Belonging English Speech - 1493 Words

Belonging English Speech INTRO Belonging is a fundamental part for all individuals in which we strive for acceptance and security through others. Understanding is a main part of feeling like you belonging. Individuals belong when they fell connected to others and the world. However to do this they must first have an understanding and acceptance of self which will nourish their sense of belonging. A lack of understanding of the concept of belonging and yourself leads to preventing your identity, relationships, acceptance and ultimately belonging. The concept of the understanding of belonging is shown in my three texts: Swallow the air – Tara Jane Winch, Rabbit Proof Fence – Phillip Noyce and So Much to Tell You – John Marsden. STA In†¦show more content†¦The misunderstanding from the white authorities is preventing her from belonging with her family and community. The motif of the fence represents the paths that the three girls have to following on their journey back to there family. Is a positive link between Molly and her mother to help her find her way home. The fence not only provides for Molly a way home but also a way to re-establish a connection with her mum and land where she belongs. A route the girls must take in order for them to feel security and comfort once again. Molly understands what she has to do and is determined to not let this barrier keep her from her family. Link back to topic sentence Specific camera angles are used at the beginning of the film to show that the girls do not want to go on this journey. This is evident in the scene where the girls are being transported away from their family on the train. Close ups are used to show the distress on Molly’s facial expressions as she is being taken from her family and doesn’t know where she is going. Although there is no dialogue this displays to the audience that she is being forced on this journey away from connections to her family and land were she has strong relationships and feels security and acceptance. Understanding helps this howww Chuck the word understanding in there somewhere haha LINK Molly is similar to the protagonist Marina in the novel So Much toShow MoreRelatedThe Three Levels Of Standardness In English1361 Words   |  6 PagesThe three levels of standardness in English are formal standard English, informal standard/mainstream English, and vernacular English (Wolfram Schilling, 2016). Based in written language, formal standard English is greatly enforced in formal institutions such as schools and is codified in English grammar texts. It is resistant to change and only used in formal written or spoken language (Wolfram Schilling, 2016). Informal standard English exists on a continuum in which speakers are judged toRead MoreEssay on Language as Connectivity in a Group1100 Words   |  5 Pagesin slang and jargon, users are able to communicate their social identity and group belonging. They are also able to portray their cultural heritage and background through ethnolect varieties of English. Language plays a crucial part in enabling the speaker to communicate belonging to a specific social group, reinforcing solidarity. The use of slang enables the speaker to reinforce group membership and belonging. Slang is often ephemeral in nature; it constantly evolves to suit each generationRead MoreLanguage Is A Fundamental Part Of Everyday Life. Thinking1692 Words   |  7 Pageslanguage and speech, and that whilst formal language is used within speech, they are separate (Littlejohn 2008). He says, â€Å"Taken as a whole, speech [parole] is many sided and heterogeneous; straddling several areas simultaneously. We cannot put it into any category of human facts, for we cannot discover its unity. Language [langue] on the contrary, is a self-contained whole, and a principle of classification.† In this essay, the term language will be used as in Saussure’s definition of speech. To viewRead MoreLanguage as a badge of identity Essay894 Words   |  4 Pagesteenagers and younger children have begun to adopt this in an attempt to identify with others and fit in. Through language, we can get a glimpse of a person’s identity but they can use the same medium to change that identity as well. Australian English is unlike other Englishes in many different aspects, especially phonetically morphologically and semantically. Phonology plays a great role in national identity as it is what creates different accents. The broad, ocker Australian accent with its trademarkRead MoreNative Language And The Japanese Language1336 Words   |  6 PagesBelonging to the Japonic language family, the Japanese language exclusively belongs to the Japanese people. Unlike languages such as English and Spanish, where their languages have been adopted by other countries such as New Zealand and Mexico and therefore isn’t just spoken in their home countries of England and Spain. Japanese is a unique and distinct Asian language used only in Japan. Japanese language is also a prime example for discourse analysis because it is a refined and complex languageRead MoreTeaching Language Acquisition For English As Additional Language Children Essay1437 Words   |  6 Pageslanguage acquisition for English as Additional Language children in context of early childhood education in Aotearoa New Zealand. Languages in Aotearoa. According to Statistics New Zealand 2013, 25.3% people living in New Zealand are born overseas. This indicates the diversity of ethnicity, culture, and language spoken by the people in New Zealand. Statistics confirm that there are there are more than twenty- five spoken languages in New Zealand; and 90% speakers communicate in English, making it the topRead MoreEssay The Arrival981 Words   |  4 PagesEnglish Speech The Arrival by Shaun Tan is a graphic novel which follows the story of a man who embarks on the journey of migration. The notions of belonging that are highlighted in the text are belonging to a place and belonging to a family. The composer establishes these through the masterful employment of various visual techniques. One of the foremost themes of the novel is the concept of belonging to a place, in particular the connection to a homeland. A disturbance in the main environmentRead MoreA Contrastive Analysis of Compliments in American English and Vietnamese1533 Words   |  7 Pagesyou†. Those utterances are called compliments which are used to show that someone likes someone else’s appearance, belongings, or work etc. Due to different cultural background and social values, English and Vietnamese native speakers have different norms of complimenting as well as responding to compliments. In this essay, I will discuss the notion of compliment made in American English and Vietnamese in terms of topics, formulas, and responses. First thing first, let have a look at the definitionRead MoreExplain The Three Types Of Barriers To Effective Communication1170 Words   |  5 Pagesmust jointly understand is indicative. Obstacles arising from the definition or meaning of words used by senders and receivers are an extension of communication. For example, in American English, the brackets used to define the metal structure that adjusts the teeth mean the part of the garment in British English. APA Ref:http//slideshare.net 3.3 Physiological barriers Physiological barriers to communication are due to the physical condition of the sender or receiver and may even be physical disabilityRead MoreEnglish Around Time By Samuel Johnson829 Words   |  4 PagesEnglish Across Time Natalie Trang 11ENL02 TRA0130 Across time, many people have advocated for the stabilisation of the English language. Samuel Johnson was a lexicographer who dedicated his life to doing so. He published his dictionary in 1755, in an effort to prescribe the use of the London dialect

How does Rousseau Understand the Concept of Freedom

Readings of Rousseau’s writings’ have exposed distinct arguments around his concept of freedom, and what constitutes natural, moral and civil freedoms. Since the publication of his works, in the eighteenth century, the complexity of the concepts in Rousseau’s writings has cause furious debate and controversy. Much of this deliberation arises out of the ambiguity inherent in his concepts of freedom. In his writing, at times, the concepts of natural, moral and civil freedoms are mutually exclusive, but at other junctures they are ambiguously intertwined. With the concept of freedom sitting as the corner stone of Rousseau’s philosophy, it is understandable, even in contemporary times, his essays still evokes debate. By individually exploring each stage in his manifestations of freedom, the intention of this paper will be to reveal Rousseau’s conceptual ideas which establish what he argues to be freedom. Initially the essay will build Rousseau’s ‘Natural State’ with the intention of explaining his concept of ‘Natural Freedom’. The obvious progression, from this juncture, will be to look at what Rousseau believes are the corrupting elements that lead to the pollution the ‘Natural State’. All the time leading to the un-reclaimable loss of ‘Natural Freedom’, as people coalesce and interact; and ultimately progress towards a civilised society and the inevitable state of becoming unfree. The paper will then continue by looking at Rousseau’s solution to the loss of natural freedom,Show MoreRelatedExploring Karl Marx and Jean-Jacque Rousseaus Views on Freedom1541 Words   |  7 PagesJean-Jacque Rousseau occasionally seem at odds with one another both philosophers needs to be read as an extension of each other to completely understand what human freedom is. The fundamental difference between the two philosophers lies within the way which they determine why humans are not free creatures in modern society but once were. Rousseau draws on the genealogical as well as the societal aspects of human nature that, in its development, has stripped humankind of its intrinsic freedom. ConverselyRead MoreRousseau Vs Democracy853 Words   |  4 PagesDemocracy, More Like DemoCRAZY An issue with the concept and philosophy of democracy is that idea in which is theorized to uphold can sometimes contradict themselves. Democracy in itself cannot be definitely defined, but instead is left up to interpretation by many philosophers and theorists, all of whom have wildly varying convictions of how an actual democracy should function. The ideals in which one person might claim to the be fundamental basics of their version of a democracy could also theRead MoreThe Value Of Liberty ; Rousseau Vs. Mill1536 Words   |  7 PagesThe Value of Liberty; Rousseau v. Mill The views and conceptions of what liberty is have continued to change over time as society changes. Freedom is defined as the right to do â€Å"act, think, and speak as one wants† without anyone or anything infringing on that right, but there exists types of freedoms or liberties. Fyodor Dostoevsky, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Stuart Mill, and Thomas Jefferson all give their conceptions of what liberty is and while all of them believe government should not have so muchRead MoreEssay on Rousseaus View of Humanity1118 Words   |  5 PagesJean Jacques Rousseau in On Education writes about how to properly raise and educate a child. Rousseaus opinion is based on his own upbringing and lack of formal education at a young age. Rousseau depicts humanity as naturally good and becomes evil because humans tamper with nature, their greatest deficiency, but also possess the ability to transform into self-reliant individuals. Because of the context of the time, it can be seen that Rousseau wa s influenced by the idea of self-preservation, individualRead MoreEssay on The Natural Ways of Locke, Hobbes, and Rousseau1207 Words   |  5 Pagesthe other hand, there is not just one concept of human nature, but rather a plethora of concepts surrounding the idea. With the rise of capitalism, social structure is reformed; it is during this rise in the early seventeenth and eighteenth century, that John Locke, Thomas Hobbes, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau introduce their varying opinions surrounding man in nature. The western philosophers mainly concern themselves with the concept of the social contract. Rousseau, Hobbes, and Locke begin with the conceptionRead MoreRousseau’s Nonexistent Co-existing State1618 Words   |  7 PagesThe idea of a utopian state is one many people have hoped for or thought of, a place where all people are treated equal and free. Jean Jacques Rousseau developed the theory of sovereign government and the ‘le volante general’, meaning the general will, in his book The Social Contract. There are certain problems with his theory such as, citizens will not be in similar situations, and so if the law was decided on, it will have different impacts on different people, leaving the minority at a disadvantageRead MoreThe Rousseau s Thesis And Social Contract1548 Words   |  7 PagesTo better understand Rousseau’s thesis and social contract he proposed, we must first understand why Rousseau felt compelled to write and his main criticism of society during the 18th century. In sum, Rousseau argued that states (specifically France, though never explicitly stated) have not protected man’s right to freedom or equality. Rousseau began The Social Contract in dramatic fashion. He wrote, â€Å"man is born free, and everywhere he is in chains† (1). This quote is still used today, and isRead MoreMarriage Is Not About Religion, Atheists Marry1591 Words   |  7 Pagesmoralities of freedom, in which we are co nstitutionally promised justice and the pursuit of happiness -- each person reserves the rights to his or her own naturally given pursuit of happiness. By legalizing same-sex marriage, our country would strengthen that sense of morality and ensure that everyone is endowed to the same rights granted through marriage. Demonstrating the definition of marriage as one of the foundations of society, the many effects it has on individuals and personal freedom, and how socialRead MoreThe Bourgeoisie Essay1503 Words   |  7 Pagestime.   To understand how classes were created and the disparity between the rich and poor, or, bourgeoisie and proletariat, it is necessary to examine how people came to be rich and poor.   Exploring a time before money existed will help us to process and understand reasons why the binary between rich and poor exists and how it is reflective of low and high art distinctions.     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To reach a time before money was instituted, the philosophies of John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau have eachRead MoreJohn Locke: Founding Father of Modern Era Liberalism1444 Words   |  6 PagesThomas Hobbes, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and John Locke are all great thinkers who were greatly influential in forming philosophies that would affect the future of politics. By analyzing each philosopher’s ideology, we can identify which thinker’s theory reflected modern era liberalism the most. For this paper I will be arguing that, John Locke provides a more compelling framework of modern era liberalism because of his perception of the state of nature, the social contract and the function of government

Did Nostradamus Really Predict New York Attack free essay sample

? Essay, Research Paper Did Nostradamus truly predict New York onslaught? By Geert De Clercq SINGAPORE, Sept 13 ( Reuters ) # 8211 ; Internet confab suites are abuzz with talk that 16th century Gallic astrologist Nostradamus forecast the onslaught on the World Trade Center in New York. Thousands of people have received e-mails incorporating this prognostication, frequently with a 2nd portion prediction that the onslaught on the twin towers will tag the beginning of World War III. Several versions are making the unit of ammunitions. This is one of them: # 8220 ; In the twelvemonth of the new century and nine months From the sky will come a great King of Terror The sky will fire at 45 grades Fire approaches the new city. # 8221 ; The text corresponds approximately to a poetry in Nostradamus # 8217 ; s Century ( subdivision ) Six, Quatrain 97. Several books on Nostradamus have speculated that this quatrain # 8217 ; s first line refers to September 2001, the 9th month in the first twelvemonth of the new century, while the 45 grades is interpreted as the latitude of the metropolis of New York. But New York lies merely below 41 grades latitude and Nostradamus # 8217 ; s poetry does non advert a great war, contrary to what several electronic mails say. In many electronic mails, the poetry comes with a 2nd portion, which seems harder to associate to Nostradamus: # 8220 ; In the metropolis of York there will be a great prostration Two duplicate brothers torn apart by pandemonium While the fortress falls the great leader will yield Third large war will get down when the large metropolis is burning. # 8221 ; HOAXSTRADAMUS? # 8220 ; ( This 2nd quatrain ) is NOT by Nostradamus, # 8221 ; read a statement on www.nostradamus-repository.org, a Web site for Nostradamus survey. Hoax or non, assorted versions of the poetry are being forwarded by the 1000s every twenty-four hours. # 8220 ; Initially, I was truly doubting, but I went to the web to look up something on ( Nostradamus ) . Some prognostications have come true, # 8221 ; Agnes Ng, a 23-year old Singaporean accounting pupil, told Reuters on Thursday. She received one of the prognostications in an electronic mail from a friend. Before send oning the message to her contacts, she posted a transcript on Usenet newsgroup alt.prophecies.nostradamus. The e-mail she received was even more specific, calculating that: # 8220 ; The large war will get down when the large metropolis is firing on the 11th twenty-four hours of the 9th month that # 8230 ; two metal birds would crash into two tall statues in the new metropolis and the universe will stop shortly after. # 8221 ; One of the newsgroup subscribers who goes by the e-mail nickname of # 8220 ; Justaguy # 8221 ; said this was a sham. # 8220 ; It has been posted ad nauseam, # 8221 ; he said. Nostradamus prognostications surface after about every major intelligence event. False or existent, they struck a chord in Singapore. Bookstore salespeople told Reuters there had been strong demand for books on Nostradamus since Tuesday # 8217 ; s onslaughts. An Internet Hoax # 8220 ; Come the millenary, month 12 In the place of greatest power The small town imbecile will come Forth To be acclaimed the leader. # 8221 ; Shortly after the US Supreme Court selected George W. Bush as president in 2000, this quatrain made the Internet Rounds. After having many e-mail messages inquiring whether it had genuinely been written by Nostradamus, I used this site # 8217 ; s Nostradamus Search Engine to look into. The undermentioned quatrain, which refers to an # 8220 ; Idiot Heir # 8221 ; # 8212 ; non # 8220 ; Village Idiot # 8221 ; # 8212 ; is possibly the beginning of the fraud. Scroll further down this page to read remarks made by John Hogue, writer of many all right books refering Nostradamus and his prognostications. In the New York Post, you can reed: XMAS GREETINGS OF THE RICH A ; FAMOUS # 8220 ; Come the Millennium, month 12, in the place of the greatest power, the small town imbecile will come Forth to be acclaimed the leader. # 8221 ; A dubious one will non come far from the kingdom, The greater portion will desire to back up him: A Capitol, will non desire him to govern at all, His great load he will non be able to keep. This # 8220 ; dubious one # 8221 ; could stand for the intellectually lightweight George W. Bush. The # 8220 ; uncertainty # 8221 ; could connote some on-going intuition throughout his presidential term that Bush cheated Al Gore ( who won the bulk of the popular national ballot ) out of the popular ballot in Florida by fly-by-night tactics. A fraud in the Florida ballot count efficaciously gave Bush the necessary electoral ballots to # 8220 ; lawfully # 8221 ; win the election. Nostradamus # 8217 ; usage of # 8220 ; dubious one # 8221 ; could besides bespeak that with clip an of all time larger shadow of bastardy will project itself across a Bush presidential term. The 2nd line might depict a period of attempted healing during the wake of the election. A clip when a bulk of the people of America will seek to beat up around their # 8220 ; dubious # 8221 ; new president. Line three may suggest to us who President Bush # 8217 ; s existent political enemies are. By the manner, it may non be the Democrats in the stalemated Congress. My sense is it will be the right wing elements of his ain Republican Party. But the obstructions do non stop at that place. Those who # 8220 ; will non desire him to govern # 8221 ; could be those work forces behind the scenes that may hold put this maleable adult male into office to be their rehearsed marionette spokesman for their docket. How could those who put him there turn against him? Looking at Bush # 8217 ; s natal astrological chart I see the potency for great self-delusion and a preference for substance maltreatment. The maltreatment in this instance comes from the drug called # 8220 ; power. # 8221 ; At some clip in his presidential term Bush will arise against his animal trainers. As his presidential term becomes more besieged with jobs and [ deficiency of ] credibleness, he might endeavor to be his ain adult male and cease to listen to his advisors, doing even greater jobs and greater strains upon himself. The last line, hence, may depict what I fear is some nervous dislocation or wellness job coming from the overpowering force per unit areas put upon a fundamentally good, yet emotionally and intellectually immature adult male. Now, with this reading said, I wish to admonish you all that there is an even stronger application for this quatrain for an earlier Republican president ; one respected by the Gallic people. It must be remembered that Nostradamus saw the hereafter through the perceptual experience of a Frenchman. If aliens come into his vision it is because they are in some manner appreciative of, or are act uponing the hereafter of, France. We do non cognize how the Gallic will finally see Bush. Indeed the early marks point to present twenty-four hours and future ridicule. Be that as it may, on page 448 of my book Michel de notredame: The Complete Prophecies, I applied this prognostication to Richard Nixon back in 1997. Here is what I said: # 8220 ; This is [ about ] Nixon. Nostradamus would non overlook a adult male who did so much to alter the class of 20th-century history. But our prophesier, of all time the pessimist, had Nixon to # 8220 ; kick around # 8221 ; long before the controversial American president was born. # 8220 ; In line 1 Nixon is the # 8220 ; doubltful one # 8221 ; who is regarded heartily in France. Even the fretful Charles De Gaulle was an supporter. After Nixon # 8217 ; s autumn following the Watergate dirt, he could still happen regard and awards during his visits to the # 8220 ; realm # 8221 ; of France. Possibly Nostradamus is stating that Nixon is # 8220 ; non far # 8221 ; from bein g a Frenchman. In line 2 the â€Å"greater part† back uping Nixon during the 1968 presidential election was what he called the â€Å"Silent Majority.† He declared himself the title-holder of normal, middle-class Americans who were non represented in the disruptive political sphere of the late sixtiess. Line 3’s â€Å"Capitol† represents Washington DC, and the Democrat-controlled Congress of the United States. Their ferocious political competition with the Republican president eventually led to their ballot for his impeachment, coercing him to vacate from office. Line 4 depicts a Nixon burdened with the cover-up over Watergate, unable to keep power and carry through his far-reaching geopolitical dreams to stop the Cold War.† Time and events will state whether Nostradamus # 8217 ; Quatrain 13 of Century 6 describes the calamity of a president yesteryear, or president hereafter. This is credited to Nostradamus, in 1555. We picked it up off the Internet, so it might be a fraud. Still, it has amusive currency. . . Juste un rigolo! ( Just a jokester! ) + The words # 8220 ; small town # 8221 ; , # 8220 ; idiot # 8221 ; , # 8220 ; mill nium # 8221 ; , # 8220 ; mill naire # 8221 ; be in French, but they don # 8217 ; Ts exist in the Nostradamus anticipations. + Nostradamus has neer put the word # 8220 ; month # 8221 ; at the side of # 8220 ; twelve # 8221 ; . + The twelvemonth 1999 is the last exact day of the month that Nostradamus specify. So, if you are looking for # 8220 ; Nostradamus 2001 # 8243 ; , be careful. Prophecies of the ( Near ) hereafter? ( From the Epistle to Henry II ) # 8220 ; Then the great imperium of the Antichrist will get down where Attila and Xerxes descended ( Central Asia and Persia/Iran ) # 8212 ; in Numberss great and infinite, so many that the coming of the Holy Ghost, continuing from the 48th grade will do a transmigration, driving out the abomination of the Antichrist [ who is ] doing war against the Royal who will be the great Vicar of Jesus Christ, and against his Church, and his reign for a clip and to the terminal of time. # 8221 ; # 8220 ; And this will be preceded by a solar occultation more dark than any since the creative activity of the universe # 8230 ; , and there shall be in the month of October some great motion and transference and it will be such that one will believe that the Earth has lots its natural motion, and that it will be plunged into the abysm of ageless darkness ; there will be initial portents in the spring, and extraordinary alterations in rapid sequence thenceforth, reversals of lands and mighty temblors, with the addition of the new Babylon # 8230 ; , augmented by the abomination of the first Holocaust, and it will last no less than 73 old ages and 7 months # 8230 ; # 8221 ; # 8220 ; And so great peace will be established, brotherhood and Concord between the kids of the frontiers who have been gathered and separated by diverse reigns # 8230 ; # 8221 ; Century 1, Quatrain 17 For 40 old ages the rainbow will non look ; For 40 old ages it will be seen every twenty-four hours: The waterless Earth will turn more dry, And great inundations when it will be seen. Century 1, Quatrain 56 You will see, earlier and subsequently, great alterations made, Extreme horrors and retributions: For as the Moon is therefore led by its angel, The celestial spheres draw near to the calculation. Century 1, Quatrain 63 Plagues extinguished, the universe becomes smaller, For a long clip the lands will be inhabited in peace: Peoples will go safely through the sky ( over ) land and moving ridge: Then wars will get down afresh. Century 1, Quatrain 91 The Gods will do it look to the worlds, That they will be the writers of a great struggle: Sword and spear before Eden is observed as serene, So that on the left manus there will be great affliction. Century 2, Quatrain 45 Excessively much the celestial spheres weep for the Androgyne reproduction, Near the celestial spheres human blood shed: Because of decease excessively tardily a great people re-created, Late and shortly comes the anticipated aid Century 3, Quatrain 34 When the occultation of the Sun will so be, The monster ( godly portents ) will be seen in apparent daytime: Quite otherwise will one construe it, High monetary value unguarded: none will hold provided for it. Century 9, Quatrain 31 The shaking of the Earth at Mortara, The Sn islands of St. George half sunk ; Drowsy with peace, war will originate, At Easter in the temple abysms opened. Century 9, Quatrain 9 When the lamp firing with an inextinguishable fire, Will be found in the temple of the Vestals, Infant found fire, H2O go throughing through the screen, Nimes, Toulouse perish [ in ] H2O, the market to prostration. Century 9, Quatrain 99 Northern air current will do the besieging to be raised, Over the walls to throw ashes, lime chalk and dust, Through rain afterwards, which will make them much injury, Meanest aid against their frontier. Century 9, Quatrain 66 There will be peace, brotherhood and alteration, Estates and offices low [ are ] high, those high [ made ] really low: To fix for a journey torments the first progeny, War to discontinue, civil procedures, arguments. Century 10, Quatrain 42 The human kingdom of Angelic progeny, Will do its kingdom to keep in peace and brotherhood: War confined halfway inside its enclosure, For a long clip peace will be maintained for them. Century 10, Quatrain 74 The twelvemonth the great 7th figure is accomplished, Looking at the clip of the great games of slaughter: Not far from the age of the great millenary, When the dead will come out of their Gravess. Books Michel de notredame: The Complete Prophecies by John Hogue ( hardback ) Michel de notredame: The Complete Prophecies by John Hogue ( paper-back book ) Michel de notredame: Countdown to Apocalypse by Jean-Charles De Fontbrune Michel de notredame: The Final Reckoning by Peter Lemesurier Michel de notredame: The New Revelations by John Hogue The Complete Prophecies of Nostradamus by Henry C. Roberts 1000 for 2000: Prophecies for the New Millennium by John Hogue The Final Prophecies of Nostradamus by Erika Cheetham Michel de notredame by Knut Boese The Keys to the Predictions of Nostradamus by Bardo Kidogo ( Note: This is a fresh. ) The Nostradamus Code by Ottavio Ramotti Michel de notredame: Prophecies Fulfilled and Predictions for the Millennium and Beyond by Skinner and King Nostradamus 1999: Who Will Survive? by Stefan Paulus Michel de notredame: The Following 50 Old ages by Peter Lemesurier The Millennium Book of Prophecy by John Hogue The Nostradamus Encyclopedia by Peter Lesurier Michel de notredame: Prophecies for Women by Manuela Dunn Mascetti Mammoth Book of Nostradamus and Other Nebiims by Damon Wilson Michel de notredame: The Man Who Saw Through Time by Lee McCann Complete Prophecies of Nostradamus by Various Subscribers Michel de notredame: Predictions for the twenty-first Century by Manfred Dimde When the Comet Runs by Tom Kay

The Emotional Impact of Bullying and Cyberbullying on Victims free essay sample

Traditional bullying or bullying is considered as the infringement of the rights of a child to a happy and productive life, inside and outside the school (Greene, 2006). Cyberbullying is defined as disseminating harmful or cruel speech or engaging in other forms of social cruelty using the internet or other information communication technologies (Willard,2005). Arguments have been made by some researchers whether Cyberbullying is just a distinct phenomenon or rather be considered as a part or extension of traditional bullying behaviors (Olweus, 2012 and Li, 2007). Comparing risk factors on cyberbullying and that of traditional bullying is one way to identify key similarities and differences between the two behaviors. It is important to establish whether these are two separate types of bullying or whether cyberbullying is an extension of traditional bullying and how they are related with each other. Many studies have shown relation or involvement between traditional form and cyber for m of bullying. We will write a custom essay sample on The Emotional Impact of Bullying and Cyberbullying on Victims or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page A study conducted by Dehue, Bolman, Vollink and Pouwelse (2012) among a sample of adolescents found out that only 7.1% were inclusively involved in cyberbullying, while 22.8% experienced both cyberbullying and traditional bullying as a victim or either the bully. Another study of Smith et al. (2008) found that over 80% of cybervictims were former traditional victims and the results also shows that three quarters of cyberbullies were also traditional bullies. It appears that traditional bullies also have the potential to develop and become cyber bullies which is a negative effect, and those victims of bullying at school could also be cybervictims. A study of Raskauskas and stoltz(2007) found that 85% of cybervictims were also traditional victims and 94% of cyberbullies were also traditional bullies. Olweus (2012) found that 10% of children that have experienced cyberbullying did not experience traditional bullying and that few new victims or bullies are created because of cyberbullying. And it just shows that bullying is integrated from one setting which is the school to a place which is the cyber world.

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Euthanasia Research Paper

Euthanasia Research Paper Euthanasia is a unique practice of ending the life of an individual suffering from a terminal disease/illness or an incurable condition by means of the suspension of extraordinary medical treatment or lethal injection. The history of this  phenomena dates back for centuries, but it wasnt until 1906 when the first bill to legalize euthanasia in America was introduced in the Ohio legislature. For several years, legislatures have been turning down bills aimed at the legalization of euthanasia in the United States. In 1937, the Nebraska legislature voted down a bill legalizing voluntary active euthanasia in the U.S. Only two years later, the New York legislature rejected a bill that was also aimed at the legalization of euthanasia in the United States. In 1991 the Washington State Initiative Bill legalizing voluntary euthanasia was narrowly defeated. (6) In 1994, Oregon passed a law to allow doctors to prescribe lethal drugs, but an injunction prevented it from taking effect. As of today, euthanasia is illegal in almost every country. In fact, it is only legal in the state of Oregon and the Netherlands. These are the only two places in the world where laws specifically permit euthanasia or assisted suicide. Oregon permits assisted suicide while the Netherlands permits both euthanasia and assisted suicide. In 1995, Australias northern territory approved a euthanasia bill which went into effect in 1996, but it was overturned by the Australian Parliament in 1997. Also, in 1997, Columbias Supreme Court ruled that penalties for mercy killing should be removed.(4) This ruling will not go into effect though until guidelines are approved by the Columbian Congress. In Belgium, lawmakers have agreed on the provisions of a key article in a draft proposal to legalize euthanasia. The proposed bill would not only allow doctors to euthanasia terminally- ill patients, but also those who are incurably ill with years left to live. (4) In Michigan, the assisted suicide ballot initiative was defeated due to television ads who are now shifting gears to focus on alternatives to assisted suicide such as hospice care. Advocates for assisted suicide in Michigan are releasing their own radio and television ads in attempt to counter the anti-proposal ads. Many court cases have come out of the heated topic as well. While the first euthanasia case in Japan was in 1949, it wasnt until 1962 that the Nagayo Court created a criteria for lawful active euthanasia. The court concluded if six conditions could be fulfilled, a death should be admitted as lawful euthanasia. (6) In 1976, the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled in the Karen Ann Quinlin case that she had the right through her family to refuse life-sustaining treatment. In 1981, A Rotterdam court ruled on conditions under which aiding suicide and administering voluntary euthanasia will not be prosecuted. The Supreme Court of the Netherlands declared that voluntary euthanasia is acceptable subject to ten clearly defined conditions in 1984, and in 1993 the Netherlands passed a law which prevented doctors from being prosecuted when certain guidelines are followed. In 1994, Oregon passed a law to allow doctors to prescribe lethal drugs, but an injunction prevented it from taking effect. Also in 1994, delegates from the National Peoples Congress in the Republic of China, proposed a law in support of euthanasia. (6) In 1995, Australias Northern Territory Rights of the Terminally Ill Bill by Marshall Perron was instated which allowed euthanasia under careful controls. In 1995, Singapore introduced a right- to-die law which was originally sought after not to legalize euthanasia but to give the terminally ill the right to make a living will. Throughout this time many societies that were pro euthanasia began forming all over the world. In 1935, the Voluntary Euthanasia Society in England was formed by Lord Moynihan and Dr Killick Millard. In 1938, The Euthanasia Society of the United States of America was founded in New York City. In 1973, voluntary euthanasia societies began forming in the Netherlands. Three years later more societies started forming in Japan and Germany. In 1980, The Voluntary euthanasia Society in Scotland published the first suicide guide, How to Die With Dignity. (6) By the 1990s euthanasia had become a worldwide topic of debate. There are many pros and cons that deal with euthanasia. In dealing with the pro view, the major argument is that all Americans have a constitutional right to life, and with this control of life also comes the authority to end it. Prohibitions on suicide are viewed by many as a violation of basic constitutional freedoms and governmental interference. (5) Proponents also use t he argument that newly diagnosed patients with terminal illnesses may want to end their lives before they endure physical discomfort or suffering. Patients may want to seek euthanasia in order to avoid being seen in a diminished capacity and protect their memory of an able-bodied life. Another argument for the use of euthanasia is to avoid leaving loved ones the expensive costs of medical care and posing a financial burden to them. Choosing assisted suicide may prove to be more cost efficient than long-term medical care. Next to pain and suffering, this is the second major reason why people decide to end their lives.(5) Many proponents see that The argument against assisted-suicide is advanced by a religious minority who believe that a just, loving god should decide the moment of death. (3) These are some of the major reasons why proponents for euthanasia support the right to die. People who oppose the legalization of euthanasia use the argument that once the gate is opened, others lives will be at risk. Over time statutes may give rise to broader and less stringent laws that provide people with non-terminal disabilities, an excuse to end their lives. (5) Many advocates take the position that legalizing assisted suicide and active voluntary euthanasia today will lead to active involuntary euthanasia tomorrow. (5) Another argument is that many people who are terminally ill and feel themselves to be a burden to their family, are not really tired off life and dont actually want to die. If euthanasia was readily available, the patient might feel obligated to use it. There are many more arguments on the legalization of euthanasia or assisted suicide. One dealing with the con view is that the patients voluntary and informed consent is never certain because most people who want to die are under duress. If a request is made while an individual is suffering or under excruciating pain, then it is arguable that drugs may have prevented the person from making a fully rational decision. Also it is argued that the norms of medicine prohibit a physician from ever acting with the intent to kill a patient or to aid him in killing himself. (1) Some agree as well that Death is never the answer, and precious lives must be preserved. (2) The Hemlock society is a major proponent in assisted suicide. Hemlock strongly believes that people should be able to have dignity and choice at the end of life. They ought to have the option of a peaceful, gentle, certain and swift death in the company of their loved ones. (7) The Hemlock society advocated and lobbies for laws that would allow a mentally competent patient to be euthanized with he help of a doctor. Along with this law certain safeguards should be in place such as; a diagnoses of a terminal or irreversible illness by two independent physicians, an evaluation by a mental health professional, a written and witnessed request that is revocable at any time, a waiting period, and monitoring by a state health department. The American Medical Association strictly opposes the use of euthanasia. The AMA supports initiatives that help physicians and their patients deal with the clinical and psychological issues at the end-of-life. (8) They support providing compassionate care for patients nearing death. While modern advances in medical science and technology have helped physicians to treat patients with once critical and life-threatening illnesses, some of these new technologies have merely prolonged the suffering for patients. The AMA still maintains that physicians should practice medicine with respectful and compassionate attitudes. One pro-life group called Not Dead Yet, understands that people have the right to refuse unwanted treatment. They oppose a public policy that singles out individuals for legalized killing based on their health status. (9) They believe that this violates the Americans With Disabilities Act, which denies the equal protection of the law, and health professionals decide who is eligible. Not Dead Yet does not want pity or lethal mercy but freedom and life. CURE is another pro-life group. Their reasons are for compassion and unity. People of CURE believe that to care is not to kill. (10) They believe there is an alternative to death and euthanasia which is life and hope. Uniting together will bring strength and a prolonged life. The International Task Force of Euthanasia Assisted Suicide also opposes euthanasia. One of their reasons is complications that can occur from usage. Extreme gasping and muscle spasms can occur and has occurred in 7% of cases. While losing consciousness, a person can vomit and then inhale the vomit which has also occurred in 7% of cases. Panic, feelings of terror, and assaultive behavior can take place from the drug-induced confusion. Other problems can include difficulty in taking the drug and a number of days elapsing before death occurs. In 14% of cases there was a failure of the drugs to induce unconsciousness. Another reason why they are anti-euthanasia is because they dont believe the government should give the right to doctors to kill their patients. They believe that euthanasia is not giving the right to die but the right to kill. There are other alternatives like Hospice which tries to make the patients remaining time comfortable, alleviating pains, and giving spiritual and emotional support. Dr. Jack Kevorkian, a 71 year old retired pathologist, is known to many as the patriarch of assisted suicide. He is currently serving a sentence of 10-25 in a Michigan correctional facility for his involvement in helping at least 130 people die from euthanasia. He was charged for murder in both 1991 and 1992 when patients of his used a suicide machine he developed, and his medical licence was revoked. Both charges were later dropped though when state judges pointed out that there were no laws against assisted suicide in the state of Michigan. It wasnt until 1993 when assisted suicide laws took effect, and Kevorkian, who had killed several more patients by this time, was charged again for murder. He served some jail time when he refused to pay the bail after the judge raised it. He was released from jail though later that year when supporters posted the bail. Between 1994 and 1996, Kevorkian killed some thirty more patients, and is charged for murder three more times. He is acquitted for these cases as well. In 1998, Kevorkian videotaped the injection death of Thomas Youk which aired two months later on 60 Minutes. He is again charged for murder, and in 1999 is convicted for second-degree murder and delivery of a controlled substance. Dr. Kevorkian remains one of the most controversial physicians in America today. He has been hailed by some as a hero and by others, little more than a serial killer. I believe that the legalization of euthanasia would be a good thing for America. An individuals right to determine the time and manner of their death is more important than keeping a suffering person alive for the sake of preserving life. I understand that the legalization of euthanasia will most likely lead to an excuse for many people who are not terminally to end their own lives. But I do believe that an evaluation by a mental health professional for those suspected to have clinical depression or mental incompetence can help prevent most of this. There are many good points and bad points to the legalization of assisted suicide like any controversial issue. I understand it to be a good thing though if a person truly is suffering and has no hopeful prospects for the future.

Cyber Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Cyber Law - Essay Example Jurisdiction refers to the power and authority of a government to adjudicate, legislate and enforce its laws it is bound by territorial confines (does not outspread beyond the territory) (Singh, 2010). At one given time, the first questions that courts consider when a case is brought forward is whether they have the mandate to hear the case and whether they are the most appropriate courts for to hear the case.   If a court does not have jurisdiction over a matter, then the court is regarded as incompetent to adjudicate the matter and if it hears and make a decision over the matter, then the ruling made by the court would be quashed and termed as null and void (Chander, 2010). In this era of internet, worries of sovereignty and jurisdiction have rapidly come to the fore because internet does not make jurisdictional and geographical boundaries clear (Sherry, 2013). Therefore, for the above explained situation, the transaction may involve application of at least two jurisdictions name ly 1) the laws of the state/nation in which the user resides, the laws of the state/nation that apply where the server hosting the transaction is located (owner of Widget product). The law of the state/nation which applies to a person or business with whom a transaction takes place may also apply as the third law (Sherry, 2013).   For the case of the user in California, Federal Statues should apply since they are the supreme laws on the US soil and they overrule any opposing USA constituent state’s statues.

Gap analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Gap analysis - Essay Example Proficiency in communication as an art can be learned depending upon motivations and goals (Littlejohn & Foss, 2008). The advent of information technology with electronic means of communication modernized even its learning process traversing what once were limitations in terms of culture, space and ethics (Littlejohn & Foss, 2008). Sociopsychologist, Cybernetics, and Sociocultural groups may slightly vary in interest, rights, and values in the aspects of communication as well as it motivations, but, bottom-line is the crossover between and among communicators (Littlejohn & Foss, 2008). Being proactive makes an efficient manager bringing about flexibility and the ability to make appropriate responses (Harrell, 2003). Being polite brings about respect, trust and honesty, a mark in trade that can be a lasting legacy (Harrell, 2003). With the advent of Information technology coupled with electronic communication means what is left as the gap facing global communications seems to be the priceless possession which is attitude (Harrell, 2003). It is the individual resolve to prosper as overall attitude determines the quality of life one may live (Harrell, 2003). The gap facing global communication is gradually easing up. Thanks to the contributions of Information technology and its latest electronic communication art.

Week 8 dq Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Week 8 dq - Essay Example Honestly making my decision on elective abortion, I would argue that the fetus has life just like other people. Some of the personal principles that makes my professional life successful include; self-motivation, humility, loyalty, confidence and professionalism. In this regard, professionalism as my value is based on the basis that it is significant to value professional behavior all the time at work place. This kind of behavior incorporate things like speaking and dressing to maintain my image since I take pride in my behavior and appearance. Having professional behavior helps complete high quality projects and act as role model to others. Humility is another value that I have embraced and encouraged at work place and has assisted me in the objective of crating trustful, cohesive and amalgamated work force where each one of us have had the humility of accepting and learning from our failures and attaining empowerment that is needed in exploring the next opportunity. The other value is self-confidence in that I cannot be afraid to ask questions on areas that need more knowledge and the desire I have to inspire others. Lastly, there is self-motivation in that I require little or no supervision and direction to get back to my work. For instance, at work place, I encouraged employee’s feedback and provided them with an opportunity to be in charge in their areas of speculation. There is this moral issue regarding right to life. For example, in popular culture, the "fact" that people have rights is assumed as a given. Arguing from subjective perspective, this is up for grabs. The existence of a human right must be described and justified with concrete evidence. Historically, our idea of "human rights" developed from the idea that humans are composite substances, made up of a body and soul (mind) union. This theory that human nature is made of two substances is one application of

Challenges in Workplace Communication

Challenges in Workplace Communication Anjeshni 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The main purpose of this report writing is to find out about communication and communication challenges that are faced by different people in their workplace. Our major focuses was on business house based in South Auckland. This was made possible by conducting interviews on three different people working for different companies and doing various research. After completion of this research it was easier to know how communication challenges are faced by people in their workplace and how problem can be solved. To start off on our research a request letter for interview was send to three different people working for three different business. This was done to find out communication challenges and strategic that are faced by people in their workplace. Time and date was set for an interview with them and interview was conducted with a set of questionnaire in relation to communication challenges at their respective workplace. The three different people that interview was conducted were Mrs Bikashni Prakash, Mr Romit Prakash and Ms Nicky. After the completion of interview thanks giving email were send to each one of them for giving their precious time and related information regarding communication challenges in their workplace. According to interview the most common communication barrier that was found in workplace were language barriers. As my interview environment was a supermarket and many customers that come in supermarket were of different races and not all of them know English. Some of the customers are from India and they speak Punjabi language so it becomes hard sometimes to communicate with them. The final step was to prepare report based on communication challenges and barriers that are faced at different workplaces with different people. Since communication is a vital part of any business it must be understand well by people a single breakdown in communication can lead to a big problem for a business. It is important for every individual in a business to know how to faced challenges. Table of Contents (Jump to) 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 COMUNICATION 2.1.1 Types of Communication 2.1.2 Advantages of Communication 2.1.3 Disadvantage of Communication 2.1.4 Communication Barriers 2.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE 2.3 OBJECTIVES 2.4 METHODOLOGY 3.0 FINDINGS 3.1 Candidate 1 Background 3.1.1 Communication Problems and Effect on Workplace 3.1.2 Outcomes towards Communication Problems 3.2 Candidate 2 – Background 3.2.1 Communication Problems and Effect on Workplaces 3.2.2 Outcomes towards Communication Problem 3.3 Candidate 3 – Background 3.3.1 Communication Problems and Effect on Workplaces 3.3.2 Outcomes towards Communication Problem 4.0 CONCLUSION 5.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 6.0 APPENDICES 2.0 INTRODUCTION 2.1 COMUNICATION Communication is transferring information from one place to another. Communication is a simple definition but how we communicates becomes a lot more complex. Proper communication leads to understanding of a situation. If there is a communication breakdown misunderstanding occurs which leads to problem in a business. The theory of a communication states that communication involves both sender and receiver passing information through communication channel. Communication channel is a way in which we communicate. It is important for a business to choose a proper communication channel since it has different strength and different weakness. Communication are always complex and it is a two way process. Communication in a business can be of two type internal and external. Internal communication occurs within a company among employees, between employers, supervisors and workers. External communication happens outside the company it mostly occurs between customer or clients, suppliers, governm ent department e.g. bank, IRD and with other companies and stakeholders. Therefore it is a must to have better understanding of a communication and its process. 2.1.1 Types of Communication Verbal communication that is spoken face to face or through telephone. Non-verbal communication it is how we present ourselves through body language. Written Communication through letters, emails, internet and media. Visualizations – graphics, charts, maps and logo. Five main purpose of communication are to inform, persuade, create goodwill instruct and to inspire. 2.1.2 Advantages of Communication It helps people manage and maintain organisational operations. Communication happens in may form and it is different means for different situation. Communication is used to become familiar which leads to friendship. This is good for company since it helps workers to work together by knowing each other’s strength and weakness. But sometimes this cause distraction workers spending time chatting which affects the production. 2.1.3 Disadvantage of Communication Conflict is the main problem by the use of communication employees may disagree and argue with each other and management on a situation. It can cause tension and can affect the production. Conflict happens in a company due to workers demand not met and misunderstanding between and among workers. 2.1.4 Communication Barriers â€Å"Communication barriers is anything that gets in the way of clear communication between sender and receiver.†(Sandra 2006). Barriers are the main cause of communication breakdown. There are different type of communication barriers. Physical Barriers this happens in many different forms. It can cause by phone, internet, communication distance and physical objects in the way of a sender and receiver. Other physical barriers which cause communication breakdown can be tiredness which cause difficult in concentrate. Hearing, sight and speech problem also environment problem that is how when and why we communicate. Lack of non-verbal information. Technology or medium that is what we used to communicate e.g. phone call or txt. Technical problem sometimes happen when phone line is not clear or network is down. Grammar, spelling punctuation and sentence structure it distracted attention from message. Also due to lack of visual clues in the telephone conversation when don’t know the age or what’s the other person state of mind or expression. Emotional barriers this takes place when we are upset, worried or sad and can miss what others are responding. Anger, embarrassment and fear are strong emotion which affects the communication. Often people don’t express their emotion because sometimes it makes others uncomfortable. Not expressing emotion is a barrier because it inhibits the development of relationships, trust and open communication. Defensive, negative or overly assertive also affects means we don’t pay attention to suggestion for improvement or by breaking others trust and be too self-confident and unaware of others needs and rights. Language based barriers this is most common. The main factor is not knowing the language. Since New Zealand in a country of multi race different people all over the world lives here and everyone doesn’t know others language so it becomes hard to communicate with them. The influence of one language to another some words in some languages look much alike but it has different mean in different language. The way we pronounce words and using idioms i.e. unusual or non-literal meaning we give to words that are in common usages this leads to misunderstanding. Different abilities with language due to education. Tone the way words are said and by using jargon technical terms. Psychological barriers this happens due to religion, politics and valves what an individual beliefs. Personality is the nature and character of individual and the experience. Lack of confidence and feedback that we don’t receive and attitude to communication or style e.g. some people are better in speech then writing. Gender and Culture major issues in communication. Gender is the differences between men and women their listen differently. Men listen for information and know what to do next whereas women listen for feelings and empathise. Women concentrate on relationship while men focuses on tasks. Culture has many influence and impact on communication due to difference in traditions and behaviours the way we met and greet with others. Understanding culture difference is important in business. Technology there are many benefit of technology such as texting on mobile, sending email using PowerPoint for presentation and internet for research but still there are effects of this on communication due to lack of feedback since technology is not available to everyone. 2.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE This assignment was given to us by our Business Communication tutor Mrs Sheetal Singh. This is part of our Business Communication 520 paper. The due date of this project is on Friday week 12. Interview was conducted with three different people working for three different organisation in order to find out communication challenges faced by them at their workplaces. 2.3 OBJECTIVES The main objectives of this assignment was to find out communication challenges that is faced by different people at their workplace in New Zealand. During this research it was also found out how communication barriers affect work of an individual and to find out how to overcome those problem in a workplace. 2.4 METHODOLOGY The method used in completing this assignment is by doing interview of three individual working for different organisation. Also assignment as completed by doing internet and text book research. 3.0 FINDINGS 3.1 Candidate 1 Background My first candidate was Mrs Bikashni Prakash. She works for Food for Less Supermarket as a Checkout Supervisor located at 64 Atkinson Avenue Otahuhu. For the past nine years she has been employed in this company and has been living in New Zealand for more than eleven years now. She is an Indo Fijian and speaks Fiji Hindi and English. There are roughly 30 employees working for Food for Less and age group of employees are from 20 – 50 years. Her duties includes managing checkout, doing customer service, dealing with customers and suppliers. During her work experience she has faced many problems regarding communication challenges and barriers. 3.1.1 Communication Problems and Effect on Workplace The main communication challenges faced by Mrs Bikashni Prakash in her workplaces were language barriers since she is working for a supermarket and many of the customers that comes in a supermarket are Indians from Fiji and India. They are from many different cultures and races. It is sometimes difficult to communicate with these customers because of the language since some Punjabi customers don’t know English and their Hindi is quite different from Fiji Hindi. 3.1.2 Outcomes towards Communication Problems Her problem was solved by one of the staff who is Punjabi she seek help from her understanding what the customer was saying. She mostly spend her time with her workmates to know about different language, socialise with different people. If she is not sure about something she always ask for feedback from her workmates and by listening properly to what customers are saying. 3.2 Candidate 2 – Background Mr Romit Prakash is a Director of Globex Importers and Exporters which is located at Atkinson Avenue Otahuhu and has been living in New Zealand for more than 15 years. Mr Prakash started his company five years ago. He is an Indo Fijian and his main language is English and Fiji Hindi. There are roughly 15 workers working for him and their age groups are between 20 to 40 years. His responsibility include managing overall company checking all the packing and delivery of items are done properly and on time, dealing with clients and suppliers. 3.2.1 Communication Problems and Effect on Workplaces The main communication challenges faced by Mr Prakash in his company were gender and culture barriers. People working in his company are from different races who are Indo Fijian and islanders. They have different cultural behaviour and the way sometimes the workers speak makes it hard for understanding. They tend to speak their own language and not adapt to others. Gender barriers also happen in Globex since both male and female works here. Other barriers that affect operation of Globex are language and technology problem. Since nowadays everything is done by machines but sometimes due to breakdown of machines lead to delay in packing and production. Language barriers also affect his workplace since all his staff are always talking in their mother tongue language affecting others as not all are able to understand. This tend to make other staffs think that they might be talk against them so discrimination becomes a factor from here amongst the workers. 3.2.2 Outcomes towards Communication Problem He resolved this communication barriers by letting his staff spending some time together during breaks to know about each other culture and language. To overcome gender issues in his workplace he divided different sections of packing room to males and females so that packing was done amongst and no time was wasted. Since male workers were able to lift heavy boxes for loading and offloading whereas females were doing packing, sealing and labelling of products dividing work equally To minimise challenges related to technology issues, it was a rule that no mobile phones were to be used during working hours. All mobiles had to be put in locker so that staff can concentrate on their work instead of diverting their mind elsewhere. And another solution he tried to implement was by regularly servicing of machines and having spare ones so that if one breakdowns other one is available and work wouldn’t stop. 3.3 Candidate 3 – Background Ms Nicky is a Manager at Super valve which is located at 29 -33 Hall Avenue Otahuhu and has been employed for 6years now. She is from India and has been living in New Zealand for almost 15 years. Her responsibility includes managing checkout operations, general running operations of the supermarket, dealing with staff’s relation matter, dealing with customers and supplies complaint. They are roughly about 30 staffs working for Super Valve and most of them are Punjabis from India. Few Islanders and Indo Fijian are also working whose age groups range from 20 to 50 years. 3.3.1 Communication Problems and Effect on Workplaces The main communication problems faced by Ms Nicky at Super valve is culture and language barriers. It is a multi-racial supermarket and it has different races of customers. Some are Islanders, Indians from Fiji and India, Kiwi and Europeans. Sometimes aged customers come to shop who are not able to speak English and communication problems arises there. Culture barriers are also happening since workers working are from different races. Technology barriers also occur sometimes as well as emotional barriers this happens when a checkout operator or customer service personal are upset or having some personal problem it directly affected their work in terms of not smiling to customers and talking to them. 3.3.2 Outcomes towards Communication Problem She tried hard to overcome this problem by letting staff spending sometimes together, socialising to know each other culture and language. Ms Nicky always tried to have back up system available in case of technology or machine breakdown. Counselling are also affordable so that sometimes if management feels that any workers are in some types of problem, trainings are provide of how to serve customers and be friendly to them. All this relates to having small workshops within the company   4.0 CONCLUSION To conclude this research communication challenges that are faced by people at their workplace are basically the same. The major communication barriers that people face are language barriers. Other barriers that are found in workplace are culture and gender barriers, technology and physical barriers. Language barriers are the most common barriers in my research with responding with all the candidates facing communication challenges at their workplace. This can happen between co-workers or with customers. Technology barriers takes place since not everyone’s educated and don’t have access to technology or may lack the confidence, experience and knowledge to use them e.g. in most supermarket EFTPOS machine are available but some customers don’t have the knowledge as to how to swipe the card or what function to use for which account. Culture and gender barriers this takes place because New Zealand is a multicultural country and everyone should have equal right. It is very much important to understand and respect each other cultures and races. Physical barriers takes place due breakdown of communication channel or not getting full and proper information. The impact of communication channels and barriers on workplace blocks understanding of messages in many different ways which affects both sender and receiver. Aware of barriers can help to avoid communication breakdown and less effect on communication problems. Secondly barriers can cause organisation to business, customers and reputation. Not proper communication can cause communication gaps and bring misunderstanding in an organisation. Lastly, employees should understand each other and their culture which can help to prevent arguments and fights and people using slangs language often can be offensive and can lead to affect others workers in particular workplace and customers. 5.0 RECOMMENDATIONS After compelling all the information gathered through interviews and research some of the recommendations that can be made to prevent communication barriers at workplace. Most of general communication barriers can be overcome with knowledge, sensitivity by understanding theory and monitoring your behaviour. Instead of using technology for communication in some case communicate face to face. Socialization of workers with each other should be done to learn about different language and others culture. Try to use body gestures if possible in communication if other parties can’t understand your language. By acting ethically, openly and honestly which can bring positive communication. â€Å"Treating others as you wish to be treated yourself ’’ (Sandra etal 2006). By increasing awareness we can help to elimate effects of emotionality. Try to being sensitive to one’s mood aware of how that might influence others before communication an important message. By creating an atmosphere where emotions will not come as a barrier and by giving constructive feedbacks. Pay attention what others are saying try to listen carefully. Communication should not take place under mental stress and by using appropriate language which is suitable for recipient. By developing good communications, skills can overcome the communication barriers by understanding the basic of communication skills knowing what communication really is. By having courage to say what you think be confident and doing practice to developed advanced communication skills. By engaging your audience by making eye contact, gestures and avoid sending mixed message. By using body language beware of what your body is saying and by development effective listening skills. When using verbal always try to speak clearly. 6.0 APPENDICES 3 Interview Letters 3 copies of emails 3 questionnaires

The Golden Lily Chapter 7

I SPENT MOST OF THE NEXT DAY wrestling with my refusal to help Sonya, ruminating over the decision as I went from class to class. There was a part of me that felt bad about not giving blood for the experiments. After all, I knew what they were doing was useful. If there was a way to protect Moroi from becoming Strigoi, then that could theoretically be applied to humans too. That could revolutionize the way the Alchemists operated. People like that creepy guy Liam being held at the bunker would no longer be a threat. He could be â€Å"sterilized† and released, with no fear of him falling prey to the corruption of Strigoi. I knew also that Sonya and the others were running into walls with their research. They couldn't find any reason for what had made Lee impervious to turning Strigoi. At the same time, despite the worthiness of the cause, I still felt staunchly opposed to giving up my own blood. I really was afraid that doing so would subject me to more and more experiments. And I just couldn't face that. There was nothing special about me. I hadn't undergone a massive transformation via spirit. Lee and I hadn't had anything in common. I was the same as any other human, any other Alchemist. I just apparently had bad tasting blood, which was fine by me. â€Å"Tell me about the charm spell,† Ms. Terwilliger said one afternoon. It was a few days after Clarence's, and I was still mulling over those events even while ostensibly doing work in her independent study. I looked up from the book in front of me. â€Å"Which variant? The charisma one or the meta one?† She was sitting at her desk and smiled at me. â€Å"For someone so against all of this, you certainly learn well. The meta one.† That had been a recent spell I'd had to learn. It was fresh in my mind, but I made sure to sigh heavily and let her know in a passive aggressive way how inconvenient this was for me. â€Å"It allows the caster to have short-term control of someone. The caster has to create a physical amulet that he or she wears†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I frowned as I considered that part of the spell. â€Å"And then recite a short incantation on the person being controlled.† Ms. Terwilliger pushed her glasses up her nose. â€Å"Why the hesitation?† She noticed every slip. I didn't want to engage in this, but she was my teacher, and this was part of my assignment so long as I was stuck in this miserable session. â€Å"It doesn't make sense. Well, none of it makes sense, of course. But logically, I'd think you need something tangible to use on the vict – subject. Maybe they'd have to wear an amulet. Or drink something. It's hard for me to believe the caster is the only one who needs enhancement. I feel like they would need to connect with the subject.† â€Å"You touched on the key word,† she said. â€Å"‘Enhancement.' The amulet enhances the spell caster's will, as does the incantation. If that's been done correctly – and the caster is advanced and strong enough – that'll push the power of command on to the subject. Perhaps it doesn't seem tangible, but the mind is a powerful tool.† â€Å"Power of command,† I muttered. Without thinking about it, I made the Alchemist sign against evil. â€Å"That doesn't seem right.† â€Å"Is it any different from the kind of compulsion your vampire friends do?† I froze. Ms. Terwilliger had long since admitted to knowing about the world of Moroi and Strigoi, but it was still a topic I avoided with her. My tattoo's magic wouldn't stop me from discussing the vampire world with those who knew about it, but I didn't want to accidentally reveal any details about my specific mission with Jill. Nonetheless, her words were startling. This spell was very much like compulsion, very much like what I'd seen Sonya do to soothe Clarence. Vampires could simply wield it unaided. This spell required a physical component, but Ms. Terwilliger had told me that was normal for humans. She said magic was inborn for Moroi but that we had to wrest it from the world. To me, that just seemed like more reason why humans had no business dabbling in such affairs. â€Å"What they do isn't right either,† I said, in a rare acknowledgment of the Moroi with her. I didn't like that the abilities I found so twisted and wrong were allegedly within human reach too. â€Å"No one should have that kind of power over another.† Her lips quirked. â€Å"You're very haughty about something you have no experience with.† â€Å"You don't always need experience. I've never killed anyone, but I know murder is wrong.† â€Å"Don't discount these spells. They could be a useful defense,† she said with a shrug. â€Å"Perhaps it depends on who's using it – much like a gun or other weapon.† I grimaced. â€Å"I don't really like guns either.† â€Å"Then you may find magical means to be a better option.† She made a small, graceful motion with her hands, and a clay pot on the windowsill suddenly exploded. Sharp fragments fell to the floor. I jumped out of my desk and backed up a few feet. Was that something she'd been able to do this whole time? It had seemed effortless. What kind of damage could she do if she really tried? She smiled. â€Å"See? Very efficient.† Efficient and simple, as easy as a vampire wielding elemental magic with a thought. After all the painstaking spells I'd seen in these books, I was stunned to see such â€Å"easy† magic. It kicked what Ms. Terwilliger had been advocating up to a whole new – and dangerous – level. My whole body tensed as I waited for some other horrific act, but judging from the serene look on her face, that was the only show of power she had in mind – for now. Feeling a little foolish at my reaction, I sat back down. I took a deep breath and chose my words carefully, keeping my anger – and fear – pushed down. It wouldn't do to have an outburst in front of a teacher. â€Å"Ma'am, why do you keep doing this?† Ms. Terwilliger tilted her head like a bird. â€Å"Doing what, dear?† â€Å"This.† I jabbed the book in front of me. â€Å"Why do you keep making me work on this against my will? I hate this, and you know it. I don't want anything to do with it! Why do you want me to learn it at all? What do you get out of it? Is there some witch club where you get a finder's fee if you bring in a new recruit?† That quirky smile of hers returned. â€Å"We prefer the term coven, not witch club. Though that does have a nice ring. But, to answer your question, I don't get anything out of it – at least, not in the way you're thinking. My coven can always use strong members, and you have the potential for greatness. It's bigger than that, however. Your perennial argument is that it's wrong for humans to have this kind of power, right?† â€Å"Right,† I said through gritted teeth. I'd made that argument a million times. â€Å"Well, that's absolutely true – for some humans. You worry this power will be abused? You're right. It happens all the time, which is why we need good, moral people who can counter those who would use the magic for selfish and nefarious reasons.† The bell rang, freeing me. I stood up and gathered my things together. â€Å"Sorry, Ms. Terwilliger. I'm flattered that you think I'm such an upstanding person, but I'm already caught up in one epic battle of good versus evil. I don't need another.† I left our session feeling both troubled and angry and hoped the next two months of this semester would speed by. If this Alchemist mission continued into next year, then creative writing or some other elective would become a very viable choice for my schedule. It was a shame too because I'd really loved Ms. Terwilliger when I first met her. She was brilliant and knew her subject area – history, not magic – and had encouraged me in that. If she'd shown the same enthusiasm for teaching me history as she did magic, we wouldn't have ended up in this mess. My dinners were usually spent with Julia and Kristin or â€Å"the family.† Tonight was a family night. I found Eddie and Angeline already at a table when I entered East's cafeteria, and as usual, he seemed grateful for my presence. â€Å"Well, why not?† Angeline was saying as I sat down with my tray. It was Chinese food night, and she held chopsticks, which seemed like a bad idea. I'd tried to teach her how to use them once, with no luck. She'd gotten angry and stabbed an eggroll so hard that the sticks had broken. â€Å"I just†¦ well, it's not my thing,† Eddie said, clearly groping for an answer to whatever her question was about. â€Å"I'm not going at all. With anyone.† â€Å"Jill will be there with Micah,† pointed out Angeline slyly. â€Å"Won't you need to come keep an eye on her since it's not at the school?† Eddie's answer was a pained look. â€Å"What are you talking about?† I finally asked. â€Å"The Halloween Dance,† said Angeline. That was news to me. â€Å"There's a Halloween Dance?† Eddie dragged himself from his misery to give me a surprised look. â€Å"How do you not know? There are signs everywhere.† I stirred around my steamed vegetables. â€Å"They must not be anywhere I've been.† Eddie gestured with his fork to something behind me. Turning, I looked back toward the food line I'd just been in. There, hanging above it on the wall, was an enormous banner that read HALLOWEEN DANCE. It listed the date and time and was decorated with badly drawn pumpkins. â€Å"Huh,† I said. â€Å"How can you memorize entire books but miss something like that?† asked Angeline. â€Å"Because Sydney's brain only records ‘useful' information,† Eddie said with a smile. I didn't deny it. â€Å"Don't you think Eddie should go?† pushed Angeline. â€Å"He needs to watch out for Jill. And if he goes, we might as well go together.† Eddie shot me a desperate look, and I tried to find him a way out of this. â€Å"Well, yeah, of course he'll go†¦ especially if it's off-site.† The banner mentioned some venue I'd never heard of. We'd seen no sign of the Moroi who were after Jill, but an unknown place presented new dangers. Inspiration hit. â€Å"But that's the thing. He'll be on-duty. He'll spend the whole time checking the place out, watching for mysterious people. It'd be a waste for him to, uh, go with you. You probably wouldn't have much fun. Better to go with someone else.† â€Å"But I should be protecting Jill too,† she argued. â€Å"Isn't that why I'm here? I need to learn what to do.† â€Å"Well, yeah,† he said, obviously trapped by her logic. â€Å"You'll have to go with me in order to look after her.† Angeline brightened. â€Å"Really? Then we can go together!† Eddie's look of pain returned. â€Å"No. We're going together. Not together.† Angeline didn't seem to be fazed by the nuances. â€Å"I've never been to a dance,† she admitted. â€Å"Well, I mean, back home, we have them all the time. But I don't think they'll be like the ones here.† That I agreed with. I'd seen the types of social events the Keepers had. They involved raucous music and dancing around bonfires, along with some kind of toxic homemade alcohol that probably even Adrian wouldn't touch. The Keepers also didn't think a social event was a success if at least one fight didn't break out. It was actually kind of amazing that Angeline hadn't gotten into one yet here at Amberwood. I should have counted myself lucky that her only transgressions were dress code violations and talking back to teachers. â€Å"Probably not,† I said neutrally. â€Å"I don't know. I've never been to a dance either.† â€Å"You're going to this one, aren't you?† asked Eddie. â€Å"With Brody?† â€Å"Brayden. And I don't know. We haven't even had our second date. I don't want things to move too fast.† â€Å"Right,† Eddie said. â€Å"Because there's no bigger sign of commitment than a Halloween dance.† I was about to get him back by suggesting maybe he and Angeline should go together after all when Jill and Micah joined us. Both were laughing and had a hard time settling down to explain what was so funny. â€Å"Janna Hall finished a men's suit in sewing club tonight,† said Jill between giggles. Once again, I felt a rush of joy at seeing her so happy. â€Å"Miss Yamani said it's the only guy's outfit she's seen in there in five years. Of course, Janna needed a model, and there's only one guy in there†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Micah attempted a tormented look but was quickly smiling again. â€Å"Yeah, yeah. I did the manly thing and stepped up. That suit was awful.† â€Å"Aw,† said Jill. â€Å"It wasn't that awful – okay, it really was. Janna didn't try to go by any size guidelines, so the pants were huge. Like, tents. And since she didn't make any belt loops, he had to hold it all up with a sash.† â€Å"Which barely held when they made me do a runway walk,† said Micah, shaking his head. Jill gave him a playful nudge. â€Å"Everyone probably would've loved if it hadn't held.† â€Å"Remind me to never ever sign up for an all-girls club again,† said Micah. â€Å"Next semester, I'm taking something like shop or karate.† â€Å"You won't do it again? Not even for me?† Jill managed a look that was amazingly both pouty and alluring. That, I realized, was more effective than any charm spell or compulsion. Micah groaned. â€Å"I'm helpless.† I didn't consider myself particularly sentimental – and still disapproved of their timid romance – but even I smiled at their antics. At least, I did until I caught sight of Eddie's face. He wasn't giving away much, to be fair. Maybe hanging around Dimitri had provided some tips on the guardian poker face. But Eddie wasn't Dimitri yet, and I could see the faintest signs of pain and longing. Why did he do this to himself? He'd refused to tell Jill how he felt. He took the noble stance that he was her protector and nothing more. Some part of me could understand that. What I couldn't understand was why he kept torturing himself by endorsing her going out with his roommate, of all people. Even with his hang-up over Micah and Mason, Eddie was forcing himself to constantly watch the girl he wanted with someone else. I had no relatable experience, but it had to be agonizing. Eddie caught my eye and gave a small shake of his head. Let it go, he seemed to be saying. Don't worry about me. I'll be fine. Angeline soon piped in with more talk about the dance, interrogating Jill and Micah about whether they'd be going. She also brought up her plans to go â€Å"with† Eddie. That pulled him out of his melancholy mood, and although I knew she annoyed him, I wondered if that was better than continually being tormented by Jill and Micah's relationship. Of course, the conversation came to a halt – as did Eddie's problem – when Micah frowned and pointed out what the rest of us had missed. â€Å"Why would you go to the dance together? Aren't you guys cousins?† Eddie, Jill, and I froze. Another cover story mess-up. I couldn't believe this had now slipped past me twice. I should have mentioned this as soon as Angeline brought up the dance. In the school's eyes, we were all related. â€Å"So?† asked Angeline, missing the point. Eddie cleared his throat. â€Å"Um, third cousins. But still. We're not really going together. It's more of a joke.† That effectively killed the topic, and he couldn't help smiling triumphantly. Brayden picked me up immediately after school the next day so that we could make the windmill tour on time. Ms. Terwilliger had even let me go a few minutes early, after promising I'd get her a cappuccino on our way back to Amberwood. I was excited to see Brayden and the tour, yet as I got into his car, I felt a brief pang of doubt. Did I have any business doing these sorts of fun, personal activities? Especially now that the cover story had slipped a couple of times. Maybe I was spending too much time on me and not enough on the mission. Brayden had lots to tell me about the debate competition he'd attended over the weekend. We analyzed some of the more difficult topics he'd come across and laughed at the easy ones that had stumped the opposing team. I'd feared dating for years but was again pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to talk to him. It was a lot like the Shakespearean outing: an endless source of topics that we both knew lots about. It was the rest of the experience that still left me unsettled – the â€Å"date† stuff. The dating books I'd read since our last outing mostly advised on when to have sex, which was completely useless since I had yet to figure out holding hands. The giant windmills were pretty impressive. They didn't have the sleek beauty of cars that I loved, but I felt the same awe at the engineering they represented. Some of the windmills were over a hundred feet tall, with blades half the size of a football field. Moments like these made me marvel at human ingenuity. Who needed magic when we could create these kinds of wonders? Our tour guide was a cheery girl in her mid-twenties who clearly loved her job and all that wind energy represented. She knew all sorts of trivia about it – but not quite enough to satisfy Brayden. â€Å"How do you address the energy inefficiency that comes from the turbines needing wind speeds that fall into such a narrow range?† Then: â€Å"What's your response to studies showing that simply improving the filters in the conversion of fossil fuels would result in less carbon dioxide emissions than this sort of energy production?† And later: â€Å"Can wind power really be treated as a viable option when – after considering the cost of construction and other maintenance – consumers end up paying more than they would for traditional forms of electricity?† I couldn't be certain, but I think our guide wrapped up the tour early. She encouraged some of the other tourists to come back anytime but said nothing as Brayden and I walked past her. â€Å"That woman was sadly uninformed,† he told me, once we were back on the highway. â€Å"She knew plenty about the windmills and their facility,† I pointed out. â€Å"I'm guessing the latest controversies just don't get brought up much on these tours. Or,† I paused, smiling, â€Å"how to deal with, um, forceful tourists.† â€Å"I was forceful?† he asked, seeming legitimately surprised. He had gotten so caught up in his ideas that he didn't even realize it. It was endearing. I tried not to laugh. â€Å"You came on strong, that's all. I don't think they were prepared for someone like you.† â€Å"They should be. Wind power's got promise, true, but for now, there are all sorts of expenses and efficiency problems that need to be addressed. It's useless otherwise.† I sat there for several moments, trying to decide how best I should respond. None of the advice I'd gotten from the books or my friends really prepared me for how to handle discussions about alternative energy sources. One of the books – one I'd chosen not to finish – had a decidedly male-centric view that said women should always make men feel important on dates. I suspected that Kristin and Julia's advice right now would have been to laugh and toss my hair – and not let the discussion progress. But I just couldn't do that. â€Å"You're wrong,† I said. Brayden – who was a big advocate of safe driving – actually took his eyes off the road for a few seconds to stare at me. â€Å"What did you say?† Aside from learning that he had a vast store of extensive and random knowledge like I did, I'd also picked up on something else central to Brayden's personality. He didn't like to be wrong. This was no surprise. I didn't either, and we had a lot in common that way. And, from the way he'd discussed school and even his debate competition, I'd also deduced people never told him he was wrong – even if by chance he was. Maybe it wasn't too late to do the hair-tossing thing. Instead, I just rushed on. â€Å"You're wrong. Maybe wind isn't as efficient as it could be, but the fact that it's even being developed is a vast improvement over the outdated, archaic energy sources our society's been dependent on. Expecting it to be as cost-efficient as something that's been around much, much longer is naive.† â€Å"But – â€Å" â€Å"We can't deny that the cost is worth the benefits. Climate change is increasingly becoming a problem, and wind's reduced carbon dioxide emissions could have a significant impact. Furthermore – and most importantly – wind is renewable. It doesn't matter if other sources are cheap if they're going to run out on us.† â€Å"But – â€Å" â€Å"We need to be progressive and look towards what's going to save us later. To focus strictly on what's cost-efficient now – while ignoring the consequences – is short-sighted and will ultimately lead to the downfall of the human race. Those who think otherwise are only perpetuating the problem, unless they can come up with other solutions. Most don't. They just complain. That's why you're wrong.† I paused to catch my breath and then dared a glance at Brayden. He was watching the road, but his eyes were impossibly wide. I don't think he could have been more shocked if I'd slapped him. Immediately, I berated myself for what I'd said. Sydney, why didn't you just bat your eyelashes? â€Å"Brayden?† I asked tentatively when almost a minute passed with no response. More stunned silence met me. Suddenly, without warning, he pulled the car sharply off the highway and onto the shoulder. Dust and gravel kicked up around us. In that moment, I was absolutely certain he was going to demand I get out and walk back to Palm Springs. And we were still miles from the city. Instead, he caught hold of my hands and leaned toward me. â€Å"You,† he said breathlessly. â€Å"Are amazing. Absolutely, positively, exquisitely amazing.† And then he kissed me. I was so surprised, I couldn't even move. My heart raced, but it was more from anxiety than anything else. Was I doing it right? I tried to relax into the kiss, letting my lips part slightly, but my body stayed rigid. Brayden didn't pull back in revulsion, so that was a good sign. I'd never kissed anyone before and had been worrying a lot about what it'd be like. The mechanics of it turned out not to be so difficult. When he did finally pull away, he was smiling. A good sign, I guessed. I smiled back tentatively because I knew it was expected. Honestly, a secret part of me was a little disappointed. That was it? That's what the big deal was? It hadn't been terrible, but it hadn't sent me soaring to new heights either. It had been exactly what it seemed like, lips on lips. With a great sigh of happiness, he turned and began driving again. I could only watch him with wonder and confusion, unable to form any response. What had just happened? That was my first kiss? â€Å"Spencer's, right?† Brayden asked when we exited to downtown shortly thereafter. I was still so baffled by the kiss that it took me a moment to remember I'd promised Ms. Terwilliger a cappuccino. â€Å"Right.† Just before we turned the corner toward the street Spencer's was on, Brayden suddenly made an unexpected stop at a florist shop. â€Å"Be right back,† he said. I nodded wordlessly, and five minutes later, he returned and handed me a large bouquet of delicate, pale pink roses. â€Å"Thank you?† I said, making it more of a question. Now, in addition to the kiss and â€Å"amazing† declaration, I'd somehow earned flowers too. â€Å"They're not adequate,† he admitted. â€Å"In traditional floral symbolism, orange or red would have been more appropriate. But it was either these or some lavender ones, and you just don't seem like a purple person.† â€Å"Thank you,† I said, more firmly this time. As I breathed in the roses' sweet scent on the way to Spencer's, I realized that no one had ever given me flowers before. We reached the coffee shop soon thereafter. I got out of the car, and in a flash, Brayden was right by my side so that he could shut the door for me. We went inside, and I was almost relieved to see Trey working. His teasing would be a nice return to normality, seeing as my life had just detoured into Crazyland. Trey didn't even notice us at first. He was speaking intently to someone on the other side of the counter, a guy a little older than us. The guy's tanned skin, black hair, and similar facial features tipped me off pretty quickly that he and Trey were related. Brayden and I waited discreetly behind the guy, and Trey finally looked up, an astonishingly grim expression on his face that was pretty out of character. He looked surprised when he saw us, but then seemed to relax a little. â€Å"Melbourne, Cartwright. Here for a little post-windmill caffeine?† â€Å"You know I never drink caffeine after four,† said Brayden. â€Å"But Sydney needs something for her teacher.† â€Å"Ah,† said Trey. â€Å"The usual for you and Ms. T?† â€Å"Yeah, but make mine iced this time.† Trey gave me a knowing look. â€Å"Need to cool down a little, huh?† I rolled my eyes. The guy ahead of us was still standing around, and Trey nodded toward him while grabbing two cups. â€Å"This is my cousin Chris. Chris, this is Sydney and Brayden.† This must have been Trey's â€Å"perfect† cousin. At a glance, I saw little that marked him as better than Trey, except maybe his height. Chris was pretty tall. Not Dimitri-tall, but still tall. Otherwise, they both had similar good looks and an athletic build. Chris even had some of the same bruises and scrapes Trey often sported, making me wonder if there was a family connection to sports as well. Regardless, Chris hardly seemed like anyone Trey should be intimidated by, but then, I was biased by our friendship. â€Å"Where are you here from?† I asked. â€Å"San Francisco,† said Chris. â€Å"How long are you in town?† asked Brayden. Chris gave Brayden a wary look. â€Å"Why do you want to know?† Brayden looked surprised, and I didn't blame him. Before either of us could figure out the next move in the small-talk handbook, Trey hurried back over. â€Å"Relax, C. They're just being nice. It's not like they work for some spy agency.† Well, Brayden didn't. â€Å"Sorry,† said Chris, not actually sounding that sorry. That was a difference between the cousins, I realized. Trey would've laughed off his mistake. He never actually would have made the mistake. There were definitely different levels of friendliness in this family. â€Å"A couple weeks.† Neither Brayden nor I dared say anything after that, and mercifully, Chris chose that opportunity to leave, with a promise to call Trey later. When he was gone, Trey shook his head apologetically and set the completed coffees on the counter. I reached for my wallet, but Brayden waved me away and paid. Trey handed Brayden back his change. â€Å"Next week's schedule's already up.† â€Å"It is?† Brayden glanced over at me. â€Å"Mind if I go in the back room for a second? Figuratively, of course.† â€Å"Go ahead,† I said. As soon as he was gone, I turned frantically to Trey. â€Å"I need your help.† Trey's eyebrows rose. â€Å"Words I never thought I'd hear from you.† That made two of us, but I was at a loss, and Trey was my only source of help right now. â€Å"Brayden got me flowers,† I declared. I wasn't going to mention the kiss. â€Å"And?† â€Å"And, why'd he do it?† â€Å"Because he likes you, Melbourne. That's what guys do. They buy dinner and gifts, hoping that in return you'll – um, like them back.† â€Å"But I argued with him,† I hissed, glancing anxiously at the door Brayden had gone through. â€Å"Like, just before he got me the flowers, I gave him this big lecture about how he was wrong about alternative sources of energy.† â€Å"Wait, wait,† said Trey. â€Å"You told†¦ you told Brayden Cartwright he was wrong?† I nodded. â€Å"So why'd he react like he did?† Trey laughed, a big, full laugh that I was certain would draw Brayden back. â€Å"People don't tell him he's wrong.† â€Å"Yeah, I figured.† â€Å"And girls especially don't tell him he's wrong. You're probably the only girl who's ever done it. You're probably the only girl smart enough to do it.† I was getting impatient. â€Å"I get that. So why the flowers? Why the compliments?† Trey shook his head and looked like he was about to start laughing again. â€Å"Melbourne, if you don't know, then I'm not going to tell you.† I was too worried about Brayden returning to comment further on Trey's useless â€Å"advice.† Instead, I said, â€Å"Is Chris the perfect cousin you were talking about?† Trey's smirk faded. â€Å"That's the one. Anything I can do, he can do better.† I immediately regretted asking. Trey, like Adrian, was one of those people I didn't like seeing troubled. â€Å"Well. He didn't seem so perfect to me. Probably I'm biased from being around you all the time. You set the standard for perfection.† That brought Trey's smile back. â€Å"Sorry about his attitude. He's always been like that. Not the most charming branch of the Juarez family tree. That's me, of course.† â€Å"Of course,† I agreed. He was still smiling when Brayden returned, but when I cast a glance backward as I was leaving the coffee shop, Trey's expression had darkened again. His thoughts were turned inward, and I wished I knew how to help. On the drive back to Amberwood, Brayden said shyly, â€Å"Well. Now I know my schedule for the next two weeks.† â€Å"That's†¦ good,† I said. He hesitated. â€Å"So†¦ I know when I can go out again. If, that is, I mean. If you want to go out again.† That would've surprised me, if I wasn't already stumped by everything else that had happened today. Brayden wanted to go out with me again? Why? Girls especially don't tell him he's wrong. You're probably the only girl who's ever done it. You're probably the only girl smart enough to do it. More importantly, did I want to go out with him again? I glanced over at him and then down at the roses. I thought about his eyes when he'd gazed at me in the stopped car. I realized then the odds of me ever finding a guy who thought Shakespeare and wind farms were fun were pretty infinitesimal. â€Å"Okay,† I said. His narrowed his eyes in thought. â€Å"Isn't there some kind of dance your school's having? Do you want to go to that? People go to those, right?† â€Å"That's what I keep hearing. How'd you know about it?† â€Å"The sign,† he said. Then, as if on cue, he pulled into the driveway in front of my dorm. Hanging over the main door was a sign decorated with cobwebs and bats. GET YOUR SCARE ON AT THE HALLOWEEN DANCE. â€Å"Oh,† I said. â€Å"That sign.† Eddie was right. I really did have selective data storage. â€Å"I guess we can go. If you want to.† â€Å"Sure. I mean, if you want to.† Silence. We both laughed. â€Å"Well, then,† I said. â€Å"I guess we're going.† Brayden leaned toward me, and I panicked until I saw that he was trying to get a better look at the sign. â€Å"A week and a half away.† â€Å"Enough time to get costumes, I suppose.† â€Å"I suppose. Although†¦Ã¢â‚¬  And that's when the next crazy thing happened. He held my hand. I admit, I hadn't been expecting much, especially after my mixed reaction to the roadside kiss. Still, as he laid his hand over mine, I was surprised to feel that it was again just like†¦ well, like touching someone's hand. I'd at least thought there might be goose bumps or a little heart fluttering. My biggest emotional reaction was worry over what to do with my hand. Lace fingers? Squeeze his hand back? â€Å"I'd like to go out sooner,† he said. That hesitancy returned. â€Å"If you want to.† I looked down at our hands and tried to figure out how I felt. He had nice hands. Smooth, warm. I could get used to holding those hands. And of course, he smelled like coffee. Was that enough to build love on? Again, that uncertainty nagged me. What right did I have to any of this? I wasn't in Palm Springs for my own entertainment. There was no â€Å"me† in Alchemy. Well, phonetically there was, but that wasn't the point. I knew my superiors wouldn't approve of any of this. And yet, when would I get this chance again? When would I ever get flowers? When would someone look at me with this kind of fervor? I decided to take the plunge. â€Å"Sure,† I said. â€Å"Let's go out again.†