California, a Place, a People, a Dream

California, A Place, a People, a Dream In â€Å"California, A Place, a People, a Dream,† James J. Rawls gives his version of the California dream, and describes the paradoxes that are associated with that dream. According to Rawls, the California dream is a love affair with an idea, a marriage to a myth, or fantasy. (Rawls 22, 23) Everyone has their own version of the California dream. It might be something, or nothing at all. As I began reading Rawl’s essay, I found it interesting how the world views the environment that you live in, and how different they think your life is from theirs. The California dream is often viewed in the imaginations of Americans and immigrants as the optimal land of opportunity, sunshine, jobs, and Hollywood glamour. â€Å"Founded on expectation and hope, the California Dream promises to fulfill our deepest longings for opportunity and success, warmth, sunshine and beauty, health and long life, freedom, and even a foretaste of the future,† says Rawls. (Rawls 23) For many people, they think of California as their own perfect world. According to Rawls, one paradox for California is a land of great expectations and disappointment. The gold rush experience was forged on this paradox of expectation. (Rawls 26) For many people their expectations of California came from what they heard: California is the land of great opportunity. Another paradox is growth. In 1962, California became the most populous state. Land was being quickly developed into track homes, and twisted freeways. By 1973, cities across the state 1. were passing ordinances to limit growth. The land of dreams and opportunities was quickly turning into a land of nightmares. The paradox of plenty and getting rich is what immigrants and people from other parts of America believed California was all about, and part of the California dream. Many argue that the dream that once was is no longer a reality with all of the social, political, and environmental issues. This morning I read a blurb on the internet that named the ten most expensive cities in the United States to live in were located in California: Palo Alto, San Francisco, Pasadena, and Newport Beach were a few of those named. I have often read about the American dream, but not the California dream. Being a native Californian, perhaps I have taken for granted all that California has to offer, as it just seems part of my every day life. I could never understand why my in-laws would always say how lucky I was to live in California, and so close to the beach. Why did they make such a big deal when they visited? There were beaches in New Jersey where they were from. They always insisted on going to Santa Cruz or Monterey each time they came to visit. They live three hours away from the beach, or shore as they called it. Until I visited the east coast, little did I realize at the time how living on the east coast was very different from living on the west coast. It is hot and humid during the summer, and cold and wet during the winter. At least in the bay area the seasons are not so drastic. I do not believe there is a California dream. I have always felt that people make their own dreams. For some it is the roll of the dice, and luck. For others it is the way things were meant to be. Promise and paradox are at the center of the California dream. † (Rawls 29) â€Å"In spite of the withering analysis of the past, the promises of California remain undiminished, bringing 2. new generations of newcomers from around the world. † (Rawls 29) There are new perceptions and new dreams. Everyone dreams. Whether it is a life in a different place – or where they currently live people have been dreaming since the beginning o f time – and will continue to dream. What one perceives as the California dream, another may perceive it as something entirely different. 3.

Cricks view of politics Essay

This essay will explain Cricks views on politics, as outlined in his book ‘In defence of Politics’ (1962). That politics is a way to bring together differing opinions to resolves problems and disputes in a peaceful manner for the benefit of the majority and for the good of the populace. Cricks belief of what politics entails involves a democratic ideology and as we are considered to have a democratic society in which we live validating with quotes from cricks book. Also Crick highlights the importance of the difference of opinion people have, and such opinions being recognised, and being able to have freedom of speech, being unrestricted in the way that other countries are bound by dictatorship. Crick acknowledges that politics is never a straightforward business, in Cricks words, he describes politics as a â€Å"messy business†, being unpredictable, for example international and domestic events. This essay will use contemporary examples to show how this so. In the 2010 election, there wasn’t any party that had an overall majority (no party had more than half of members of parliament in the House of Commons), which meant that the Conservatives would be unable to have the majority of votes, to pass laws etc, without the support of other parties. In this case, the support came in the form of a formal coalition, with the Liberal Democrats. This being the first time Britain has had a coalition government in seventy years. This situation could said to be in accordance with what Crick asserted, that politics, ‘ideally draws all these groups into each other, so that each individually, and together, can make a positive contribution towards the business of government, the maintaining of order’ (Crick 1962: 18). Crick (1962: 16) stated that for some ‘politics is muddled, contradictory, self-defeatingly recurant, unprogressive, unpatriotic, inneficiant mere compromise, or even a sham or conspiracy’ . In contemporary society, many would argue that this is the case, and the reason why we are seeing parties such as UKIP becoming more populer. Politics can also be on a micro level,involving issues on a smaller scale, such as in the family home, for example, refering to Crick Jones states that ‘People or groups of people who want different things-be it power, money, liberty, ect-face the potential or reality of conflict when such things are in short supply’. For instance, a situation may arise where a husband being given an employment opportunity,involving relocation to  another city,compromise would have had to play a big part,for financial gain for the greater good of the family,as the earning potential of the husband is greater than that of the wife. In this situation issues of power also being present, the husband having the advantage,having the dominant position,simple due to earning more money. In conclusion, although Crick wrote his book in 1962, his ideas regarding politics , and the positive role, he believes it plays,is still applicable in contemporay society today. In the case of the present day coalition ,political parties of differing ideologies,have had to join together for the smooth running of the country, for greater good of the people. However, Crick also recognised that politics is still very much a messy, complicated process,and not everyone would feel that politicians were working in their best interests. Also that compromise plays a vital part on both a micro and macro level to reduce conflict.

Cushy Armchair New Objectives and Rules Essay

As you know, my name is Alison Sampson. I am the new director of Cushy Armchair. I come from Cabletronica U.S. with the purpose of guiding Cushy Armchair to a new era in this changing industry. We will begin with some small steps, all involving â€Å"greater consolidation† in order to achieve economies of scale and scope. In order to adapt and to be more competitive, we must focus our efforts to reduce cost, speed product design and improve technology transfer. Specifically, we most work in production, design (fabric & Style), sales and distribution (advertising), and procurement. Requested Activities †¢To Purchasing Manager: oWorld Furniture’s procurement division In New York, will be responsible to contract all chair glide-mechanisms, as well as fabric orders in excess of HK$35,000. This will help us to reduce our raw material cost. †¢To Marketing Manager: New York advertising specialist will work together with us in launching new advertising campaigns. In this way, we can all share knowledge and come up with the best decision. †¢To Design Manager: New York staff will be included in any substantial design and feature changes. In order to accomplish our ultimate goal of having everything in one place. Conclusion Even though I haven’t yet had the opportunity to meet with almost anyone, I will contact you over the next days to discuss the impact of these policy changes and the changes coming ahead. Do not hesitate to contact me if I have not called you yet. You will receive this MEMO in your native language over the next couple of days. I hope you share my observations and concerns for the future of Cushy Armchair, and I trust you will welcome these changes.

Group Characteristics and Development Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Group Characteristics and Development - Article Example Four of us had known each other before coming to the same university since we had all met at the various debating competitions which we had taken part in previously and won laurels for our respective institutions. Serisha was new to all the members because she had travelled all the way from India to study at our school. At one competition I had lost to Sera and Adam had lost to me, so Sera stood first, I stood second and Adam third. Consequently, we all shared a common passion for debating and respected each other’s debating style. Therefore, when we all met at school, we took no time in forming our group. It has been approximately 11 months now since we have all been a part of this group. Initially, it was evident that Serisha felt a little left out because the rest of us had some common experiences to share and talk about. The change which I feel exists now is that Serisha is as comfortable with us as we are with her. The basic tasks for which the group was formed was keepin g practice sessions, practicing for upcoming competitions, discussing a good public speaking video each week and coordinating with other sub-groups of the debating society and learning about their progress. All this work required a leader to take responsibility that the assigned work was done.

Seminar Papers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Seminar Papers - Essay Example Its cost effectiveness, leads to employee retention, increased market share, more access to customers and reduced risks. Example, in a fashion market, one requires to keep on updating the product in order to retain the current customers. â€Å"Just in time† is a term used to describe result of a process of manufacturing which finished its work just at the scheduled time. It reduces set up time, lessens storage space needed, assumes an extent of input stability cost and insists on precision. It however leads to time wastage in traffic jams, a supplier can depend too much on one manufacturer (Arjan J, 2009, p.295). Example, in Japan Toyota is vulnerable to this disadvantage, therefore it uses a strong long-term connection with few suppliers and can use its own stuff to assist the suppliers improve their processes. Advertising is simply informing potential customers of the existence of your service or products. It is very effective in that one targets his/her audience and controls the entire advertisement process (Tuten, T. L. A, 2008, p. 55). Advertising in social network provides a platform where a producer can interact with the customers and know their response towards a product. In addition, it enables the marketer to identify any changes in the consumer behavior therefore, making it to be an effective mode of communication with the market. These includes advertising, personal selling, public relations and promotional sales (Twedt & Wolfe 2011, p.8). The main aim of promotion mix includes market positioning, segmenting and targeting. In an example, Coca-Cola Company has been able to manipulate different promotion mixes on different market segments to become one of the best performing multinational company in the world. Lans, T. W., H., Hulsink, H., Baert, and M. Mulder, 2008, Entrepreneurship education and training in the small business context: Insights from

Business case Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Business case - Essay Example By ensuring that blind people are able to transact with the bank just like the other people, the bank will bridge the gap in between people who are physically impaired and the ones’ that are not. Consequently, it will enable the bank to broaden its customer base and improve its profitability. The purpose of this activity is to act ethically responsible and allow equal opportunities to the physically challenged people (ProTrain). It will help to bring such people into the mainstream of the population in terms of business transactions. Hence, it will be a source of business of the bank. Furthermore, it will help such people to avail the facilities of the bank to their own advantage. Since, there is a strong need in the market to cater to the blind customers the bank has decided to introduce a new system which will ease the process of banking for the blind people. Thus, it will ensure that both the people and the bank have mutual benefits. Previously the bank did not employ any special routines to cater to the blind people. The need was felt to facilitate these people and give them an opportunity to run their own accounts, manage their own funds and monitor their accounts’ progress by personally checking their bank statements and other details. Thus, a need arose for a special procedure that will be able to fulfill the needs of the blind customers. As a result the bank has decided to implement a system whereby all correspondence to the blind customers, i.e. their bank statements, terms and conditions statements, applications etc will be used using Braille. In the current business scenario blind people are not offered a self reliant solution for their banking needs. In order to conduct business they are usually assisted by someone and have to be explained whatever is being given to them. Therefore, without assistance it is impossible for the blind

Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Saccharomyces Cerevisiae - Essay Example The genus includes many other types of yeast important to food production. The taxonomic structure of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is as follows: S. cerevisiae (Baker's yeast) is subjected to various environmental stresses during its propagation and industrial application. Yeast being prepared for the baker's facilities is subjected to many such stresses as freezing, frozen storage and thawing of bread dough. Besides this there are the usual stresses of fluctuations in nutrient supply, acidity levels, osmolarity and temperature and exposure to toxic substances like heavy metals and radiation (Schade et al, 2004). This often reduces the yeast's dough-leavening capabilities as well as other viable factors (Rodriguez-Vargas et al, 2002). The same is true when the yeast is applied to other food production techniques as wine-and beer-making. Thus, the negative effects of environmental stress on this species of yeast have great technological and economic impact (Rodriguez-Vargas et al, 2002). ... Thus, the negative effects of environmental stress on this species of yeast have great technological and economic impact (Rodriguez-Vargas et al, 2002). The organisms, through special stress response factors that act at the transcriptional levels, either induce or repress a set of genes known as the general or environmental or common stress response (ESR) (Schade et al, 2004). Genome wide transcriptional profiling has revealed that 10% of the entire genome is induced or repressed in this stress response (Schade et al, 2004). The induced genes usually are involved in cellular functions such as protein folding and degradation, transport and carbohydrate metabolism while the repressed genes are associated with cell growth-related processes that are suppressed till more convenient circumstances evolve. Such related processes may be RNA metabolism, nucleotide biosynthesis, secretion and ribosomal performance (Schade et al, 2004).Stress Regulation in S. cerevisiae Cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae handle a diverse range of stresses by mediation via a penta-nucleotide element called stress response element (STRE). This is quite in line with the 5-nucleotide heat shock regulatory element discussed later in the paper. STRE mediates in conjunction mainly with two transcriptional proteins Msn2p and Msn4p (Treger et al, 1998). Several genes, the induced ones that are also the ones that are instrumental in inactivating the ones that are repressed in the environmental stress response, responding to stress like heat shock, osmotic shock, post-diauxic shift growth and nitrogen starvation are induced to transcriptional activity by sequences containing STRE, especially the Msn2p/Msn4p/STRE pathway (Treger et al, 1998). There are also a few

The American Beaver as a keystone species and there effect on the Essay

The American Beaver as a keystone species and there effect on the north american ecosystem - Essay Example This paper purposes to explore how the animals achieve this great impact. The American Beaver is considered as a keystone species in the North American wetland areas by the ecologists. Keystone species are animals whose activities and abundance determine the integrity of the community and its unaltered persistence through time (Schulze 238). The activities of the American Beaver result to creation of dam and reduction of the flowing speed of streams. Moreover, it results to deposition of sediments on the beds of those streams. This improves the ecosystem of the fish and other water animals in those streams. Therefore, the activities of these animals improve the living conditions of the other water animals and hence they are keystone species. Moreover, the activities of the American Beaver also have an impact to the animals living in both the riverbanks and those living on the other landscape. This is because these animals have the capability to influence the course of succession, species composition, and structure of plant community (Rosell et al 2). These animals can change the composition of plant in an area thus bettering the habitant for other animals. Their foraging also clears the land thus making the ecosystem very favorable for the predators. However, they sometimes fall trees that can destroy the ecosystem of the birds. Therefore, the activities of the American Beaver have an influence to the community of the terrestrial animals also and thus it is a keystone species. The American Beavers activities results to felling of trees on streams that block the streams thus converting the flood plains of streams into wetlands. The activities of these animals have resulted to creation of several wetlands on areas that were previously occupied by flood plains. In other areas, their activities have resulted to expansion of the existing wetlands. This has been mainly through the felling of trees

Is Hydropower Really Environmentally Friendly Essay

Is Hydropower Really Environmentally Friendly - Essay Example Hydropower’s negative impacts on the environment are almost equal to its positive impacts, thus making its impacts on the environment a heated topic for debate. The positive and negative impacts of Three Gorges Dam on the environment will also be explored in this paper (Draper  7, 11; Honningsvag et al. 183; Moog 1; Gunkel 1). There is a possibility that fossil fuels are gradually decreasing and because the global warming is increasing due to their use, water is apparently a much cleaner source of energy. Moreover, unlike fossil fuels, water cannot be depleted. This is because when water evaporates from oceans and lakes, it is pulled back down to earth by gravity and back into these water bodies. There are many measures that make hydropower an environmentally friendly source of energy. These include changes that are made either to the hydropower plant or the area surrounding it. Trees can be planted on the land along the banks of the water nearest to the hydropower plant, in order to prevent erosion of the soil there. Fluctuations in the level of the water can be minimized by making sure they take place within the regulation height normally used instead of taking place between the whole maximum and minimum regulation height. This measure avoids many fishes from remaining stranded in the reservoir when the rest of them migrate to rivers or deeper water (Draper  7, 11; Honningsvag et al. 183, 204, 206). However, according to a quantitative study of several Austrian rivers, artificial fluctuations in water can have an adverse effect on the fish fauna and benthic invertebrates living in those waters. In the investigation, the breakdown of benthic invertebrates and fish fauna was calculated throughout the length of the rivers. The results showed that between 75 and 95 percent of benthic invertebrates’ biomass was found in the first few kilometers of river length. On the other hand, a decrease of between 40 and 60 percent of benthic invertebratesâ⠂¬â„¢ biomass, compared with areas undisturbed by fluctuations, was found within the following 20 to 40 kilometers. When the biomass of fish fauna was detected in the same length of river, the results were similar to the ones mentioned previously. This proves that hydropower plants can reduce the biomass of fish fauna and benthic invertebrates in the rivers that precede them (Moog 1). Another negative effect of hydropower plants, according to some new investigations, is that they do contribute to the emissions of carbon dioxide and methane, which are greenhouse gases. When reservoirs, which are part of hydropower plants, are in a eutrophic state, and trophic levels are high, anaerobic conditions are bound to occur with the emission of methane. The pathways for the production of methane include diffuse emission through the water-air interface, foaming, and degassing in the hydropower plant’s turbines and downstream in the reservoir spillway and the initial river length. High e mission rates of both carbon dioxide and methane are found particularly in shallow and tropical reservoirs. By calculating the energy density, hydropower capacity and ratio of the reservoir surface, it has been found that some reservoirs have a global warming potential that is more than that of coal use for production of energy. This investigation questions the labeling of water as a

Do studies of genetic variations in osteoporosis tell us anything Essay

Do studies of genetic variations in osteoporosis tell us anything useful - Essay Example Through the use of various genetic methods, the genes contributing to or responsible in the development of osteoporosis are now identified. It is estimated that the genetic components and variations account for 50 to 90 % of the total BMD variations in the osteoporosis patients (Ferrari and Rizzoli, 2005). Findings in researches show that there are five key regions that are significantly associated with bone mineral density (Styrkarsdottir et al, 2008). These include receptor activator of nuclear factor -B ligand gene or RANKL, the osteoprotegrin gene or OPG, the estrogen receptor 1 gene or the ESR 1, the BTB domain containing 40 gene or ZBTB40 and the major histocompatibility complex region 6p21 respectively (Styrkarsdottir et al, 2008). Polymorphism has been suggested in the areas of VDR or vitamin D receptor, ESR1 or estrogen receptor alpha, type I collagen genes or the COL1A1 etc. (Zmuda, Sheu and Moffet, 2006). VDR gene variants are associated with differences in body height as well as bone size determination (Fang et al, 2007). However, VDR gene mutations have been implicated in many bone disorders including 1,25- dihydroxyvitamin D-resistant rickets, osteoporosis etc. (Uitterlinden et al, 2002). Other genes identified include alpha 2-HS-glycoprotein or AHSG, parathyroid hormones, bone G1a protein (BGP), transforming growth factor beta, PTHR1 and IL-6. the difference in the allele frequencies among Chinese and Caucasian populations were at VDR-ApaI and PTH-BstBI loci respectively. In the case of osteoporosis, IL-6 becomes more active as the key substance that limits its activity, that is the estrogen is reduced in the post menopausal women, which leads to increased breakdown of the bone structure. The genetic loci identified in bone metabolism include COL1A1, TGF beta 1, SOST, VDR, ER alpha,LRBP5, BMP2 and IL-6 respectively. First deciding on the topic of research carried out the research. Currently there are many researches that are

Satire Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Satire - Essay Example The Boy-animal brought the news from his spies posted in Washington that shocked Fox and Lion. America planned to destroy a forest area of about 100 sq. miles within its own country, which was known for its flora and fauna and habituated by a rich variety of animals, birds and rare insects. It planned to burn the entire forest to make its intentions clear and to give a crushing blow to the fighting will of the Animal Forum. The forest area was at a distance of about 5-6 miles from one of the important industrial and commercial hub of America with a population of more than a million. The forest was guarded by security and had many observation posts. On orders, all of them vacated their quarters and moved out of the forest area with apprehensions that something unusual was going to happen. The confirmed information was that the attack would take place after 72 hours at 18.00 hrs. The boy-animal reported, â€Å"Army personnel in plainclothes have encircled the area, for every 50 meters , one armed soldier has been posted and all of them at a specified time, will pour gallons of petrol on the borders of the forest and set it on fire. â€Å"Not a fly should escape and not a blade of grass should be left. If any animal tries to escape, open fire! The orders on â€Å"protected species,† are suspended forthwith. I would like to see a heap of ash in this forest area.† This was the order of the Commanding Officer. The fox and the lion huddled together for consultations. The time for resolute action was in the offing. â€Å"Let this country have the taste of the power of our counter-attack.† Fox and the Lion constituted a special task force of animals, and birds to launch an attack on the city a day before the action intended by the American Forces. The orders were â€Å"Each one of you will be given a specified task and the action plan will be delivered to you personally by the Boy-animal at the Forest Guard Resort, which has been vacated by the sec urity personnel. Your responsibilities have been defined and they are in tune with your nature. In addition, the impact of devastation that will happen with your combined and varied attacks would be so horrifying that no human being will ever think of attacking you. On conclusion of the war, await instructions to move to another forest. You will be escorted by bats at night.† The American Operation was codenamed as â€Å"Turn All and Burn All.† The Area Commander of the force had established his temporary headquarters in a Community, a distance of about 1000 meters from the forest. He was assisted by 4 commissioned officers and a platoon of dare-devil commandoes. The soldiers were devils by disposition as compared to their daring! These men had specialized in the art of inflicting cruelty on animals. Everything was ready twenty-four hours before the action would commence. Each soldier was provided with a sealed can of petrol to be emptied on the forest border on getting the signal for action. He would also remain battle-ready to shoot any creature that would try to escape from the forest. Fox had designated the Tiger to attack the commander and his force assisted by four big identical looking wild cats, to confuse the ranks, whether they are being attacked by one tiger or five. With a day to go for the operation, the commander and the soldiers were in a relaxed mood

The Purpose Of Life Is A Life Of Purpose Essay Example for Free

The Purpose Of Life Is A Life Of Purpose Essay In each one of us, there burns a soul destined for greatness. In every generation, a few are chosen to proven†¦ and sometimes, it happened while others are in the bathroom. Life: No one knows where it will take us. Is it our own decisions that guide us or does fate play a big role in dictating the road that we travel? Which course we will be steering? What twists we must endure? One thing is for certain; there is no certainty. No wait too long and everything can change in an instant. In a flash, the things we hold so close can disappear. Vanished like a lost thought. Lifelong trust can turn on you. Blind faith can betray you†¦ and the future you foresaw, gone. Life should be seen as an eternal process of joyous spiritual discovery and growth: in the beginning stages of earthly life, the individual undergoes a period of training and education which, if it is successful, gives him or her the basic intellectual and spiritual tools necessary for continued growth. When individuals attain physical maturity in adulthood, they become responsible for their further progress, which now depends entirely on the efforts they themselves make. Through the daily struggles of material existence, people gradually deepen their understanding of the spiritual principles underlying reality, and this understanding enables them to relate more effectively to themselves, to others, and to God. After physical death, the individual continues to grow and develop in the spiritual world, which is greater than the physical world, just as the physical world is greater than the world we inhabit while in our mothers womb. This last statement is based on the Bahà ¡Ãƒ ­ concept of the soul and of life after physical death . According to the Bahà ¡Ãƒ ­ teachings, the true nature of human beings is spiritual. Beyond the physical body, each human being has a rational soul, created by God. This soul is a nonmaterial entity, which does not depend on the body. Rather, the body serves as its vehicle in the physical world. The soul of an individual comes into being at the moment the physical body is conceived and continues to exist after the death of the physical body. The soul (also called the spirit) of the individual is the seat or locus of his  or her personality, self, and consciousness. The evolution or development of the soul and its capacities is the basic purpose of human existence. This evolution is towards God and its motive force is knowledge of God and love for Him. As we learn about God, our love for Him increases; and this, in turn, enables us to attain a closer communion with our Creator. Also, as we draw closer to God, our character becomes more refined and our actions reflect more and more the attributes and qualities of God. A life of purpose Do something important with your life, make a difference or make some kind of impact on your world. I think its the kind of thing you have to define for yourself though. Were all here for a reason, decide what your reason is. Sometimes my life feels pointless and I truly want to give up, but I think about my closest friends and their futures. The thought of that makes me want to see them become successful and start families. I feel like were here to learn lessons and to see how much we can make a difference. But from social views, I feel like were only here to leave impressions and to try to hold on to temporary fame and fortune forever. We are here on Earth because our souls have chosen to be born again from Heaven with a hope and free will to resist the evil temptation and ultimately enter the Kingdom of God from the 7 Churches/House of Righteousness of Jesus in Heaven. Life wouldnt exist without a purpose. Learning and passing on information to the next generation to make life easier is definitely one purpose. People will always argue about any other reason. i feel the purpose of life is to find God and i also believe that each moment of our life can be made enjoyable if we believe in God,some people say that they donot want to live,being fearful of God all the time.but the fact is u neednot fear anything else if u fear God,u r not afraid of darkness,nor of thunder lightning,not even Death,bcos u know that u are returning to God after life has been taken away from you.but God also created us so that  we can love Him and place our Fears and Hopes in Him.a person who firmly believes in God never doubts his existence,but,at some point or the other,the atheist calls outGod,if You Really are there,Please Help Me out. well,each person has his own belief.like each member of the family has different tastes and each person believes God in differently,its up to each of us to search till our Hearts find Rest,but the ultimate aim is always,Happiness Rather than having an aimless day-to-day existence, those who are truly successful find meaning and purpose in life. Their life is not founded on the unstable conditions of this system of things. Their goals lead to real and lasting satisfaction, as they are centered on the very purpose of life. What gives one purpose in life? â€Å"Fear the true God and keep his commandments. For this is the whole obligation of man.†Ã¢â‚¬â€Ecclesiastes 12:13. Hope: Having God as our Friend also gives us hope for the future. The apostle Paul urged Christians â€Å"to rest their hope, not on uncertain riches, but on God.† In this way, they would be â€Å"safely treasuring up for themselves a fine foundation for the future, in order that they may get a firm hold on the real life.† (1 Timothy 6:17-19) To have true purpose in life is to have a reason for living, a clear objective, and a focal point for our efforts. The fact that we are endowed with intelligence, conscience, and the ability to reason implies that the Creator had a good purpose in putting us here. Logically, therefore, we can find and fulfill our true purpose only by living in harmony with the Creator’s purpose. Making a difference, doing something of value, and having a purpose in life. They all stem from a common human need that doesnt disappear with age. However, the perception that youre making a difference may well decline sharply after the end of a career, and the close of a professional life with decades of rich experiences and relationships. And as we get older, our self-perceived worth can take another hit if people have trouble looking beyond our age when they interact with us. All too often, older people arent valued for what they can offer, and often arent even expected to participate in activities. Your intentions determine your actions, your actions inturn determine the road you take. Keep your actions constructive, long-term oriented, for the welfare of not only you but even others around and each will be a building block to another which in turn will automatically pave the path you take. Keep ambitions high yet actionable and within reach! One does not need to be on a constant hunt to determine the purpose of life, you are born and so there is a purpose decided by default. Just be open-minded, open to giving sharing, free learner and the purpose will come to you. As your life purpose and intentions become clearer, your life is bound to move more powerfully in the direction you want it to go. And you will be the master craftsmen of your own destiny. Every individual is born with purpose. If you see yourself that your presence on the planet is for the divine cause, it means that. The menifestation of your presence for the divine cause should be left to the universe. Let universe handle of journey on the planet. But believe me if you are born for divine cause you will mark the difference thats for sure. I have always heard that not having a purpose in life can make your existence confused and empty. After all, aren’t we all supposed to have one big goal, to focus on it our whole life so as to achieve it, and to try to make the world better? Well, that was my way of thinking when I was a little girl, and to be honest, my only aim at that time was to become a pink Power Ranger. Even though my purpose was to make the world a better place, I soon realized that it was going to be difficult to achieve, so I tried some years later to create a purpose for my life. Meanwhile, I just started living, in this huge, strange world full of issues but peopled of many different strangers who are all trying to feel fulfilled by their way of living and to leave a mark on the world in their own way. I discovered that for some people, living was in itself a challenge, as waking up and feeling good was for others. Also, even if I’m sure that the common first answer to the question â€Å"What’s your purpose in life?† is â€Å"to become rich,† I know that  some people really want to make a change and face challenges, while others just want to get busy and to play the game. So can’t we say that the purpose of life is not a life of one purpose but a life of many purposes? Maybe focusing on only one purpose is not the right way to avoid emptiness in life; you also need to focus on your motivation and your potential and how much you utilize it. The word â€Å"purpose† can have many different meanings and all of them are the pieces of the same puzzle. Of course, knowing what we want is essential so as to be on the path that best suits us, and staying motivated and positive along the way is absolutely essential when facing obstacles and difficulties. We all have been confronted by some problems that at first seemed to be impossible to resolve but we eventually overcame and led us to find the unexpected opportunities for which we have been waiting. To quote Charles De Lint, â€Å"the roads leading to goals do not separate you from the destination; it is essentially a part of it.† It seems that it is on these routes that we find the pleasure and the fun of all the journeys which can be really worth it. As for me, I still want to improve the world and I’m still wondering how, but at worst I can always cling on to my Power Ranger idea. So if you are still on the road, too, dream big, travel your own path, and stay open to the unexpected.

Earl Warren vs. William Rehnquist

Earl Warren vs. William Rehnquist Abstract This paper will discuss that, the outlook of the Chief Justice becomes the belief center for the Court; with each new Chief Justice appointed, the outlook of the Court also changes. Two major developments that the Court has gone through over a span of several years, were the periods when the Supreme Court was headed by Warren who became a liberal while on the bench and Rehnquist that remained ultra conservative; both were considered Republican yet had completely different views on how decisions should be made. This paper will compare and contrast their approaches to criminal procedure while on the U.S. Supreme Court, their significant decisions and their effects on the balance between social order and maintenance and individual liberties, and the effects of the Supreme Court’s decisions on law enforcement in the United States. Finally, the paper will discuss the Supreme Court’s approach to balancing civil liberties against public order maintenance. Earl Warren vs. William Rehnquist Introduction In the beginning of the 1950s, America had become a nation obsessed with freedom and social change. At approximately the same time, the Warren Court mirrored these developments. The following court, run by Burger built and upheld the developments that had already started. Warren and Burger’s Courts believed in a new idea, that the Constitution was in fact a breathing and living document, meant to adapt to the times. A new court surfaced, the Court of Rehnquist. This court deferred to the idea that the original Constitution was not only relevant when it was drafted, but that it remained so in the 20th and 21st centuries. The Warren Court During Earl Warren’s sixteen years as chief justice (1953-1969), the Supreme Court had profound impact on politics and government in America. The Warren Court was an extraordinarily activist, innovative tribunal that wrought far-reaching change in the meaning of the Constitution. Among its major decisions, the Warren Court out-lawed authorized racial segregation within public schools, required the equal apportionment of state legislatures and the House of Representatives, set strict national standards to protect the rights of criminal defendants, and ruled that prayers and Bible reading in the public schools were unconstitutional. And it handed down other dramatic decisions that won it both high praise and sharp criticism and engulfed it in great controversy. Riding the crest of the tidal wave of social change that swept through America in the 1950s and 1960s, the Court became a natural target of those who felt it was moving too fast and too far. The political reaction to its bold decisions was symbolized by automobile bumper stickers and roadside billboards that read â€Å"Impeach Earl Warren.† Before he retired as chief justice in 1969, Warren was asked to name the most important decisions of the Warren Court. He singled out those dealings with reappointment, school desegregation, and the right to counsel. Each of these cases symbolized one of three broad fields in which the Warren Court brought about far-reaching changes in America: the political process itself, civil rights, and the rights of the accused. In its reapportionment decisions, the Warren Court required that each citizen’s vote count as much as another’s. If the quality of a democracy can be gauged, certainly the individual’s vote is a basic unit of measurement. Until the reapportionment revolution of the Warren Court, voters were often powerless to correct basic distortions in the system of representation itself. The Warren Court’s Brown decision has not eliminated racial segregation in American schools or American society. But by striking down the officially enforced dual school system in the South, the Court implied that â€Å"all racial discrimination sponsored, supported, or encouraged by government is unconstitutional.† Thus the decision foreshadowed a social upheaval. The civil rights movement, the civil rights legislation of the 1960s, and the continuing controversy over the busing of public school children all followed in the Supreme Court’s wake. By the 1980s, the goal of integration appeared to be less important to many African Americans than freedom, dignity, and a full share of the economic opportunities of American society. Nevertheless, the Brown decision remains a judicial milestone; by its action at a time when much of white America was complacent and satisfied with the existing social order, the Supreme Court provided moral as well as political leadership. It reminded the nation that the Constitution applies to all Americans. The third broad area of decision by the Warren Court, the protection of the rights of criminal defendants, was yet another milestone for the Warren Court. In a series of controversial decisions, including Miranda, Escobedo, Gideon, and Mapp, the Court, bit by bit, threw the mantle of the Bill of Rights around persons accused by state authorities of crimes. In so doing, the Court collided directly with the electorate’s rising fear of crime; it was accused of coddling criminals and handcuffing the police. The Warren Court moved aggressively in several other areas as well, banning prayers in the public schools, curbing the anti-Communist legislation of the 1950s, and easing the laws dealing with obscenity. All this activity provided ample ammunition to the Warren Court’s conservative critics: The Court, they charged, had tinkered with legislative apportionment, forced school integration, overprotected the rights of criminals, banished prayer from the classroom, tolerated Communists, and encouraged pornography. Moreover, as many of the Court’s critics frequently pointed out, it decided many important cases by a one-vote margin. The Rehnquist Court After Warren Burger retired in 1986, President Reagan elevated William Rehnquist to chief justice and appointed Antonin Scalia, another conservative, to the Supreme Court. Even though Rehnquist was not as conservative as Burger, his associates were all supportive and pleased, even his Democratic opposites. His nomination was received with honest excitement on the part of not just his friends on the Court but also others who he had only had minimum contact with. The appointment of Anthony Kennedy in 1987, and President Bush’s appointments of Justices David Souter in 1990 and Clarence Thomas in 1991, meant that for a time, eight of the nine members of the Court had been appointed by Republican presidents. In the space of a relatively few years, the members and political philosophy of one of the three branches of the federal government had changed measurably. When William Rehnquist was sworn in as chief justice of the United States in September 1986, many political observers expected that his appointment would usher in an era of conservative decisions by the highest court. One location that various researchers expected to view substantial alterations in was the limiting of power of the federal government and increasing the power of the federal government and increasing the power of state governments. In time the Court did become more conservative, but that was not the case initially. During the Rehnquist Court’s first term, the liberals won all but two of the major cases and the conservatives prevailed only in the area of criminal law. A moderate-liberal coalition, led by Justice William J. Brennan, Jr. decided cases on affirmative action, teaching creationism in the public schools, protection for pregnant workers, and political asylum for illegal aliens. Moreover, the Court, by a vote of 8-0, threw out the Reverend Jerry Falwellà ¢â‚¬â„¢s suit against Hustler magazine. In so doing, the Court declined to curb criticism of public figures. But by 1988 the Rehnquist Court shifted in a more conservative direction, giving public school officials the right to censor school newspapers and plays, for example. However, many of Rehnquist’s wins directed toward the federalist objective of limiting Congress’s authority over the states had minimal practical impact. And after the appointment of Justice Anthony Kennedy, the Court in several decisions made it more difficult for workers to sue employers for discrimination. The Court’s action alarmed liberals and led to speculation that a conservative majority had finally emerged. In May 1988, in another decision that some analysts seemed to believe reflected a more conservative trend, the Court ruled 6-2 that police may, without a warrant, search through trash that people leave outside their homes to be collected. Rehnquist voted with the bulk of the Justices in City of Boerne v. Flores and later referred to the decision as a model for requiring Congress to give way to the Court in regards to the interpretation of the Equal Protection Clause and including the Fourteenth Amendment, in several cases. Boerne stated that any statute that Congress used to enforce the guarantees of the Amendment had to demonstrate both proportionality and a congruence between the injury that was deterred or fixed and the means adopted to this end. Rehnquist’s Court proportionality and congruence theory took the place of the ratchet theory that had controversially been advanced in Katzenbach v. Morgan. Due to the ratchet theory, Congress was able to ratchet up civil rights beyond the Court’s recognition, but Congress would be unable to ratchet down the rights the courts already recognized. The Rehnquist Court’s congruence and proportionally theory made it less difficult to revive older models th at prevented Congress from over extending itself in enforcing equal protection of the laws. But, as always, the decisions varied; the Court in 1990 struck down the federal law that sought to ban flag-burning. And in 1991, it invalidated New York’s â€Å"Son of Sam† law, which had barred criminals from earning money from books about their crimes; the Court said the state law violated the First Amendment’s provisions of free press and free speech. In 1999, Rehnquist was the second Justice to oversee a presidential impeachment trial, against President Clinton. Rehnquist, in 2000, delivered a consenting decision in Bush v. Gore, the case that ended the election controversy in Florida. He agreed with four justices in the case that the Equal Protection Clause did not allow a standard less manual recount of votes as was ordered by the Florida Supreme Court. Conclusion In conclusion, the Rehnquist Court moved more cautiously in the 1970s and thereafter and narrowed the sweep of some of the Warren Court’s decisions, particularly in the areas of criminal justice and pornography. The Supreme Court might do so even more dramatically in the future. The doctrines of equality, freedom, and respect for human dignity laid down in the numerous decisions of the Warren Court cannot be warped back to their original dimensions. Generations hence it may well appear that what is supposedly the most conservative of American political institutions, the Supreme Court, was the institution that did the most to help the nation adjust to the needs and demands of a free society. As this paper demonstrates, the decisions of the Supreme Court are often unpredictable, and the Court’s direction is not always easily categorized. Although by the year 2000 the Court’s conservative bloc was often a dominant force, it did not always prevail. References Herrman, J. (2009). Theres a Fine LineAdolescent Dating Violence and Prevention. Pediatric Nursing, 164-170.

Literary Analysis :: Essays Papers

Literary Analysis This was by far my least favorite paper of all of them simply because "The Dubliners" is incredibly hard to understand when you don't have enough time to read back through it like I had previously to understand the other stories. "The Dead" and "The Sister's" are two different stories. "The Dead" is the longest story in "The Dubliners" and the most difficult to understand because of the many different themes running through it. While "The Sisters" is much shorter than the latter, with an easier storyline. Eyes & Vision in Dubliners Dubliner by James Joyce is full of epiphanies that characters experience about the lives they live. All of the stories in Dubliners share the common themes of realization, and awareness. As the stories progress â€Å"The Sisters† and â€Å"the Dead† show the real way of life in Dublin in the early 20th century. These stories were not only showing the truth in the characters lives, but the true problems of Dublin in the 20th century. These themes are echoed throughout both â€Å"The Sisters† and â€Å"The Dead† and result in the main characters becoming more aware of their mortality and surroundings. Awareness in â€Å"The Sister’s† becomes the main focus of the story as the boy begins to realize the truth behind his life. Before the priest dies the boy admires him as a father; but come to learn that he is not a respected as he thinks. After the priest passes on the people around him begin to talk. â€Å"-It’s bad for children, said old Cotter, because their minds are so impressionable. When children see things like that, you know it has an effect†¦-† (3) This shows the disgruntled attitude that most people in the story hold towards the priest. As the story goes on we learn that the boy was in the running for becoming a man of clergy not unlike the priest, even though Cotter still thought less of Father Flynn. â€Å"-The old chap had taught him a great deal, mind you; and they say he had a great wish for him-† (2) The boy was supposed to be a legacy for the position the priest held. But as we all do when people close to us die; you ge t hit hard with the true reality of what goes on around you, like the boy did.

Custers last stand :: essays papers

Custers last stand Five springs ago I, with many Sioux Indians, took down and packed up our tipis and moved from Cheyenne river to the Rosebud river, where we camped a few days; then took down and packed up our lodges and moved to the Little Bighorn river and pitched our lodges with the large camp of Sioux. The Sioux were camped on the Little Bighorn river as follows: The lodges of the Uncpapas were pitched highest up the river under a bluff. The Santee lodges were pitched next. The Oglala's lodges were pitched next. The Brule lodges were pitched next. The Minneconjou lodges were pitched next. The Sans Arcs' lodges were pitched next. The Blackfeet lodges were pitched next. The Cheyenne lodges were pitched next. A few Arikara Indians were among the Sioux (being without lodges of their own). Two-Kettles, among the other Sioux (without lodges). I was a Sioux chief in the council lodge. My lodge was pitched in the center of the camp. The day of the attack I and four women were a short distance from the camp digging wild turnips. Suddenly one of the women attracted my attention to a cloud of dust rising a short distance from camp. I soon saw that the soldiers were charging the camp. To the camp I and the women ran. When I arrived a person told me to hurry to the council lodge. The soldiers charged so quickly we could not talk (council). We came out of the council lodge and talked in all directions. The Sioux mount horses, take guns, and go fight the soldiers. Women and children mount horses and go, meaning to get out of the way. Among the soldiers was an officer who rode a horse with four white feet. [This officer was evidently Capt. French, Seventh Cavalry.] The Sioux have for a long time fought many brave men of different people, but the Sioux say this officer was the bra vest man they had ever fought. I don't know whether this was Gen. Custer or not. Many of the Sioux men that I hear talking tell me it was. I saw this officer in the fight many times, but did not see his body. It has been told me that he was killed by a Santee Indian, who took his horse. This officer wore a large-brimmed hat and a deerskin coat. This officer saved the lives of many soldiers by turning his horse and covering the retreat.

Video Games in Popular Culture: an Exposition Essay -- Violent Gaming

Imagine for a moment, a world of death. For 200 years your family has been sealed away with a thousand other people, to protect you from the dangers outside. Now your father has disappeared, and it’s up to you to find him. After a harrowing escape from your subterranean home, you walk through a tunnel to the outside world, past dead bodies, stretched out in front of the door, as if to say â€Å"don’t leave us out here to die!† As you walk through the gate to the outside, and as your eyes slowly adjust to the sun you have never seen, a wasteland emerges before you. The world is devastated, destroyed and annihilated. Broken twisted hunks of metal lie next to a sign on the side of the mountain saying â€Å"scenic overlook† on your right, the broken remains of the interstate bridge stand as a monument to a destroyed culture. Petrified trees are all that remains of the local fauna. Off in the distance, all that remains is destruction. While you may think of this stunning visualization of a wonderful novel, this is actually one of the opening scenes from Todd Howard and Bethesda Game Studios’ â€Å"Fallout 3.† An examination of videogames in popular culture is a complicated one. There is a large debate as to what is the very first video game. The supposed earliest known video game was created by Thomas T. Goldsmith Jr. and Estle Ray Mann on a cathode ray tube in 1947. The game was a missile simulator similar to radar displays from World War II, and overlaid sheets of paper were used for targets since graphics were unknown at this time. On May 5, 1951, the NIMROD computer was presented in Britain. It used a panel of lights for its display and was used to play a game called â€Å"NIM†. Later, in 1952, Alexander S. Douglas made the first compu... ...lieve that video games in popular culture are a misnomer. Videogames are not â€Å"in† popular culture, they are â€Å"a part of† popular culture, just like TV, radio, and motion pictures. Bibliography 1.) Kutner, Lawrence Ph.D. and Cheryl K. Olson, Sc.D. Grand Theft Childhood: The Surprising Truth About Violent Video Games and What Parents Can Do . 1st. Simon & Schuster, 2008. 2.) "2008 SALES, DEMOGRAPHIC AND USAGE DATA." www.theesa.com. Jul/2008. Entertainment Software Association. 2 Nov 2008 . 3.) Hillis, Scott . "Video games don't create killers, new book says." Reuters UK 09May2008 2 Nov 2008 . 4.) "History of video games." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. 2001. 2 Nov 2008 .

Your MBA classmates

Describe yourself to your MBA classmates. (You may use any method to convey your message: words, illustrations, etc. ) I grew up in a small fishing village in Maine, surrounded by family. Expectations and aspirations are limited in such an environment. I could have made a living exploiting the sea, but chose to do similar work as a corporate executive. Although I have no siblings, my hometown contains over fifty family members, and our agenda of family activities is always packed.Most of my family is employed in the commercial fishing ndustry, which instilled in me at a very young age, the concept of work. At age eleven, I started babysitting and mowing lawns, and at the age of fifteen I applied for my lobster license. The first summer with my license, I took a Job as a sternperson with a fellow female. We were the only two females out there, which was definitely an experience. When the lobstering season ended that year, I took a Job at a grocery store bagging groceries.I saved enoug h money to build a boat and to buy fifty lobster traps; I was on my way. The following summer I continued to work as a sternperson, and I also fished my own traps. I continued lobstering throughout the rest of high school and college, and It helped me finance my college education. In addition to being ambitious and motivated enough to put my heart Into even mundane, low-level tasks, I am also extremely organized. This Is one characteristic that has always received praise. I pay particular attention to detail, which I believe has contributed to my success thus far.I take pride In my work, and I look at It as a epresentation of myself. In my position at Sanford Bernstein as a Consultant Liaison, I market my firm to the financial consulting community. Maintaining the Integrity of the firm Is vital and errors are disastrous. When training new group members, I stress this point most thoroughly. I work In a group that currently has six members. The group serves as a central source of Info rmation for the firm, and Its success relies on an extraordinary amount of cooperation from each of us.As a senior member, I am able to contribute to the roup In several wap Including: training group members, controlling the quality of the group's output, managing and accurately completing multiple requests with short turnaround times, gathering and conveying Information from senior Investment professionals, collecting and calculating data, malntalnlng databases, overseeing projects aimed at making long-term Improvements to the group's processes, and strengthening my own foundation of knowledge to be used as a resource.Recently, as the result of a manager leaving the firm, I have also taken on some of the anagerial responslbllltles for the group Including prlorltlzlng and delegating assignments. Though I am an excellent team player, In business school I would Ilke to sharpen my appearance in order to get my point across.I hope to improve my negotiating skills and to gain more experi ence in getting group members to carry their own weight. At the same time, I do not want to become a tyrant. To be effective, it is important for a manager to maintain the proper balance of power and compassion. Only in this way, will I be able to lead a team of people to realizing the goals of a firm.

The Twilight Saga 3: Eclipse Chapter 10. SCENT

IT WAS ALL VERY CHILDISH. WHY ON EARTH SHOULD EDward have to leave for Jacob to come over? Weren't we past this kind of immaturity? â€Å"It's not that I feel any personal antagonism toward him, Bella, it's just easier for both of us,† Edward told me at the door. â€Å"I won't be far away. You'll be safe.† â€Å"I'm not worried about that.† He smiled, and then a sly look came into his eye. He pulled me close, burying his face in my hair. I could feel his cool breath saturate the strands as he exhaled; it raised goose bumps on my neck. â€Å"I'll be right back,† he said, and then he laughed aloud as if I'd just told a good joke. â€Å"What's so funny?† But Edward just grinned and loped off toward the trees without answering. Grumbling to myself, I went to clean up the kitchen. Before I even had the sink full of water, the doorbell rang. It was hard to get used to how much faster Jacob was without his car. How everyone seemed to be so much faster than me. . . . â€Å"Come in, Jake!† I shouted. I was concentrating on piling the dishes into the bubbly water, and I'd forgotten that Jacob moved like a ghost these days. So it made me jump when his voice was suddenly there behind me. â€Å"Should you really leave your door unlocked like that? Oh, sorry.† I'd slopped myself with the dishwater when he'd startled me. â€Å"I'm not worried about anyone who would be deterred by a locked door,† I said while I wiped the front of my shirt with a dishtowel. â€Å"Good point,† he agreed. I turned to look at him, eyeing him critically. â€Å"Is it really so impossible to wear clothes, Jacob?† I asked. Once again, Jacob was bare-chested, wearing nothing but a pair of old cut-off jeans. Secretly, I wondered if he was just so proud of his new muscles that he couldn't stand to cover them up. I had to admit, they were impressive – but I'd never thought of him as vain. â€Å"I mean, I know you don't get cold anymore, but still.† He ran a hand through his wet hair; it was falling in his eyes. â€Å"It's just easier,† he explained. â€Å"What's easier?† He smiled condescendingly. â€Å"It's enough of a pain to carry the shorts around with me, let alone a complete outfit. What do I look like, a pack mule?† I frowned. â€Å"What are you talking about, Jacob?† His expression was superior, like I was missing something obvious. â€Å"My clothes don't just pop in and out of existence when I change – I have to carry them with me while I run. Pardon me for keeping my burden light.† I changed color. â€Å"I guess I didn't think about that,† I muttered. He laughed and pointed to a black leather cord, thin as a strand of yarn, that was wound three times below his left calf like an anklet. I hadn't noticed before that his feet were bare, too. â€Å"That's more than just a fashion statement – it sucks to carry jeans in your mouth.† I didn't know what to say to that. He grinned. â€Å"Does my being half-naked bother you?† â€Å"No.† Jacob laughed again, and I turned my back on him to focus on the dishes. I hoped he realized my blush was left over from embarrassment at my own stupidity, and had nothing to do with his question. â€Å"Well, I suppose I should get to work.† He sighed. â€Å"I wouldn't want to give him an excuse to say I'm slacking on my side.† â€Å"Jacob, it's not your job -â€Å" He raised a hand to cut me off. â€Å"I'm working on a volunteer basis here. Now, where is the intruder's scent the worst?† â€Å"My bedroom, I think.† His eyes narrowed. He didn't like that any more than Edward had. â€Å"I'll just be a minute.† I methodically scrubbed the plate I was holding. The only sound was the brush's plastic bristles scraping round and round on the ceramic. I listened for something from above, a creak of the floorboard, the click of a door. There was nothing. I realized I'd been cleaning the same plate far longer than necessary, and I tried to pay attention to what I was doing. â€Å"Whew!† Jacob said, inches behind me, scaring me again. â€Å"Yeesh, Jake, cut that out!† â€Å"Sorry. Here -† Jacob took the towel and mopped up my new spill. â€Å"I'll make it up to you. You wash, I'll rinse and dry.† â€Å"Fine.† I gave him the plate. â€Å"Well, the scent was easy enough to catch. By the way, your room reeks.† â€Å"I'll buy some air freshener.† He laughed. I washed and he dried in companionable silence for a few minutes. â€Å"Can I ask you something?† I handed him another plate. â€Å"That depends on what you want to know.† â€Å"I'm not trying to be a jerk or anything – I'm honestly curious,† Jacob assured me. â€Å"Fine. Go ahead.† He paused for half a second. â€Å"What's it like – having a vampire for a boyfriend?† I rolled my eyes. â€Å"It's the best.† â€Å"I'm serious. The idea doesn't bother you – it never creeps you out?† â€Å"Never.† He was silent as he reached for the bowl in my hands. I peeked up at his face – he was frowning, his lower lip jutting out. â€Å"Anything else?† I asked. He wrinkled his nose again. â€Å"Well . . . I was wondering . . . do you . . . y'know, kiss him?† I laughed. â€Å"Yes.† He shuddered. â€Å"Ugh.† â€Å"To each her own,† I murmured. â€Å"You don't worry about the fangs?† I smacked his arm, splashing him with dishwater. â€Å"Shut up, Jacob! You know he doesn't have fangs!† â€Å"Close enough,† he muttered. I gritted my teeth and scrubbed a boning knife with more force than necessary. â€Å"Can I ask another one?† he asked softly when I passed the knife to him. â€Å"Just curious, again.† â€Å"Fine,† I snapped. He turned the knife over and over in his hands under the stream of water. When he spoke, it was only a whisper. â€Å"You said a few weeks. . . . When, exactly . . . ?† He couldn't finish. â€Å"Graduation,† I whispered back, watching his face warily. Would this set him off again? â€Å"So soon,† he breathed, his eyes closing. It didn't sound like a question. It sounded like a lament. The muscles in his arms tightened and his shoulders were stiff. â€Å"OW!† he shouted; it had gotten so still in the room that I jumped a foot in the air at his outburst. His right hand had curled into a tense fist around the blade of the knife – he unclenched his hand and the knife clattered onto the counter. Across his palm was a long, deep gash. The blood streamed down his fingers and dripped on the floor. â€Å"Damn it! Ouch!† he complained. My head spun and my stomach rolled. I clung to the countertop with one hand, took a deep breath through my mouth, and forced myself to get a grip so that I could take care of him. â€Å"Oh, no, Jacob! Oh, crap! Here, wrap this around it!† I shoved the dish towel at him, reaching for his hand. He shrugged away from me. â€Å"It's nothing, Bella, don't worry about it.† The room started to shimmer a little around the edges. I took another deep breath. â€Å"Don't worry?! You sliced your hand open!† He ignored the dish towel I pushed at him. He put his hand under the faucet and let the water wash over the wound. The water ran red. My head whirled. â€Å"Bella,† he said. I looked away from the wound, up to his face. He was frowning, but his expression was calm. â€Å"What?† â€Å"You look like you're going to pass out, and you're biting your lip off. Stop it. Relax. Breathe. I'm fine.† I inhaled through my mouth and removed my teeth from my lower lip. â€Å"Don't be brave.† He rolled his eyes. â€Å"Let's go. I'll drive you to the ER.† I was pretty sure I would be okay to drive. The walls were holding steady now, at least. â€Å"Not necessary.† Jake turned off the water and took the towel from my hand. He twisted it loosely around his palm. â€Å"Wait,† I protested. â€Å"Let me look at it.† I clutched the counter more firmly, to hold myself upright if the wound made me woozy again. â€Å"Do you have a medical degree that you never told me about?† â€Å"Just give me the chance to decide whether or not I'm going to throw a fit over taking you to the hospital.† He made a face of mock horror. â€Å"Please, not a fit!† â€Å"If you don't let me see your hand, a fit is guaranteed.† He inhaled deeply, and then let out a gusty sigh. â€Å"Fine.† He unwound the towel and, when I reached out to take the cloth, he laid his hand in mine. It took me a few seconds. I even flipped his hand over, though I was sure he'd cut his palm. I turned his hand back up, finally realizing that the angry pink, puckered line was all that was left of his wound. â€Å"But . . . you were bleeding . . . so much.† He pulled his hand back, his eyes steady and somber on mine. â€Å"I heal fast.† â€Å"I'll say,† I mouthed. I'd seen the long gash clearly, seen the blood that flowed into the sink. The rust-and-salt smell of it had almost pulled me under. It should have needed stitches. It should have taken days to scab over and then weeks to fade into the shiny pink scar that marked his skin now. He screwed his mouth up into half a smile and thumped his fist once against his chest. â€Å"Werewolf, remember?† His eyes held mine for an immeasurable moment. â€Å"Right,† I finally said. He laughed at my expression. â€Å"I told you this. You saw Paul's scar.† I shook my head to clear it. â€Å"It's a little different, seeing the action sequence firsthand.† I kneeled down and dug the bleach out of the cabinet under the sink. Then I poured some on a dusting rag and started scrubbing the floor. The burning scent of the bleach cleared the last of the dizziness from my head. â€Å"Let me clean up,† Jacob said. â€Å"I got this. Throw that towel in the wash, will you?† When I was sure the floor smelled of nothing but bleach, I got up and rinsed the right side of the sink with bleach, too. Then I went to the laundry closet beside the pantry, and poured a cupful into the washing machine before starting it. Jacob watched me with a disapproving look on his face. â€Å"Do you have obsessive-compulsive disorder?† he asked when I was done. Huh. Maybe. But at least I had a good excuse this time. â€Å"We're a bit sensitive to blood around here. I'm sure you can understand that.† â€Å"Oh.† He wrinkled his nose again. â€Å"Why not make it as easy as possible for him? What he's doing is hard enough.† â€Å"Sure, sure. Why not?† I pulled the plug, and let the dirty water drain from the sink. â€Å"Can I ask you something, Bella?† I sighed. â€Å"What's it like – having a werewolf for a best friend?† The question caught me off guard. I laughed out loud. â€Å"Does it creep you out?† he pressed before I could answer. â€Å"No. When the werewolf is being nice,† I qualified, â€Å"it's the best.† He grinned widely, his teeth bright against his russet skin. â€Å"Thanks, Bella,† he said, and then he grabbed my hand and wrenched me into one of his bone-crushing hugs. Before I had time to react, he dropped his arms and stepped away. â€Å"Ugh,† he said, his nose wrinkling. â€Å"Your hair stinks worse than your room.† â€Å"Sorry,† I muttered. I suddenly understood what Edward had been laughing about earlier, after breathing on me. â€Å"One of the many hazards of socializing with vampires,† Jacob said, shrugging. â€Å"It makes you smell bad. A minor hazard, comparatively.† I glared at him. â€Å"I only smell bad to you, Jake.† He grinned. â€Å"See you around, Bells.† â€Å"Are you leaving?† â€Å"He's waiting for me to go. I can hear him outside.† â€Å"Oh.† â€Å"I'll go out the back,† he said, and then he paused. â€Å"Hold up a sec – hey, do you think you can come to La Push tonight? We're having a bonfire party. Emily will be there, and you could meet Kim . . . And I know Quil wants to see you, too. He's pretty peeved that you found out before he did.† I grinned at that. I could just imagine how that would have irked Quil – Jacob's little human gal pal down with the werewolves while he was still clueless. And then I sighed. â€Å"Yeah, Jake, I don't know about that. See, it's a little tense right now. . . .† â€Å"C'mon, you think somebody's going to get past all – all six of us?† There was a strange pause as he stuttered over the end of his question. I wondered if he had trouble saying the word werewolf aloud, the way I often had difficulty with vampire. His big dark eyes were full of unashamed pleading. â€Å"I'll ask,† I said doubtfully. He made a noise in the back of his throat. â€Å"Is he your warden, now, too? You know, I saw this story on the news last week about controlling, abusive teenage relationships and -â€Å" â€Å"Okay!† I cut him off, and then shoved his arm. â€Å"Time for the werewolf to get out!† He grinned. â€Å"Bye, Bells. Be sure you ask permission.† He ducked out the back door before I could find something to throw at him. I growled incoherently at the empty room. Seconds after he was gone, Edward walked slowly into the kitchen, raindrops glistening like diamonds set into the bronze of his hair. His eyes were wary. â€Å"Did you two get into a fight?† he asked. â€Å"Edward!† I sang, throwing myself at him. â€Å"Hi, there.† He laughed and wrapped his arms around me. â€Å"Are you trying to distract me? It's working.† â€Å"No, I didn't fight with Jacob. Much. Why?† â€Å"I was just wondering why you stabbed him. Not that I object.† With his chin, he gestured to the knife on the counter. â€Å"Dang! I thought I got everything.† I pulled away from him and ran to put the knife in the sink before I doused it with bleach. â€Å"I didn't stab him,† I explained as I worked. â€Å"He forgot he had a knife in his hand.† Edward chuckled. â€Å"That's not nearly as fun as the way I imagined it.† â€Å"Be nice.† He took a big envelope from his jacket pocket and tossed it on the counter. â€Å"I got your mail.† â€Å"Anything good?† â€Å"I think so.† My eyes narrowed suspiciously at his tone. I went to investigate. He'd folded the legal-sized envelope in half. I smoothed it open, surprised at the weight of the expensive paper, and read the return address. â€Å"Dartmouth? Is this a joke?† â€Å"I'm sure it's an acceptance. It looks exactly like mine.† â€Å"Good grief, Edward – what did you do?† â€Å"I sent in your application, that's all.† â€Å"I may not be Dartmouth material, but I'm not stupid enough to believe that.† â€Å"Dartmouth seems to think that you're Dartmouth material.† I took a deep breath and counted slowly to ten. â€Å"That's very generous of them,† I finally said. â€Å"However, accepted or not, there is still the minor matter of tuition. I can't afford it, and I'm not letting you throw away enough money to buy yourself another sports car just so that I can pretend to go to Dartmouth next year.† â€Å"I don't need another sports car. And you don't have to pretend anything,† he murmured. â€Å"One year of college wouldn't kill you. Maybe you'd even like it. Just think about it, Bella. Imagine how excited Charlie and Rene would be. . . .† His velvet voice painted the picture in my head before I could block it. Of course Charlie would explode with pride – no one in the town of Forks would be able to escape the fallout from his excitement. And Rene would be hysterical with joy at my triumph – though she'd swear she wasn't at all surprised. . . . I tried to shake the image out of my head. â€Å"Edward. I'm worried about living through graduation, let alone this summer or next fall.† His arms wrapped around me again. â€Å"No one is going to hurt you. You have all the time in the world.† I sighed. â€Å"I'm mailing the contents of my bank account to Alaska tomorrow. It's all the alibi I need. It's far enough away that Charlie won't expect a visit until Christmas at the earliest. And I'm sure I'll think of some excuse by then. You know,† I teased halfheartedly, â€Å"this whole secrecy and deception thing is kind of a pain.† Edward's expression hardened. â€Å"It gets easier. After a few decades, everyone you know is dead. Problem solved.† I flinched. â€Å"Sorry, that was harsh.† I stared down at the big white envelope, not seeing it. â€Å"But still true.† â€Å"If I get this resolved, whatever it is we're dealing with, will you please consider waiting?† â€Å"Nope.† â€Å"Always so stubborn.† â€Å"Yep.† The washing machine thumped and stuttered to a halt. â€Å"Stupid piece of junk,† I muttered as I pulled away from him. I moved the one small towel that had unbalanced the otherwise empty machine, and started it again. â€Å"This reminds me,† I said. â€Å"Could you ask Alice what she did with my stuff when she cleaned my room? I can't find it anywhere.† He looked at me with confused eyes. â€Å"Alice cleaned your room?† â€Å"Yeah, I guess that's what she was doing. When she came to get my pajamas and pillow and stuff to hold me hostage.† I glowered at him briefly. â€Å"She picked up everything that was lying around, my shirts, my socks, and I don't know where she put them.† Edward continued to look confused for one short moment, and then, abruptly, he was rigid. â€Å"When did you notice your things were missing?† â€Å"When I got back from the fake slumber party. Why?† â€Å"I don't think Alice took anything. Not your clothes, or your pillow. The things that were taken, these were things you'd worn . . . and touched . . . and slept on?† â€Å"Yes. What is it, Edward?† His expression was strained. â€Å"Things with your scent.† â€Å"Oh!† We stared into each others eyes for a long moment. â€Å"My visitor,† I muttered. â€Å"He was gathering traces . . . evidence. To prove that he'd found you?† â€Å"Why?† I whispered. â€Å"I don't know. But, Bella, I swear I will find out. I will.† â€Å"I know you will,† I said, laying my head against his chest. Leaning there, I felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. He pulled out his phone and glanced at the number. â€Å"Just the person I need to talk to,† he murmured, and then he flipped it open. â€Å"Carlisle, I -† He broke off and listened, his face taut with concentration for a few minutes. â€Å"I'll check it out. Listen . . .† He explained about my missing things, but from the side I was hearing, it sounded like Carlisle had no insights for us. â€Å"Maybe I'll go . . . ,† Edward said, trailing off as his eyes drifted toward me. â€Å"Maybe not. Don't let Emmett go alone, you know how he gets. At least ask Alice keep an eye on things. We'll figure this out later.† He snapped the phone shut. â€Å"Where's the paper?† he asked me. â€Å"Um, I'm not sure. Why?† â€Å"I need to see something. Did Charlie already throw it out?† â€Å"Maybe. . . .† Edward disappeared. He was back in half a second, new diamonds in his hair, a wet newspaper in his hands. He spread it out on the table, his eyes scanning quickly across the headlines. He leaned in, intent on something he was reading, one finger tracing passages that interested him most. â€Å"Carlisle's right . . . yes . . . very sloppy. Young and crazed? Or a death wish?† he muttered to himself. I went to peek over his shoulder. The headline of the Seattle Times read: â€Å"Murder Epidemic Continues – Police Have No New Leads.† It was almost the same story Charlie had been complaining about a few weeks ago – the big-city violence that was pushing Seattle up the national murder hot-spot list. It wasn't exactly the same story, though. The numbers were a lot higher. â€Å"It's getting worse,† I murmured. He frowned. â€Å"Altogether out of control. This can't be the work of just one newborn vampire. What's going on? It's as if they've never heard of the Volturi. Which is possible, I guess. No one has explained the rules to them . . . so who is creating them, then?† â€Å"The Volturi?† I repeated, shuddering. â€Å"This is exactly the kind of thing they routinely wipe out – immortals who threaten to expose us. They just cleaned up a mess like this a few years ago in Atlanta, and it hadn't gotten nearly this bad. They will intervene soon, very soon, unless we can find some way to calm the situation. I'd really rather they didn't come to Seattle just now. As long as they're this close . . . they might decide to check on you.† I shuddered again. â€Å"What can we do?† â€Å"We need to know more before we can decide that. Perhaps if we can talk to these young ones, explain the rules, it can be resolved peacefully.† He frowned, like he didn't think the chances of that were good. â€Å"We'll wait until Alice has an idea of what's going on. . . . We don't want to step in until it's absolutely necessary. After all, it's not our responsibility. But it's good we have Jasper,† he added, almost to himself. â€Å"If we are dealing with newborns, he'll be helpful.† â€Å"Jasper? Why?† Edward smiled darkly. â€Å"Jasper is sort of an expert on young vampires.† â€Å"What do you mean, an expert?† â€Å"You'll have to ask him – the story is involved.† â€Å"What a mess,† I mumbled. â€Å"It does feel that way, doesn't it? Like it's coming at us from all sides these days.† He sighed. â€Å"Do you ever think that your life might be easier if you weren't in love with me?† â€Å"Maybe. It wouldn't be much of a life, though.† â€Å"For me,† he amended quietly. â€Å"And now, I suppose,† he continued with a wry smile, â€Å"you have something you want to ask me?† I stared at him blankly. â€Å"I do?† â€Å"Or maybe not.† He grinned. â€Å"I was rather under the impression that you'd promised to ask my permission to go to some kind of werewolf soire tonight.† â€Å"Eavesdropping again?† He grinned. â€Å"Just a bit, at the very end.† â€Å"Well, I wasn't going to ask you anyway. I figured you had enough to stress about.† He put his hand under my chin, and held my face so that he could read my eyes. â€Å"Would you like to go?† â€Å"It's no big thing. Don't worry about it.† â€Å"You don't have to ask my permission, Bella. I'm not your father – thank heaven for that. Perhaps you should ask Charlie, though.† â€Å"But you know Charlie will say yes.† â€Å"I do have a bit more insight into his probable answer than most people would, it's true.† I just stared at him, trying to understand what he wanted, and trying to put out of my mind the yearning I felt to go to La Push so that I wouldn't be swayed by my own wishes. It was stupid to want to go hang out with a bunch of big idiot wolf-boys right now when there was so much that was frightening and unexplained going on. Of course, that was exactly why I wanted to go. I wanted to escape the death threats, for just a few hours . . . to be the less-mature, more-reckless Bella who could laugh it off with Jacob, if only briefly. But that didn't matter. â€Å"Bella,† Edward said. â€Å"I told you that I was going to be reasonable and trust your judgment. I meant that. If you trust the werewolves, then I'm not going to worry about them.† â€Å"Wow,† I said, as I had last night. â€Å"And Jacob's right – about one thing, anyway – a pack of werewolves ought to be enough to protect even you for one evening.† â€Å"Are you sure?† â€Å"Of course. Only . . .† I braced myself. â€Å"I hope you won't mind taking a few precautions? Allowing me to drive you to the boundary line, for one. And then taking a cell phone, so that I'll know when to pick you up?† â€Å"That sounds . . . very reasonable.† â€Å"Excellent.† He smiled at me, and I could see no trace of apprehension in his jewel-like eyes. To no one's surprise, Charlie had no problem at all with me going to La Push for a bonfire. Jacob crowed with undisguised exultation when I called to give him the news, and he seemed eager enough to embrace Edward's safety measures. He promised to meet us at the line between territories at six. I had decided, after a short internal debate, that I would not sell my motorcycle. I would take it back to La Push where it belonged and, when I no longer needed it anymore . . . well, then, I would insist that Jacob profit from his work somehow. He could sell it or give it to a friend. It didn't matter to me. Tonight seemed like a good opportunity to return the bike to Jacob's garage. As gloomy as I was feeling about things lately, every day seemed like a possible last chance. I didn't have time to procrastinate any task, no matter how minor. Edward only nodded when I explained what I wanted, but I thought I saw a flicker of consternation in his eyes, and I knew he was no happier about the idea of me on a motorcycle than Charlie was. I followed him back to his house, to the garage where I'd left the bike. It wasn't until I pulled the truck in and got out that I realized the consternation might not be entirely about my safety this time. Next to my little antique motorcycle, overshadowing it, was another vehicle. To call this other vehicle a motorcycle hardly seemed fair, since it didn't seem to belong to the same family as my suddenly shabby- looking bike. It was big and sleek and silver and – even totally motionless – it looked fast. â€Å"What is that?† â€Å"Nothing,† Edward murmured. â€Å"It doesn't look like nothing.† Edward's expression was casual; he seemed determined to blow it off. â€Å"Well, I didn't know if you were going to forgive your friend, or he you, and I wondered if you would still want to ride your bike anyway. It sounded like it was something that you enjoyed. I thought I could go with you, if you wished.† He shrugged. I stared at the beautiful machine. Beside it, my bike looked like a broken tricycle. I felt a sudden wave of sadness when I realized that this was not a bad analogy for the way I probably looked next to Edward. â€Å"I wouldn't be able to keep up with you,† I whispered. Edward put his hand under my chin and pulled my face around so that he could see it straight on. With one finger, he tried to push the corner of my mouth up. â€Å"I'd keep pace with you, Bella.† â€Å"That wouldn't be much fun for you.† â€Å"Of course it would, if we were together.† I bit my lip and imagined it for a moment. â€Å"Edward, if you thought I was going too fast or losing control of the bike or something, what would you do?† He hesitated, obviously trying to find the right answer. I knew the truth: he'd find some way to save me before I crashed. Then he smiled. It looked effortless, except for the tiny defensive tightening of his eyes. â€Å"This is something you do with Jacob. I see that now.† â€Å"It's just that, well, I don't slow him down so much, you know. I could try, I guess. . . .† I eyed the silver motorcycle doubtfully. â€Å"Don't worry about it,† Edward said, and then he laughed lightly. â€Å"I saw Jasper admiring it. Perhaps it's time he discovered a new way to travel. After all, Alice has her Porsche now.† â€Å"Edward, I -â€Å" He interrupted me with a quick kiss. â€Å"I said not to worry. But would you do something for me?† â€Å"Whatever you need,† I promised quickly. He dropped my face and leaned over the far side of the big motorcycle, retrieving something he had stashed there. He came back with one object that was black and shapeless, and another that was red and easily identifiable. â€Å"Please?† he asked, flashing the crooked smile that always destroyed my resistance. I took the red helmet, weighing it in my hands. â€Å"I'll look stupid.† â€Å"No, you'll look smart. Smart enough not to get yourself hurt.† He threw the black thing, whatever it was, over his arm and then took my face in his hands. â€Å"There are things between my hands right now that I can't live without. You could take care of them.† â€Å"Okay, fine. What's that other thing?† I asked suspiciously. He laughed and shook out some kind of padded jacket. â€Å"It's a riding jacket. I hear road rash is quite uncomfortable, not that I would know myself.† He held it out for me. With a deep sigh, I flipped my hair back and stuffed the helmet on my head. Then I shoved my arms through the sleeves of the jacket. He zipped me in, a smile playing around the corners of his lips, and took a step back. I felt bulky. â€Å"Be honest, how hideous do I look?† He took another step back and pursed his lips. â€Å"That bad, huh?† I muttered. â€Å"No, no, Bella. Actually . . .† he seemed to be struggling for the right word. â€Å"You look . . . sexy.† I laughed out loud. â€Å"Right.† â€Å"Very sexy, really.† â€Å"You are just saying that so that I'll wear it,† I said. â€Å"But that's okay. You're right, it's smarter.† He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me against his chest. â€Å"You're silly. I suppose that's part of your charm. Though, I'll admit it, this helmet does have its drawbacks.† And then he pulled the helmet off so that he could kiss me. As Edward drove me toward La Push a little while later, I realized that this unprecedented situation felt oddly familiar. It took me a moment of thought to pinpoint the source of the dj vu. â€Å"You know what this reminds me of?† I asked. â€Å"It's just like when I was a kid and Rene would pass me off to Charlie for the summer. I feel like a seven-year-old.† Edward laughed. I didn't mention it out loud, but the biggest difference between the two circumstances was that Rene and Charlie had been on better terms. About halfway to La Push, we rounded the corner and found Jacob leaning against the side of the red Volkswagen he'd built for himself out of scraps. Jacob's carefully neutral expression dissolved into a smile when I waved from the front seat. Edward parked the Volvo thirty yards away. â€Å"Call me whenever you're ready to come home,† he said. â€Å"And I'll be here.† â€Å"I won't be out late,† I promised. Edward pulled the bike and my new gear out of the trunk of his car – I'd been quite impressed that it had all fit. But it wasn't so hard to manage when you were strong enough to juggle full-sized vans, let alone small motorcycles. Jacob watched, making no move to approach, his smile gone and his dark eyes indecipherable. I tucked the helmet under my arm and threw the jacket across the seat. â€Å"Do you have it all?† Edward asked. â€Å"No problem,† I assured him. He sighed and leaned toward me. I turned my face up for a goodbye peck, but Edward took me by surprise, fastening his arms tightly around me and kissing me with as much enthusiasm as he had in the garage – before long, I was gasping for air. Edward laughed quietly at something, and then let me go. â€Å"Goodbye,† he said. â€Å"I really do like the jacket.† As I turned away from him, I thought I saw a flash of something in his eyes that I wasn't supposed to see. I couldn't tell for sure what it was exactly. Worry, maybe. For a second I thought it was panic. But I was probably just making something out of nothing, as usual. I could feel his eyes on my back as I pushed my bike toward the invisible vampire-werewolf treaty line to meet Jacob. â€Å"What's all that?† Jacob called to me, his voice wary, scrutinizing the motorcycle with an enigmatic expression. â€Å"I thought I should put this back where it belongs,† I told him. He pondered that for one short second, and then his wide smile stretched across his face. I knew the exact point that I was in werewolf territory because Jacob shoved away from his car and loped quickly over to me, closing the distance in three long strides. He took the bike from me, balanced it on the kickstand, and grabbed me up in another vice-tight hug. I heard the Volvo's engine growl, and I struggled to get free. â€Å"Cut it out, Jake!† I gasped breathlessly. He laughed and set me down. I turned to wave goodbye, but the silver car was already disappearing around the curve in the road. â€Å"Nice,† I commented, allowing some acid to leak into my voice. His eyes widened in false innocence. â€Å"What?† â€Å"He's being pretty dang pleasant about this; you don't need to push your luck.† He laughed again, louder than before – he found what I'd said very funny indeed. I tried to see the joke as he walked around the Rabbit to hold my door open for me. â€Å"Bella,† he finally said – still chuckling – as he shut the door behind me, â€Å"you can't push what you don't have.†

Advertising Strategy of Coca-Cola

What is advertisement? Advertisement is Paid, non-personal, public communication about causes, goods and services, ideas, organizations, people, and places, through means such as direct mail, telephone, print, radio, television, and internet. Objective of advertisement are to inform, persuade and motivate potential customers, but also has a strategic significance for the company’s image in whole or brand the product belongs. Advertisement strategies are varying among the regions. The types of advertisement used in a region are depending on its culture, norms, religion, tradition and language.The advertisement that are used in Western and Asia is very different in every aspect. I will take Coca-Cola to compare strategies of advertisement that have been used in western and Asia. In Asian countries Coca-Cola’s strategy is mostly depend on entertainment and youths. But in Western countries the strategy is a bit different. They try to promote the drink is healthy and safe to drink. Even Coca-Cola has introduced Diet Coke to attract people in Western country. The Western people more take care about their health compare to Asians.So they have to show the drink is suitable for a healthy lifestyle. Another important aspect of Coca-Cola Company’s advertisement in Western countries is they like to use woman and sex element. Most of their advertisements are with sexy ladies who are models or actresses holding the drink or holding it in their hand. In Western countries it is very normal to promote a product in this way. But in Asian countries it is very hard to do such advertisement because most countries have strict regulations and very religious.Asian countries give importance to cultural values and they are against sex elements in advertisement. Coca-Cola’s advertisement in Asian countries gives importance to youths and youngsters. They advertisement normally shows that they will get new energy after drink it. They will so energetic and can do things without getting tired. But in Western countries they give importance to all. Even they use children also in advertisement to attract them to drink Coca-Cola. The company give equal importance to adults also.The Coca-Cola’s advertisement in Asia also gives importance to Asian festivals and celebration. For every festival and celebration like Chinese New Year, Independence Day, Christmas and so on Coca-Cola will introduce new advertisement to promote their product. Sometimes they insert the cultural values in these advertisements. But in Western countries the situation is very different. Cultural values of Asians and Western people are very different. So large companies like Coca-Cola have to differentiate their advertisement according to region to survive and lead the market.

Key Concepts of Creativity and Innovation Worksheet

Key Concepts of Creativity and Innovation  Worksheet University of Phoenix Sara Garski October 10, 2011 Key Concepts of Creativity and Innovation Worksheet |Concept |Application of concept in scenario |Citation of concept |Personal experience in your | |(Identify at least five concepts)| |in reading |organization | | |Best Snacks has been one of the leading companies |Jones, G. (2004). |In my organization the employees| |Exploitation |in their industry for several years. The company |Organizational |are always learning. Within my | | |has become |Theory, Design, and |team we are | | |complacent which has caused them to barely hold |Change. Upper Saddle|Encouraged to come up with new | | |the number two position. In order to remain and |River, New Jersey: |ways that will make the team and| | |gain back that competitive advantage, Best Snacks |Prentice-Hall. the company better as a whole. | | |must look at new ways of doing various activities | |One of my teammates | | |within the company. Exploitation is defined as, | |Came up with an idea | | |organizational | |To add to one of our | | |members learning of ways to refine and improve | |Current systems. After | | |existing organizational procedures (Jones 2004. | |The idea had went | | |Pg. 376). With the new CEO, Elizabeth Fairchild, | |Through the proper | | |joining the Company, she is determined to see why | |Channels, it was | | |Best Snacks is failing after being successful for | |Implemented. Although adding a | | |many years. She plans on working with vice | |Extra component to | | |president, Sabrina McKay, to help the company come| |An existing system, took awhile,| | |up with new and innovative procedures, that will | |it was worth the wait, | | |eventually | |Because it saved the | | |place Best Snacks back in the leading position. |Company money in | | | | |The long run. | | |Best Snacks has always promoted from within in the|Davila, T. , Epstein,|A radical Innovation in My | | |past. They have decided to do something different |M. , & Shelton, R. |organization | | |by bringing in a new CEO from outside with a |(2006). Making |Back in June of 2010. The | |Radical Innovation |different background. The new CEO, Elizabeth, |Innovation Work: How|company added | | |plans to have a new cultural change |To Manage It, |A regional office in the | | |program designed to increase |measure It, And |Franklin, TN area. The reason | | |employees’ creative thinking skills (Scenario 1). |Profit From It. |for the new Office was to assist| | |Elizabeth wants to see these changes made and |Upper Saddle River, |The abundance of Customers | | |results within one year. These changes are |New Jersey: Wharton |within the Middle Tennessee | | |considered radical innovation, |School Publishing. Area. The company | | |because is setting the bar for new | |Has continuously | | |changes within the company. Normally Radical | |Growed in a small | | |Innovations are set by a company within | |Amount of time. In the TN office| | |the industry, but Elizabeth, first wants to | |we have | | |accomplish | |Been able to meet | | |these changes from | |Goals, create more | | |within, then introduce the new | |Effiecent procedures, and handle| | |changes to competitors. |operations | | | | |That other offices | | | | |Have not been able to. | | |Best Snacks maintained a |Davila, T. Epstein,|My organization | |Business Model |successful Business Modal for |M. , & Shelton, R. |Changed its Business | | |many years, which contributed |(2006). Making |Model, to better serve | |Change |to their success. With |Innovation Work: How|It customers. They | | |competition steadily increasing, Best Snacks will |To Manage It, |Designed the Model | | |have to |measure It, And |Around their new face and | | |re-introduce and |Profit From It. |slogan, â€Å"Long Term Smart. † This | | |revamp their business model in |Upper Saddle River, |Simply is ensuring that | | |order to compete in the industry. New Jersey: Wharton |Customers get the rights | | |The company has went outside it’s Normal practice |School Publishing. |products for | | |and | |Them and their families. The | | |brought in a New CEO to put a different | |modal is | | |Perspective and spin on things. The CEO plans to | |Meant for consumers | | |show results within the company in 12 months. | |To think long term | | | | |Which will benefit them more in | | | | |the | | | | |Future rather than now. | | | | | | |Products and Services are the main part of any |Davila, T. , Epstein,|My organization | | |organization. Companies have to not only |M. , & Shelton, R. |offers many different | | |make sure that they are offering |(2006). Making |products and services | |Product and Service Offerings |products and services that the |Innovation Work: How|from life insurance to | | |consumers want. Companies |To Manage It, |annuities. The | | |have to ensure they are |measure It, And |company ensures that | | |constantly creating or offering |Profit From It. they have the | | |the newest products. In most |Upper Saddle River, |products that | | |instances consumers have |New Jersey: Wharton |consumers want. | | |been conditioned to expect |School Publishing. |Our agents go through | | |product innovation to such an | |extensive training | | |extent now it is ommon for | |to be able to provide | | |people to time their purchases | |and sell individuals | | |(Davila, Epstein, & Shelton 2006 | |products that are right for | | |Pg. 35). Best Snacks have | |them. If a certain | | |not been offering many products | |product is not | | |or service to consumers over the past couple of | |performing well, the | | |years. They have lost the customer loyalty base | |company evaluates it | | |and a huge part of the market. |and decides if it is | | |The old saying goes, â€Å"If you | |the best interest to | | |don’t do it, someone else will. † | |pull the product and | | |Best Snacks, needs to apply that | |offer a different one. | |same concept to their business. | | | | |Their competition is growing | | | | |fast and taking the customers | | | | |that once was committed to Best Snacks. | | | |Best Snack’s is faced with a |Jones, G. (2004). |In my organization, | |Organizational |serious problem of lack of |Organizational |Because of industry | | |creative thinking and new |Theory, Design, and |Decisions have to be | |Decision Making |innovation. Organizational |Change. Upper Saddle|Made in a timely | | |Decision Making is defined as |River, New Jersey: |Manner depending | | |the process of responding |Prentice-Hall. |On the problem. | |to a problem by searching for | |Sometimes decisions | | |and selecting a solution or | |Are made at the | | |course of action that will create value for | |higher level, | | |organizational | |whereas other | | |stakeholders (Jones 2004. Pg. | |decisions can be | | |368). Hopefully the new plan | |made by managers | | |that Sabrina will initiate to the | |Or even employees. I Personally | | |Staff will help the company get back on track. The| |had a | | |employees | |customer upset | | |have become complacent | |because of a certain | | |because the company has done | |process that was in | | |well for many years. In order for best Snacks to | |place and because she was going | | |gain their market | |to | | |share back they will have to | |another country, | | |change. The stakeholders have | |would create a | | |become apprehensive of Best | |problem for her. I made the | | |Snacks ability to perform and | |decision to | | |stay competitive. The new | |override this | | |changes and decision, will | |process As a | | |hopefully show the stakeholders | |courtesy. Once I | | |that the company is still capable | |was finished | | |of being on top. |handling the issue, I told my | | | | |Manager | | | | |what I had | | | | |done and she was | | | | |happy that I went ahead and done| | | | |that, verses causing | | | | |the customer to | | | | |escalate the | | | | |situation Further. |