!

My Friend, My Hero, My Daddy

2007-10-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

Every person is essentially like playdough. We come in different colors and from different containers, but we all come from the same manufacturer. Playdough is basically a worthless lump, but when it is sculpted, it can be formed into something beautiful and amazing. It is what we do with our life or “playdough” that makes us special and unique. Thus, each and every experience that we have or circumstance that is put before us molds us into our own individual masterpiece. Through my Dad, I have come to see that this individuality should be celebrated in everyone and that it is what makes us different that will ultimately give us success in this life.

My Dad was born on September 25, 1938 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Beaumont, Texas. Hubert Oxford III, as he was named, was the Son of Hubert Oxford II and Virginia Cunningham. Little did his parents know that their Son would grow up to surpass all expectations that anyone had of such a small town boy. After years of studying, he graduated from St. Anthony’s Catholic High School and headed off to Texas A&M University. It was there that he received his first inspiration that he was meant for something more than small town life. During his first semester, a professor assigned him to write a paper about what he was going to do with his life. Of course my Father had no idea what his future would hold, so his response was that he would just take over the family lumber business. After reading his paper, the professor called him into his office and informed my father that he would not be allowed to take the easy way out and that he would not accept anything less than excellence and success from him. From that moment on, my Dad has not strived to be ordinary, but to be great, and has excelled in everything that he has pursued.

With his professor’s words in mind, he completed an engineering degree at A&M and made the decision to go on to law school at the University of Texas at Austin where he graduated in 1963. This is where he expanded his mind through the famous words of the masters such as Aristotle and Plato and formed many of his own beliefs and opinions. It was not long after he graduated, that he was drafted into the United States Air Force to serve in the Vietnam War. His strict discipline and dedication that he learned in the Corps at Texas A&M and his ability to solve problems with ease from his engineering background had him promoted to Captain and Judge Advocate in this trying time. I believe that he owes his life to his education, but I also greatly respect his courage and faith that he displayed in being wiling to serve his country. My Father read a lot during his time in the military. He says that TE Lawrence’s Seven Pillars of Wisdom was a reading requirement and “although it was a bible on Guerilla warfare, it also taught a lesson in bravery, treachery and false promises of politicians [1]”. Also, King Rat by James Cavell taught him and his fellow soldiers how to survive in their new harsh environment. Although it was a time of great devastation and war, it was during this time that my Dad was able to travel the world and experience the diversity that it has to offer. He lived across seas for years and was able to indulge in his Scottish heritage and to accumulate a fusion of the various cultures he experienced and become quite a cultivated person.
My Dad wears his kilt on all special occasions. This is a picture from my sister's wedding.

Since then, he has become a fairly successful lawyer and frequently writes commended dissertations. His accomplishments are a reflection of his unwavering determination and drive, his incredible intelligence, and his clever zeal. Not only has he won abundant awards and esteem in the community, but has also been named one of the best lawyers in the United States.

After making a name for himself as a lawyer, my Father chose to settle down and start a family. While he at first struggled with a failed marriage and raising five kids on his own, he is now happily married and the proud Father of seven and the Grandfather of five. His struggles seemed to instill him with an incredible sense of independence and passion for being a father. My Dad dressed as Santa Clause on Christmas Day.

Over the years, the Bible has implanted the importance of love and family in his life and he has strived to make them his top priorities. He lives his life daily with a firm conviction to his faith and his beliefs while maintaining the composure needed in the business world. He says, “As I get older I am enjoying reading the Bible to confirm my faith. Reading confirms my belief that Christ founded only one Church and although not perfect, the Catholic Church is the one that was started by him and tries to live up to the Gospels teachings [2].” I believe that he is successful in his efforts. As a Grandfather, he is always tender and caring.
Hubert Oxford III, IV and V and Lila Oxford at St. Elizaeth's Hospital.

As a Father he is strict, yet loving. As a Brother and a Son, he was continuously loyal and devoted. He often says he feels connected to his family because of Larry McMurtry’s novel, Lonesome Dove. “It is a story of a time that (his) Father saw the beginning of, that (he) saw the end of, and that will continue to effect people in generations to come [3].” Not only has it linked his past to his future, but also has made him more sensitive to and appreciative of the people in his life. Dad, My Mom, My sisters, and me at Disney World

As a result, Dad has become the ideal family man and puts all else aside to be an active part of his children’s lives. He still continues to possess such an unending enthusiasm and love for each member of his family and I am sure he will until the day that he dies.

From an early age, I knew I wanted to be just like my daddy. Some of the earliest memories I have of my Father and me together are from a program called Indian Princesses. This program allowed fathers and their daughters to spend time together, camping and bonding in the deep woods. We were proud members of the Sioux Tribe and lived and breathed it while we were there.
Dad, Chief Grey Wolf, and me at an Indian Princess campout.

My dad was the chief of our entire Indian tribe. Although the whole idea seems silly now, Chief Grey Wolf represented complete leadership and strength in my young eyes. I remember gazing in awe as his mighty hands assembled our tent, our refuge from the scary wilderness surrounding us. I looked to him in admiration as he prepared our meals with such agility or soothed me with his gentle spirit when I was hurt or afraid. During our campfires beneath the stars, power and grace seemed to envelop him as he recited chants and performed ritual dances. As we fell asleep to the warm glow and crackle of the fire, I felt comfortable and safe with him by my side. I was confident in his abilities and was certain that no one else could do anything better than my Dad. Everything he did seemed to be perfect and this made me want to be perfect too.

As I grew up, my Dad and I began to experience our differences. Although we did not always see eye to eye, he was constantly there offering me encouragement and support in everything I did. Young Texan Ball 2006

From football games to dance recitals to my Debutante ball, he contributed all he could with his whole heart. The same was true for my other six siblings and all other member of our family. Not only was a he continually making sacrifices for his loved ones, but he never stopped giving to others as well. He has served on the board of the Lower Neches Valley Authority for countless years and was also elected King of the Neches River Festival. My Dad and me at the Neches River Festival 2007

He helped found the Beaumont Foundation, which gives away free computers to and assists those in need and also got our family involved in an amazing program called Bicycles and Bibles. Families donate gifts to Bicycles and Bibles allowing needy families to have a Christmas that they would never have the chance to have. His involvement in such organizations not only benefited the community, but also has instilled the value of compassion and hope in my family and me. His leadership and generosity continue to change the face of Beaumont and never cease to astonish and challenge me.

The summer before I was supposed to enter the ninth grade, my Father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. While most people would be devastated by this news, my Dad saw it as a challenge and an opportunity to grow and appreciate life. There was never a moment in our time in Sarasota where he seemed depressed or resentful about his circumstances. He was always very optimistic and I remember envying his bright outlook on things when I was terrified of what was going to happen. He saw each day of our time there as a chance to conquer something new, and taught us about so much during that summer. He really grew in his faith throughout the entire experience and looked to God and the Bible for courage more than ever. Somehow he was able to find a bravery deep within to keep himself and us motivated and confident that he would prevail. To this day, my Father is a cancer survivor and he is stronger and more grateful than ever because of his fight with this humbling disease.

My Dad turned sixty-nine last week. When I look at him he does not look old at all. His eyes sparkle with anticipation for the future and with wisdom of years gone by. He does not seem afraid of what is to come and does not seem to regret anything in his past. I love my Dad and I cherish every moment I spend with him because I know that is how he has treated his life. He has embraced each moment of each day and has lived it to its fullest potential and has never looked back. Hubert Oxford III is my friend, my hero, and my Dad. He is everything I want to amount to be and a little bit more. He has accomplished a great deal in his life and I only hope that I will someday be able to live up to the legacy that he has left behind.

Dad and me in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. With one last glimpse behind us, we head into the future.

Word Count:1,764

Photo Citations:

Dad-
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwQgpyb2CbI/AAAAAAAAAD0/_FlOr8T71ag/s1600-h/%3Cbr%20/%3Eimg655.jpg

Mexican Dad-
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRmFib2CjI/AAAAAAAAAE0/FhtbttQvsdQ/s1600-h/mexicandad.png

Kilt-
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRh6Cb2CfI/AAAAAAAAAEU/i8E0qGl8owc/s1600-h/kilt.png

Santa Clause-
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRmQib2CkI/AAAAAAAAAE8/UBO3golvcDE/s1600-h/santa+clause.png

Grandfather-
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRivCb2CgI/AAAAAAAAAEc/zPBux72OuHc/s1600-h/Grandfather.png

Disney World-
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRadib2CdI/AAAAAAAAAEE/iEcVURBJSw4/s1600-h/img675.jpg

Chief Gray Wolf-
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwPfqCb2CaI/AAAAAAAAADs/LnKHJPl6XEM/s1600-h/img638.jpg

Young Texans-
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwPfqCb2CaI/AAAAAAAAADs/LnKHJPl6XEM/s1600-h/img638.jpg

Neches River Festival-
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRjTyb2ChI/AAAAAAAAAEk/igJ-oZSweV0/s1600-h/DebBAll.png

Hall of Mirrors-
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gKFVAC7HoaA/RwRjzCb2CiI/AAAAAAAAAEs/BiuV5H8OcvU/s1600-h/hall+of+mirrors.png

Text Citations:

[1]-Hubert Oxford III (Attorney, Benckenstein and Oxford), in discussion with author, October 2007.

[2]-Hubert Oxford III (Attorney, Benckenstein and Oxford), in discussion with author, October 2007.

[3]-Hubert Oxford III (Attorney, Benckenstein and Oxford), in discussion with author, October 2007.

Link to Internet pot for printout:

http://anniedanni42.blogspot.com/2007/10/my-friend-my-hero-my-daddy_03.html

A Whole New World

2007-09-29T23:59:00.001-07:00

This is what this assignment made me think of...cheesy i know haha! I guess I am kind of like Jasmine and UT is like Aladdin?

RDB5

2007-09-29T23:21:00.000-07:00

I grew up in the small town of Beaumont, Texas. It is the sort of place where everyone knows everyone else and where the high school football game was the most important thing happening on a Friday night. I attended a catholic high school, which was predominantly white and focused on fusing its Catholic values into our educations and everyday lives. Home of Spindletop and the world’s largest fire hydrant, people say Beaumont is the perfect place to raise a family.
Spindletop, the Lucas Gusher, was discovered in 1901, and prompted the oil boom in America.The world's largest fire hydrant stands in front of the Fire Musuem of Southeast Texas. The fire hydrant weighs 4,500 lbs. and could blast 1,500 gallons of water a minute.
Every Sunday I went to church and every day after school I participated in activities ranging from cheerleading to dance to volunteering at the local Shorkey Center. While I enjoyed this “ideal” adolescence, I have always felt that my life has kind of been mapped out for me and that my decisions regarding it were really not my own. So, as one can imagine, my acceptance to the University of Texas at Austin, presented me with a new hope in breaking free of my sheltered and tightly structured life and continuing “(my) pursuit of knowledge” in what I consider one of the greatest and most diverse institutions in the country (Flann 306).

As John Henry Newman stated “ (a university) teaches all knowledge by teaching all branches of knowledge, and in no other way”(312). I feel that UT is successful in fulfilling these requirements. Already my experiences here in Austin, have presented me with new beginnings and opened my mind up to new horizons. There are so many different things to become involved in and so many different types of people to get to know. The prospects at learning are endless and forming and conveying opinions is encouraged. Never before have I been challenged to express my true feelings or to share bits and pieces of myself with those who I am not close to, to immerse myself in the traditions and customs of other cultures, to throw myself full force into my school work, both mind and soul. In Beaumont, I would never get to enjoy the excitement behind a protest or the uncomfortable delight of seeing a hobo riding his bike down the street in a g-string. Although I am not fortunate enough to participate in all aspects of the university, I feel that they all still work inside of me. I believe that we, as students here, will ultimately “be the gainers (of knowledge) by living among those and under those who represent the circle”, the accumulation of an immense array of wisdom and life experiences (Newman 309). As we “learn to respect, to consult, to aid each other”, we will do things beyond what anyone can imagine (Newman 309).

So, the question stands, “Why are YOU here?”. I believe I am here to develop “A habit of mind …which lasts through life, of which the attributes are, freedom, equitableness, calmness, moderation, and wisdom” (Newman 309). I am here to receive an “education which gives (me) a clear conscious view of (my) own opinions and judgments, a truth in developing them, an eloquence in expressing them, and a force in urging them” (Newman 313). I am here to learn, to love, to grow amongst others and in my own skin, to discover my own limits while respecting those around me, to realize my passions, and to fulfill my dreams and goals. I am here to make an impact and to challenge everyone and everything. I am here to find friends and hopefully myself, but most of all, I am here to live my life, fully, confidently, and fruitfully as myself and as nobody else. The time is now for me to venture into the unknown, and I embrace this opportunity with open arms, a hopeful heart, and mind ready to absorb anything the world throws at me.
Me with the World ar my fingertips!

RDB4

2007-09-24T15:46:00.000-07:00

As I am sitting here in my bed, trying to write this RDB, I am struggling with writing anything let alone writing a coherent body of thought. This struggle could be due to the fact that I just ate my bodyweight in candy or that I am addicted to Facebook or that today I seem to be the person to call randomly. Although I would like to believe that all of these things are mere coincidences, I now realize that this is not true in the least. As Alan Watts states, “just as no thing or organism exists on its own, it does not act on its own” (187). Since my surrounding circumstances have influenced me, I have recognized that we are one in the same and that everything around me seems to be connected through some intricate web of unity.

We have been taught for years that “the world is made up or composed of separate bits or things” (Watts 181). Although this may be true from a scientific perspective, all of these separates do not function without the others. What would a football team be without its quarterback or the human body be without the heart?
((The human heart is connected to the entire circulatory system of the body. Without the heart pumping blood to the rest of the organs, we would die.))

Such things are merely microcosms of the bigger picture, of the world as a whole but accurately demonstrate the importance of being an integrated body. As Daniel Goleman states, everything and everyone is “closely intertwined with a dynamic relationship among them” (30). Even though we may not see it, this relationship is there and will be there long after we are gone.

People in the world today generally seek personal glory over the success of the masses. Although we are supposed to be united as “one nation under God”, the human race has taken on the mindset of every man for himself. For example, Doctors have started to believe that they do not need nurses while in all actuality it is the nurses who know most about a patient’s care regimen. Doctors and nurses are dependent on each other and must interact amicably in order to successfully perform their jobs. ((Nurse and Doctor working together to cure a patient))

As cooperation is needed the previous examples, so it is needed in about every other aspect of life. This “failure (of individuals) to see that…people, nations, animals, insects, and plants do not exist in or by themselves” is what hinders the world from revolving without conflict and obstructs us from living as a integrated people (Watts182).

Gerard Manley Hopkins states that “each mortal thing does one thing in the same” (906). Every person has hopes, dreams, ambitions, and fears. “This knowledge, feeling, and choice are essentially eternal and unchangeable and numerically one in all men” (Watts 192). Not only are we all connected through these essential qualities of a human being, but we are also connected to each other and the world around us through life itself. We must fuse together our lives with the lives of those surrounding us in order to live the fullest life possible. In the famous words of E.M. Forester, we must “only connect!” and we will “live in fragments no longer.”

((E.T. and Elliot "connecting"))

2007-09-12T14:47:00.001-07:00

i loved this show when i was little!!!!!!!

RDB3

2007-09-12T11:55:00.001-07:00

I grew up as a very optimistic child. I knew that everyone in the world got exactly what they wanted and was sure that no person had any problems beyond deciding what toppings they should put on top of their favorite ice cream flavor or what color bow they should wear the next day. I embraced Cobb’s idea of “the spontaneously creative imagination of childhood”, while convincing others for years that there really was a Santa Clause and that every toy in my room truly did come alive during the night (123). I was positive that fairytales did exist and that dreams really did come true if you wished upon a star. Living the very sheltered life I did, it was not until I was older that I began experiencing things that made me realize that not everyone was as fortunate as I was and that life could throw some very unexpected twists at people at very unusual times. Much like Christy, I cannot really point to a certain moment in time and see my innocence being lost; however; there are some very vivid incidents in my life that brought me out of my shell and let me see the world for what it really was.

When I was eight, my family and I had a wonderful family dinner at Carrabba’s Italian Grill. When we were finished, I dashed ahead of everyone into the parking lot to claim shotgun before my sisters. I ran up to my mom’s car and screamed. There was shattered glass everywhere. Some one had broken into my mother’s car and stolen her purse. It was strange that at the young age of eight, I had so much fear instilled in me that I had suddenly lost my faith in all of mankind. It was like my bubble of happiness and trust in all those around me had popped. I did not understand how someone could be so dishonest and cruel. I guess my ignorance to the ever-evolving world around me never allowed me to grasp the idea that crime actually existed. Although I had cheered on my favorite Disney cartoon characters such as Aladdin and Simba in defeating their foes, I had never realized that the same sorts of things were taking place in the world around me. This experience without a doubt awakened me from my slumber and showed me that there were other people out there living with different circumstances and values than my own and that Beaumont was not always a safe place.

Likewise, at the end of my sixth grade year, I decided I was going to tryout for cheerleader. As I was a top student and I always got everything that my heart desired, I was not worried about not making it; however, when the list was posted, my name was not on it. Although this may seem stupid, to a young girl like myself, it seemed like my world had crumbled beneath my feet. I was devastated. After crying for days, I made a choice from there on out that I would make the squad next year. “It was my goal” (Cobb 131). So, I enrolled myself in tumbling classes, and I worked harder than I have ever worked before my entire seventh grade year. Although it was probably one of the toughest times of my life, I was successful in the end and learned more than I ever thought possible. I went on to be a cheerleader for six years and served for Head Cheerleader three out of the six years. I walked away with the knowledge that I had to work for what I desired and that things would not just be handed to me in this life (which was rather disappointing). I also discovered a new determination, work ethic, confidence in myself and in others, and to never give up no matter the circumstance.

More Recently, several tragedies made me realize that life short and not to be taken for granted. My eighth grade year, a close family friend was shot and killed by an angry client. My ninth grade year, my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer. My tenth grade year, a younger friend committed suicide. My eleventh grade year, a horrible bus accident occurred killing two and injuring six members of local girls soccer team. During all of these incidents, I became very frustrated because I did not understand why these horrible things were happening to such good people. Growing up as a Christian, I had always believed that if one was good and went to Church then they would receive the ultimate blessing of living a full life. These occurrences went completely against everything that I had ever been taught. I did not want to deal with the pain and just wanted to be a child again, to emerge my “whole bodily self in the forms, colors, and motions, the sights and sounds of the external world” (Cobb 130). I never imagined such things happening to people I knew. Although they were horrible things, these events eventually made me appreciate my life and the lives of those around me even more.

Ellen Spiro said, “The most interesting part of a photograph is that which is not seen.” As I look back on these few snapshots of my life, I appreciate that there was a purpose and a lesson to be learned from all of them. While these occasions did make a huge impact of my innocence and my life, I like to believe that it was for the best. Nowadays, when things I am not expecting take place, I often at first desire to return to the days of childhood when things were simpler, but then I recognize that “what a child wanted to do most was to make a world in which to find a place to discover a self” (Cobb 125). I can still live in the moment and “experience the world in (a) highly evocative way” (Cobb 123). The time is now: to learn, to discover, to grow. I must go out into the world with open arms and embrace its mystery while I am still here to appreciate it.

RDB 2 "Role Models"

2007-09-04T18:58:00.001-07:00

Every person is essentially a mosaic, a unique piece of artwork created from his or her own personal situations and experiences. Growing up in a family of seven children has enabled me to appreciate this individuality and has left me with a yearning to discover it in everyone. Although I have not always agreed with the paths that my siblings have taken, I now respect them for the people they have become and believe that I owe a little piece of myself to each of their successes, failures, and personalities that they have passed along to me. It is because I do not feel that I would be who I am today without the influence of each and every one of them in my life that I consider Franny, Hubert, Mary, Ginny, Adriana, and Gabriella each a distinct and important influence and example of who I want to become.

Franny and Hubert are the two rebellious members of the family. While their early days consisted of endless parties and a constant need to break the rules, they have been successful in redeeming themselves over the years. Since the days when Hubert found it necessary to throw Franny out of a window, they have both graduated from college, settled down, and started a family. I admire Franny for her adventurous character. Maybe embracing the spirit of Austin a little too much during her college days, she never failed to be involved with all of the exciting and controversial things occurring on campus. Amidst all of the chaos, she managed to become a strong, courageous, determined, and genuine person. She is hard worker with undying love for her family and friends. Hubert defied all expectations when he graduated from college and went on to receive a law degree from TCU. His unique sense of humor and sincere concern or those around him have made him both successful in the business and social aspects of his life. He is passionate about his family and is a great husband and father. Both Hubert and Franny have inspired me to seek companions in places I normally would not. Just as Julius Whittier discovered, they have encouraged me to “treat persons as individuals because they are all different” (6)

Of the older siblings, I am closest to Mary and Ginny. They both are the most enthusiastic and charismatic people I know. Mary lets her love for children shine through her as she works as a child psychologist. Her upbeat attitude and unwavering spirit allow those around her to become immediately at ease. Much like Chad Oliver’s example of Dr. Mac, Mary “throws herself into (life), heart, mind, and soul” (7). Ginny is already and engineer and now is an aspiring nurse. She has an honest desire to help others and constantly seeks those out that need her assistance. Her smile brightens up any room and she is the most trustworthy person I know. “I have (openly) shared my hopes and dreams and sworn eternal friendship” with her (Oliver 12). She puts her heart in the Lord and lives her everyday life in trust and conviction. Mary and Ginny are now happily married and have children who I am sure thy will set as fine examples for as they have done for me.

Although Adriana and Gabriella are both younger than me, they never cease to amaze me. Both very active in extracurricular
activities, they still find time to flourish and grow among family and friends. There has always been a sense of competitiveness instilled in the three of us since we are so close in age. Our father’s motto has always been much like that Dr. Mac, “ whatever you do, give it your best, or don’t do it at all” (Oliver 8). Thus, whatever I do, Adriana and Gabriella come behind me at full speed and do it better. Adriana is at the top of her class, Head Cheerleader, a member of the Mock Trial Team, and an exceptional soccer player. Gabriella is an award winning writer, Head Cheerleader, a member of the basketball, volleyball, and softball teams, and a regular social butterfly. They possess the utmost perseverance and leadership while always maintaining great moral character and empathy for others. Both are devout in their Faith and do not falter at certain temptations that I have embraced in the past. But, most importantly of all, Adriana and Gabriella believe in me when I do not even believe in myself.

As I have often felt overshadowed by my siblings’ accomplishments, I used to long for the time that I would go off to college and be able to establish myself as me. Much like John Schwartz, the acceptance letter to “U.T. offered me a new, anonymous, and exciting start” toward this dream of mine (2). Now, even though I am thrilled to be a new longhorn, I wish I would have cherished my time with my brothers and sisters more and absorbed as much as I could from them. It is not as easy or enjoyable on my own without their guiding hands and words of wisdom; however, each of them has molded me and has impacted my thoughts, my personality, my dreams, and my ambitions. Franny, Hubert, Mary, Ginny, Adriana, and Gabriella are my siblings, my friends, my everything. I can truly say, “They have made a difference in my life” (Oliver 2).

2007-09-03T10:05:00.000-07:00

Even though the internet is a useful tool, there are many cons to it. Thousands maybe even millions of people have become addicted to the Internet. Does it really need to go this far?

RDB 1

2007-09-03T08:17:00.000-07:00

I believe that the Internet is both the best and worst invention of all time. Although the web has become a portal to endless data and possibilities around the world, it has severed the personal aspect of what it means to be human. Many say the world is now at our fingertips, but I say that the REAL world and the CYBER world are not one, but merely coexist as two separate entities. People may browse the web all day and absorb its information at maximum capacity; however, as Professor Bump cites from Moustkas Personal Growth, “Intellectual accomplishments represent only one small aspect of the human experience” (1). Nothing can ever be entirely learned without an encounter, an experience that redefines and invokes an excitement to question the appeal of a certain concept or idea. I do not believe that the human brain can ever be fully developed without adventure, excitement, new beginnings, love, or loss.
It is obvious as seen in The Chronicles of Higher Education that the Internet has “redefine(d) what it means to be an educated person in the 21st century”, but must one be simply Internet capable or must one be extremely accomplished in the art or html to be considered remotely educated? Generations before us survived and made names for themselves without the infinite information that the Internet now supplies to us. If they were inquisitive about a certain subject, they would have to go to a library, find a book concerning the matter, and read. In order to establish business connections, they would have to meet face to face, discuss matters, and prove their aptitude. Likewise to fall in love or to make friends, they would have to actually pursue a relationship and create a sincere bond. Are these people, the people who forged the path for us, not educated? My father, a man from a generation before computers were readily available, is one of the smartest people I know. A self-made lawyer, he was born with brains, but has become successful through the experiences that have molded him into who he is. He is a veteran of the Vietnam War and a cancer survivor. He has traveled, been married, settled down, and now has seven children. Even though he has recently had to learn to use the computer for business purposes, I find it amazing that he was able to flourish so much without our faithful friend the Internet.
I agree with Pink that “the world has changed”, but we do not necessarily have to completely alter the human persona to change with it (1). Although I do believe in the power of Facebook and other such networking systems and probably would be considered a junkie to the core, meeting people via the Internet is not exactly the same as meeting them in person. Even though I am always thrilled when I receive a new friend request, I become even more ecstatic when I see my so-called friend out in the real world. Ideas such as AIM and blogs provide people with instant communication and the opportunity to share thoughts and feelings that they normally would not express or share. Has the Internet turned us into cowards? Think about it. Is it not strange how people willingly share themselves with the entire world the things that they do not want to share with those who are the closest to them? It might just be me, but I think that life without the Internet was simpler. I long for the days when people were actually romanced and when friendships were based on authentic communication and personal connection. I wish that families were still united as they used to be and spent more time together. I am not being ignorant or claiming that the Internet is a horrible invention, but I do believe that “more people are searching for meaning” and it is because they are forgetting about the important values of life (Pink 3).
I feel that people in the past were more in rhythm with both hemispheres of their brain. They studied art, mathematics, literature, logic, sciences, and theatre. Recently, education has become restricted and people have chosen their paths depending on which subjects they are most successful in. I see the Plan II program as a blessing in which we are given the opportunity to fully develop our brains and delve into places that most students will not. No, I do not believe that the world lies in the hands of the right-brained “hippies”, as Wiley would call them, nor do I believe the left-brained geniuses have all of the answers. I believe that our brain is made to function as a whole and that somewhere amidst the battle of the right a left hemispheres lies a medium in which logic and creativity combine to exceed normal boundaries and expectations. It is to the few who are able to connect their thoughts, who are able to understand the power and intricacy of the human mind, and who are able to realize that the world really is at their fingertips through the gift of life that the future belongs to.