










Freshman Composition
Critical and Argumentative Writing
Blogging in the Blogosphere
English 100 and 103
FORMAT:
When you blog, in the Title, write your first and last name as you would as if you are turning in a paper to me. Then you do not have to write my name because I know you are in my class. Write what English class you are in whether it is English 52, 60, 100 and what College.
For example, one would write:
Yue Hayes
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #1
Homelessness
Font size
In addition, for the title, pick the topic of discussion, grammar/organization, content, current events, pop culture or literature as a TITLE that we have discussed in class. Write the posts like this: write #1 Post or #2 Post or Post #50, so I can easily keep track of them and how many you write.
Of course, you are welcome to write more than several posts, and in doing so is another form of participation and does count in the participation grade. Perhaps, in class, you may not participate all that much but in the realm of the blogosphere, you can from the comfort of your own home,
* reflect on the day's class discussion or offer up an insight that you found particularly interesting, etc., etc.
*
* How does it change the way you think or thought before on the subject?
*
* What actions might you take in the future? Anything is open to interpretation.
Of course, I need not go on and on about being respectful towards your peers' opinions and beliefs. If you disagree with another student's views be discreet about it: Do not say so and so is completely wrong because of this and that. Instead, say, I disagree with so and so and here are the reasons why I do. Go after their evidence and support and do not, I repeat do not attack someone else personally. This is supposed to be a forum for everyone to share their ideas and views.
*I will enforce the blogosphere by either deleting your hard work, making an example out of you here in the realm of the blogosphere or in class* . . .
3,403 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 1401 – 1600 of 3403 Newer› Newest»:) hope everyone is having a good week so far.
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post #13
UGH. Alright. I'm contemplating changing my essay to the cave now. I know I sound crazy for changing it at the very last minute, but I already had to restart my essay on a stereotype because apparently I wrote it wrong to begin with. I can't focus on it anymore. Can someone clarify the cave essay for me? Do we write on our cave on how it affected us in the past, how it affects us now, and how it will affect us in the future? I'm probably not going to have my homework for tomorrow mornings class now, but oh well. I cannot concentrate on a stereotype anymore.
Please help! Thanks.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos
Post guessing
Normal day
I had a hard day. I went to work, and people just were acting a fool with me. Customers were more annoying than usual! Then I had to go class, I enjoyed class because of the talks about the speeches.
Then I got home, I just entered my house and mother gave me the baby. I asked her if she can just give me 6 minutes to eat because I have not eaten since 12. Being a big girl I need to eat.
Once I was done I got a hold of Janelle and she was just having a fit. I needed to change her and she was not having it. Then I tried to play with her and she just wanted to be held. I held her and she just wanted to play. Like a true baby she was having moods. Around 845 I got her milk ready and put her to sleep. Once she was asleep the stupid dog wanted to bark at nothing and woke her up. I just got her to bed and it is time to do my Homework. I am really drained, but work must be done.
Angel Togafau
English 110
GWC
post #9?
First paper
After getting the first paper assignemnt, I deffinatly knew why this class is called, "critical thinking." I chose to do my paper on homonyms, because I heard AOTC was easier. I really want to give myself a major challange. When I read Homonyms, to be honest I did not understand a thing. I have a hard time reading stories and trying to think outside the box at the same time thinking, "So what is this really supposed to mean?" Even thought it's difficulte and frustrating when I can not figure out the bigger picture, I like that it makes my brain work.
I have taken both english 10 and 100 and I really grew and passion for writing. In high school, wiritng was just another assignment. However, as I continue my journey through college I realize more and more how important writing it in academics but life as well. Like my old professor said, "writing is money, if you can write you can do anything."
Honestly, this first paper has been a struggle for me. It seem's simple, write a paper about being labeled. I have had plently of those moments. Yet, incorrpurating Homonyms into the essay is the challenging part. Making sure thye quote is in the appropriate place and completely understanding the meanings.
Nevertheless, I am always up for a challenge. Good Luck everyone! :)
(Andy) Nam Pham
English 110
GWC
Post #11
President Barack Obama Acceptance Speech
This speech was a great speech and I personally feel that we, as a country, have reached a milestone. The day that he became president will be written and remembered in all the history text books, and everybody who was lucky enough to have lived in this lifetime. I can honestly say that we are so lucky enough to exist in this generation, to witness such great change so quickly.
At first, Obama thanks and recognizes everyone important. Then starting at "paragraph" 9, he begins his message about change. He states the problems we face in paragraph 13, and gives us examples and provides illustration. He also reminds us to stay in realistic and practical boundaries and scenarios, to prevent absurd promises and dreams. Then he introduces the message of unity to us. He restates that is important to be together in this country, and how we must help each other in such a time of crisis. Then he puts us in the perspective of Ann Nixon Cooper, who has witnessed a great deal of change. He also gives us the thought of having the opportunity to witness great change, like Ann Nixon Cooper did. To amplify the thought of change, he speaks about the past and how the country has overcome such great obstacles that have damaged the country. Speaking about the past, present, and future provides us with a kind of unity, that ties us all as one. He also repeats "Yes we can," to overcome the doubt the nation has, not only over him as a leader, but the nation's perspective, all of us, towards what we can do for our country. With this he provides us with a sense of confidence to overcome the challenges that lay ahead of us. Great finish.
Angel Togafau
English 110
GWC
post #10
I have A Dream
It completely amazes me how when I read this speech, it felt as if I were listening to Mr. King Jr. presenting it himeself. The words he uses paints such grim, yet perfect pictures in my imagination. Even though I thankfully did not endure nor have I, the struggles of the African American people, I felt their pain in my heart.
I still can not seems to get over that people were treated so unequal, so un-humain, so wrong. In paragraph 3, Mr. King Jr. speaks about how even after 100 years, they are still not free. One day, last semester, I was talking an African American man. He was telling me a story about how he was walking to his office on campus and this lady reported him to public safty decribing him as a "suspecious creeper." Sadly, this was not the first time something like this happened to him. He told me, word from word, "Us black people will never be free. It could be worse, but it could be better. No matter where I go I will be treated differently by someone for the color of my skin." This really hit me hard and his words kept running through my head over and over. This is the truth. That awful period of judegemnt and discrimination is deffinalty not completely eliminated. We have made great progress, but no enough.
What is the reason that anyone should be treated differently because of skin color, or anything for that matter. We were all created equal and should be treated accordingly. I have a dream that one day Mr. Martin Luther King Jr's dream will be in full affect. I look forward to that day, what a beauitful world it would be.
test 123
Greg Burns
english 110
Gwc
wow the paper in finised i spent a good amout of time working on this paper. i know when its turned in it will be ripped apart then placed together. haha i cant wait to see what i can improve on my paper. I will keep reading and try to improve.
Angel Togafau
English 110
GWC
Post #11
Please let me know if anyone else is on the same page as me.
I don't understand why people work at these campuses if they don't want to help the students. Also, why do they act like were stupid if we ask a question or need help. This is not directed at anyone at GWC, but OCC.
I have been trying to redgister for math at OCC for the past five weeks. Either the professors are never there, there closed, or any other excuse they have. Keep in mind, it takes at least 30 to park over there. Anyways, today I actually caught the math professor and explained I have been there five times trying to take my test. She instantly snaps at me saying, "You don't know how to follow instructions. We have orientations for that specific reason so there is not confusion but you obviously didn't get it." RUDE RIGHT? I was trying to maintain my calm and then she has enough nerve to say, "Well you should have taken you test the week after your orientation. Your not a real/serious student and now I know that." Get this, I have eight classes (23 units) would a "un-real/serious" student be taking 8 classes? I don't think so.. wait NO they wouldn't! And, I was there the week after my orientation trying to take my test. Five times actually and SHE was nowhere to be found. Then, she said that I wouldn't be able to pass the test I have been trying to take for 5 weeks!
I dont understand why this professor though she could be so RUDE to me? I was just as irritated as her, if not more. She wasted five weeks of my time!
I was so upset, I am going to wirte a letter to the president of OCC because students should not be treated like this. After all, if it wern't for us students there would be no professors, no school.
However, I am going tomorrow to take my math test. I am going to pass it and prove her wrong.
Brandon Hebert
Post:22
Goldenwest
eng110
MLK:
I wont blog bout obama because I cant detach my personal sentiments. I was reading a few other posts on MLK's speech, about how there is still racism, and I have to disagree. In MLK's day, there was outright racism and a lot of minorities were treated unfairly. His speech would have empowered me had i been there, even me being a white. As is the case there were plenty of white americans in the crowd that day. THat is a great speech-when one not only hears, but listens and takes it all in. THere will always be racism. as John Adams said: "to create real change, you must first create a change in the hearts and minds of people". But the racism of today is not a binding chain. Its just hate. There is a lot of reverse racism-Affirmative Action for instance. Look on every corporate website, and i guarantee one will find a slogan similar to: Join our diverse team. That is the trend nowadays. Diversity. I find that to be negative. It should be on merit. as MLK said "judged not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." That means also do not give preferrential treatment based on race.
Stephanie Farano
GWC
English 110
Barack Obama's Acceptance Speech
In a time when our country felt hopeless and drained of spirit Barack Obama promised change. A new beginning for those who wanted to escape from their past, and run to a bright new future. All of the promises and slogans that were pressed into our minds over the time of the rigorous campaign, came through in his speech. The first through fifth sentences address the the joining of an America. A fresh start in which everyone has an equal opportunity for success. Barack is the first African American president and is living proof that we have become a country of great opportunity. We have evolved into this nation of change. Line five of the speech creates an involved voice of the people, he directly includes the nation and puts himself at the level of all of the voters. This is Obama's way of showing the world that their votes and contribution do make a difference. The next three short statements included in lines six through eight make him a gracious winner and beloved husband and family man. The thank you to his wife and kids, reminds everyone that he is "somewhat" normal and allows you to relate to his family. Obama is an amazing speaker and incredibly charismatic. He could read the dictionary and probably make it sound good. Having said that, I really enjoyed rereading and watching him deliver this speech. The unity and inspiration that came in the words of this speech gave hope and a new meaning to the word change.
Brandon Hebert
GoldenWest
Eng110
Post:23
Writing Process
the hardest part about writing is beginning the thread. Its easy to outline everything but what actual words should i choose? whats the best way to say what i want to say? I find that I make my papers too brief because I throw it all out there, or place too much information in one paragraph, so when i try to move on i found that i've said it all already. Itll take twenty minutes to get the first sentence, and then the speed increases exponentially. Im glad the conclusion is at the end, its like the best for last. Because the conclusion is so staple and easy.
This paper has been easier for me than in the past. Its much easier to expand upon. I'm sure others' will be more interesting, due largely to the degree of thier stereotype/prejudism. I must say, sometimes i look back on my paper, and feel like I'm just bitching about something I should suck up and prove wrong(pardon le french). Who knows.
LongKim Luong
Eng 110
GWC
post 11
I have a dream by MLK
I think his speech is beautiful. The words are straighforward and easy to understand at any English level. This is probably the most easiest reading in the book.First, he started with " five score years ago" and then the "Hundred years later" the African Americans still suffered with poverty and the lack of rights. They experienced discrimination, segregation, bitterness but nobody gave up. Then he talked about states that happened with slavery and segeration. I can feel the powerful desire of liberty from his speech. he had list every states with details such as Mississippi, Alabama, South CAroline, Georgia, Louisiana, slums and ghettos so that nobody will be left out.The last part of his speech seems like a poem because he repeated many " Let freedom ring .." which make the ending more powerful to me. He did not forget to include all kind of people " all of God's children" and wish everyone for happiness.
My writing process
I think my essay is doing okay so far, and i want to keep up with my decision.My first choice is Honomym (because i could not do the Cave anyway =]). At first, i was desperate because i could not think up of any label or stereotype that others have given to me.Perhaps I am a little too perfect so that nobody can have a chance to label me or they gave too many negative labels before but i 've never cared so i do not remember right now. However, i managed to find that negative label out and started my essay little by little. I have most of parts of the essay done except the 3BPs and the intro(j/k ^0^).I think my first BP is too long (2 pages), so i might need to shorten my long story later.ok!
Joshua Greenroyd
GWC
Eng 110
Post #19ish
First Essay Writing Process
The most important things about this essay are keeping your head up, and paying attention. Do not let the essays burden you. Keep your head up, it will get done. Do not think about the bad of writing the essay. Instead just think about the essay. The more of the truth that is put into the essay, the more it just flows from your finger tips. It may sound difficult before you start, but just let it flow and the length will come without even knowing. Paying attention in class is also important. Mr. Hsiao spends a great deal of his energy getting his students to not only have success in writing the essay, but also in enjoying to write it. He gives meaningful work out, so take his class to see life in a new perspective. He goes over everything in class. He usually does this step by step. If you have a question ASK HIM he will answer you. His answers will help. If you do what Mr. Hsiao states in class than you will also get better grades. He tells you what he wants, so give it to him. He is grading it. Have fun with it guys
Brittany Williams
English 110
GWC
Post 23
Stephanie- The three body paragraphs for the cave essay are as follows:
1. Story/summary of cave experience
2. Reflection/analysis/commentary of cave experience
3. What happened since the event? What have you learned since?
I am sorry to hear that you are having so much trouble with your homonyms essay. I have to say that I am going a little crazy with my essay as well. I think it is normal.
Anyway, I hope this information helps! See you in class tomorrow morning.
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post 14
Thanks Brittany! I really appreciate it. See you tomorrow.
Joshua Greenroyd
Eng 110
GWC
Post 20
I Have A Dream by Martin Luther King Jr.
Wow, what a powerful speech. Mr. King has put together not only a very moving speech that has changed this country, but a speech that is very well written. He is very knowledgeable. He knew exactly what he was doing when he put this speech together. It uses many techniques of persuasive writing, and speech writing. One of the most obvious techniques is the repitions. He repeats himself over and over to drive in major points throughout the speech. He also uses real life examples. He uses peoples emotions of what is going on around them, and feeds them an image of what the future can be like. He uses this to stir up the people to do something about a change. He also uses a few powerful metaphors in his speech. This just increases the dramatic effect of the speech. Mr. King was a great writer, and helped put this country in change.
Samantha Sullivan
English 110
GWC Post#8?
It sounds like most of everyone has a huge headache from trying to perfect their paper or to even find words to put down. Well I am right there with you. From the start I was confused about the direction of my paper. I am doing homonyms and from the beginging my understanding was that we were to have three different stereotypes that occured in three different situations in our life, but I was obviously WRONG. I have now stiered my paper into the right direction and have kept a relation between all my body paragraphs. I seem to have the worst time writting my intro and conclusion and so I am stuck. I feel that I always give up and just write bluhh and just put words down on the page without thinking. I am a person who does not put myself and problems out there too easily so the deepness of this paper is hard for me. It is hard to put my experiences into words and express myself to the reader. Professor Hsiao is a big help though. He will answer you if you need advise and seems to be attentive in e-mailing you. I wish everyone luck and just know that we are all in the same boat.
Thomas Rios
GWC
English 110
Post #12
I have a Dream
This speech was emotionally charged. MLK's optimism for the future is alluring and intoxicating. The fact that he could see past all the negatives that were occuring to try and reach the positives is hopeful. Although I believe his message and wish it could be true, I do not believe that it can ever truly be this way. I believe that there is always going to be some sort of racism, and I don't think that some people could ever see themselves on the same level with blacks. I believe that we are all brothers and sisters and I hold no grudge against any race. I wish that it could be this way for everyone, but I know it is not. I may just be a skeptic but this is my opinion.
Jessica Atthowe
English 110
GWC
Post ?
Obama's speech
The speech Obama gave after accepting the role of the presidency was very uplifting and enlightening. I felt he did a good job of bringing all his audiences together and try and put people on the same page with wanting change. He gave much hope to all Americans that we can all work together to make America unified. Obama even gave a shout out to those who did not vote for him and even have no respect for him. He made it clear that change would be happening but there would be some major and minor bumps along the way. The speech gave off a very optimistic vibe that may have gained him some of the respect of those who were against him. Overall, Obama said good things in his speech and got Americans ready for change and not afraid to be apart of the process.
Jessica Atthowe
English 110
GWC
Post?
Writing Process
After choosing to write my paper on Allegory of the Cave a few ideas went through my mind. I had experience a few minor caves in my life but i thought about the most recent I've experienced. From there writing the body paragraphs was pretty simple. For me writing about an experience is much easier than transferring my thoughts about a story from my mind to paper. I started with the explanation of my cave then worked my way to the effects and outcomes it has had on me to this day. This was a good paper to start with so I can learn what Mr. Hsiao expects in our papers so I can write well formatted and grammatical papers.
Betsy McPherson
English 110
Golden West College
Post 11..?
Martin Luther King
Martin Luther King wrote his "I have a dream speech" back in 1963 and it was an integral part of the civil rights movement. His speech is recited many times a year by many different organizations to prove thier points, or desires about equality. Our country has come a long way since that speach was first read, however I do not think it has come as far as it needs to or as far as it will go. Rasism is still a large part of our society. Hatred as a whole is still prevelent everywhere you look. Whether it is racially, or sexually driven, we still live in a society of segretation. Our schools are integrated but the cliques are not and the ganges even less so. Gay, Straight, Black, White, Mexican, Native American, our world is still full of labels, seperations, and hate. It may not be as blatent as it was in 1963, but i dont feel it has come as far as it needs to be. I think we need to teach more tolerance in schools and celebrate diversity more than it already it is....
i dont know...thats just how i feel...we've come a long ways but not far enought...
Betsy McPherson
English 110
Golden West College
Post #12
My writing process
my writing process has been interesting to say the least....i really did not know what was going on with those damn paragraphs until we were on paragraph two. i did not realize that the diagnosis was supposed to part of the paper, and i started off on the wrong track all together...looking back on it i am happy with how my paper has turned out, however had i known what the diagnosis was for, i probably would have gone in a different route...
oh well its all good in the hood :-)
i need to sleep. its too late...where did the day go??? idk....
(Andy) Nam Pham
English 110
GWC
Post #12
I love 2AM papers.
Writing Process
This paper drives me crazy. Three reasons. One I have to stay up insanely late to finish. I am a procrastinator, and when I write, I keep writing until I am fresh out. Two, I have to relive and think about all the stereotypes that happened in my life. Third, I am far from done. I do not know how Professor Hsiao will grade my paper. The first day still haunts my dreams and my papers. As I reread my sentences and paragraph over and over, I am thinking that it is still not good enough. Constant fixing and editing when I write my papers.
Another thing.
I absolutely HATE writing personal stories. I am a person that keeps to himself, and when Professor Hsiao wanted us to bleed all over our papers, I can't help but feel screwed. I am not used to writing personal like this. I have to actually communicate with myself, about thoughts and feelings. But I guess this is a new experience that I have to get used to.
Although I did learn much about this essay. I learned how much I have been wronged in the past, and even now. I am questioning more often what people think of me. Not sure if this is good or bad.
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
GWC
Post #8
Stephanie- I am glad that I was able to help you!
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #17
Wow. I fell asleep to have a long dream about running away in a car and getting into accidents. It made me wake up, and now my heart can't stop pounding. :[
I Have a Dream
I have heard this speech many times. Half of the times I could not understand what he was saying (except for I have a dream, which most of us in elementary school giggled at because "he said it funny."). Other times, like in high school and now, I am moved by the same speech.
He is a very powerful speaker. I think this is my first time that I've seen this speech in full. I love what he stood for: Nonviolence. But I love, also, how he conveys his message. He gives us sort of the background, or the problems in the beginning, then comes to conclusions as to what we can do differently.
Not only does he fill the speech with imagery, he also fills it with quotes. Quotes from the songs, quotes from the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution... It supports his cause and the speech gains a lot of support from it. It enables people to see that although they are granted "Freedom," they are still not treated as such.
I would be angry if I was Martin Luther King Jr. But he went ahead and told people to calm down and fight in peace. I think it's a very difficult thing to do, because many people were very angry. It is very moving, really. Nothing else I can say.
Eric Torres
English 110
Golden West College
Post #10
The Writing Process (Homonyms)
In writing this essay, from the start, I got the impression that we were supposed to think of three different ways in which we have been classified. Not knowing this is the case, I wrote three great body paragraphs that are both long and with good quality. After finding out that i have been writing my essay wrong, I did not want to re-write my hole essay. So I found a way to where I can link my three classifications together and find some common ground in how each classification relates to each other, or at least the outcome of each classification. Then I realized that coming up with a thesis state is going to be hard, and in fact it was hard to come up with. However, inspite of all my struggle in writing this first essay in this english class, I managed to complete a very unique, interesting essay.
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
GWC
Post #9
I have a dream
In Martin Luther King's speech one is able to perceived the struggle that he is facing, as well as the hope he has for something better. Martin starts off by addressing how they are marking history. This showing that he had an end in mind. Then he begins to describe the injustice for African American that were slaves and those who had found freedom. He then tells how the founding fathers of the constitution make sure to that every one was equal and had their rights secure in the constitution; however, as he explains it was a century after and the the rights for slaves and the free slaves were not there. All there was is the segregation the white people used as a way to feel superior. In every paragraph Luther King emphasize the want of justice, which makes one not want but crave justice. Then he states that Negroes will not let such injustice slide by anymore. He says they will awake America give the Negroes their rights. He describes his struggle as a walk. A walk alone, a walk that will not let you turn back. It is obvious that was fine with this because he was able to envision his struggle. He knew that all his actions would be bring the justice he wanted. However, through his speech he stayed hopeful that everything would change for the better and all of his brothers and sisters would be treated equally. The he emphasized his dream of having the white society and the Negroes work together as one. He wished that both of them would be treated with their equal rights and equal respect. Finally. he ends up by indulging the want of freedom into his followers. At the end he says that when freedom is finally achieved everybody will be able to join hands and sing. Through the speech stay hopeful and he was polite even if what he was fighting for or what they went through would be tainted to describe is curses. However, he chooses to write in a way that he could show the white society that slaves were not just slaves but intellectuals.
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post #33
Alright I just had one thing to say: Go Angels! We won Texas last night and now were AL West Champs! Go Angels! World Series? I hope. Could not be happier!
Hope everyone has a good day! I plan to show off my Jersey of the team who just WON! LOL. Sorry for all the people who are not Angels fans, I just got to show my Angel Pride! Fan Strong!
~Dalene
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
Golden West College
Post #9
Writing Process
Essays are what makes my relationship with english a love/hate relationship. I like reading stories and all that but when it comes to writing my brain is burn out just to think that I will have to be insightful. As others said with Homonyms, I felt I was doing an amazing job, but NOOOO! I was supposed to write about one stereotyped!!!! In the past, present, and predict one that will happen in the future. Mmhmmm Maybe after this paper, I will finally get that physchic job I was hoping to get. On the other hand, although what I was writing was not correct; I noticed that I have improved in my writing process because I would usually leave the whole paper in hold until the day prior to the due date. However, this paper has shown me that I am getting better at not procrastinating. I have been able to make my paragraph longerrrrrrrr and more detailed, and they unified too! Well, my writing process was going well until we know what happen. Mr. Hsiao tortured us by clarifying that there was only one stereotyped to write about, when we were in our third paragraph! haha. I'm just playing. Well, I believe that if my intro makes my whole essay be connected, I will then be able to describe my writing process. :)
Jasmyne Young
English 110
GWC
Post #12
Erosion of Civilization
This excerpt is the reason why history is so important. I personally hate history but it is very vauluable to us as a nation and as a people. The Fertile Crescent was on top of the world, then it lost itself through "ecological suicide" and very angry neighbors. The U.S. may have been the nation to go to for help, but the U.S. is bordering on the same fate as the Fertile Crescent. It is awesome that the U.S. cares so much for those in need, but now our nation is in desperate need as well. The help needs to start at home, then move on to others. The U.S. needs to get back on top before it can help anyone else. One can only share strength if they have it, and the U.S. does not have the strength it used to. But, then again, the U.S. is the country to go to for those weaker countries. There is a dilemma in our world today. There are countries that need strength, but where are they going to get it from? There is strength in numbers, I feel all should come together as a world and do what we need to do to help eachother out. Sadly enough, I feel that is never going to happen, at least not in my lifetime, but that would be a beautiful site to see.:)
Esmeralda Orozco
english 100
CC
post 37
SO I WAS ON MYSPACE TODAY AND I CAME ACROSS OLD FRIENDS AND MY EX MESSAGES AND I CAME TO THINK
IS THERE REALLY ONE SOUL MATE FOR EACH ONE OF US
DO U GUYS BELIEVE IN
LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT???
MY SIS N LAW HAD ASKED ME THAT QUESTION AND I HAVE BEEN THINKING ABOUT THAT EVER SENCE
DO U GUYS EVEN BELIEVE IN LOVE I KNOW I MIGHT SOUND BITTER OR WAT NOT BUT IM REALLY NOT I JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND THE MEANING OF ONE SOULMATE FOR ME
XOXOX
Jon Croft
English 110
Golden West College
Post #17
The Erosion of Civilization
It seems to me that good sir Diamond is seeking to remind us folks that civilizations and empires and whatnot are going to fail eventually. He brings to the forefront all of the great accomplishments attributed to the Fertile Crescent, and mentions how far ahead of the world they were. The mistakes they made, however, were the causes of their downfall.
These mistakes seemed rather basic at first, such as the guide to "ecological suicide" Diamond mentions. Neighbors who were only interested in the take did not help maintain the areas stability either. After constant pressure from outside superpowers, the remaining commodity they possessed (oil) was kept apart from the general public.
There are certain parallels that can be drawn to those ancient empires and the United States of today, but most are too vague to hold any clout. A better reminder would be to be cognizant of the seemingly simple mistakes being made today: wanton spending, degradation of the environment, the development of Captain Tripps, that kind of stuff.
Brittany Williams
English 110
GWC
Post 24
The Erosion of Civilization
History - nothing more than written words on a piece of paper, which tell a story of a world long since forgotten. Such is the case in Jared Diamond's story, Erosion of Civilization. In his piece, he describes Iraq as having once been a "fertile crescent," leading the world in "technology and agriculture" (paragraph 1). Today, many of us know that this is no longer the case. As centuries past, so too did the environmental stability of the country, which soon resulted in it's demise. With this strong stated example, Diamond goes on to explain the relation between the environmental success of a country, and the domestic issues that arise from the unfortunate event of environmental devastation. "When environmental damage makes people economically desperate, they are likely to suffer from poor health and short life spans, blame their governments, kill each other, end up with crazy leaders, and seek to immigrate illegally to more favored landscapes" (Paragraph 10). In this example, he sights the familiar notion of "cause and effect" as being a key contributor to the violence. It is in dealing with these unfortunate circumstances that Diamond sights three options the first world can do to help. In each of these options, it becomes increasingly clear that there is no way for a more successful country not to intervene, for the destruction soon becomes unavoidable, even to first world countries.
Addition note: I would specifically like to call attention to Diamond’s example of early Iraq….
It was in reading this text that I began to think of the fragility of the world’s power system. Each country is interdependent of each other. It is often frightening to come this realization, for what one country decides to do, can change the whole course of the world in which we live. The importance of world peace (no, I am not running for Miss America) was made evident to me through this reading as I was given new insight in the delicate position of power through Diamond’s example of early Iraq. Let us always remember Diamond’s warning that “Iraq’s decline holds lessons the world should heed” (Paragraph 2). May we never forget the vulnerability each country faces as we continue forth in this power struggle.
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post #34
Esmeralda:
Personally I agree with you. I do not believe in Love at First sight. When we are younger we believe the person we are with we will be with forever, but I think it is not love, but a need. Soulmates I do not think exist, but who knows they might. It is hard to believe that when everyone is breaking up or getting divorced. It would be nice to say you had love at first sight. I would love to say that. It's hard to find that one true person though that works perfect. Lets just hope there is such a thing as a soulmate. Till then I enjoy the couples who are soulmates in the books I read.
~Dalene
Andy Murphy
Eng103
CC
Post#14
Erosion Of Civilization
I gave this a quick once over, not being able to give it my full attention due to other homework on my plate. However I was able to draw some things out of this. What comes to mind first is "what goes up must come down" thanks to Mr. Newton. This can relate to all civilizations throughout history and will inevitably happen to ours in this life or the next. Iraq was the mecca before of everything new and such, but in time it fell. In history we can see the strongest empires that seem invicible, like Rome, that fall down in time. I guess Jared Diamond brings Iraq to light to link it to the United States. As history serves a major purpose in foretelling what can happen later in time. The cause and effect shows we should be wary of what may come.
Cathrina Afusia
Cerritos College
English 100
Reflection on The Erosion Of Civilization
Wow! I did not know anything about the foundation of Iraq. Who would have known the history of a nation that is looked down upon? Honestly the only background I have about the location is what I am exposed to on the news. Of course with the war going on in that area, you do not see much but the negative aspect of it all. I was surprised to read that it was once rich in agriculture, and so advanced in technology. I had to question how an economy could go so far down hill. I ask this question because I know this change did not happen over night. Why didn’t someone rectify the issue before it became a disaster?
I then thought about the state that our economy is in. We are in a recession, and I can see some of the actions that people have resulted in. In the reading it talked about how environmental damage makes people economically desperate. This it says to lead to poor health, short life, killings, and the list goes on. These are facts that do not need to be discovered by some profound genius. These are things as people as well as the government should already be aware of. I believe strongly in that particular part of the reading, because lately the news has been a lot more depressing. The news is filled with mission people, killings, and more developing health related issues. To be honest, it is just so sad. Then there were some possible ways the issues could be addressed. I believe the one our economy takes is the step where help is attempted once a problem arises. The solution I believe we should be taking is to intervene before a problem becomes a disaster. There is so much that needs to be done to help our falling nation. I just hope the US can eventually change so that we do not end up like the nation Iraq that was once so established.
Michael Swisher
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#23
A Civilized Erosion
It is strange that the world’s single most historical, and culturally responsible place has fallen into such dismay. The middle-eastern area of the planet has birthed literacy, history, agriculture, etc. One would think that people who have a head start on all other people concerning education of so many sorts should have excelled past those who stole the art. Apparently it speaks strongly to the fact that history depends on the circumstances. The middle-east has been ripe with war and fear for so long (centuries upon centuries) that it really isn’t a surprise at all that there are so many struggles today. Oil places a very significant role in the declination of the region. If someone can make millions selling a product that is relatively easy to extract to an ever-growing population of consumers, why would that person grow wheat, or raise cattle? The region has been bombarded with raiders, and warmongers since Ghangis Kahn, Alexander The Great, and even the Cesars of old. It is absolutely no joke how much America alone depends on the existence of those oil producing countries. Do you really think the Iraq war is, or was ever about weapons of mass destruction. Even the reasons given today (freedom, terrorists… yada yada yada) are all covers for agendas that the government would rather not talk about, with oil topping the list. In summation, I am saddened that the peoples of such a historic, and critical place are suffering such a state. I am also saddened that it seems as though no one gives a crap. When I discuss politically with colleagues of mine about the tension in the area, the common response is “just nuke em”. Some day things will change in the area. The change will either be prosperity of an unseen nature, or complete dissolution of society. We shall see.
Michael Swisher
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#24
Esme
I believe in love, as well as love at first sight. The only problem is, love at first sight tends to be simply lustful, and physical. I knew my wife before we started dating. We were friends for a few years. When we went on our first "date" I saw her for the first time. So for me, it sorta was love at first sight. I knew that day we would be married and have kids together, and so far everything has gone according to plan.
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #18
The Erosion of Civilization
So far, my favorite excerpt that I have read in this class, and probably other English classes as well. For someone that is not politically centered, I tend to sway with what the media feeds me. With that said, my view of Iraq and the civilizations around it are very distorted, along with my interpretation of their background and future. Nonetheless, I thrive on learning new information that can "LASIK-ly" correct my distorted images of these people, which in this case I like to think it did.
From what I understood, the author is trying to show the readers that a type of people are not the sole reason for the atrocities our world faces. This group was not always this way; in fact, they were the leaders in many developmental fields such as reading and agriculture at one time. The fact that they were trying to thrive in the world, like many countries, exhausted the land they lived on. On top of that, they were pawns in wars, and victims of several invasions that caused many of their precious resources to die out, including morale.
The author warns very clearly early in their writings that "Iraq's decline holds lessons the world should heed", because this can very easily happen to any other country. Toward the end of the essay, the author suggests different ways of handling such situations to avoid further destruction, but also gives the best course for action. Although I try to stay away from persuasive political ideas for the sake of my gullibility, the author held great suggestions to avoid such situations in other parts of the world.
I very much enjoyed seeing a different point of view on these third-world civilizations with the help of historical events that are not commonly heard of elsewhere.
Arcelia Swarr
English 100
CC
Post #quick thoughts
ESME:
I do believe in love, however, I do not believe in love at first sight. I would like to say that I also believe in one true soul mate, but seeing as how I am already divorced from the first guy I believed to be my soul mate and I am currently with a wonderful man who I now believe to be my true soul mate, I am not so sure what I believe! All i really know about love is that nobody knows everything about it. You could ask a million people what love is, and you will get a million answers. I just know that when you find true love, you just know. It's a feeling that cannot be explained. It is what makes a lot of the harder times in life easier to get through, and it is full of ups and downs, but it is always worth it when it's right!
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #39
The Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond
I never paid attention in my history classes. To me, history was just plain boring. But now that I am older I have come to realize, we as a society, should not neglect the past. I was not aware how Iraq has helped us in the past with agriculture and technology. I do not want to sound racist or anything, but when I hear Iraq WAR! comes to my mind. America has used Iraq in some ways and they are pissed. Their land was once known as the Fertile Crescent due to their rich soil for growing crops and what not. But, now they might as well be known as the Infertile Crescent because nothing is growing anymore due to “Ecological Suicide.” But, it is not their fault. Their land was destined for disaster, due to the rainfall. There was nothing they could do about it. Now America does not need their help, we need their fuel but that is about it. That is what I concurred from the first three paragraphs. I do not know if I am getting this so bear with me. I thought it was interesting how our language (English) was originally spoken by Middle Eastern people. I really need to read up on history. Lots of stimulating things to absorb. Iraq got neglected due to the fact that we do not need their assistance any longer. Other world countries also have environmental problems to look forward to. Iraq is not the only one I gather. It was also interesting how the CIA’s list of trouble spots are usually the places that have the disaster areas. These people are fighting for survival. They feel neglected. I know America is doing everything they can to bring peace, but these people are living in a hostile environment and are suffering. They do not know what else to do. So, they take hand in killing each other, doing things illegally or brainstorming crazy antics. This is something we just cannot ignore. I know Iraq is not the only country suffering. There are many other countries in need. War is not necessary to get a point across. I think about how I would react if I lived in an isolated country. I would feel desperate and helpless. I would sacrifice everything and anything for existence. In conclusion, I think it is a good idea for America to help aid third world countries. We can do what we can. But, we cannot save the world overnight. It will take time. I have a feeling the effort would not be good enough. The world can be a greedy place after all. If any of this sounds ignorant, it most likely is. I do not pay attention to the world news. But, I am opting to do so.
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #40
Love
Interesting topic Esme! Thank you. Love? Hmm...what's love? I have never been in love and I sometimes fear that I will never experience it. I know that I have really liked someone or lusted after them. But, to me love only exists if the other person actually loves you back. I have a major fear of love. A fear of getting hurt mostly. It is hard for me to let people in. This is due to the fact that I find it hard to trust people. I have way too many issues to deal with in my life, before I even think about getting into a relationship. As for soul mates? I don't know about that one. There are times when I wish I had someone by my side, but there are also times when I don't. I know he is out there somewhere. He just fell off his horse and lost his way. I am not a very patient woman. So for now I have given up on love. It is just not that important to me.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos
Post ayayaya
The Erosion of Civilization
This reading was interesting because it shows that even a county so
vibrant and full of life, can fall. Like professor H said, it shows that
if we do not take care of something like a country, the effect can be catastrophic.
The reading suggests that Iraq was once the greatest and smartest country in the world. Iraq had already domesticated plants and livestock. They developed the world first tools, and had the first writing system. How does a country like this fall? This fall could not happen over night. Something like this must have taken hundreds of years. Iran being a Fertile Crescent of wild plant and food and then having it turned into to a dessert of despair.
Like most people I thought most of the Middle East country just likes to fight, and they have oil. To know a country mostly by fighting and oil is not really a good way to be known. If someone asked me to give them a word that describes Iraq I would have mention oil. I really feel ignorant after reading this piece. I feel I just let people tell me how a country is instead of trying to do research and learn more about it. Jared Diamond shed light on what really happened to Iraq.
Everyone says that United States is the best country in the world. If the United States does not clean up there act we can certainly be one of the countries that can be next to fall.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos
Post Janelle
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Antonio Acosta
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #?
The Erosion of Civilization
When I finish reading The Erosion of Civilization I learned that a beautiful place paradise can become hell. It talks about how other countries like Iraq were doing so well but the fall. If we do not take care of this country the good things that are helping this country running will disappear. Something so small can make a difference in our lives. Also it talks about how environmental damage get people really scared and people try to seek relief. The problem is that they choose cracy leader. I think is that those leaders become the dictators in our life time or future times. We should not let our fear cause a terrible change in our country like it happened to other countries
Andy Tran
English 100
Cerritos
Post #14
The Erosion of Civilization
I find the reading to be very shocking. If the world does not recognize and adapt to the facts that Jared Diamond has presented, any nation could fall...even the great United States. We as a nation need to learn from Iraq's misfortunes to continue as a leading world power.
Something that ties in with Diamond's reading is the world's natural resources. If we continue in using up all the natural resources, we are going to soon fade away as Iraq has. But now, the world is slowly changing for the better. Many groups have decided to turn green as a way to help save the planet. Every human should join in by recycling, being one of the most effective ways in saving the planet. Even bottle companies have created a new design which uses less plastic as a way to help the Earth.
I just recently seen a new commercial on America's spending. $680 billion towards Iraq war and $3 billion towards hungry children. There is a huge difference! And I feel that we should help feed the hungry children throughout the world instead of feeding the war. There are many other crisis that need funding other than war. Spending some of the billions gone towards war to other problems will ultimately improve the world as a whole. Less problems will arise thus creating a balance in the world.
(Andy) Nam Pham
Enlgish 110
GWC
Post #13
The Erosion of Civilization
It is surprising to actually hear about the country Iraq being so prosperous at a time. Nowadays, the country Iraq is associated with words like blood, oil, war, death. The first couple of paragraphs, Jared Diamond explains the once great land of Iraq and how fortunate they were to live on such a prosperous land. He hints as to where he is taking his argument with "Inferticle Crescent", and "It makes Iraq's current rate of illiteracy an especially cruel irony." Then beginning of paragraph five, he starts to explain the devastation that occured to the land. "...they inadvertently destroyed the environmental resources on which their society depended." This is interesting to hear because it seems like the author takes the blame off of the citizens who lived in the land. Of course, the place was constantly battled over and over a long period of time, there obviously would be nothing left but dust and bones. But I personally do not believe that the author did not stress enough the error in the citizens ways. I am pretty sure they were aware of the saying "Nothing golden ever lasts." They were after all an intelligent society, they had to be aware of what they were sitting on was limited. The environment was fragile and delicate, but that did not mean they could just sit back and let the inevitable doom take their country. They had to be aware of was going to happen in the future. Same thing with recycling, we do not sit on an unlimited resource. We take measures to help the environment to prolong our existence on the planet. So the caretakers of the Fertile Crescent did not do all their parts, as to saving their home.
Starting with paragraph nine, he introduces other countries that are facing the same problem. He uses the cause and effect scheme, where environmentally crippling problems are destroying the countries, and eventually will turn them into dust, the same fate of the Fertile Crescent.
Diamond is clearly pushing the readers towards a solution where First World countries, like America, help countries in need before everything gets worse. He uses the situation in the war against terrorism, where we, as America, ignored the inevitably terrible situation that grew within the country, and at the last moment intervened militarily, when almost nothing is left to be done. He provides examples on why we should intervene before a crisis happens by showing numbers. Money wise, he explains it to be the smart move to make, instead of wasting 100 billion per intervention on the military at the last moment. The cause is that we do not act until the last moment, with military force, and the effect is that we suffer, and become weaker and weaker until we are no longer strong enough to support our own.
Jaime Valadez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#13
The Erosion of Civilization
After reading this piece by Jared Diamond i learned a lot about Iraq and how it has gone from "riches to rags". I never would have thought that Iraq was at one time considered "fertile Crescent". Never in a million years would i have imagined that iraq was the leader in wild plants and animals for hunting. They pretty much were that most dominant country in the world and they went under do to low rainfall which caused "ecological suicide" and a domino affect on everything else. This got me to think. If Iraq was such a wealthy,technology advanced, and great country and it went under, could this one day be the fate of the United states? Really you watch the news and see Iraq and see the poverty and misery. Never would you have thought that at one point they were a great country.
Samantha Navarro
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #2000?
Erosion of Civilization
It seems to me that this piece was meant to teach the US a lesson of how history can be repeated, as incredible as it may seem. It is hard to believe now that Iraq was a superpowerful country then. The reasons for their decline was agricultural exhaustion and surrounding powers coming back to this area and taking over. What has the US done that is similar to this? We spread wealth that is quickly depleating. Diamond says that this wealth can be used more efficiently by fixing our own country first, and when helping another country in crisis, getting to them before the crisis is out of control. It is also ironic that the US, seen as one of the superpowers of the world, is now in war with a broken country who was once as powerful as the US is seen as. Perhaps it is in our human nature to disregard history and not learn from it. This essay is spreading awareness that we too can end up like Iraq has in the future, if we continue the way we have been.
Adrian Moreira
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 17
The Erosion of Civilization - Jared Diamond
Reading this essay made me think a lot about how easy we really have it here in the U.S.A.. So easy in fact that we spend billions of dollars on wars but cannot spend half that amount of to help third world countries. We need to do something to help these countries get out of third world status.
Who would have thought that Iraq was at one time the place to be. The New York City of the Middle East. We have so gained so much knowledge from Iraq and the Fertile Crescent. We tend to look past these things when we think of the Middle East though. Perhaps that is why some of us do not really care whether or not we go to war there. Or are quick to say, "the Middle East is only good for oil."
Jared Diamond wrote a masterful assessment of the cause and effect of what happens when where one lives is environmentally damaged making people economically desperate. He wrote about the effects, "they are likely to suffer from poor health and short life spans, blame their governments, kill each other, end up with crazy leaders, and seek to immigrate illegally to more favored landscapes."
We are lucky to live where we live.
Zachary Duke
Eng 103
CC
Post ????
Erosion Of Civilization
This is an amazing story. Maybe Bush should have read it before doing what he did. now i look at is and like other people have stated, I have learned that any country could fall. We need to learn form this story, tell our Representatives and teach them what not to do in a scene. To react before it happens, not after.
Here is to all the USC fans. I hope you enjoy it
Rally sons of Notre Dame:
Sing her glory and sound her fame,
Raise her Gold and Blue
And cheer with voices true:
Rah, rah, for Notre Dame
We will fight in ev-ry game,
Strong of heart and true to her
name
We will ne'er forget her
And will cheer her ever
Loyal to Notre Dame
Cheer, cheer for old Notre Dame,
Wake up the echoes cheering her name,
Send a volley cheer on high,
Shake down the thunder from the sky.
What though the odds be great or small
Old Notre Dame will win over all,
While her loyal sons are marching
Onward to victory.
Priscilla Daza
Cerritos College
English 100
post #14
man! its 130 in the a.m and i just redid my entire intro! it just occurred to me how unhappy i was with my intro the fact that when i read it out loud it was a massive paragraph of confusion. i was trying to explain homonyms way too hard i guess. man! that means that i have to redo my conclusion afterward. now i feel that i am nit picking at my paper. NO! and then stupid microsoft word keeps on underlying in red agamben and underlying in green other stuff in my essay which i believe are not fragments and its annoying me. seriously. its like making fun of me or something. i must be tired. the quotes i chose dont seem to satisfy my interest any longer. its like i feel im not explaining thoroughly afterward on how it relates to me. i have been yawning every now and then and hiccuping...??? i know right? maybe i should drink water..haha. ARGH! im wasting time! okay i just thought i should let you guys know whats up with my status...Do not think any less of me Mister Hsiao for working on this at this hour...I already feel I should be wise on what NOT to write...haha... im only half serious
Priscilla Daza
English 100
Cerritos College
post #14
okay so it is 426 am and i just save my essay on my flashdrive. surprisingly i am still awake not yawning my head off...i just cant believe im up this late without starbucks ahaha...hopefully i'll make it to my 9am class...hmm we'll see how i feel about that around 730am...okay see you guys in class!! YEA!
Sam Shepherd
English 103
CC
So it's 8 am...and I am running on less than 3 hours of sleep. yay. Yesterday was an extremely long day. I woke up early to finish working on my essay, I went to my court meeting at 11 am, went to work at 12 pm and then went to school from 6-10 pm. After giving a ride home to a friend I was home around 10:40. I went to check my internet and it wasn't working!!! So I came to the computer lab to e-mail my essay when I realized I forgot the CD with my essay on it. So now I have to go back on my break after I am done with my first two classes. I am extremely excited to do so. Maybe I can grab lunch.
Oh, by the way, H, I am going miss the first 15-20 minutes of class because last week I went home because I was terribly sick and was not approved by the senators of the school. So yeah, sorry for that inconvinience, but I have to go this week or else I won't make court at all.
Hope everyone's having a better day than I! (Although I do have to admit it's not that bad; it's just frustrating in a humorous way.)
PS) i posted on the wrong site again. now i get what i did wrong with the obama speech. i'll probably move it........later
zZzzzZzZzzZ
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #19
@ ESME's Love
(the topic, not for her love or her lover >.> )
Anywho, maybe I'm still too young, but I have been in a couple relationships. I've had many crushes, (even House! <3) but I do not believe I could fall in love at first sight. I do believe others when they say it, because I have no other choice than to take their word for it, but the actual initial sight of a stranger love doesn't flow right with me.
When you say "soulmate", I'm assuming you are talking about the one-and-only person you share the most common (if not all) interests with. I don't believe in this, as I feel everyone is different in their own way. Not to rain on many people's fantasies and romantic love stories, but if someone is into the more current/popular music and movies, chances are you'll find millions of "soulmates". So no, I don't believe that once you have found a "soulmate", they are the only ones forEVER.
To be honest, I'd probably want someone with a couple opposites; I'd hate for them to go to every single event with me lol. Anywho, I believe love builds from hardships and overcoming those hardships. That is how trust is built, and if you don't trust someone (which usually isn't the case at first sight), there is no strong foundation, and with no strong foundation there is no love!
If I could decode love and debug it, I would! I'd probably take some parts out of it too. I should probably take a break from my c++ homework every now and then.
Samantha Shepherd
English 103
CC
Erosion of Civilization
As I was reading this I could not help but think of how I procrastinate all the time. Diamond says, "...it can intervene before a crisis to stave off looming problems" (paragraph 10) when talking about how the First World can deal with the Third World. I think that that can be applied to us students in so many ways. What is that theory? That if something can go wrong, it probably will. Yep, and that's just what happened to me this morning. I mean, ordinary people see this all the time in their lives and you'd think that we would learn (because I myself am one of those people that have not learned that hard lesson). Also, reading this essay sort of hit home because if America had not put off a lot of the issues that we're dealing with today, then perhaps my boyfriend, who is in the Marine Corps, would not have to deploy to Afghanistan or somewhere overseas that may be considered a danger zone. Another saying came to my mind as well and that was What goes up must come down and just like we've learned in history with the Roman Empire and now Iraq, our country is doomed to fall within the test of time. It may not be during my lifetime but it will be in maybe my children's lifetime or my children's children, etc. and I would definitely want to do anything possible to stop that from happening. That's why we should do anything we can like recycling and saving electricity etc. to keep our country from squandering its wealth. As my geology professor always quotes, "Lest you think that one small group of concerned individuals can solve a problem, let me remind you that it was one small group of concerned individuals that got us into this mess in the first place."
Go green!
Tess Elizondo
CC
English 100
Post #8
The Erosion of Civilization
To be honest when I think about Iraq, Iran, Syria etc. I think about the war. I believed Iraq was just a dirty poverty country. This is where the labeling of the objects comes in(Homonyms). Reading this story I learned so much more about this country than I already knew. I was extremely shocked to hear that their specialist, accountants and scribes, developed the world's first writing system. That is just so crazy to me. In Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond it also states that the U.S. did not start writing until 5,000 years later. Now the U.S. has grown with technology. When the story talked about desperation and suffering it was exactly how I felt. When a natural disaster hits or the economy falls people do blame the government and take it out on eachother. This is really sad, but true.
Brian Jimenez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #21
The Erosion Of Civilization
Iraq was a stong productive region that was known as Fertile Crescent. Many people who not know the past of this country which now its considered a third world party. This country was the source of how technology, ideas, and power went to europe and America. What was pretty cool was that superiority was not becauce of bilolgical dominance but from a great place were it was suitable for domestication. In todays world thats what we did depend on which has been used for thousands of years. Its funny how people from the U.S consider this country below them but thats not true reason being that Iraq was I one who developed the first writing system which the U.S did not develop 5,ooo years later.We should be thanking and helping this country. Now Iraq today has no world center of wealth, power, and civilzation. Poor in everything but its oil. That's all they have in order to give benefits to the people. England,France, and now the U.S has taken or is taking the few resources Iraq has. Maybe the reason for Iraq's lack of power is the U.S. Maybe the U.S is to blame? Maybe thats why people of that country hate the U.S? Maybe the U.S is an oppressor of other counties? The United States send more money sending out troops than sending public health organizations. Public organization are way cheaping then dispatching troops. These are interventions which is very true to help out schools, fixing social security, and universal health insurance. All things we in the United States really need. What the hell are they doing in Iraq? It may seem that the U.S maybe benefiting from this? Politics can be the reason, for it may not benefit certain people to help out but to take away?
Brittany Williams
English 110
GWC
Post 25
A Simple Story
Recenly, after one of Prof Hsiao's classes, I decided to grab a coffee in preparation for my long drive to work. Prepared to satisfy my severe addiction to caffeine, I jumped in my car and headed straight to starbucks. Upon entering the warm attmosphere, I headed for the counter to place my order. As I approched the cashier, I couldn't help but notice an older, fashionable woman who was throwing a tantrum about her coffee. The expression on the cashier's face quickly transformed from a welcoming smile to an annoyed frown as the woman, probably in her 50's, went on about her coffee not being warm enough. In an attemt to satisfy the woman's demands, the people behind the counter scurried around to apease her with a brand new cup of freshly brewed coffee. As she took her first sip, a look of dissatisfaction swept across her perfectly powdered face. "It's still not hot enough," she exclaimed as her fists pounded against the counter. The barista's, obviously irritated, attempted to offer the woman a refund, but were quickly turned down by a couple of snooty remarks. In disbelief, I watched as the woman marched off with her coffee, shouting profanities as she kicked open the door before walking out.
I bring this up, not to attack this woman's actions, but to share with you what valuable lessons I learned through witnessing such an encounter. As this woman was complaining about her lukewarm cup of coffee, I could not help but think of the people who can't even afford so much as a piece of bread, the people who, today, are struggling to feed their families, the people who can't even cloth themselves. Most of us have been truly blessed, for we do not share such struggles. Let us remember those less fortunate before we complain about such trivial things as a cup of coffee. Let us count our blessings each day that we are alive, for that alone, is a true blessing in itself.
Anyway, I hope you all have a great day!
Dalene - I don't think I ever got back to you about the books. I really enjoyed reading At First Sight. Have you read that one yet? If not, I can let you borrow it. I have it somewhere...
Freddy Villalobos
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #13
The Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond
Its the waypeople do not thinkabout the future. Yes the human specias had a head start, learning how to write, speak, farmong and cattle. But in the end after so many wars, battles, and over usage caused the land to slpw or stop growing food. An example would be tin the Eurasia. they grew so much that the power went straigth the the head and caused massive abuse to the planet. Imn the short coming us as humans did receve thenost essential tools we need in order to live and communicate with each other, howver if we do not stop and think before we act, we can loose this polanet from us.
Brandon Hebert
Goldenwest
Eng110
Post:24
Erosion,
The thesis of this piece seems like a warning to the United States. Indeed I agree with preemptive intervention in order to make sure a disaster never happens. I may skirt political discussion here, but any intervention into a destabilized country must be speartipped. Take Sudan. Much of the aid sent there is captured by rebels and never reaches those it was intended for. Even in the US. We have only 3% of our original forests left. But therein lies the specific. ORIGINAL forests. It doesnt take into account the replanted forests and the ones that have regrown. Dont take my word for it.(nationalatlas.gov)
Brittney, I agree that world peace is worthwhile, but I know better. To think that human beings can change the winds...history has taught us better. We can only direct the sails, and ride with where the wind blows.
Iraq for example. Even before it was a dust bowl Iraq was conquered several times in its history (persian empire, Assyrian Empire, Alexander the Great, Saladin, Ottoman Empire). Needless to say I'm not sure it was the Iraqis that completely contributed to their own demise.
Jon i concurr, that damn captain...
Brandon Hebert
GoldenWest
Eng110
Post:25
Brittney,
Nice story, but I cant help but play devil's advocate here. Nothing is more annoying than paying for something and not receiving what I paid for. If I pay for a cup of coffee, especially at a place like starbucks, that emphasises choice and specificity, I had better get it the way I want it. Now obviously she handled the situation wrong. But ive been in the same situation.
Long story short, I didnt have time to get a refund, so I had to leave with the wrong order. I was at the airport and it was a sandwich place. They gave me a fish fillet instead of a club sandwich. VAST DIFFERENCE. thanks to them I wasted 6.95 and didnt get to eat before my flight. But do I not have somewhat of a right to be upset? I didnt storm out like the other lady, but I paid for a service I did not receive.
Brian Jimenez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #22
We need to step it up!
Well everyone should have got an email from our teacher telling us that certain people are not blogging much anyone. Thats his warning of saying "come on guys before a do something you guys will not like" and that is true. I do not think anyone wants to be dropped my his class. I know everyone has a life, works, and sometimes cannot get to a computer at times but something is better than nothing. Do not give up and keep pushing........and whats this email about free starbucks.....where at?
Brittany Williams
English 110
GWC
Post 26
Brandon-True. You should, most definitely, get what you pay for; however, the way in which she reacted was ludicrous. The baristas, attempting to placate her, brewed her a brand new cup of coffee. They had attempted everything they could do to make her happy, even offered her a refund; however, contentment was never achieved. Sometimes, it is in these instances where we simply must submit, for nothing else can be done. Besides, it's a freaking cup of coffee! I say, get over it :-)
As for world peace - as long as there are humans in power, there will always be deceit and destruction. Of this, I can be sure. That is not to say, however, that we must not work toward such a goal as peace within our world. It is important that we strive to work together for the betterment of the human race (even if it seems an impossible task).
Rayray J
Ingles 103
CC
pst-idk
Erosion of Civilization-
Just as Jared Diamond said, Iraq's decline holds lessons the world should heed.
Iraq's fate, a product of ignorance, is something that can befall any first world today. We know it can happen, the only problem is that are we going to do anything about it?
As a nation, we spend insane amounts of money on our...imperialistic endeavours, hoping to "strenghten" our nation. We, however, fail to realize that true strenght comes from within. What good is a nation without any natural resources. What good is a nation when its people are as apathetic as a drug addict sitting in skid row. The billions we spend on how to better blow up our neighbors to kingdom coome can be spent on much more meaningful pursuits: alternative energy to stem our dependence on foreign oil, centralized and a more efficient health care system to end the insurance company's monopoly on our health, better education funding to curb these insane budget cuts that are crippling institutions of learning. It is no longer speak softly and carry a big stick, it is now a matter of bring loudspeakers and upgrade your stick to a nuclear rocket launcher.
We forget that we as a nation have our own problems eroding us from the inside out.
Brandon hebert
GoldenWest
Eng110
Post:26
Brittney,
I agree. I used to work retail, I know how unreasonable some people can be. There was a way to handle it and she chose the wrong way. I think that is our common ground no?
When it comes to world peace, personally, it is blasphemous. Just my beliefs but we arent able to achieve such purity. It is because first and formost we are not all-good. and secondly human beings have philosophies that cannot coexist. Communism vs capitalism for instance. We can have some parts of both but ultimately its one or the other. Capital Punishment...it is either life or death. Consider. if the populace of the world decided there will be no more religion. It is safe to say some cannot live WITHOUT religion. thus, conflict. On a lighter note, world peace would be pretty "chill".
addendum:
rayray j,
"what good is a nation without any natural resources?"
Japan has close to 0 natural resources, not even land. But manage to stay amongst the top 7 economic powers of the world.
I agree with you on your skid row comment, but not your armament arguement. When my neibor is buying a knife, and i have something he wants, I'd feel a lot better if I had my own knife, or a gun for that matter. just my opinion
Archie Kaaua
Professor Hsiao
English 110
Golden West College
Post #17
1 October 2009
The Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond
I like Mr. Diamond’s credentials and background history. I can identify with his perspective of the Fertile Crescent. I also believe that the rich should share some of their wealth. It has been my long standing belief that greed was the actual cause of Napoleon’s revolution and Hitler’s rise to power. I get the ecological ruin and the economical plight of the Iraqi people. I understand that with starvation and depravation animosity spreads its wings. The history speaks of invasion of Alexander the Great who added to the demise of the people there. It is a shame that a nation once so rich in technology is now reduced to conditions of poverty. All of the natural resources seem to have vanished except for oil yet the poor receive little of no benefit from these natural resources. They truly are oppressed but where do we come into this picture?
The picture I see is a pendulum that swings to extremes. At one extreme it swings to the nation’s past as being prosperous. Where were they when they had success and other neighbors did not? Did they give their wealth away? No they did not. On the other side of the pendulum they are dire and in need of help. If we give them our money will they remain grateful? If so how long will it last? Somewhere in the middle lies the solution to Mr. Diamond’s problem. That would take care of Iraq but what about the rest of the world? If we give twenty percent of our income to four different needy countries we will have nothing left after taxes are taken from our wages. Here is more news; there are more than four poor countries as we speak. I see we have two choices not three. We either intervene or pay. We did not loose our money in Afghanistan. That war was justified due to an attack on us first if we believe the news. Our war in Iraq was not provoked by an attack other than an Anthrax scare. We could offer to make Afghanistan another state. That would make sense. Offer schools for children, a police force for citizen’s protection, and a branch of our economy that eventually would bring that country out of poverty. I find that donations are a waste of time unless it is a short term crisis. No one will like us when the food runs out. Do hateful leaders take hold in the absence of food and water? Absolutely! It is amazing how people will take charm to anyone who feeds them. We have the food so let us use some of it to rebuild a country long term. Donating money will only be a short term fix. If we get paid for our food we can afford to keep sending it.
Jonathan Aguilar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #20
The Erosion of Civilization
This was a great peice by Jared Diamond. It showed me a whole new side to third world countries. In school we really never discuss the success of Afganistan or Iraq. It briefly mentioned some of their history and i was automatically hooked. I am the type of person who likes to learn new things and who likes to be informed. I had no idea about Fertile Crescent. And finding out that this area was one of the most successfull lands in ancient times. They were the ones responsible for the development of our language and they were the first to develop a writing system. But as the story goes with many coutries they lost their power or "lead" so to speak. And this should teach us a huge lesson. If we don't keep our eye on the ball and see what's really important and what we really need to spend our billions of dollars on. We will soon too loose the "lead." This is a scary thought and i hope this never happens.
Janice Silva
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #12
Erosion of Civilization
The middle east used to be a powerful, wealthy, and a nice place to be. The place was called Fertile Crescent, even though today the word that would come to mind more often would be "Infertile Crecent". The fertile crecent lead the world in agriculture, technology, ideas which flowed to europe and then america. They did not prevail because they had a certain race, biological sence; they were like america, they had different types of people. The smiths and metal workers, who developed the world's first copper tools around 5000 BC, and bronze tools around 3000 BC, an Iron tools 1500 BC. They fell because "they inadvertenly destroyed the environmental resources on which their society depended". In this story it says that they were in a fragile environment, which had many invaders like Alexander the great and the mongol invaders. This storing is stating that we should learn from this empire, much like america, but eventually falling; to learn so history does not repeat itself. This story is saying we should help people in need so this world does not become a "third world".
Jessica Vasquez
English 100
Post #: ...
The Erosion of Civilization
After reading this essay, I was so surprised to find out a little about Iraq's history. Who would of ever thought that Iraq at one time was very powerful.Like a delicate plant, if you neglect it, eventually its going to die. Seems like the lack of care for their environment and management of their country caused Iraq to be how it is today, poor. In a way, the United States is slowly deteriorating, with our economical crisis and global warming. Actually, I think its our fault as humans that we are slowly deteriorating our country. If it wasn't for banks letting go of loans so easily a few years ago and people buying homes for way more that they could afford we wouldn't be in such this huge mess. About ten years ago people used to be ashamed & embarrassed of telling someone about their home was being foreclosed. Now its so common among us, people say it like its nothing. But I think people take this whole "recession" thing as an excuse to feel lazy. From personal experience with other people, I have seen how people take advantage of getting laid off. I have friends who extend their unemployment support to the fullest. Squeezing the last dime, and for what?? just be lazy wile they get their little check each month and pretend they are looking for a job. People take unemployment as a vacation, and its said because there are some of us who truly need it. Personally I would rather be out working and making more money than sitting around and only getting a fraction of my check. And one sits and wonders why the economy is so bad. Also, we can all help the environment a little more by just recycling. I do not know much about global warming, so i wont go into the subject, but from the little i know, we are slowly deteriorating earth with our high consumptions and low environment involvement.
Sarika Vaswani
English 103
CC
Post #idk
The Erosion of Civilization
by Jared Diamond
Right when I think of Iraq, the first thing that comes to mind is, "bring peace to the middle east". We've all become acustomed to relating Iraq with war, turmoil, oil, destruction etc. I never knew of Iraq as once being an independent and prosperous country. According to Diamond, prior to Iraq's downfall, it thrived due to its agriculture. Its agriculture was its key towards success. I never would have imagined a country's environment to play such a large role in contributing to its flourishment or its rapid decline. Eventually the Middle East's environment began to weaken, and this made it more susceptible to problems like deforestation and soil erosion. This gave its neighbors reason and advantage to take over and dominate. Before we knew it, the Middle East was found at war. This goes to show no country, especially the United States, is invincible. Any country is able to fall weak and give in to crisis. It is ultimately up to the inhabitants to take initiative and take care of our countries, rather than taking advantage of them.
Gah, my brain is fried =(
Gabriela Tovar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #18
The Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond
Number 11 was the paragraph that stood out to me the most because i know for a fact that those $100 billion, could go towards school, fixing damages cities, many many other things... I do believe that the majority of the money should go to schools becaus that is where our future is... I know that Iraq is one of the biggest deal we've been making, but where else can we get oil... I hate the fact that America is making bad deals just to get oil... I do not want to get into is so much, but who knows what the government has with Iraq other then oil??? Also, America is spending so much darn money to send troops to die over there... Iraq already has enough problems for us to bomb their schools, destroy homes, etc...
Off the subject, i wish i can help over there because women have no right to anything, and it schould not be that way...
Anyways, America has already enough problems like debt, to worry who are we going to send to "die" for their country... That is what America, and i look at it this way, is doing, sending poor men to die for nothing... Oh gosh..
Thomas Rios
GWC
English 110
Post # 13?
Re: Starbucks Story (Brittney and Brandon)
I agree with the disatisfaction of the customer, as I have been on the short end of that stick more often than not. However, I think that more stores should use their right to refuse service to patrons. The customer was given a new coffee which was not to her satisfaction. She was offered her money back. Non of that was good enough. She was bent on screaming and causing a scene (mind you over a simple cup of coffee) I would have kicked her butt out right there. There is a way to be civil AND just... it just doesn't seem like the majority of people get it. There is much anger in the world, not suprising during financial times like these. Why can't we be friends? lol Good story.
So we bring in a hard copy of our final paper in class tomorrow correct?
Diana Amezcua
English 103
Cerritos College
Post# ???
The Erosion of Civilization
This was a really interesting reading because it lets us know what would happen if a great country like USA would fall apart. This paper talks about how Iraq's great empirer fell apart. In acient times they were a very productive country which was known as Fertile Crescent.But eventually started diminising and changing for the worst. they were by far the leaders in agriculture and technology. but not seem less productive and can be related with the term "infertile Crescent". Even America and Europe got ideas from them.
Esmeralda Orozco
English 100
CC
post 39
THAKS TO EVERYONE WHO POSTED ON LOVE
ITS TRU ITS HARD TO TELL IF THE GUY U ARE WITH WILL BE THE LAST GUY U STAY WITH I HEAR OF PPL TELLING ME THEY HAVE BEEN TOGETHER FOR 30 YEARS AND IM SHOCKED BUT MANY OF THE TIMES THEY CHEAT ON EACH OTHER
I DONT UNDERSTAND
WHEN I LOVE SOMEONE U DO ANYTHING TO MAKE THEM HAPPY RIGHT!!!
SO Y IS IT THAT PPL HURT EACH OTHER ???
LOVE IS A HARD SUBJECT TO UNDERSTAND AND ALTHOUGH I HAVE SAID I LOVE U TO ONE PERSON I ASK MYSELF IF I TRULY MENT IT
LOVE AT FISRST SIGHT IS SILLY HOW CAN U LOVE SOMEONE U DONT KNO RIGHT!!!
I KNO MANY OF U ARE MARRIED AND HAPPY WITH UR PARTNER BUT HOW DO U KNO THATS THE RIGHT PERSON
IF THEY CHEAT ON U WILL U FORGIVE JUST TO BE WITH THEM???
IS THAT WHAT LOVE IS ???
Alonso Llamas
Cerritos College
Eglish 103
The Erosion of Civilization
After reading this article I got a lot of new information about the history of manking and the beging of civilization; however, i also found out many distubing premenitions for out own society. According to the article civilization began around 8500 BC, and it was in present day Iraq. This region was known as the Fertile Cresent, due to its fertility in soil and ability to sustain life. It was not mans great mind that allowed us to stop being hunter gatherers but our natural world surunding us. That allowed man to settle down and begin thinking. This is how man began to distinguish themselfs. It was in this middle-eastern part of the world where man first became litterate, started languages and came up with math. However, this would not last forever. Eventually the nutrients in the soil began to deplead, and a s a result the soil and the life it sustained began to diminish. As a result, of our actions the place once known as the Fertile Cresent is now nothing more than a desert. Now the once richest part of the world has fallen into chaos and is considered a third world. Towards the end of the article Diamond began to discuss the U.S. actions in the Middle-East. He explains the costlyness of intervining in these third world contries and how it could all be avoided. Instead of being the selfish humanitarians and waiting untill the whole world discovers the problems with a certain part of the world, one must take action before the problem reaches its climax in order to avoid such dismay.
Brittany Williams
English 110
GWC
Post 27
Brandon - I agree. World peace is an erroneous claim that will not likely be achieved; however, I was simply saying that we must continue to work toward peace. This is not to say that we must agree on each policy, it is only to say that we must work together, as separate entities, peacefully. I believe this to be our duty.
Audrey Valdivia
Enlish 100
CC
Post eek forgot
ok so i read erosion of civilization of whatever..and to me this is what i got. it;s basically about the rise and fall of a conutry. the wa y i interpreted it was liek a country can be struggling but when the people of that country belive they achive more then what they have ever had before.for example the us like our economy is failing horribly everyone knows it but yet we are still faithfull in that we are goign to be on top once again.
Prof. Hsiao
Engl. 100/ 103/ 110
Post idk
Homework for English 110 8-9:25
Post on Jared Diamond's Erosion of Civilization, and bring in a hard copy of your draft.
Belinda Reed
English 100
Prof. Hsiao
The Erosion of Civilization
Enjoyed reading this short story, about how life used to be in ohter regions of the world. I love history as well, I plan on taking a coarse in history in the future. The way I see it is that we need to start taking better care of our planet for the sake of our children and grand children as well. If we don't than what will it be like for them and their children. If we start caring for mother nature,then she will reward us all, As well as our childrens, children.
Belinda Reed
English 100
Prof. Hsiao
The Erosion of Civilizaion
Loved the story. I think it means that we need to start taking better care of out planet, for the sake of our grandchildren, and their children I plan on taking a history course in the future.
Esmeralda Orozco
English 100
CC
post39
THE EROSION OF CIVILIZATION
When i was reading the story i could not help but think about the war in Iraq. It is sad that when we think of Iraq we think of evil. We fight a war that does not need to be fought. What really caught my attention was that we spend $25 billion on military intervention. We are going through a tough time and are spending money on things that have no meaning like the war. Being selfish is what destroys a country wanting to rule everything only makes a country a target. i never would have thought america had once taken an idea from Iraq. Its crazy to think Iraq was once a strong country productive for an entire region. i never really read into politics because i find it boring but reading this i got to understand more of how iraq was. mabye because they were once very strong they go out of there was to go back to how they once were
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #18
Today, I would have worked 9 days in a row. Tomorrow, I would have worked 10. I get a day off, and no weekend for me. I get my own hours to work, and on top of that, work for those who want to have fun on their work day instead of working. I would feel awful if they missed those things because I didn't want to take their shift... So I work.
Why can't I just learn to say no, and why do I have to feel like it's my responsibility to cover for people?
Don't get me wrong, I'm fine working. It's just when I look at my calendar, I wonder why I don't put myself first sometimes. It's a battle within myself, really.
On the topic of world peace
I agree with both of you Brittany and Brandon. World peace would be pretty chill and I know, just as both of you do, that it is the impossible. It's only impossible because it's a utopian belief, though, isn't it? We all know we can't just hug and make up and be a big family.
All we need is a common ground. If Aliens came and wanted to conquer the Earth, I'm sure we'd all fight together. We just need the sense of being on the same team.
So this is how aliens make world peace a possibility (this whole thing took a completely different direction than I thought, but that's okay. :P)
Brenda Flores
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #?
The Erosion of Civilizaion
I am surprised at what Diamond is saying here that these countries were once more powerful or more intelligable than the U.S. I know that the U.S. is not not #1 in every category but judging by how it looks now I surely thought we were above Iraq. I am shocked that because of a drout of crops that this is why people "suffer from poor health and short life spans, blame their governments, kill each other, end up with crazy leaders, and seek to immigrate illegaly to more favored landscapes."(Diamond 10) I think something should be done about it, and I do feel it should be a priority. Because if something was to happoen to the U.S. like that no one would come in and save us.
Martha Vazquez
English 100
CC
Post 19
The Erosion of Civilization
I had learned about the fertile crescent , and all it offered the modern world, while I was in high school. I never really took the time out to find out how it had been destroyed. Reading about how this amazing land slowly fell from being the world leaders in education, innovation and leadership was so sad. The similarities between the Fertile Crescent and America are huge. Those similarities should be taken into account so we can learn from thier mistakes, and correct our own. We should invest so much more in educating our people. Education is like prophylactic medication. It can prevent so much harm, and make our lives longer as a world leader. I know that every great empire has to fall one day, but I feel that education, and learning from others mistakes can keep America on top for many years to come.
Ibeth Rodriguez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #17
The Erosion of Civilization
From my understanding this article wants us to know how "America" is destroying other parts of the world. In my opinion I do not think this is true. America does a lot to help other countries, sometimes it even gives out support to other countries rather than their own. For example when Hurricane Katrina happened, it took a while for help to arrive, and until this day a lot of people are still waiting for some type of help or answer. During the Tsunami in Indonesia America offered help as soon as possible. So I do not know why America is criticized as a nation that brings harm to the world when in reality it always offers the other country help when in time of need. Another issue that it talked about was war. Many people are against the war and our military, but have they ever stopped and think what would we do if another country came and attacks America who will defend us? The answer is the Military, they are the ones who are going to be fighting for our country so why not spend the money our military because we know that they are the ones who are going to be protecting us. My boyfriend was deployed to Iraq one month ago and in my opinion I think it is well worth the money that is going toward the military. I would much rather having the money spent on our country than spending it on something else. Of course we should help each other and always support others but that does not give the right to blame America. America has done a lot for other countries and I think that it should not be blame for what the problems that other countries are facing.
Priscilla Daza
Cerritos College
English 100
post #14
erosion of civilization
i got the chance of reding this story earlier today. i found it a bit complicated to comprehend. i consider myself to be simple minded so do not judge if i butcher the story by misinterpretating it. it starts off by the area of iraq which included jordan, syria and iran known as the region of fertile crescent. It states the for 8000 years iraq was the main sourse of many things in the sense of civilization. Diamnd breaks down the history on how they once hunted for food and gathered plants to domesticating severval objects such as wheat and animals. they began to herd and farm which led to agriculture. it smoothly transitions on how we evolved to become better food providers by herding, farming, and becoming metal workers to build tools and invent the writing system. it generally speaks about how we got here today. it mentions how our language was conceived from the indo-european languages which is proof that once upon a time middle east had power for a long while. but as audrey mentioned in her blog it explains it rise and fall. it fell due to the lack of rain so their agriculture went to ruins and starting to spread throughout the world. despite the fact that they lost their winnings in agriculture or became a third world country as alonso stated, they gained their loss by the oil they fortunately have. it mentions how there are other counties under going the same event but they are solutions to prevent them from happening and Diamond list three. he ends with we help the week countries as oppose to overpowering them with our military we would be saving a tremendous amount of money.
Tess Elizondo
CC
English 100
Post #9
Well I was going to post earlier about Priscilla pulling an all nighter. Dang I dont know how you can do that without any coffee or any energy drinks. Well as long as you handled your business and finished everything you needed to good for you. Dont worry I'll try to keep you up in class. Im pretty tired myself.
Ohhh and Jenny,
I loved your daughter message. I totally understand where shes coming from lol... tell her I totally agree!!! haha
I am soo glad this paper is due. That means we can stop working on it for now. But this only means that another essay is going to be scheduled soon!!
Well I guess I will see everyone in class. I know people missed me im just kidding, but I did miss all of you. I would rather be in class then be feeling like crap. I hate being sick seems like Ive been more sick than well.
Whose going to Starbucks I know I am ... thanks Mr. Hsiao for the email!!
Greg Burns
English 110
Gwc
Thanks for the email about the starbucks
It is staring to feel like fall
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerriots College
Post# 37
Erosion of Civilization
The US has changed through out time with a significant difference. with the negative change that the fertile crest becomes a havoc of war. The fertile crest place use to be once a beautiful place. Then politics became a big part of life and that one beautiful place become an ugly place. The other parts that surround this part will become just as much as a big mess. We as an world could help these countries, but instead we put our money into intelligence to fight the third world countries. I know that in a sense we will never solve everything in the world, but as long as we just keep ignoring it the issues through out the world will keep getting worse.
Edilu Medina
English 100
Cerritos
Post 16?
The Erosion of Civilazation
It shocked me to read this piece, I am very oblivious to what happens in the world( I dont watch news) I usually stay away. Every day theres such negativity on the world that we sometimes dont see the light of it. Were overcrowded by stories that make us frown, cry and bring our mood down. At the end we really dont know what were hearing because words are spread into different direction that we dont realize the foundation of it. To read how the Fertiles Crescent deperation standed it made me sad and frown. It started all with good base it reminds me of the Emily Dickson poem "The props assist the house" They build into a strong nation and admired it as it grew. But its ends were destroyed by their own props. To conclusion it is always good to know the foundation before we judge the house.
Sarai Vazquez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post # 16
The Erosion of Civilization
I like the way he takes us back to how people liked in 8500 BC. It is interesting to read about how they hunted and ate and what they used to do all of those things. It is crazy to me that the Middle East were the first to have states and stuff and that they were so civilized. Just to read about how they were back then and see how things have changed for the people over there now-a-days is mind blowing. It is sad to think that the Iraqi's were so successful in all that they did but they lost it all because of there own ignorance. They should have taken better care of their land and been smatter about the decisions that they made. If they would have kept up the good work that they were doing up until the time they lost themselves they could be such a huge addition to the world. they could add so many things to the technology and language and so many other things in the world today. We should all take into consideration the things that they did wrong in their time so that we will not destroy ourselves faster than we should. We should learn from our mistakes and the mistakes of others.
Joshua Greenroyd
Eng 110
GWC
Post #21
Erosion of Civilization
The first impression I received upon reading this piece was how biased it seems. The writer seems to not be in belief of how these third world countries became in that state, and are now eroding out of existence. The beginning of the piece was enjoyable though. Learning about how the Middle East was indeed a capital of where a lot of technology in the world came from. One thing that was not mentioned was the Roman Empire, and the Holy Wars, which did affect that part of the world immensely. Towards the end of the piece the author seems to grow in hatred towards the U.S. He always talks about what the U.S should do, and is not doing. I have a question. What about all of the other superpowers in the world? What about the E.U? What about China? Japan? More than just the U.S is able to be blamed for not coming to the aid of another country in this world. It is almost like every man for himself, and now the little countries will pick on the biggest country.
Maria Ascencio
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #13
Erosion of Civilization
In his piece,Jared Diamond describes Iraq as having once been a Fertile Crescent, leading the world in technology and agriculture. Today, many of us know that this is no longer the case. Iraq has turned into one of the worst countries. And in the past years, battle grounds.
"When environmental damage makes people economically desperate, they are likely to suffer from poor health and short life spans, blame their governments, kill each other, end up with crazy leaders, and seek to immigrate illegally to more favored landscapes" In this example, it is dealing with circumstances that Diamond sights three options the first world can do to help. In each of these options,he states there is no way for a more successful country not to intervene, for the destruction soon becomes unavoidable, even to first world countries. What this quote also reminded me of with the whole "crazy laeders" was of Hitlers, Stalin, Moussailini, Bin Laden and so on.
In paragraph eleven, the $100 billion dollars could have gone to the debts that the country has rather than spending in on stupidities and having this recession extend for a longer period of time. It can also go to beneficial thigs like schools. There have been so many that have been closed down, people getting laid off, and budget cuts.
What is stupid is that we help the weak countries as oppose to overpowering them with our military. We can't help ourselves yet they help everyone else. It is ridiculous!
Amber Decker
English 110
GWC
Post #6
Erosion of Civilization intrigued me very much. As a history major, Im always interested in the history of different civilizations. What I really love about history is that you never know what to expect. You think you know about something or someplace, but then something comes along to change your views completely. I admit, I've never given extensive thought to the Middle East; not because Im not interested, but Im just interested other things more. Like most young people in today's world, my knowledge of the Middle East is based on things I have heard regarding the war. I have a very vague knowledge of the system of government and religious issues over there, but I know virtually nothing about that region. So reading Erosion of Civilization was pretty eye-opening.
It is amazing to think about how civilized their culture was! Credit is often given to the ancient Greeks and Romans for their (mostly successful) attempts at creating a thriving society. And though that credit is well deserved, I dont recall anything being taught in middle school about the Ottoman Empire. After reading this essay, I feel like I have some researching to do!
What is possibly the most intriguing (and frightening) thing about this essay is how far the Middle East has fallen. It seems impossible to believe that an entire empire that held so much promise could have regressed so much. But then I am reminded of a lyric in a song by one of my favorite artists Al Stewart: "Look to the past and remember that no empire rises that sooner or later wont fall."
Its true. You can follow the footprints of history all across the world and find shreds of destroyed empires. It is not as hard as people may think to ruin a society. Empires are insanely fragile, depending on every minute detail to go according to plan to maintain them. People look at the United States and think that as a huge world power it, we are never going to fall. But larger countries than us have been knocked down, and even less than a century ago. No empire is immune, because history always repeats itself.
Brandon Hebert
Goldenwest
Eng110
Post:26
YUE,
An alien attack would have to go on indefinitely, because once we beat them, the squabbling will continue. Or the aliens might kick our butts.
Mr. RIOS,
to us, it is a simple cup of coffee. To the customer, it was obviously not. I know a lot of adults that just cant function without having their morning cup. I can identify. I take pleasure in the little things in life. And when the little things dont work right i get pretty upset. Isnt life about the little things? ah, life. Didnt mean to bring THAT enchilada up.
LOVE,
If someone cheats on their spouse/boyfriend/girlfriend, then they arent in love. I believe the problem is one is in love and the other thinks theyre in love. The bottom line is the only dependable love is Jesus Christ. marriage is no guarantee, we can divorce. We can wake up one day and realize we just arent in love anymore. Love is a great thing, but no one can be sure of where they will be a year from now, and therefore can not guarantee their love to anyone. No hate mail please! =)
Kevin Santamaria
English 110
GWC
Post #13
The Erosion of Civilization
This passage was really a good read. Jared Diamond addresses how Iraq was once a great region. He then goes on to say how it crumbled under its own infrastructure. Then other countries took advantage of the region committing assisted suicide. The only thing the region produces now is oil, which does not even go back to the people of the country. The reason I like this passage most because he addresses what we can do and what we have done in this situation. It is so much easier for someone to point out a fault, but Diamond produces the situation and the numbers to back it up. He does not beat around the bush, he straight up says our intervention benefits us too, and this is true. He said we intervened too late in Iraq when it was at its precipice. We cannot continue to carry out this plan with the rest of the countries at hit ends, just look at how much it has cost us; we must help countries now when the cost isn’t 100billion+. I am sort of bewildered by his message though because I looked him up. He writes a lot about the end of civilizations, but does he think all of them come to an end like ours eventually will, and if so what is the point in saving the other countries; it will just prolong the process for our children. Or does he believe we will be here for quite a long time and there for we must be the power that allocates help where it is needed. I don’t know but I like this man's thoughts, I am going further read up on his work.
Brittany Williams
English 110
GWC
Post 28
Brandon - Props on your post about love. I couldn't agree with you more!
P.S. Thanks for the open discussion today. It added some spice to my dull Wednesday afternoon. I admire your honesty.
Yue - I am sorry to hear about your crazy work schedule. I can relate! Make sure you make time for yourself though. It's important for your sanity :-)
Whitney Young
Golden West College
English 110
Post #13
The Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond
It is crazy to read about how Iraq used to be so prosperous and it is kind of hard to believe at the same time. I never would have known looking at Iraq right now. All we see now is the effect of their “ecological suicide”. They probably would not be in the situation they are in now if they knew how to take better care of their land. Now because of their misfortune, they like to blame others and also kill which has caused this war. Why are we the ones that have to go out of our way to save other countries when some do not even appreciate it? We have our own problems that need to be dealt with and fixed. I think we should be able to fix our problems before going on to help others. Then again, I think each country seems to be interdependent on each other for resources and such. I think the world should come together and help each other out. That is probably never going to happen, but I just do not like the idea of war.
Danielle St. Onge
English 110
GWC
Post #12? (i forgot, again.)
Okay, so I am supposed to be posting on Erosion of Civilization and as I begin to read it all these different thoughts come into my mind (I call them ADD moments). I think; hmm i'm too tired to read I just fell asleep on my binder, maybe i'll just skim it and post on it now, and finish reading it at 5 o'clock at gym practice tomorrow morning. But then I think, no Danielle, you NEED to stay awake and finish your homework you need a good grade on that quiz! So maybe I should turn on some music to keep me awake. Then I think, hmm well I cant listen to music since my iPod (my underwater camera and my cell phone) got stolen last week. So then I get even more aggitated and think how am I supposed to surrive that 5 1/2 hour bus drive to SLO tomorrow for water polo? How am I supposed to get pumped up before my 4 games? Even more aggitated now, I think oh well it's not like I'm going to get much playing time on this tournament anyways, my coach has hardly played me all season. But I really just want to be able to listen to some music! I wonder will my laptop battery last the whole bus ride so I can at least have some music tomorrow? No.
Thirty minutes later, and now 8 o'clock, I have only managed to read, and re-read the first paragraph a few times. The point of my rant is; I HATE THIEVES they mess up EVERYTHING!
Greg Burns
English 110
Gwc
Post on erosion of civilization
After reading this paper I know that the author would be one who voted for the current administration that is in power of all branches of the united states government . he is bashing on how America should help the world and its problems before they become full scale problems or current issues. He wants the strongest nation in the word to fix others, by throwing money to help fund aids and other problems. I want to know why does he want to help the world and not help America. Paragraph 15 states that any country no matter their size can pose a threat to America. The reason why these countries pose a threat is that the American people do not want to let the dog off the leash. They want to talk and not fight if we as a country were more united and less divided we would be on top again. The author sates Somalia as a threat we had 20,000 us marines stationed there to help with aid and food distribution but the other democratic team decied to withdraw the marines and place special forces to occupy the country. The insurgents over ran some of the special force and killed Americans, and dragged there bodies in the street on CNN night after night. We should have never allowed this to happen we should have went back in a killed some people. The war today can and will be won, but this country must look to the past to come together again. We must
Danielle St. Onge
English 110
GWC
Post #13
Erosion of Civilization
Even after taking Cultural Anthropolgy over the summer, I had no idea how the ancient Iraqis were world leaders when it came to pretty much ruling civilization. I have to thank Jared Diamond for opening up my eyes on all the things/ tools the Iraqis have actually given us. I was completely shocked to hear how our English language is actually derived from their language. I also had no idea that they even created literature and writing systems. I also have to agree with Diamond that the only way to save civilizations are by solving problems before they actually happen. Isn't that the whole point of world peace? Solving problems militarily just leads to feuds bigger than what is necessary. If governments handle situations before they make people really upset, angry, jealous, and hurt than I can be pretty positive that most wars may not have even started.
Ronald Cabiltes
English 110
GWC
Post #12
The Erosion of Civilization
Reading about how Iraq used to be prosperous and was the center of most of the innovation of that time made me realize how much I rarely paid attention during history in high school. All joking aside. Iraq isn't synonymous with prosperity and wealth anymore. Whenever people here about Iraq today they usually connect it with war, poverty, and maybe corruption. I disagree with Diamond's call for helping these declining countries. I'm not saying we shouldn't help them out. I just don't like how he makes it seem like the US should be the one to do all of it. Our country has problems of its own right now and I think the domestic problems need to be addressed first and then we'll be able to properly assist the other nations. And I agree with Josh. There are other powerful nations that can lend huge help but it seems like right now its every man for himself.
Thomas Rios
English 110
GWC
Post # 13
The Erosion of Civilization.
Don't you love it when you have typed a super long post and while your computer is trying to process your request, it times out and you lose all you have written. I find that so awesome!
I found it interesting to learn that so much has come out the area that is Iraq. It seems like such a barren desert. The systems and technologies to come out of that place were interesting to read about; the different tools, language, and even politics. I think that we need to listen to the message that is offered here. We need to stop wasting and polluting and taking EVERYTHING for granted. The earth is not invincible. As far as aid to countries, I am not politically or militarily enlightened enough to say what would work. I think that we need to feed and clothe the poor and that we need to take care of the sick.
(feed, clothe poor, take care of sick) In our country and abroad. I don't feel like the author is saying that the responsibility falls directly on us. I feel like historically, the US gets involved in more than it should (for political reasons, not humanitarian). AT that point, the responsiblity does fall on us to right the wrong.
Thomas Rios
GWC
English 110
Post #14
Mr. Hebert:
I can definitely agree with taking pleasure in the little things in life. For instance, I take pleasure in the little occurances of selflessness that happen everyday..... (little things are a matter of perception) Why does it get you "pretty upset" when the little things in life do not go right? I hope that is not always the case, as I feel like you will be let down often and in turn, be upset often. Life is not scripted (I know I'm definitely not telling you anything you are not aware of) and nothing ever goes the way you plan. Are you at the exact place where you thought you would be in LIFE 5 years ago? I know I am DEFINITELY not, haha... uh oh... another life reference... See y'all tomorrow morning, maybe you will have your cup of joe in hand Brandon? if so, most definitely, exactly the way you like it.... OR ELSE!!!!!!!
Macey Lindsay-Clinton
English 110
Golden West College
Post #12?
The Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond
I really enjoyed reading this piece so much that I read it aloud a second time to my boyfriend because I knew he would like it as well. As a lover of history and all things political, this piece spoke to me. Though I was/am aware of the economic wealth and prosperity that the middle east had for such a long time, I never related the natural resource decline to the civil unrest. It is also very interesting that the places which are going through the same environmental problems also are seen as the most threatening and dangerous places. It makes sense though, desperate times call for desperate measures. Look at Germany after WWI, though they were not suffering from environmental desperation they definitely were suffering from an economic one. As we all know, this directly lead to WWII and the Holocaust. When people are upset, they do stupid things. The situation becomes very bad when you have an entire country becoming upset and acting in this manner.
I also agree with Diamond's stance on what needs to happen in order to prevent civil unrest in suffering countries. Why should we wait and spend one hundred billion dollars when we could have prevented the need of military intervention. Do not take me wrong, I think that those in the U.S. military are all brave and devoted citizens, it just seems so fruitless to have to go to war to fix something we could have stopped along time ago. In my mind, going to war with people living in desperation cannot create a positive outcome. So, let us be selfish and stop the leak before the drain explodes and the bathroom gets flooded.
Kayla Marley
English 110
Golden West College
Post 14
The Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond
This story is quite something else. At the beginning I was impressed with all the facts that Jared Diamond had collected to point his case in why larger companies should help the third world countries. All of his examples really drew me into want to keep reading; especially the fact that Iraq was the world leader at one point in time. As I kept reading on I became upset with how Diamond thinks that the wealthier countries should help out the suffering companies. I do agree helping the less fortunate companies, but at what costs? Take a look at our country right now. We are suffering and I see this happening every single day. Why should we help other countries when our country is not even doing that great? I see people suffering every day. Why should we be spending all of OUR tax dollars on helping another country when our country ourselves is out of control? Look at our nation’s poor people they are struggling day by day. Although I do see where Diamond is coming from with helping the less fortunate countries, I think that our country should be taken care of first.
Kayla Marley
English 110
GWC
Post 14 continued...
On the other side I do understand where Diamond is coming from in order to solve a problem before something erupts out of nothing people need to talk and communicate. I think that instead of giving our tax dollars to a country we should communicate with a country and give advice. I think that government should not be as greedy as they are and should start spending more wisely. (Example the entire flying a multi hundred passenger plane for one person to get from DC to San Francisco using tax paying dollars for fuel just so there is a nonstop flight.)
Anyways I was just watching Glee and could not stop smiling. I love singing and I could not stop singing along with the music. Not as well as them of course. My sister kept telling me to shut up. Ha. Anyways, one more day then I am off for the weekend. My dad is going to the hospital on Friday for surgery though so I will be in the hospital a lot this weekend.
Kayla Marley
English 110
GWC
Post 15
Yue-
The fact that you won't say no is because you are such a great person. I am exactly like you. If someone asks me to take a shift I feel obligated to take it. Bad habit, but I do. We just have to learn to be strong and say no, because we too deserve our time off. Especially that we are taking Mr. Hsiao's class. Whooo soo much work... haha ;)
Priscilla
You are crazy to be staying up until 430am. That is what time I get up to go to work! haha. Hope you were able to catch up on your sleep.
LongKim Luong
GWC
post 12
The Erosion of Civilization
When i read the first part of this essay, i thought this looks more like a piece from the Geography book rather than English. The author did a good research of Middle East's history; this land was so productive, powerful from even the Ice Age. This land have the Mediterranean climate, great numbers of wild plants, animals, crops. There is probability that English was spoken by Middle Eastern people. But this fertile land started to decline by deforestation, over grazing, erosion and other environmental reasons.The decline of these countries eventually led to poverty, violence and conflicts.So i think the author wants us to help these Middle East countries (Third world) out this decline. Helping other poor countries would benefit the U.S because we can prevent any potential threat, hatred toward the U.S. I think the last paragraph is a good suggestion; The text states:" We can not take on the whole world militarily".. by one strike, so we should deal with each country one by another in order to take the whole world down.
Stephanie Farano
GWC
Eng. 110
The Erosion of Civilization
When I think of Iraq, I think of war, I think of our troops, I think of 9/11, I think helpless, I think depressing. This shows exactly what our media wants us to think. We have a very small picture of the reality of the rooted situation. We have always been the big strong United States, that fears no one and saves all. Despite this mentality we have been in so many situation with blinders on. The US is billions of dollars in debt for ignoring and postponing the helping of others. We choose to ignore others downfalls and before we know it they are drowning and we have no choice but to jump in and save them. This is our problem. Don't get me wrong....I love the UNITED STATES and couldn't be anymore proud to live in America, but when does it end? Why are we constantly sending troops to save other countries, we have our own problems. I know that we have a bit of an ego to be apart of the cure and heal, but we are not always in a position to help.
I found it interesting that the first couple of paragraphs drew a picture of Iraq's previous economic and social state. The only Iraq I know is the one I see on TV, which is piles of rubble and blown up buildings. It is heart breaking to see what these people are going to though on a daily basis. We are a country, as a whole, that goes by the mentality "out of sight out of mind." When I watch the news (rarely..it is too depressing) I am completely tuned in for the hour. Then back to my day unfazed by the killing and suicide bombings. I hate to admit this fact, but I am a local news kind of girl and lately, I do not like reading that either. This writing allowed me to look at another perspective and the short past update on the background of Iraq. We need to be educated in order to understand the purpose of our decisions.
Raufiel Matias
English 110
GWC
Post #11
The Erosion of Civilization
Overall, I enjoyed reading this piece because I've learn some new information that I haven't picked up from my previous history classes. I guess that my history teacher in high school was too old to remember this stuff. Anyways, it was cool that to know that Iraq was a really prosperous country and that many things started there such as the copper, bronze, and iron tools. As an Iraqi citizen, it's kinda sad to think that their country went from having everything, from technology, to ideas, and power to almost nothing. I agree with what Diamond stated "Iraq's decline holds lessons the world should heed" (1). It's a lesson that all the countries should take into consideration not to make the same mistakes that Iraq did. As for the problems regarding other countries, I agree with Ronald that the Unites States has its' own problem and the government should prioritize fixing its' own country first before intervening with other countries' problems. It's not that the U.S. shouldn't help other countries with their problems and face it by ourselves, but other powerful countries should also help out to fix other countries' problems. As for the options that Diamond stated, all three of them are possible options, but I would've pick 1 and 3 because we should help out other countries that are in need and that they may be able to help us back sometime in the future when we need their help. Also, if it's possible to help out a country before their problem(s) get's any worse then it's an option that we should also consider.
Betsy McPherson
English 110
Golden West College
Post # idk
Erosion of Civiliation
First off i would just like to say that i had no idea Iraq was such a trend setter and lead country...maybe its because i despise history and tend to not pay attention to it, or maybe its because i was never really taught about the history of the middle east in schools growing up, but i was seriously amazed to learn all those details about that country. looking at pictures of the war we are currently in and seeing it all dusty and desert like, i would never even imagined that it used to be lush and full of vegitation. i also think it is interesting that a country that was revolutionary for so long has come downhill so fast...its really sad.
at the end of the essay the author talks about how we should help countries from getting to the place iraq is before they get there and help sustain themselves so that we dont have to go and save them, and while i can see what the author is saying to an extent...part of me feels like we need to worry about we have going on in our own country first. we have people living in poverty and starving...new orleans still isnt totally repaired, hell it took months and months for galvastan to open back up after the hurricane last year (i have family in both locations so i have first hand knowledge of these incidents) and frankly it makes me sick that we have already sent aid to somoa and american somoa when it took days for help to arrive in new orleans. i think we need to start taking care of our country first and other countries second. just like a damagaged person cant do anyone good until they heal themselves first, america is the same way. we need to make sure all our citizens are covered before trying to help others, bc helping others first will get us spread too thin and cause more debt than we already have...
on another note...today has SUCKED!!!! my great uncle got put in the hospital and my dad called me at work to let me know that they dont know if he was gonna make it so i had to hurry up and get my stuff done so i could leave work and be with my family at the hospital. i also had to call my calculas prof and see if i could get a make up exam since i wasnt going to make it class tonight. fortunatly he gave it to me so i could go be with my family. when i first got there it was scary and he looked really bad with lots of tubes everywhere. then they slowly woke up him and they were going to remove the breathing tube, but then they decided he wasnt ready yet so the put him back to sleep...my uncle is curretnly still alive but i cant help but wonder what type of condition he is in and if he really wants to be going through all this pain and bs...i hope he gets better and can go back home but i dont know if it will happen and i am pretty sad about the whole situation...
Danielle Kennedy
English 110
GWC
post #8 or #9
in the story Erosion of a Civilization, it goes over the history aspect of the middle east and what i learned was that at one point in time, they were doing better off than everyone else. the fertile cresent was doing very good both environmentally and society wise. the fertile cresent had a very great gift of having a very fertile area surrounded by water and forests and soil that produced food like crazy. the down fall came in the form of under estimating the environment and taking it for granted. they destroyed all of their major resources and the country finally came to an end. in todays society, similar things are happening with countries that happened to the fertile cresent. the easiest way to help solve these problems is to help your country or society first, then help others. what our problem is that we help everyone other than ourselves and if we do, we are placed last and our country keeps getting weaker and weaker. i am all for helping people,... it is what i do, but, there has to come a point where you say no, and countries cant seem to do that well. everyone wants to make everyone else happy, and you cant do that. the story was interesting because history is my worst subject but the story helped connect today to the past which, is easier to follow. :P
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #19
Thanks to Brittany and Kayla for the responses. :] It feels much better knowing that I'm not the only crazy person here. Hah, just kidding. You are both amazing people, so I'm glad you two are both on the same boat with me. It makes me feel better about being the way that I am.
So after posting that last post, I went to work. I come home and somehow I have taken on 3 more shifts! So after school tomorrow, I work for 9 hours. And I work all day on the weekends. Sweet.
The Erosion of Civilization
I think that Jared Diamond is using a pretty good tactic to gain support. He lists how the "Fertile Crest" was so great, so powerful. He paints the picture of a dominant area. Then, he puts the focus on that same area now. It is an obvious and dramatic change.
He makes it seem as though if we don't follow the things that he is suggesting, that we are going to end up the same way they did. Which is very possible, indeed.
I remember learning about the Mediterraneans. I remember thinking, "Wow, why doesn't this place exist anymore?" And now I kind of see why.
I do think that it is important to help the third world countries. However, I do think that it is more important to build a strong nation first. We can't give what we don't have...
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #41
Today
Today was the longest day ever! I worked 7-4 and then had classes from 5-10. I really wasn't feeling class today because I was so tired. I had to work 10 days straight! I'm glad we are done with our first paper though. This next one seems like it's going to be more challenging. I'm off tomorrow so I am going to dedicate myself to my studies! I don't want to fail.
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post # 38
I know that I can say that I am one of those people who do not blog as much. I know that will school coming into final I feel that I do not have as much time to get to the computer and blog. Lately I have been trying to go sleep early, but with that being said I am still going to bed about 3 or 4 in the morning. I wish that it was not this way because I want to be able to go to sleep earlier so that I can go running at 5am. School has been overwhelming and that might be because I have not be in school for a long period of time. I am glad to get my brain cells moving again. I can not believe that school is going by so fast. I really study hard. I do want to apologize for not blogging lately, but I wanted to catch up on sleep.
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post # 39
Esme:
True love I think it does exist. True love has to be where you can trust that person that you love in any situation and that you know that you can trust them. I also believe that there is a soul mate for everyone. A soul mate to me defines a person that you can tell everything to without getting judged. I know that have your true love and your soul mate you will go through your ups and downs together. I can also say that some people do not know what love is and they just take advantage of the word. Some people can get so use to being with some one after so many years, but not be happy. These people are in there relationship for comfort.
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
GWC
Post #10
You and Kayla, I believe I am in your boat too! yay! haha Well, it is not neccessarily for work but everything. It is like everytime people asks you for something, one is obligated to say yes! However, my friend Julia and I are working on it! We decided that everytime a no is needed we will say no even if it is against our will. hahahaa I think we should make a club call the "no-nos!". Anyone wants to join?
Sorry on the last post I meant Yue and Kayla not you. :/
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post 14?
While reading The Erosion of Civilization I kept thinking to myself "Are we talking about the same Iraq?". The only think I knew about Iraq before reading this story was that we were in a war in that country. Other than that, I really had no idea of the importance of the country. I think it is sad that the country has fallen into pieces and there wasn't a thing anyone could do about it. I don't believe that Iraq gets the credit it truly deserves for many of the techniques and ideas that we use today. When I think of people harvesting and raising cattle, I think of farmers at that beginning out America's time, not Iraq. I find it quite interesting that a country can rise so high and fall so low and people may never know of the accomplishments. If I had not read this, I may have never known that Iraq played such a pivotal role in the way our own country was formed.
Tien Tran
English 110
GWC
Post #12
My first impression of Iraq as a country never included a history so vast and rich in leading the global arena, but of a country lacking the necessary factors to become a stable nation. After reading this, I was caught by surprise of Iraq’s “Fertile Crescent” and its subsequent development of “the world’s first copper tools” and the “world’s first writing system.” Who knew a country so devastatingly poor was once at its height of great power and influence thousands of years ago!
Jared Diamond discusses ways to tackle Iraq’s problems by three ways, which all involves pumping money into the crippled country. Personally, I understand money will help in certain aspects, but I believe that it is not the way. In order to make Iraq, or any other failed nation, to get back on its feet is to build the foundation. The First World should be putting money into developing programs so that that country can stand on their own and survive on their when the money cease to come in from outside sources, rather than simply pumping money in to fix it present time. We should look at the goals in the long run, not in the short run because eventually, the country will slowly go back into where it was.
Samantha Sullivan
English 110
GWC
Post#9
The Erosion of Civilization
“And that’s the way the cookie crumbles..”
The words that I would use to describe the Middle East now are WAR, dry, sandy, hot and desperate. None of my first thoughts could ever paint the picture of it 8,000 years ago. The Middle East was self sufficient and booming. Like the United States today I feel that we have already reached our peek and we are slowly, but surely feeding into our own erosion. The Middle East did only as they knew and did not foresee the effects on their future. In this way, the United States, is strong and does not fully grasp our charging downfall. We are fighting behind enemy lines over seas while back on our home soil we have our own battles to conquer. What about our poor, sick, and the less fortunate. We cannot branch aid out without first helping ourselves. We are feeding into our own erosion in this way. If not solved, the present fate of the Middle East will soon be ours too. It is a domino effect.
Celina Rivera
english 100
Cerritos College
Post# 40
Hey you guys need to see this it is amazing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1JZ9O15280
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #20
Hello! I am back from helping my boyfriend's family move. Actually, we just needed to load the truck. Phew, moving is a pain in the butt!
Leydi
Way to go Leydi!!
That's a cute name for a club. Maybe like the movie "Yes Man" it'll help me say "No" to things!
Monique
Man, I know how you feel! Your much needed break is tomorrow, you get to chillax!! Enjoy it while you can :]
-----------------
Man, I'm going to be running on like 3 and a half hours of sleep. I feel like Superman!!
I think I'm going to write my essay on how I'm superman. :P
Maybe I'll do it now.
I know, I've already been told I'm insane. I'm starting to believe them. Hah!
See everyone tomorrow in class!
Jessica Atthowe
English 110
GWC
Post #?
"The Erosion of Civilization"
It's hard to believe that Iraq and surrounding countries in the Middle East were ever somewhat of a power in the world. Today in our world Iraq is the complete opposite. There is no agriculture there and there probably won't be anytime soon because the Middle East is at war with different countries and ruining their homeland. After reading this story it makes complete sense as to why these countries could lose so much. I wonder where we would be today if those Middle Eastern countries would have stayed an agricultural power and how much we as the United States would maybe have to depend on them. It's too bad that such a fertile piece of land could no longer exist because of its mistreatment. Middle Eastern countries would be so much wealthier and better off if oil was not their only natural resource of their land. Their country would have more money and people would not have to live in poverty which would make them happier and not want to go out and try and take down other countries. Unfortunately the Middle Eastern countries may never be on top again.
Eric Torres
English 110
Golden West College
Post #11
The Erosion of Civilization
The moral of this story is, bad things happen to countries who's homeland becomes the result of deforestation. After reading this i can see how "Iraq's decline holds lessons the world should heed" is true and important. This type of bad luck or downfall can happen to any country. Before reading this I did not know Iraq was so rich in agriculture and technology. It is amazing to see how a country that had been so rich in the past, become so poor. Iraq's fortune came about before the United States was even discovered. Iraq was efficient in literacy and technology. Iraq produced the world's first copper, bronze, and iron tools as well as the worlds first writing system. Today, we (the US) feel it is our obligation, as the wealthiest country in the world, to pick up other countries who have fallen. Today Iraq puts on a big threat in their terrorists groups even though they have such a poor country. It is because they are a poor country that they feel a need to blame their government, kill each other, and end up with crazy leaders who seek out to improve their situation. It is amazing how there is a pattern in how the U.S. seeks out to other countries to help and those countries end up being weak or poor because of their environmental disasters. In the three different responses to Third World countries, the U.S. choses option 2 which is to wait as long as possible and then intervene militarily once the crisis cannot be ignored. Jared is correct when he says, "preventing chaos abroad benefits the United States" because like the old saying, as long as it is not in my back yard, it is ok. This seems to be the sort of attitude people have been taking on lately when it comes to social problems suck as gang violence and drug dealing. The problem is U.S. citizens get the attitude that it only becomes a problem when they are affected by it. The U.S. military stepping in and taking control over seas is what happened and what is supposed to happen. If we do not take care of business overseas, then it will only come back to haunt us at home. In the final paragraph Jared writes states that, "Keeping weak countries from getting into the kind of trouble Iraq found itself in would ultimately save the U.S. money...". This is true because, like he said earlier, "any country can pose a threat" espically the weak and poor countries.
Beatrice Fisher
Eng 110
GWC
Post #11
Erosion of Civilization
What I most enjoyed about this piece was that it was plain and simple. There didn’t seem to be any hidden messages. It was to the point. It was like a huge wake up call. History has never been my favorite topic and I therefore didn’t know that Iraq was once one of the worlds leading countries. But to find that out and then find out why they fell is kind of scary. If this is plain and simple and there were no other huge things not laid out in this piece, this could be us or any other leading country in the world. I don’t think that we would live to see our complete fall. Although if I take a look around at everything that is going on in our country today, it doesn’t seem like it might be that far away. What Jared Diamond explains about these $100 billion dollar interventions is true! How many of these can we actually afford. We are already in such big debt. Not to mention that we could use that money for things here. The cost of education here is just crazy. It is becoming so expensive for some that they just can’t afford to go to college. And does America want to end up in another 100 years from now with an uneducated people? I was just talking with on of my friends yesterday and it seems that in the last 2 years two of the programs she was thinking about going into changed from bachelors programs to masters programs. We are certain it has to do with money! It is mind blowing that we purposely “wait until it is too late” to help other nations. As individuals we are taught from the time we are small children (most of us) not to be selfish but to help each other and share. Then we grow up, gain power, and link many things to our selfish motives. It’s a sad situation. I might be silly to think this, but if we were to instead help solve those much needed environmental and public health problems in other places with a quarter of what we are spending and then use the other ¾ for ourselves, wouldn’t that help us all out? And isn’t it possible that because of this the world as a whole would end up a better place, and we would still remain powerful because we would be that much more better off?
Leydi Espinoza
English 110
GWC
Post #11
The Erosion Of Civilization
The intention of Jared Diamond is quite clear. Through his writing, Diamond is bewaring about problems that may arise if one does not do something to help other countries in need. In order to do for his message to get across, he uses a country every is acquainted in a negative way, Iraq. He gives the reader a background explaining how great Iraq and other surrounding countries used to be. Also emphasizes that I raq used to be the "Fertile Crescent", even though today is ranks among the most weakest countries. At the beginning of the story, Diamonds states that "Iraq's declined holds lessons the world should heed" (2). This meaning, that such issues today can be prevented if we were not so cocky and look constructively at the past. That is, if one were to take the good lessons that such tragedies from the past can give, many problems we face today could be prevented. Again, Diamonds uses the dry land of Iraq to get his msessage accross. He explains how Iraq's dominance did not depend on biological superiority but rather the rich ecosystem their land used to be. He also describes how such privileges allowed them to rogresses in agriculture amd scribing. Alsoit explains that their rich lands allowed them to rise the first multiethnic empire.
However, as we now, when something goes up it always comes down and that what with their land. They did not took care of it and it costs them their dominance. Now they are at the botom.
Dalene Kolb
English 110
Golden West College
Post #35
A couple of things...
First...
Brittany:
I have read At First Sight actually. I have read all his books. There all amazing.
And Second...
The Erosion of Civilization:
Well this week has been pretty crazy. So lets just hope I understood this the way it was suppose to be understood.
The begining of the story is talking about the fact that everyone used to hunt wild plants and wild animals in order to recieve food. That is until the Iraqis and Fertile Crescent people began to develop technology that would help us later in the future.
The fact that the Middle Eastern was the first to come up with a writing system and is now has a low illiteracy is crazy. They came up with the system, why is it then they can not use it? That just seems very odd.
Okay maybe it is just me because the fact I'm writing this and I am barely awake, but why is it that people destroyed Iraq's irrigation system?
Oh wow! The cause and effect Diamond states is so true. When you have problems, things just get worse and worse.
When Diamond talks about spending billions of dollars for military action and the fact that we can not afford it when we have our own problems, but yet we continue is wierd. You would think the goverment would help the people here in need, then help others, but I guess that is not how our system works. I like the fact when he mentions helping the countries enviromental and public health. We help them, but we don't get into anymore debt. Question for everyone: When Diamond says preventing chaos abroad benefits the United States, how is that true? We get a better reputation?
I really enjoyed this story. I was confused with it at times, but it was informative. Good writing!
~Dalene
Erica Lloyd
English 110
GWC
Post #13
The Erosion of Civilization
Nothing like waiting until the last minute! This essay was a sobering one. It is scary to think about the downfall of Iraq when it is laid out so simply this way. This really is a lesson we need to heed. There is not much stopping this story being us somewhere down the road. Power is not infinite. We need to take care of our planet and not abuse our resources. It is mind blowing that we are willing to spend $100 billion to go and fight a war, something most of us claim to be against, and yet we don't take an alternative method to keep the world in balance that would cost only a fourth of that and help the world more in the long run. We can't just keep turning a blind eye and crossing our fingers that these situations will work themselves out. And just because it is not our country does not mean it is not our problem. This is everyone's world and we should be concerned about any country damaging it beyond repair. How many "inferitle crescents" can the world develop before it can't sustain any of us?
Esmeralda Orozco
English 100
CC
post 40
OMG CELINA I LOOKED AT THE LINK U SEND AND IT WAS JUST CRAZY SHE MADE SO MANY THINGS OUT OF SAND WOW
THATS TALENT
I DID NOT KNO Y PPL WERE CRYIN THO BUT I IT WAS KUTE
SHE WAS REALLY PRETTY TO LOL
Esmeralda Orozco
ENGLISH 100
CC
POST 41
TESS
HOPE U FEEL BETTER
PPL
I JUST CAME FROM HEALTH CLASS AND U ALL KNO U NEED 8HRS OF SLEEP
I DIDN'T KNO U COULDN'T MAKE THEM UP BY SLEEPING ALL DAY SAT LOL
IDK IF U PPL KNO ANY BIPOLAR PPL
BUT MY FRIEND IS IN AN OFF AND ON RELATIONSHIP WIT ONE
MY ???
CAN THEY CHANGE???
I KNO PPL SAY OH ILL CHANGE GIVE ME ANOTHER CHANCE BUT THINGS END UP WORST BUT WITH BIPOLAR PPL IS IT ANY DIFFERENT???
Yue Hayes
English 110
Golden West College
Post #21
Esmeralda
First of all, I loooove your name. It's such a pretty name.
And secondly, I don't know any diagnosed bipolar people, so I can't say this with any experience. But I think within everyone there is possibility of change. I might just be naive, but I think everyone can change. I think it's just a matter of will.
However, it is easier said than done. It takes a lot more to actually change than to just say it. It's a challenge because the person has to fight urges and habits and things that are more comfortable, or that are easier. It's always really hard to make change within yourself, because it takes a lot of discipline.
Celina
That was insane. Wow.
It was very emotional and very unique. I can't begin to describe all the things that it was!!
The audience's reactions really matched mine.
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post 15?
Does anyone know what day & time the AIDS walk is? Are we allowed to bring guests and do we pay 20 for the guest as well? Thanks!
I PUT THE LINK TO A FUNNY VID ON MY PAGE!! CHECK IT OUT ITS UNDER MOVIES XD
Brittany Williams
English 110
GWC
Post #29
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
Wow.
Upon reading Frankl's work, I couldn't help but cry. Each word, written so eloquently, penetrated my deepest emotion as tears of compassion slowly rolled down my face. Now, as I sit to write this post and reflect upon the reading, I am fearful that my words will not convey the true encouragement I found through Frankl's story. What words could be used to tell of such great inspiration? None would do it justice. This, however, is my feeble attempt...
Through my watery eyes, I captured an inspiring story of resilience as told through Frankl's first hand account of his life as a Jew in the Holocaust. "Even though conditions such as lack of sleep, insufficient food and various mental stresses may suggest that the inmates were bound to react in certain ways, in the final analysis it becomes clear that the sort of person the prisoner became was the result of an inner decision, and not the result of camp influences alone” (Paragraph 14). An inner decision - this thought resonated within my heart as I reflected upon the strength of the human condition. Through the heartache, the physical torment, and the emotional despair, it is assumed that one, having been through such terrible conditions, would warrant a negative outcome. This, however, was not the case. Frankl saw their outcome as a result of an “inner decision,” suggesting that “any man, even under such circumstance, [can] decide what shall become of him – mentally and spiritually” (Paragraph 14).
In reading further, Frankl gave examples of such strength when he said, "We who lived in concentration camps can remember the men who walked through the huts comforting others, giving away their last piece of bread. They may have been few in number, but they offer sufficient proof that everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms - to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way" (paragraph 12). The truth found in this quote was exceptionally humbling. These men, living in the most ghastly of circumstances, chose to tend to the needs of their suffering brothers before those of themselves. I found this to be the most profound and inspiring message of the whole piece, for in life we are faced with similar choices on how we are to live. Let us do as these great men did. Let us choose to love, even through great difficulty.
In closing, I would like to quote a portion of the text, for I think it is beautifully written. May it touch your hearts as it did mine.
“The way in which a man accepts his fate and all the suffering it entails, the way in which he takes up his cross, gives him ample opportunity – even under the most difficult circumstances – to add a deeper meaning to his life” (Paragraph 16).
Brittany Williams
English 110
GWC
Post #30
Stephanie- I remember the AIDS Walk starting at 7am; however, I do not remember the date of the event.
Hope that helps!
Kayla Marley
English 110
GWC
Post 16
Random Post
Well my dad is going into surgery tomorrow. I am a little nervous but I know he will be fine. Okay I lied I am really nervous. He was in the hospital for a week in August. I'm happy that this week had came to a conclusion because this week has been so crazy. I am really really excited for the upcoming field trips! I can't wait to just go out there and help other people. Helping other people is like a high, I just can't get enough of making other people smile and be happy. Anyways, I just wanted to post and talk about my nerves for tomorrow. Everyone have a fantastic weekend!
Prof. Hsiao
English 100/ 103/ 110
Post idk
Here is the
Field Trip Itinerary for October
Second Harvest Food Drive
Saturday Oct. 10th 7am to 2pm
The Getty Villa
Friday Oct. 16th 9am to 4pm
25th Anniversary AIDS Walk
Sunday Oct. 18th 7am to 3pm
Isaiah House
Saturday Oct. 31 9am to 3pm
Hi Brittany,
I will give you what I have so far: Post on Dalai Lama, Ghandi, or Frankel, in or white folder.
Start Outline on Obama of MLK to bring in for the midterm to write a paragraph.
Start on Resume’ on page1of the white folder. (write your own resume’)
Notes on the board (My take)
Cause and effect for Jarred Diamond’s Erosion of Society due in 2 weeks
Body paragraph
1 causes:
Hostile neighbors
Deforestation
Ecological suicide
Low rainfall
Soil erosion
Overgrazing
Corrupt government
Technology
Language and literacy
2 effects
Extreme poverty
Illiteracy
Emigration
Dictatorships- fanatical leaders
Civil unrest
Killing each other
Threat
Dangerous- not look weak-jihad
Health care
No education
Humanitarian aid
3 analysis- he did not go into detail about this
Compare and contrast (I think MLK and Obama)
Body paragraph
1 similarities
2 differences
3 analysis
Hope this helps
In our class there is a Samoan lady whose name escapes me. Do you know what it is?
Archie
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos
Post midterm
Midterm Outline,
Hey English 100 Class
Hey Guys,
Whoever is going to the outline on MLK and Obama speeches we should talk about the outline on the blogosphere. We need to keep up the discussion we had on the Wednesday class to help each other. (That is if prof H allows it)
This is a thought because I know how hard the Midterms are.
People who are doing the Erosion of Civilization should do the same.
I just want everyone to be prepared for the midterm.
Michael,
Maybe you can start it.
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post 16?
Good morning everyone,
I know it is short notice, but I am participating in the Light the Night Walk to support the leukemia lymphoma society tomorrow evening with some fellow co workers and we are trying to raise money for our walk. If any one is interested in donating please follow the link below. Thank you in advance!!
http://pages.lightthenight.org/los/WarnerPk09/SWold
Prof. Hsiao
English 100/ 103/ 110
Post idk
Stephanie, I will make a donation.
Jenny, that is a great idea in terms of posting thoughts on the midterm essay.
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#42
I'm torn
Ok I am having trouble deciding on what to do my outline on MLK/Obama or Erosion of Civilization? I heard the MLK one will be toughest but that is the one I am most attracted to. As for the Erosion of Civilization...I am not getting it. I feel like a dummy because alot of people in the class get it. When I got into the Erosion group everyone seemed to know what they were talking about, but me. I'm gonna try and go over it again. Line by line,inch by inch. I want to get it, I do! I am not a quitter! I just don't want to slow everyone down.
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #43
A Simple Path and An Open Heart by The Dalai Lama
Reading these words of wisdom by The Dalai Lama, I think to myself…WOW! I have never read so much positive words in my life. He is true to his religion and respectful of others religious beliefs. He does not try to force feed on us his religion but bring out the best of others including his own. I was completely blown away by his words. He believes that everyone has a purpose in life. Also, he understands that there are people in the world who are ignorant towards other religions due to the fact that they do not understand them. He also states that people criticize their previous religions, so that they can benefit from their newfound religion. For example, when Catholics convert to becoming a devoted Christian. I see this as “my crew is better than your crew.” He says that we should respect each others religious beliefs. I agree with him. We should respect other people’s decisions, after all it is their life. Who are we to say what someone else should or should not believe in? The Dalai Lama believed that through these different traditions, “a very negative person can be transformed into a good person”(Dalai Lama 7.) I think this is true. Church can have that effect on people. There were times when I felt really negative and than I would go to church. Hearing all the positive words and just being around people with good energy made me feel good. The Dalai Lama believes “that ever human being has an innate desire for happiness and does not want to suffer” (Dalai Lama 1.) To me, that is what heaven is like. No worries, no sadness. Everyone wants to be happy. I think that we all experience the same things in life, but in different cycles. We are all human. Like the Dalai Lama says we are all the same. Mental attitude is very important he states. I think if you give off the impression that you are angry, people will get that vibe and back off. They will not get the chance to get to know the real you and get the wrong impression. Yes, Mental attitude is important. I could relate to the talk about steering away from pursuing a life of luxury. There were times when I thought if I would be happier if I were rich. But, even the rich are unhappy and money cannot bring happiness. I think the Dalai Lama’s words are inspirational. He had motivated me to find my inner strength and my longing for inner peace. He makes it sound so simple and that is because it is! He believes that we can all make a difference. It does not matter what religion we practice, but that we all want the same outcome. Happiness. He talks about war being part of the history of humanity. This much is true. We use violence to prove a point in some cases and it is wrong. No good can come out of hurting other people. It is true that we are all to blame for what goes on in our world. It would be wonderful to live in a world with Nonviolence. The Dalai Lama states that we must show examples in our everyday lives acts of Nonviolence. If we are kind and warm hearted to other people we can really make a difference
Macey Lindsay-Clinton
English 110
Golden West College
Post #12 or 13 :/
A Simple Path and An Open Heart by the Dalai Lama
I really liked this piece because I agreed with everything that the Dalai Lama was talking about. I am not super religious or anything, I generally only go to church when I feel that I need a boost in my life. I am a Unitarian Universalist but I also consider myself agnostic. Having been raised with out a religious influence I find myself in awe of how much damage to society religion can do, and also the great and positive things. It is interesting how in the piece he talks about switching religions and how you must respect the one you left because it is not wrong, it was simply wrong for you. This seems like a very important aspect of religion that many people seem to falter with. The goal of every religion is to make its followers good people, which should be respected because there would be many more bad people without religion. Generally, humans need to have something guiding them in their lives, whether it is fear of God that keeps them from doing wrong or the teachings of those who they worship. The second half of the piece talks about how we need a combination of stable inner peace and an external well being to make our selfs happy. Happiness, he says, is what we look for in life and I definitely agree with this statement. He brings light to how material goods will not bring you happiness if you do not have an inner happiness. My favorite line was when he said, "Once we draw a line in the sand, we develop a feeling of "us" and "them."(11) For me, this statement brought the entire piece together. When we let religion divide us, it only creates harm, just as when we divide ourselves into nations. In a perfect world, we would be able to come together and realize that everyone is human and we are in this together.
Monique Gutierrez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #44
Fears
I have many fears. One is rollercoasters. The fastest "coaster" I've been on was the old Windjammer ride at Knotts. LOL. Yeah I know what a peewee ride, but I was glad that I at least got on that one. I am also afraid of heights. I freak out in glass elevators. I am also afraid of suffocating. I used to hate getting dog piled on as a child by other kids. I would panic and wouldn't be able to breathe. I am also afraid of losing a loved one. I have this fear of clowns. The scary ones that look like Tim Curry in the movie "It" just frightens me. Let's see what else? I am also afraid of failure. I want to be a smart, successful and independant woman. What are your fears?
Beatrice Fisher
Eng 110
GWC
Post #12
Dalai Lama
This was an easy read. It made me give a nod of agreement pretty much throughout the entire thing. I absolutely agree that having some religion is better than none at all. I guess the overall difference in most religions is based on who one worships and the after life. I grew up in a pretty strict Christian home but did do some exploring of other religions as well. For myself, I needed to be sure that I wasn’t “Christian” only because my parents were. In the end, I stuck with what I was raised with. I think it is sad when others criticize another’s religion. It is the whole agree to disagree thing. Just because I don’t believe in certain things I am not going to put another down for what they believe.
I love that he explained that the purpose and result of religion is to transform a negative person in to a good one. I believe that this is one of the most powerful parts of religion. This is what makes someone whatever religion they are for life.
The Dalai Lama is such an inspiring role-model. He may not be of my religion but the fundamentals that he speaks of are ones that we can all benefit from. Having a positive mental attitude is one of the best things (besides our faith) we can possess in order to stay grounded in life. A few years back I went to a Buddhist meditation retreat in Belgium longing to achieve that inner-most peace of mind. For twelve days I did not speak. I meditated for 14 hours a day and didn’t so much as make eye contact with another being. It didn’t teach me anything I didn’t already know, but it reinforced one important thing. Every moment will pass. When hard times in life cross us, we need to remember that just like any other time, it will eventually go away. Meditating took me to a place very deep, a place I don’t think I had ever been. It took me a good 3 days before my mind went still and it only lasted a split second. But in that second there was a calmness that was AMAZING! When I consider what the Dalai Lama has seen in his lifetime, I am most certain that it is his religion that gives him the deep peace and calmness that he has.
He speaks about today’s problems and how we have been the creators of them all. It is saddening. One of the first things we learn as a child is the concept of “mine”. Similar to what the Dalai Lama speaks of as “us” and “them”, these are words that are dividing and will never unite. I especially like when he speaks of non-violence being more than the absence of violence but that it involves compassion. There is the old saying stating, “life is too short,” and it really is. Life is fragile and why we choose to bicker and argue instead of love and live harmonious is beyond me. The bible says that our time here on earth is but a breath of air. One moment we are here and the next we are gone. With that and as the Dalai Lama encourages us to daily recite:
May the poor find wealth, those weak with sorrow find joy.
May the forlorn find new hope, constant happiness and prosperity.
May the frightened cease to be afraid, and those bound be free.
May the weak find power, and may their hearts join in friendship.
I LOVE IT!
Esmeralda Orozco
english 100
CC
post 42
Dalai Lama
As i was reading this story i felt a connection. i agree that we can do anything with out the force of violence. i think if you want something and you remain focus and calm using no violence you will get a much respectful result. I like that fact that he respects different believes and just because in his person aspect he thinks his religion is the best it does not mean it is the best for everyone. I really respect that because he knows that you have to respect others religion even if you do not agree. When i was reading the story i could not stop reading it. I could not imagine someone being so peaceful with everyone else. he teaches to respect yourself along with others and knowjing myself there are times that i cannot respect some people but i imagine him and no matter what they tell him he keeps peace and that is very important i think if people try to be just a little nice to others we would be in a better environment
Cathrina Afusia
Cerritos College
English 100
Reflection on A Simple Path and An Open Heart
Let me start off by saying I loved this reading! This has been the best by far. I think I enjoyed the reading because it sort of represents me as a person. I to also believe we feel depending on the energy we disburse out to others. Though she wrote about some disturbing subjects regarding the negativity of others, she still kept her message very positive. I have always felt the heart will lead you in the right direction even though our minds think more on the reality of things. If you are a good person then great things will come in return. I guess it would be safe to say that I do believe in kharma. Having a compassionate heart is the overall foundation to a good person, and that is the message I believe Dalai set out express in her opening paragraph. Going further along into the reading I started to develop much respect for this writer. I have to commend her for being so passionate toward her tradition, and at the same time not allowing herself to put down another’s. This was a well rounded piece of writing, and she stands tall on what she believes in . She is basically practicing what she preaches. Her heart is so opened and not once do you hear her wanting to be biased toward another.
There was a part where she writes “Though some of us have larger noses and the color of our skin may differ slightly, physically we are basically the same. The differences are minor. Our mental and emotional similarity is what is important.” These words related so much to the paper I just finished writing. Why do we separate others by characteristics? When it all boils down, we are all of the same kind of person. Color, shape, and size are all minor aspect of the human. It is how we treat each other, and that is what really matters. What kind of species are we if we are not in each others best interest? Eventually we will end up destroying each other. All of our potential is equivalent. We only act depending on what state of mind we set ourselves in.
She then went into materialistic part of a human, and that was no surprise. Many are set to believe that money equals power. Money has overpowered so many minds, and corrupted so many lives. Now do not get me wrong, money is a necessity in my life, but how it is used is what is important. Many grow to be unhappy and feel material things can overpower that feeling, in which I feel to be untrue. I am overall grateful to have the roof over my head, food to eat, and clothes to keep me warm.
Treating others with respect will set a positive tone between any human interactions. I believe this will eliminate the vast amount of hostility that we are unfortunately surrounded by. The vibe of one positive person could actually take effect on more than one person at a time. If this pattern continues it could be a chain reaction.
Martha Vazquez
English 100
CC
Post 18
A Simple Path and An Open Heart
I am struck with how open and respectful the Dalai Lama is about other religions. He talks about how everyone should follow thier traditional religion, because they all offer "the potential to serve humanity and develop good human beings" I was always used to hearing that certain religions were wrong and ours was right. To hear a religious leader say that all religions are valuable, and they all offer some good, is astounding. My favorite line from "A Simple Path" is, " The point is that through these different traditions, a very negative person can be transformed into a good person. That is the purpose of religion - and that is the actual result. This alone is suffiecient reason to respect other religions" The Dalai Lama teaches respect of others and whatever thier beliefs may be.
In "An Open Heart" he talks about mental attitude. He says that happiness comes from within, and not from external riches. With a positive mental attitude can we can achieve inner peace.
A concept that we don't hear too often is that we should be caring and compassionate towards our neighbors because our happiness is dependant upon others in our society. Being so interdependant uppon each other makes war obsolete. We don't need to fight with one another. Talking through our issues should be enough. This is something we need to teach. "we must promote such a concept of nonviolence at the level of the family as well as at the national and international levels. Each individual has the ability to contribute to such compassionate nonviolence" If we teach compassionate nonviolence to our families, it will spread to international levels. We all have the ability to make a difference in this world.
"So long as space remains,
So long as sentient beings remain,
I will remain,
In order to help, in order to serve,
In order to make my own contribution"
Esmeralda Orozco
english100
cc
post41
monique
I AM ALSO HAVING PUZZLED ABOUT THAT I WANT TO DO MLK BUT ITS THE MOST DIFFICULT ONE
IM FREAKING OUT CUZ I DONT CARE MUCH FOR POLITICS AND THIS IS PRETTY MUCH POLITICS FOR ME LOL
Esmeralda Orozco
english 100
cc
post42
OH ITS MY MOMZ BDAY TODAY WHOO WHOO
AND 2MARROW MY NIECE 2 WHOO WHOO
LETS GET DRUNK JP I DONT DRINK
WINK WINK
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #20
A Simple Path and An Open Heart - Dalai Lama
For starters, I know very little about Buddhism, and from what I did know I saw it as the "neutral" religion of the world.
Now I understand that it isn't so much that at all, but a core of beliefs that many religions hold already. The Dalai explains further that it doesn't matter what religion you prefer as long as you keep the basic principles in mind, such has having a good heart and inner peace. My own religion, which I was brought up with since I can remember, spoke of those same basic principles, and how we should never forget them. It did not even speak of frightening consequences, such as hell, if these core ideas were not followed, but the fact that we would hurt each other, and fall together as a whole.
The Dalai shows how we are so divided today nationally and internationally. We realize how bad we need each other, but for the wrong reasons, and therefore only seek for a quick fix that only benefits ourselves. We are not victorious if one of our people is down, and by "our people" I mean the human race. The Dalai goes on explaining how we are too focused on this idea of "us" and "them", which creates rivalries and violence in the end. It is true that we must approach each other intently, but not violently. We must care for everyone's needs, and hope to erase the line we have created in the sand, as Dalai illustrates.
He reminds us that he is no different or more special than any other person in this world, and we are all capable of an open heart. I like to think that I have taken into practice respecting others' religions and beliefs, and in a sense have the same respect be shown for my own. I like The Dalai. He knows the "Fist bump" as shown here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALLk9fS7We4&feature=related
Michael Swisher
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #26
Jenny
Sure, I can initiate if you wish. MLK and Obama will be a difficult essay for it’s contrast and comparison. The third paragraph is simply opinion, so discussion is sort of moot regarding opinion, for I believe that Mr. Hsaio would like all varieties of opinions. So the third paragraph, concerning the individual’s intent and ideas, should intrinsically write itself. The other two paragraphs, however, are more factual. Comparisons, I believe, between Dr. Martin Luther King and President Obama are (the obvious) they are both black male leaders, and it shows in their writing. They are both writing for peaceful messages, and for hope. They are both writing to assuage tension. They are both writing for historical pittance (that was a double entendre, feel free to plagiarize), and they are both presenting problems while optimistically persuading. Some contrasts would lie in their positions (Obama being a politician, and Dr. King being a pastor, and speaker) as well as their goals. Remember, Obama’s speech was written after the mountain was climbed, and Dr. King’s was written at the base of the mount. Obama wrote in a grateful fashion for the admonishments, and the crowning which came to fruition, but Dr. King wrote to call, and to ignite a fire within the altruistic soul of humanity. Ok… I’m spent…. Your turn!
Andy Murphy
CC
Eng103
Post#15
a simple path and an open heart & Man's search...
Each of these readings were very heartfelt especially Victor Frankls'. Just reading the part where he was reminiscing about his past girlfriend to attain some happiness in such a desolate place kind of choked me up. Each different reading deals with happiness. Now some might think "oh this is stupid" "and go to freakin disneyland if you want happiness" but thats just not the case. To be fully happy is something I cannot even begin to describe. To be at peace with one's self and to not have a care in the world. In the Dalai Lama's he stated how materialism will not fill one's pit of unhappiness. I found that paragraph to be the most apparent one to our society. Materialism/commercialism is everywhere now. We see millions and millions of advertisements thrown at us from all angles. From our favorite athletes to the sides of city owned buses are streamed with adds. In most commercials we see how that product will make one happy or cool to dawn or but it. The Dalai Lama of course refutes this and says the opposite. It's how weird that line would not have really phased me until a week or so ago when I saw that movie "Into The Wild" on Showtime. This pretty much showed everything the Dalai Lama meant. The main protagonist of that movie played by Emile Hirsh, just graduates college and got accepted to Harvard Law. His materialistic parents offered to pay his whole tuition there. He refuses. Throws his entire old life away and starts living as a nomad; traveling the country to his final home, the last frontier, Alaska. Watching this movie (which is true) I thought "WHAT AN IDIOT", but I guess in reality, from people he met and made an impact on along the way, stated he was the most at peace, happy human being they ever saw. Many of us cannot grasp that concept. We are so addicted to our phones, computers and ipods that we never stop to realize that do any of these things ,in terms, rip our soul?
Gabriela Tovar
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #19
As i kept reading A SIMPLE PATH by the DALAI LAMA, paragraph number four, i took it as the only truth... Everone has to appreciate and respect other religions... I say that everyone believes in one god, but the only difference are the point of views each one of htem have... I believe christians and catholics have many similarities with religion, the only difference i see is the fact that christians are more conservative, more respectful, and way, way too friendly. Catholics on the other hand, like to talk and bring up jokes, during mass time, about the soccer match held earlier... I think bringing any conversation about any soccer game during mass time is very disrespectful and inappropiate... I do not know much about being buddahism and its religion, so i am not going to talk about it... Now, on the other hand, i think praying to your ALLAH is not, for me, any sense of respect to any god... I mean c'mon, what god is going to tell one to die for one's god... That is non-sense and sorry to say this, stupid... I do respect all religion and this is the first time i have ever insulted or talked about how i feel about any specific religion...
I am a catholic... I just hate the fact that everytime i go to church with my parents, the conversation of a god darn soccer game comes up, it gets on my nerves and makes me want to leave... I hate it... For that and many other reasons i DISLIKE going to church, sorry mom and dad but its the truth...
Over all, i think everyone should respect other religions no metter how non-sense they make sound or look...
Veronica Vasquez
English 103
Cerritos College
Post #21
@ Gabsters
I definitely agree with you that we should all respect everyone's religion no matter how ludicrous some of their beliefs may seem. Of course, we still hold our own personal opinions to some beliefs many have, like the one you mentioned with killing. There are several biblical stories that I found pretty extreme even when I was a child. One that comes to mind is the story of Abraham and his son Isaac, in which he was tested by God and sent to kill his only son from Sarah. Knowing that Sarah was once barren, and here gives birth to a son because of God, and is then asked to sacrifice him to show loyalty, would you comply?
For those of you who aren't familiar with this story, and are at the edge of your seat to find out what happens, God spares Abraham's son, and later grants them a happy life. Now, I know current Catholic/Christian beliefs don't order people to kill, or praise them for such acts, but there are several radical stories in the bible that many people seem to forget about.
Archie Kaaua
Professor Hsiao
English 110
Golden West College
6 October 2009
Post 19
A Simple Path and an Open Heart
This is a comparison and contrast of Buddhism and all other religions (mainly Christian). He starts by saying that all of the religions are good. He likes the good heartedness of them all. Anything is better than nothing. The Dalai Lama said that his religion is good but only when one feels it is suitable usually when the traditional religion is not effective. It is a training of the mind. He says that when we adopt a new religion we tend to criticize the old one. We should not do this because it is still a good religion for millions of other people. The average person thinks that their religion is best and that is based on their superior knowledge. The idea of religious pluralism is where the many religions of the world are to coexist in harmony. He tells us that his way is the best. What a big surprise. He admits that it is not for everyone. He notices a very forceful loving kindness among this. I do not understand what he means. Is this a paradox? Is someone holding someone down so they can show them kindness or is it like being blackmailed? None of this makes sense. I guess he is right that to a religion with a Creator God reincarnation seems like nonsense. There lies the problem. No one has gone past death and returned to verify any of this. Jesus’ followers claimed to have spent time with him after his death but no one has recently completed the task. He tells us that most humans want to experience happiness. He thinks that material things as money will not fill the voids in our lives. He says that only sharing with others will bring us inner peace and happiness. He says may the poor find wealth, the sick find health and so on. If the poor found wealth would they become kind or would they become corrupt? I wish everyone happiness but I do not think that everything is as easy as changing extremes. Now that I have said that I wish everyone enough money so they do not curse God and not enough so they forget God.
Archie
Ana Cervantes
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#??
A Simple Path and Open Heart by The Dalai Lama
Well I will have to start by saying that I have never before come across with any of his writtings. I did come across to his history and movies that were made with him in mind. My favorite movie that included hia name was one where Brad Bitt comes out, I dont know if some of u recall it. Anyway back to the subject, I really enjoyed this reading it reminds me of some of my own thoughts and values that I have adopted in my religion. To me honest I am not the most religious person you would meet or go around saying that my religion is the best. In fact I do have doubts about my own religion. Never the less I do appreciate and respect my own religion and the religion of others. That is why I agree with what Dalia Lama says about that subject and his religion. I also agree that if one changes our religion to find that peace and love, and they find it in another religion I am no one to judge. However, what Dalia Lama leaves out is the part when a religion can take advantage of those that are looking for that peace and love which happems often now in days. Yet his words hold such truth and if other people read and understand those people would have more respect to others peaoples religion.Because what really gets me mad is those kind of people that want to establish a universal religion, the chosen one by God, the better religion.And they start talking lies and pointing fingers at other religions. If they read this it would open their minds and see that if a great person like The Dalia Lama said this should we also take on that truth and wisdom.
Open Haert
It is true that us humans have that power to define and achive happiness. But us humans tend to look and define happiness really simple and with little value. When instead we should look for the happiness within ourselves that will gave us the balance to see the outside things of the words more clearly with more beauty. That is what I think The Dalia Lama is saying in Open Heart. When things are made my humans they are not perfect and sometimes lead to distruction, but we also obtain that capacity to make things almost perfect. When we obatin that happiness and that heart comnpasion.
Tess Elizondo
English 100
CC
Post 10
Thanks so much Esme for your regards. I am feeling so much better.
Its sad to say but the weekend is over. I had such a great time this weekend. I got to spend time with friends and I got to spend time with my boyfriend this weekend...finally!
Sheesh the resume is harder than I thought is anyone else having trouble with it
Whitney Young
Golden West College
English 110
Post #14
A Simple Path and An Open Heart by the Dalai Lama
I really enjoyed this reading and I have so much respect for the Dalai Lama. I am Buddhist and I could understand a bit of what he was talking about. I strongly agree with his positive outlook on how life should be. He is very modest and says that all religions are good. It just has to be the religion suitable for you. I always disliked how people would always want to argue about how one religion is better than the other. I think all religions have equal importance. The essential message of all religions is love, compassion, and forgiveness. It is to help turn a negative person into a positive one. He talks about how we are all the same regardless of race, education, etc. We are all the same mentally and emotionally. I believe money can not solve problems. Problems need to be solved from within oneself. Our happiness stems from caring and respecting one another. It is a mental attitude that can bring inner strength. Ignorance often causes violence and rivalries because we use the words “us” and “them”. We are all equal and we are all interdependent on one another.
Tess Elizondo
English 100
CC
post 11
A Simple Path
Reading the passage on A Simple Path by the Dalai Lama I did not agree with Buddhism being the best religion. Then again how would I know it is not. I was born into a Catholic family. The majority of my friends at school were Catholic as well. I always went to a Catholic church until one if my aunts converted to being a Baptist. I spent one of my Sundays at her church and boy was it a culture shock. Baptist sang loudly and also danced to the music. They also said, "Yes Lord" and "Thats right" while the Preacher was preaching. The Catholic church is not like that at all. In church if we danced or shouted whiled the Priest was talking we got hit or yelled at. The Dalai Lama is right about being the same as everyone else. I noticed although Baptist behaved differently than Catholics in church we were all there for the same person, God. No religion is better than the other.
An Open Heart
The way the Dalai Lama reaches out to people is so well thought out. I feel as though the Dalai Lama knows so much information about so much information. People do wish for happiness and peace. I know I do. I related to his story when he said "...mental attitude is very important: it makes a real difference to our state of happiness"(1). If I am surrounded by negativity I am going to start acting negative. I remember when I got mad because I lost my keys. I started taking it out on my boyfriend without even noticing it. Luckily my boyfriend is really patient so he did not get mad at me. He stayed positive and told me to relax and that he would help me look. His patience helped out the situation. I know if he would have started yelling at me the sitaution would have got worse. Nothing would have been solved. Staying positive helps out every situation.
Jon Croft
English 110
Golden West College
Post #18
Satyagraha: Civil Disobedience, etc. by Mohandas K. Ghandi
In his opening spiel, Ghandi begins by laying down the rationale for his non-violent way of life. The absolute truth he speaks of, and the inability of humanity to comprehend said truth, does not completely negate our ability to punish. We must use what is available to us in order to establish a modicum of security for the society we live in. However, I digress.
What he is setting up is the proper method for using civil disobedience as a weapon. In all honesty, that is what it is in the situation of the Indian people at the time. They did not fight with the strength of their bodies, but the power of their minds, their KEEEEE-AI! SOOOOOOOUL FORCE! if you will.
What they were counting on, however, was not the sudden paradigm shift of the ignorant bigots and cusses who could not fill a soap dish with their collective mental capacities, but those of the British people living within and without India. He knew them to be humans that his message would reach, and knew they would accept the fact that India was now capable of governing itself after such a show of will was complete. Directing his message to his true jailers would not be of any assistance, because they were the individuals of Britain that would not cease their incessant violence, and would continue to play the foil of those practicing Civil Disobedience for all eternity.
Lucky for him, the people did listen, and the day was saved. Then, like all great human beings who emphasize non-violence, he was shot.
Maybe these pacifists should consider wearing bullet proof vests...
Brandon: Speaking of Paradigm Shift, how was the song? If you want another good one of theirs, Acid Rain is definitely worth it.
Michael Swisher
English 100
Cerritos College
Post#27
Man’s Search for Meaning
I am extremely appreciative of this piece of literature by Frankl. I remember feeling sensitivity and pain while reading (and watching) The Diary of Ann Frank, but this short read by Frankl brought me fierce imagery like no other. I cannot bear the thoughts that this poor man experienced as reality. What strikes me even deeper is the incorruptible fact that Frankl does not seem forlorn, or vengeful, he speaks of the events he experienced as one would speak of boot camp in the army. To be so neutral and free of natural hate for the murderers of one’s treasures confounds me. I am not saying Frankl is writing like he has a hidden love for the Nazi movement, I am just saying, heaven forbid, some jack ass killed my wife, my children, and imprisoned me for years…. I would never speak of these things so matter-of-factly. Frankl obviously is unbound to vengeance and seething angry fear, and I am not. I would lose my mind, in all senses of the phrase, and all faith in humanity and all dedication to the progress of mankind would cease to exist within my conscious mind. I am often close to abandoning all hope for my brothers of men, just watching the evening news, but to experience hate personified, and evil expressed so easily…. I could not muster strength to even function as a human being. It was interesting how Frankl made comments and stated facts that I was not privy to whatsoever. He stated that all of the men in the camp had no sexual urges. They did not even have dirty dreams. I figured, no matter the environment, or circumstances, dudes have needs (e.g. prison). I guess when life is altered so drastically, things like sex, or intimacy, are ignored altogether. Man’s search for meaning, such a strange, yet perfect title for a horrible recall of events. I know that I would not care for meaning, if such events took place in my life. Frankl is a better man than I am, in some of the more important ways, and I respect him for it.
Brenda Flores
Eng. 100
Cerritos College
Post#?
A Simple Path and An Open Heart
So first of all, I read Gandhi's piece first thinking that because I read his work in high school I could relate more to that. I was wrong. I did not understand what I was reading and I wanted to finish it before going on to something else incase I could understand at least the ending. No way, I was really confused. I hope I was not the only one. Well, as for Buddhism and the Dalai Lama I felt relaxed after reading the passage. I felt at peace but I also felt as if he was just giving information. I did not feel like he was trying to convince me to convert. I liked this, but I also wish he was more convincing. I do not like to be persueded into thinking or believing a certain way but he could have tried. I read Siddartha back in high school and this was simialr to the nirvana thing. I enjoyed this reading it was a lot smoother than Gandhi but I have not read Frank 1 so maybe that one will be smooth too.
Zachary Duke
Eng 103
CC
Post# ????
A Simple Path and An Open Heart - Dalai Lama
To start off, I like this guy. he is amazing. His work actually helped me out of a situation Friday where i was inches from being killed. In the story, he talks about how if you keep your mind at peace, it doesn't matter what is goung on around you, you can be ok.
on a side note,
Notre Dame Beat Washington State 37 to 30! and USC couldn't beat them?
Jenny Guzman
Cerritos College
English 100
Post enlighten
A Simple Plan Dalai Lama
I love this reading because of the general acceptance of one’s views. Dalai Lama talks about his religion “Buddhism” but does not force people to join his religion. He even says that is a very hard religion to understand. I always thought it was people how meditate a lot. Obviously Buddhism is much more than just meditation. To my understanding now, it is a religion about love, acceptance and mental clarity. Buddhists are people who are happy with little in life. They do not need material possessions to be happy. They do not worry about fashion, cars or money. Buddhists care about everyone and each other.
I love how Dalai Lama talks about how they are now “many interfaith circles, and the idea of the religious pluralism is taking root.” Paragraph 5. I am person that Believes in God and Jesus. I believe the stories in the bible. Like most American I do not go to church. I feel I do not go to church because I do not know which church to go to. I feel I am not Christian or Catholic. I feel I am a hybrid of both. I love the teaching of both. I like different parts of both of the religion.
Reading this piece has me think about learning what also Buddhism is about. Like Christianity has Jesus and how he died for our sins. Catholics have the Virgin Mary and other saints to protect them. Now Buddhism respects views of others, to reach spiritual enlightenment.
This story is very good to look at when one is down, felling helpless or just depressed. This story I believe did what it set out to do, make people think they is more to life then material objects. Life is not about objects but people. We need to care about other people and each other.
Jenny Guzman
English 100
Cerritos
Post Midterm
Michael thank you for great literature view of the both speeches, but I was talking set some examples, more simple. Do not get me wrong I can read and hear your and Rauls views all day. Prof H says these are 2 are the hardest paper to write, so in a sense lets dumb it done, for people like me.
Same:
Both are minorities. Black Leaders.
Both want change.
Both talk about their families.
Both talk about History.
Both have statements Like “I have a Dream” and “yes we can”
Obviously they are many others.
Now for me what I have a problem is the differences. I know we spoke about them in class but I am not really grasping them.
Andy Tran
English 100
Cerritos
Post # :O
A Simple Path and An Open Heart by The Dalai Lama
I very much enjoyed and understood the teachings of the Dalai Lama. I myself believe in the idea of religous pluralism. Although I am of the Catholic faith, I also believe in the ways of other religions such as Buddhism. My mother had always been with the Catholic faith while my father, before meeting my mother, was following the ways of Buddhism. But, somehow my mother miraculously got my father to convert to Catholicism. On my part, I did not believe the ways of Buddhism because my father was Buddhist. But rather because I really felt that the ways of the Buddhist were non violent and meant nothing but pure loving kindness. Other than that, bringing Buddhism into my mind has helped me cope with problems. Recently, I had lost my phone, glasses, and my ipod in just 2 days! Losing one of those items would already put me in a emotional mind state, but three!? Unbelievable! And so to begin my healing process, I thought about my inner self. Materials are less important and I should not be affected by something external. Plus, I can always replace my materials but not my inner self.
Jaime Valadez
English 100
CC
Post #14
A Simple Path and An Open Heart by The Dalai Lama
After reading this story on how the Dalai Lama thought made me realize what a wonderful human he is.He is not like many religion leaders that try to convert every possible person they can in to believers of their religion. He knows that not everyone is meant to be Buddhist and he respects their religion if they have one. He does not try to bring other religions down. Like he says "i believe that all major world religions have the potential to serve humanity and develop good human beings". That is something that in my life time i have not seen anyone else do. for example people some times come to my home to speak the word of God. They ask you what religion you are and sometimes they don't agree with your religion and believe that their religion is superior to the one you believe in. In my opinion if religion this not exist we would have a lot more problems in the world ,because people would not have anything to stop them from doing wrong. Many people that believe in religion also believe in afterlife so they want to please their god in order to have a chance of after life.
Sarika Vaswani
English 103
CC
Post # idk
A Simple Path and An Open Heart
by The Dalai Lama
This reading could not have been assigned at a better time.
When I struggle internally, like I have been lately... I turn to external things to find some sense of happiness. For me, it is shopping. I will buy things like a bracelet or a pair of jeans in hopes of making myself feel better. As silly as that sounds, it has always been a bad habit of mine to try to fill this emptiness I sometimes feel. In the end it makes no difference, I'm still consumed with these negative feelings. Like the Dalai Lama explains, our problems cannot be solved with material items. It is our mental attitudes that makes all the difference. Although it may be normal to rely on luxuries, it's not necessarily okay to do so. Our happiness derives from our inner selves as well as caring for and helping others.
He really emphasizes the fact, that if we strip humans down to the essential core of just our mental and emotional beings, we are in fact, all the same. Aside from religion, race, etc we are basically all the same. We are all humans looking for guidance. Majority of us look to religion for this guidance. All religions are so unique and different from one another, yet they all strive at the same goal- to bring good and better our lives. However, we let things like religion tear us apart rather than bring us together. This is in a sense, where the conflict initiates within a society. I feel like paragraph 16 sums up the Dalai Lama's point. "It is most important we have a warm heart" (16). Take away all the complexities of a religion, and this is the belief we are left with.
This piece combines Gandhi's ideas of nonviolence, and Frankl's ideas of inner happiness. Interesting..
Belinda Reed
English 100
Prof. Hsaio
Cerritos
A simple Path and An Open Heart
Though I don't really have an oppionion on this story, I enjoyed it nevertheless. I found it to be quite interesting, and educational.
Someday, if I decide to further my education here at Cerritos or elsewhre. Maybe my major will be the study of Theology. I'm finding out, though I have a passion for learning, attending school with people the age of my groan children, rougher than I imagined. I Can't just think like a student, and forget that I have grandchildrn,It's Impossiable to do.But only time will tell.
Angel Togafau
English 110
GWC
Post #11?
The Erosion of Civilization by Jared Diamond
History is defiantly not a strong point for me. I have always found history fascinating, yet so confusing. Therefore, I never knew most of what we American's have today branched out from the "Fertile Crescent." Like me, I think many American's are oblivious to the fact that we actually have a lot in common with these people. It’s amazing that at one time Iraq and neighboring countries used to lead in civilization. It is so odd to see how things can be going so well, and then take a turn for the worse. This always, always, happens to me. When life seems to be going too well, I know something negative is going to happen. And, usually it does. It's like that saying, "When something seems too good to be true, it usually is." I think this is just a learning lesson to always be prepared, always!
In paragraphs 13 & 14, Diamond speaks of attacking a situation before it explodes into something out of our control. I agree with this, not just in this situation but in life as well. I know from experience, as I know many of us do that is you let an issue roll out of control you wish you would have controlled it while it was possible. Like AIDS, as talked about, is roaring out of control and it will cost billions to attempt to get AIDS under control.
As of own country, I know it is wise to take care of our problems before we attempt someone else’s. However, I strongly believe something’s cannot be achieved alone- like raising billions for AIDS. I hope one day we can all set or predjusitice, stereotypes, and pride aside and work together to do great things!
Angel Togafau
English 110
GWC
post #12
PLEASE READ!
As some of you may already know, the island of Samoa has been hit by a powerful tsunami. This happens to be where my father is from. The tsunami left resulted in 200 plus dead and a ruined Samoa.
Until Thanksgiving the Samoa youth of Orange County a.k.a. SAMOA MATALASI will be holding a relief drive for:
water
Perishable foods
Clothes
Toiletries
Survival needs
If anyone would like to donate please do not hesitate. You can bring it to class and I will take it to the church. If not, the church is on Hoover & Track right on the street by the DMV. You can't miss it.
Thanks for reading!
God Bless Samoa!
Christina Arredondo
English 103
C.C
Post:15
The Erosion of Civilization, by Jared Diamond it is a very interesting story. I was surprised by Iraq's past good fortune. Honesty, I was never aware that Iraq even existed, if it was not for what has happened (& is happening) recently. I learned a lot from this passage. What I was most shocked about was how the english language originally came from Iraq. It is stated that Iraq was known as a "Fertile Crescent." They had a lot going for themselves. However, ecological suicide was the cause for going down hill. It all started off with the environmental issues yet, the surrounding countries with the other events and people made the situation go worse. For example, the tress stopped growing out, "Mongol invaders from Central Asia destroyed Iraq's irrigation systems," etc. The only one thing that Iraq was able to hold on to was oil.
I believe that Jared Diamond wrote this passage using Iraq as an example to show that history will repeat itself. Also, how every country will eventually hit rock bottom no matter how wealthy or successful they are with their resources. However, in order to solve their problems, the country need to focus on resolving the worse first.
Brian Jimenez
English 100
CC
Post# 23
A Simple Path and An Heart
The Dalai Lama have great wisdom about life and stay true to the word they say. The Buddhists teaching bring unity among people. I find it great that their religious beliefs are strong. Unlike my family and I we do not head to church anymore but do have faith in our god. Dalai speaks about how everyone has there own religion set for them. Many follow traditional ways and others see it not effective and not working. In the process of changing religions one should not criticize their previous religion and say its a bad religion for it may work for many others. What Dalai is trying to say is that everyone should respect every ones different beliefs because we all have the same purpose in life. That purpose is to find inner happiness which others try to find in money or material benefits. I find that true because I had a friend named Joe that is pretty wealthy and has many material objects that people find fake happiness in which in his case did not make him happy. After reading this story maybe he is missing or neglecting his inner values. In section number six it states "I think there are now many interfaith circles, and the idea of religious pluralism is taking root. He talks about many religions are growing and all should be respected no matter what. Such different traditions should not matter for according to Dalai it should be dropped and see that no matter the differences a very negative person can be transformed into a good person. The section that surprised me most was when he talked about the line. "Once we draw a line in the sand, we develop the feeling of US and THEM. He said that very line tears one part and creates narrow minded nationalism. We are all the same! I feel that true we are all human beings living on this earth and if seen from space the world would look the same but then people draw lines and kinda of become like gangs. I say this because people get the understanding that one side is better than the other.I also love the idea that things should be does non violent which in the moment of reading, I rememberd MLK. Dalai does have great wisdow and its true what he talks about and what he states in the end.
As long as we are part of human society, it is very important to be a kind, warmhearted person and left this prayer........
May the poor find wealth,
Those weak with sorrow find joy.
May the forlorn find new hope,
Constant happiness and prosperity.
May the frightened cease to be afraid,
And those bound be free.
May the weak find power,
And may their hearts join in friendship.
Cara Tiffany
GWC
Post #9 (i think)
Dalai Lama
I started reading this story not really knowing any background. I was surprised at how much of the story that I agreed with or could relate to. I think that there were a lot of topics that were brought up that never really crossed my mind, Things like not judging other religions. Instead it talks about respecting and understanding. In the story it he says that "if a religion fails you that does not mean it will fail millions of others that practice it." After reading I really started to think about my life and my friends. I know so many people who feel like the religion that they practice is the only one or at least the best one. I started reflecting on myself a lot while I was reading and I realized that I really dont know that much about other cultures or religions and their traditions. I felt a little discuraged and disappointed that I had not taken the time to learn about other people. I am definitly going to try to find a way to educate myself a little more.
Freddy Villalobos
English 103
Cerritos College
post #14?
Satyagrah:Civil Disobedience, Passive ressistance, Non Co-operation by Mohanda K. Gandhi
At first i did not understand, however the more i thinkabout it the more i seem to relate or understand it better. i saw the movie of Gandhi when i was in High school however he did not out up a figth nor killed a man however he did not have to listen to the soldiers nor did he care on what they did to himhe urge others to participate in non violence as well. at first there were not that many people that supported the idea. however he did was patient and soon after many follow his ideas. In the story he mentions the concept of civil disobedience and non violence. his methods are far the easiest but dealt much conflict. if the soldiers dare to kill a person under this plann the soldier would 1) start a war between the 2 nations and 2) cause a riot to take place. this hower did take place and he stopped it by using non violence.
Christina Arredondo
English 103
C.C
Post: 16
Viktor E. Frankl was amazed how his story, "Man's Search for Meaning" was successful. He did not have very high expectations for it and he even planned of publishing it anonymously because he did not want people to critize him. As the story progresses he points out how "the more you aim at [success]and make it a target, the more you are going to miss it" (1). Basically, he believes that success comes to you, not the other way around. We simply have to put no attention into it and before a person notices, success has reached him or her. In addition, to back up his concept, he uses the example for when he was in the concentration camp. He is very descriptive about this incident and crisis. He shows how people in the camps end up appreciation basically living another day. The littlest things that a person would be bugged before, he or she would no longer complain when that action become worse. He was able to show the misery of being in a camp. They needed to undress infront of all of them, hardly ate, and over workded (even in poor weather conditions). Also, people in the camps are in such horrible conditions that people in there are able to determine who would nor survive for another day. Things were so bad that the men lost the sexual urge. The people in there were able to appreciate nature. The only way that he was able to survive and keep his strength alive, he would have remember the past memories, imagined that he was in another place, and day dreamed about the future. He believed that "in the final analysis it becomes clear that the sort of person the prisoner became was the result of an inner decision, and not the result of camp alone.
Overall, I believe that the moral of the story is that no matter how difficult the situation you are in a person cannot be driven to that and let themselves go. They need to find ways of surviving. Only they can determine how they would react to a crisis not just the situation itself. At times, it might seem as "this is it, it is the end," however, we cannot lose hope and simply give it up. The negativity has to be out of our mind and empowered by the positive concepts...
Rayray J.
English 103
cc
post x
Dalai Lama
Buddhism was something that was always interesting to me so naturally, i chose to read this piece.
Anywho, the most immediate thing that strikes me about this text is that it is extremely unselfish.
It is quick to promote unity, something that most modern religions fail at miserably.
This piece bridges the gap between many boundaries and it is not harassing to any one group.
Another particularly appealing thing about this text is that though it preaches religion, it does not do so by introducing fear as a method of indoctrination. Rather than use fear mongering, it uses the premise of love and compassion. One might argue that judeo-christian beliefs also send a message of love and compassion, but if one were to look closer, one would realize that this message of love and compassion is only conveyed due to fear of eternal damnation.
This piece is the most genuine when it comes to the topic of love thy neighbor.
This is because it does not say love thy neighbor or burn in a lake of fire for all eternity, rather it is that love thy neighbor because in doing so, one is loving thyself and in the long run it will make the world a better place rather than a dump which it is now for the most part.
Michelle Pachas
English 103
Cerritos College
To be honest I know very little about the Dalai Lama so it was interesting reading his thoughts on religion and what he believes it to truly be. What impacted me the most was probably the level of tolerance he is chooses to teach. He knows that religious practice differ greatly but acknowledges the fact that each serves a purpose of finding or creating the "Good" in people. When he talks about religion i do not think of the institution but more so the ideas of compassion and moral taught in them. “ It depends on the individuals mental disposition…we must therefore appreciate the potential in each religion, and respect those who follow them.” (3)
Celina Rivera
English 100
Cerritos College
Post# 41
A Simple Path and An Open Heart by The Dalai Lama
When I first started to read this it grabbed my attention right away. The way he was able to grab you was amazing and right off the bat. He gains a foundation build around religion. If we all believed in a form of religion he says then our world would then be that much of a better place. With this being said I think it is not true because even the people who have killed believe in religion. Some how these people still manage to kill or hurt others even after attending a religious get together. I know that for some people religion has helped them through hard ships, but this does not work for all. I think that even if the next generation is born and all had was religion life will not be perfect people will still find away to rebel.
Once someone has believed in a certain religion or beliefs you can try and change them of argue your points, but that is no really a way to help things. The Dalai says that this cause emotional or intellectual difficulties. I would say this is true becuase people hold true what they have always believed and changing beliefs makes people second guess themselves and all that they have done.
when the Dalai Lama explains that for people it is human nature to defend your religion. some people who once were Catholic may now be Christian and no one has the right to put down the other religion. Some people who have changed religion like to boost about it and how there religiojnj was not a religion at all. When the Dalai Lama says that we should respect all and not put judgement on others.
If people just segrate themselves by what they believe in then people do not get to know others. People need to be exposed to all not just what they are use to. If you stay with the same type of people then you do not indivaulity.
The Dalal Lama wants to explain how and why he believes in Buddhism. With this being said he knows that Buddhism is not for all, but by him he can spark one persons attention then he can convert one person that is all it starts with. He says that religion can have a kind heart. He already knows that Buddhism is the good heart and he is being basis. Religion changes people so we should respect all religions.
If we carry a negative attidue then it will not change. If we are hanging out with our friends having a good time then we do not believe in something high. We can not the internal and only the external.
His religion brought him strenght. With that streght grew a man who will remain the same and serve. This serving will bring him confidence as well. With this cofidence we can gain inner peace. I think that is not always true, but your mental attitide does not always change.
With us not believing we see life as us and them. Do I think this way no. The reason I say this is because we have choice and the the choices people make are what they are made of.
Ibeth Rodriguez
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #18?
A Simple Path by: Dalai Lama
First of all I would like to say that I agree with everything Dalai said. I had never read any of her writings before but now that I have read some of her writings I like her as a writer. The reason that I like her writing is because she speaks with the truth. She is very honest with her writing and I can definitely apply myself with what she is talking about. I personally don't believe in religions, I think that there is no such thing as a religion. My disbelief for religions is due to the fact that there is no perfect religion. I think that as long as you belief in God and do all the right things which in this case would be no killing, no stealing, no adultery, in other words you should follow some of the 10 commandments. Just to know that your mind and heart are in peace that is all you have to do in order for your soul to go to heaven or anywhere you think it should go after death. I do not attend church simply because some religions tend to bring other religions down, and that was something that Dalai Said. When I go to church maybe about once a year I always disagree with what they say. They often tend to criticize other religions and I do not see the point for them to criticize others, just how they like to be respected for what they believe in they should do the same. Another reason why I do not attend church is because they put too much pressure on the person who does not attend. Whenever they see that I go to church they often say that people who do not attend church or is in a different religion will not be allowed to go to heaven, or if you are not from their religion you will also not be allowed to enter heaven. So does that mean that if you are from a different religion you are not loved by God? That is exactly why I disapprove with religions, because some religions make you believe that if you are not from the religion they want you to be you are not loved by God and you will go to Hell.
I just don't disapprove with religion itself but also by the people who practice it. I have known many people who are very "faithful" toward their religion and yet they go out and leave their religion behind. They go out and party, get drunk, like, steal, and other horrible things and yet the next day they go to church like if nothing happened! Why tell people that they are very faithful to religion and church when they know that they are just laying to themselves and their religion, but yet they think that just because they go to church they are guaranteed to go to heaven. Another thing that I have witness in church is GOSSIP, wow it’s amazing how much gossip there is in church, at least to the one I have gone to. I am not trying to be hear other peoples conversations but sometimes I hear what other people are talking about and it just surprises me how negatively people from church talk about each other.
Another great point that Dali made was that once a person changes their religion he or she often criticize the previous religion they practiced. My Grandmother for example used to be Catholic and now she often criticizes Catholics. She often talks about how bad that religion is. She should not do that because she once was a catholic and she disliked when people talked negatively about Catholics, so what gives her the right to criticize them now? Just because she thinks her religion is the best does not give her the right to talk negatively about others.
That is why I think its better off to live in peace, knowing that every day you have done your best and that you have not done anything wrong. It’s better to satisfy yourself than to satisfy any religion. Just to know that you did something good to help others makes you know that you made whoever you believe in happy and it does not matter if you went to church or not but just the fact that you are helping others in any way that is what all matters.
Janice Silva
English 103
Cerritos College
Post#13
A Simple Path and An Open Heart by The Dalai Lama
When reading this, i felt this calm sensation, and being able to read smoothly.
The Dalai Lama loves the Buddhist approach but he believes that others should stick with their "traditional" religion because of inner conflict. On the other hand if they do not agree of what their religion states then he believes that the buddhist way being will calm thier soul and lift their spirit. He explains about the 4 noble truths in the begining of the story, but i was not sure of the exact ones, i was looking in chronological order. He believes that every negative person can transform into a good person. Everyones looks different on the outside but everybody has the same emotional exsisitence; meaning, everybody can grow of who they are, emotional similarity. Mental attiude is very important, even when sorrounded by hostitilty it is better to have a positive attitude to keep inner peace. Money is not everything, he see's that we should give up our materialistic desires and be more social, find inner values, finding that the inside counts more than on the outside.
Everything that the Dalai Lama has said is true. I am catholic and i will always stay catholic, because i find it more of who i am and where i find inner peace. What he says is true, that the base of every religion there are morals and values to uphold it.
Keeping a positive mind set through everything does keep peace inside our soul, helping us to be calm. Our mental attitude is very important, because it affects everything that we do. When i am negative about something then it affects everything that is before hand until i regain peace, but for that moment when the negativity hits me, it affects everybody. Our countries are interdependent with one another, we need everybodys resources to help stable our economy so of course war is last on the list because of fear for our country's future. Dialouge is really the best approach than violence. Dialouge is the safest, calmest and more effecient way of communicating to another for interpreting desires, their desires, because it will actually go somewhere.
All in all, i find the Dalai Lama's words to be helpful for everyone in all religions, because what he says is the basis of what all religions stand by, harmony with ones self and our neighbors.
janelle rodriguez
english 100
cerritos college
ghandi
when i think of ghandi i have always thought of the words like courage, streangth, brave, outspoken. through out our years of life there have been any things that we have gone through and how other races had to struggle to get through. god had blessed us with those few leaders that have guided us and many races to stand out. ghandi was one of those leaders. he was a great leader in which he had stood out to put his race and other out. all he wanted what was best for everyone and went through great deal haveing it happen. because of people like ghandi our world went through a great change that will live on forever.
Diana Amezcua
English 103
Cerritos College
Post # 18
A Simple Path and An Open Heart, by The Dalai Lama
This reading was really pleased because it talks about religion in a very good way. Lama talks about respecting each others religion and beliefs because in the end they are all the same. With this I mean that it does not matter what religion you follow as long as you do “good” to others and yourself. I also like that way Lama talks about respecting others religion and that it is perfectly fine to follow ones traditional religion. Lama also says that if your traditional religion is not fulfilling you them it is wise to look for a different one that fits your beliefs. But with out criticizing or dirtying your previous one. I totally agree with this because I have seen a lot of catholic’s that change to a different religion and end up talking bad about us. What did not work for them, does not mean that it will not work for someone else. Therefore, if one does not feel comfortable in their religion they should definitely change but not discrediting their previous one. I also like the way Lama explains that we all have the same potential and it is up to us to discover it and use it towards something good. I did not really understand the Buddhist ways of teaching but with agree with a lot of what she was talking about. Indeed, I also agree with her about how someone’s mental attitude can change the way you look at the world and live your life. That’s why it is important to kept a positive mental attitude even at difficult time.
Maria Ascencio
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #13
A Simple Path and An Open Heart
by The Dalai Lama
"...although one's previous religion may to be effective for one, that does not mean it will fail to be of value to millions of other people. Since we should respect all human beings, we musl also respect those following different religious paths..."
I remember when my older half sister told my dad she had switched from Catholic to Christianity, he got mad! Now, he respects her choice because to her, she felt more comfortable now and she felt closer to god then as a Catholic. There are times when my little sister and I spend the night at her house, my dad tells us that he does not want us to go with her to church. When my sister talks about how how united they are, and how "service" goes, it makes me want to check it out. There are a lot of people that believe strictly in their own religion and criticize others harshly. I have a friend whose falmily is a Jehovah witness. She told me that her parents would not accept anyone she dates if they are they do not follow the same religion as they do. Ohter people just make fun of or argue to the fullest that what they believe is the best.. They do not know that. They have not experienced every single religion there is.
"...to Buddhists, the idea of a Creatorr God sometimes sounds like nonsense....a very negative person can be transformed into a good person. That is the purpose of religion..."
Sometimes the idea of a Creator God is nonsence to me. I question religion too much at times as well. I guess it is normal. What i ask myself is, how is it that people adore and worship someone they do not even know existed for sure? Also what is mentioned about a negative person transforming, I have witnessed various family member go through this.
"I think that is wrong to expect that our problems can be solved by money or material benefits."
I think this is funny and it reminds me of relationships. Mainly guys do this. When a girl is mad at them they think that buying them things will make their problems go away.
"When we look closely at the many problems facing humanity today, we can see that they have been created by us... However, conflicts, bloodshed, problems arising out of nationalism and national boudaries, are all-man-made.
I really have nothing to say other than, this paragraph cannot be more true than this.
Romero, George
English 103
CC
Post #....
A Simple Path and An Open Heart, by The Dalai Lama
Reading this story helped close one chapter of my life, but allowed me to open another. My whole life has been endless perditions that would test my faith and love in certain aspects of life. This short story alone has brought peace to me soul and helped mend the wounds that have have been scarred upon me for so long. Growing up within a strong catholic following family was difficult considering that i loathed the religion and its beliefs. In the midst of my 17th birthday i had finally summed up the courage to tell my parents how i truly felt about thier beliefs. This would be a very painful step that would start a war not only between my own family, but even amongst my relitives whom were never too fond of me. At the end of it all i had nothing but hate for thier beliefs and those whom followed it. My hatred would consume me to the point that i would preech to the younglings with the hopes of saving them from the biasd dictatorship of thier god. I felt empowering to go against everthing that they stood for, Smiled at the looks of disgust that were placed upon me, and laughed at thier allegations of my blasphemous words. This thrilling ecstasy of revilling within the darkness that had spawned within my soul had driven me to outcast my loved ones along with the emotion of love itself. In the end of it all this story alone destroys everything i stand for, everything that i had taken so long to build, and everything that i trully believed that i would follow til my death. The Dalai Lama's words (even if not many) have shown me that everything does not have to be black and white. His words of peace and understanding haved helped put away my pride, and accept everything for what it is. Regardless of what my lay ahead for me i know that i will experiance it with an open mind.
Adrian Moreira
English 100
Cerritos College
Post #19
I do not steal my wireless internet connection, I borrow it from my neighbor. Unfortunately for me, my neighbor has had his connection either turned off or it has not been working properly. Whatever the case may be, I have not been able to get on the internet until today. Sure, I could have gone to Coffee Bean and used their free WiFi but I did not feel like looking like those pretentious wanna bes, on his MacBook at a coffee shop. I would rather be a pretentious wanna be on my MacBook in the comfort of my own home.
A Simple Path and An Open Heart by The Dalai Lama
This is a good read for anyone; religious or non-religious. The Dalai Lama goes back to the basics of humanity and let's us all know that all we all, as humans, really want is to be happy, good people. I love the way he goes about explaining what Buddhism is about without trying to force it down our throats. I know that I am turned off by any type of extremist from whatever religion who tries to force feed me what they believe in. I like to be given the chance to express myself and what I believe in without someone telling me that I am wrong and they are right. It should not be about that. I think we should come to a common understanding that not every one will believe in what you believe in but that that is the beauty of humanity, that we have the choice to be different. The Dalai Lama writes, "Since we should respect all human beings, we must also respect those following different religions." Exactly what I was talking about. It all depends on what one feels is the best for them. Like the Dalai Lama writes, "My conclusion is that these various religions have the potential to develop a good heart." Ain't nothing wrong with that.
Samantha Navarro
Cerritos College
English 103
Post Dalai Lama
A Simple Path:
Though I’ve heard of The Dalai Lama, I have sadly never read any of his teachings, but I am a bit familiar with the Buddhist religion. The Four Noble Truths are realizations that even as a non-Buddhist one can take into consideration, just as a non-Christian is able to follow the 10 commandemnts out of morality. The Four Noble Truths are: 1.All life is suffering. This can be anywhere from physical to emotional to psychological to spiritual suffering. Every human being suffers is some way. 2.Suffering stems from desire and cravings. We must recognize the source of our individual suffering. 3. There can be an end to suffering. We must identify and eliminate our suffering. 4. The way is the Eightfold Path. These are like commandments of actions, we can change our life by changing our actions. The Eightfold Path are right views (understanding the 4 noble truths), right aspirations (discarding desire and not hurting others), right speech (telling the truth), right conduct (not stealing or cheating),right livelihood (earning a living that will not hurt others), right effort (positive thinking when on the path), right mindfulness (being aware of the effects of actions and thoughts), and right meditation (attaining a peaceful state of mind).
Though The Dalai Lama does not preach his views, his writings are a correlation of his views in Buddhism. It’s so refreshing to read this story of religious background promoting tolerance towards other religions. I feel like when one attains a higher spiritual being, one is naturally more tolerant towards opposing points of views. As The Dalai Lama states in Paragraph 6, “I have met genuine practitioners from other traditions. I have noticed a genuine and very forceful loving kindness in their minds… these various religions have the potential to develop a good heart. Whether or not we like the philosophy of other religions is not really the point” It truly is our human nature to try to get others to agree with our point of views. And if we don’t agree, we tend to take this argument and attack the person. It truly does not matter what God one prays to or what prayers one uses, we are people who will always have different ideas, and instead of trying to convince others that our way is best, we must try to take a step back and just learn from other’s perspectives, and we will learn that we have a similar purpose in life.
An Open Heart:
In this essay The Dalai Lama is not only saying that we are equal despite our religions, but we are equal despite our physical appearances. We all have the same mental capacity to achieve happiness, and it all depends on our attitude towards life. Buddhism teaches to steer away from the materialistic because it is just a speed bump in our path to happiness. This point of view is difficult to understand in our society because we are ruled by capitalism; if we don’t have the biggest house, the newest car, or the biggest diamond ring on our finger, we will not be happy. But what happens when we DO attains these material things? We are not satisfied yet! It brings even more problems to our life as well. Aside from material possessions, we as humans and states of the world separate ourselves, it’s almost like we’re competing to see who is the better culture. In paragraph 11, he states, “If we looked down at the world from space, we would not see any demarcations of national boundaries. We would simply see one small planet, just one.” We must realize that we are all the same, all humans who grew up on different sides of the fence. We can all come together. It all starts in our head. (Anzaldua is right!)
Jasmyne Young
English 110
GWC
Post#10?
Dalai Lama
A Simple Path
I like how he understands the fact that one religion may not work for all people. I also like how he understands that everyone is their own person. We are all our own people, one can't force one type of religion on others just because it works for them, one religion doesn't work for everyone. I do feel religion does bring "goodness" in people though. Religion allows a person to be more spiritual and conscious of their actions towards themselves and others. For me personally, my religion brings a sense of peace and calm, I never truly worry about life and what it throws at me. Sadly enough, I am a "goody two shoes" to most people and that is because of my faith and also, how I was raised. Being affiliated with some type of religion is a beautiful thing, it brings hope.
An Open Heart
We must change the inside to be able to properly deal with the outside. One of my favorite quotes is "beauty comes from within", I feel that's what the Dalai Lama is kind of eluding to in the first few paragraphs of this passage. If one is beautiful on the inside, which I feel consists of: happiness, love, contentment, compassion, etc., then that beautiful person sees the world as a beautiful place, a more positive place, instead of dwelling on negativity. Stop dwelling on material and start dwelling on yourself. The Dalai Lama keeps bringing up how we are all equal. No matter who you are(status wise), what skin color you have, our outside features, we are all made up the same way on the inside. Unity brings peace, love, compassion, forgiveness. I love the fact that he realizes we are all one people and that we need to come together and stop labeling one another as "us" and "them." We do need to come together and help one another out sometimes, instead of looking away, or looking down.
Peace, love, happiness, and equality is what the Dalai Lama was about. I feel more people should be introduced to his ideals. Especially now, since our world is in a crises right now, we need to adopt his ideals and come together as one, instead of staying seperated.
Samantha Shepherd
English 103
CC
Man's Searching For Meaning
I don't even know where to start. Reading this essay made me think of so many things that I can compare it to in this lifetime. I think that along with what the Dalai Lama was saying in that we are all equal is definitely linked with this essay. Here is this survivor of the Holocaust who has come from a completely different world that I, who is a young American, can write an essay and have it be able to pertain to my life and even to the person next to me in the library even though we do not know each other. The first paragraph definitely reminded me of when you lose something (may it be as simple as the remote for the television) that when you go to look for it, you can't find it. And the more you struggle the more lost it appears to be. I like the way that he mentioned that about happiness. Why even earlier today my boyfriend and I were talking about how stressing it is with trying to find a definite major so that I can transfer from community and to be content with it. I believe that Frankl's philosophy can help me relax and that when I am ready to transfer I will know what it is that I want to do. I am still taking general ed. courses and am involved and with time I will be able to learn more about myself and what it is that I would like to strive for in a career.
Another thing that kept coming to my mind was how I felt that this related to boot camp in the Marine Corps. Yes, I know that a concentration camp is very different from boot camp here in America, but I could not help relate the two. When my boyfriend went to boot camp we would correspond weekly though letters (as it was the only means of communication). He would tell me that they would treat him like dogs. When one would eat, they could not look up or at anyone else and their elbows had to be tucked in. They were called maggots, disgusting, and even lessened to a "thing". Now, all of this training served for a higher purpose: for the discipline and training that is necessarily for them to survive in their field of work. Frankl talks about, "[The] intensification of inner life helped the prisoner find a refuge from the emptiness, desolation, and spiritual poverty of his existence by letting him escape into the past..." (10) He was not the only one dealing with those emotions, for I as well felt them, too. We would write a lot about the past and it would just keep both of us going for a little longer until we could see each other after that three month time span. My boyfriend would tell me that due to lack of sleep he would hallucinate having conversation with me (much like how Frankl did with his wife (9). Even through all of this, Frankl really nailed it when he said "Emotion, which is suffering, ceasing to be suffering as soon as we form a clear and precise picture of it." I know that now that he is here and able to come down on the weekends, we are much stronger than we probably would have been if it were just a regular relationship. We take things much more seriously and we really strive on trying to be there for the other and have a really well-developed connection that I have encountered in many previous relationships. There may be a bit of suffering now because there is a lot of sacrifice in our relationship, but I feel that it will make me stronger in the end and I will be grateful for it.
Stephanie Wold
English 110
GWC
Post #16?
Just some cool news...
I work in a professional business-type office and we are NEVER permitted to wear jeans. Someone had the brilliant idea of selling stickers in the office that say "I'm wearing jeans to support the Leukemia Lymphoma Society" and needless to say, we raised $233 just because people wanted to wear jeans on 2 Fridays. Well...I pitched the idea in a meeting today of doing the same thing for our AIDS Walk, and it went over well. We will be selling stickers for the next two Fridays and donating the profits to the AIDS Foundation. I thought you all would like to hear this. :]
Have a good week everyone!
Sandra Valadez
A Simple Path and An Open heart by The Dalai Lama
I am one that does not believe in God. I do not believe that Humans who choose to do good are driven by God nor Humans that choose to do bad are driven by the Devil. That one’s life is predestined by God whether it is good or bad. I was baptized Catholic but raised Christian. ANYTHING that I have ever done right or good has been a result of God’s doing, not my hard work, or ‘right’ decisions but by God. ANYTHING I have done badly in life is a result of the Devil’s doing or influence. Right now Pancho and I find ourselves without jobs, currently I have been offered 3 positions. My mom says “Gracias a Dios, y se Dios lo quiere” (Thank God and if God chooses) so God currently wants my husband and I without jobs, without insurance for our daughters, using our savings to get by, having us go through times of stress??? I am not one who believes that God makes us go through tough times but that is simply, life. Have you ever seen when a boxer finishes a fight and thanks God for beating the other guy up??? Seriously, you are thanking God that you physically hurt someone? Or when a soccer player scores a goal and does that cross thingy across his chest?? God just came down and moved every other player just so, so you can score a goal?? Religion and faith is great when used for the better of one’s self. But how often is religion and faith used for bad? How many people have suffered, taken from their families, put through horrible things because of someone else’s religion and faith?? The other day while waiting for my math class to begin I was approached by a young man. He gave me a flyer to his church and asked if I would be attending anytime soon. I answered honestly “No” He asked if I believed in God and I said no, but I believe in “Humanity and the goodness of people” He began to tell me about God and all the good things that people do when they believe in God, if I just had a little taste I would realize, that he doesn’t know what I went through but whatever happened God sent him here/today to save me and make me a better person. He said all of this in less that a minute!!!! Why am I not a good person if I do not believe in God?? Why am I now not able to feed the poor, help the disabled, be a good mother, a good wife, a good daughter, a good friend, help my neighbor if I do not believe in God???
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