Knowledge Through Loss free essay sample

Everyone has things that they wish they could have done differently, but my mine would have changed my life forever. My parents had been divorced since I was 7 years old, so I spent every other weekend at my dad’s house and this weekend was my dad’s with us. I always had fun over there, but this time was different. We spent the weekend fighting with each other. Finally, I had enough—unfortunately since I was in fifth grade, I couldn’t drive. So my mom came to get me once I called her and explained the situation. By then my dad apologized and asked me to stay, but I was too angry with him to stay. As I left, three words came out of my lips that I still beat myself up for today: â€Å"I hate you.† After waking up the next day (Sunday), my ill feelings towards my father were gone and I had thought about calling him to apologize and tell him I love him†¦but I didn’t. We will write a custom essay sample on Knowledge Through Loss or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Two days now passed (it’s Monday) and I thought, I should call him†¦but I didn’t. The next day, he went missing and we assumed he went up north to Waupaca to clear his head. There was no contact with him and so my family got worried and called the police to send out search parties. The day was now Thursday, April 21, 2007. It was beautiful outside and I couldn’t stop staring out the windows of my fifth grade classroom. Not listening to Mrs. Krauser, only one thing on my mind—a rough and fun game of football after school. But then, in came Mrs. Emmerich. She pulled my teacher aside and whispered back and forth with her. I actually paid attention just in time to realize I was being called down to the office. Mrs. Emmerich then said in her stern voice, â€Å"Spencer, why don’t you take your things and follow me down to the office?† They told me to bring my things though? Why? They came to get me personally — I must be in some big trouble! But what for? As I got to the office they told me to go into the conference room and as I walked in I saw my mom. She looked quite upset, but I wasn’t sure what about. Maybe something is wrong with our dog Jake? Maybe I did actually do something to get me into deep trouble? How could I have known her next words? I couldn’t. No one could. â€Å"Spencer we found your dad. He’s committed suicide.† Why do you want me at your school? What is the point of this story? No it isn’t a guilt trip. I learned something very important from this. Life throws things at me all of the time. And it is my job to learn from it—although it was only one lesson lesson for me, it was the most important lesson of my life. Never procrastinate or get lazy because I will always regret it. If I am going to do somethingdo it. Now, I don’t even hesitate because it is impossible to actually know when too late is too late.

Dunkirk And Its Significance Essays - Dunkirk, Huns, Free Essays

Dunkirk And Its Significance Essays - Dunkirk, Huns, Free Essays Dunkirk And Its Significance Being a blue blooded Brit, and all that, I decided to write my piece on how historians view Dunkirk. My earliest thoughts on it were shaped by early black and white war films; with noble Tommies against vile Huns, gallantly beating out their escape, while under heavy attack. The truth about the matter was far from straightforward, with a host of variables, as well as lots of good luck. For us Dunkirk- though admittedly a failure, we did flee the field after all- was an amazing feat of sheer courage, National spirit, as well as raw tenacity, refusing to kick the can despite every odd stacked against us- rather like in the Battle of Agincourt. As we all know the story, I see no point in telling a biased version of events, so I will go through the interesting books I found. Interestingly enough the authors generally focus on different themes, either the success or failures of a particular side. My first book (see bibliography for details),edited by J. R. M. Butler, is surprisingly objective for a UK Military series book. Admittedly slightly biased, yet at the same time remarkably fair to Germany in its appraisals. The book starts before the retreat, of the mining(with around 7000 mines) of the channel, so creating a protective passage to France taking place between 11th September to October. This was completely successful bar one U-boat which came though before its completion. Three tried to break through, the U 12, and U 40 being blown up the third grounded itself trying to escape the mine field to be shot by surface vessels. Then it describes as many of the books do how many men returned to safety(approximately 337,000), which was far in excess of their wildest dreams of only 45,000, at the very most. It goes on to praise the men involved, [It] is a classic example of co-operation by the three Services then before it goes on to talk about the Germans, reminds us of the ca sualties, the Navy lost 228 ships, 45 badly damaged. It gives reasons why the German tanks were not sent down to the beaches, which would certainly have destroyed the Allied troops. Hitler strongly said that, the tank arm must not be used for operations for which it is best suited. Under no circumstancesbe permitted to become entangled in the endless confusion of rows of houses in Belgian towns. Also, it is noteworthy that at the time neither Guderian nor Kleist when they saw the position at close quarters thought that tanks should be used to attack Dunkirk. The main reasons for the German failures are given as, Bocks inability to exploit the gap in the British left when the Belgian front was broken. And, The mistake of German High Command in thinking that Ostend was our most important evacuation port. It concludes quite rightly that though the Germans tried their best, they failed. Our next book is by Basil Collier, who despite his unfortunate name, gives us a very interesting insight to the air war, the priorities of the defense of England, and the tactical repercussions for both sides. The withdraw was given air support by Air Vice-Marshall Gossage, in charge of No.11 group, who were responsible for the air defense of South- East England. The problem for Gossage was not very easy, on the one hand he had the Air- Ministry, telling him to, protect Dunkirk with maximum strength, yet he also had to consider the very plausible chance that German bombers could pop up, and attack undefended tracts of land, if he moved his bombers from that region. The books conclusion was that, the effort made was about the biggest compatible with prudence. Gossage, did not concentrate squadrons in the area, preferring instead to fly up to an average of 300 sorties per day. The heroic pilots who were, almost at cracking point at the third day, kept up their efforts, the general cons ensus from the men on the ground seemed to be positive, a vital factor in the success of the mission. However the main bonus was that it boosted moral, for the Battle of Britain, which incidentally was another brilliant success for us,

Nao Bell and Jar with Sculptural Rim Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Nao Bell and Jar with Sculptural Rim - Essay Example is serves to indicate that the primitive art creators of the age had some measure of geometry and trigonometry incorporated, which is evident from the very geometric patterns on the rim. Additionally, the curves used to compile the base of the jar provide further evidence for the use of advanced geometrical techniques. The second piece, the Nao bell, provides another unique experience of Oriental craftsmanship. The colour of the Nao bell indicates that it was fashioned by water exposure over time since the existing colour belies the materials used to create the piece (Kimbell Art Museum). The Nao bell shows the detail that was assigned to art pieces, especially of a ritualistic nature, in ancient Chinese society. The scrolls on the sides of the Nao bell signify the intricacy that could be produced through castings from the period since it would require detailed mold making including provisions for precise cast making. In addition, the curves defining the rims of the Nao bell and the depression inside the bell are also testament to the virtuosos of the

Economic Development Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Economic Development - Research Paper Example Notably, it has also been demonstrated in certain other areas relating to business activities such as trade, manufacturing and other business operations. In this context, industrializations, economic policies and export activities among others are considered to be the most important factors for the all-round development of a country. Human capital is also considered to be an important aspect which assists in the development of economies by a considerable level (Khan, Zhang, Hashmi and Bashir, â€Å"Cultural Values and Economic Growth in Asia: An Empirical Analysis†). Economic development in the Asian countries can be recognized by taking into concern certain valuable aspects like trade activities and better investment opportunities among others. In the worldwide context, Asia has been viewed to be the fast growing or developing economy and is recognized to be one of the leading financial centers throughout the globe. The financial advancement of Asia can be noted in the develo pment of its various nations like Japan, China, South Korea, India and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries. The economic conditions of these Asian countries have been viewed to be developing in a continuous manner (Ishido, â€Å"East Asia’s Economic Development cum Trade â€Å"Divergence†Ã¢â‚¬ ). It has been apparently observed that there laid certain imperative factors which are held responsible for the economic development of the aforementioned Asian countries in the 21st century. In this regard, the factors comprise adoption as well as implementation of pioneering technological advancements, globalization of world economy, diverse trade activities and enhanced policies linked with financial development. Moreover, another important factor that contributes in developing the financial position of the different Asian countries is the role played by the government in the respective nations. The governments belonging to different nations of Asia int roduced as well as implemented various favorable economic and political policies that eventually resulted in raising the standards of the financial position of the Asian countries by a greater extent. Besides, the policies that formed as well as executed by the government belonging to different nations of Asia have improved business as well as human welfare activities resulting in better economic development. Apart from the aforementioned factors, the financial development of

Bad News Message Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Bad News Message - Assignment Example Our mission is to deliver the best products to our clients and provide them with top of the line after-sales service. It is the practice of our company to grant watch replacement requests from our customers especially if after inspection of our technical department the request is valid and if it is within the warranty period. Unfortunately, we checked our records and found out that your watch was purchased last April 9, 2008; therefore, the three-year warranty has expired last April 9, 2011. All our watches, including the Magnifique 89379 are designed to last to up to an average of 15 years with proper care and maintenance. In as much as we can no longer replace your watch, you may visit the nearest service center and bring your Magnifique. We will be glad to repair it and give you a 12% discount on labor charges. Our technical department will be happy to assist you. They will give you free advice on the proper handling and maintenance of your watch to make it last for at least 15 years and

Child Observation, A Reflective Report

Child Observation, A Reflective Report As a student social worker, I was required to complete a Child observation over a period of six weeks. In order to prepare I had to decide the child and family I wanted to observe, on this occasion I decided I would observe a child from a mixed race back ground of age 0-12 months. The child I observed was 12 months from a single parent family and had three older siblings, the observation took place at her home after I acquired consent from the mother I started my task. It was essential to understand what observation was and I determined that it is an informed way of viewing or looking at something that raises awareness and increases understanding. At the start of the observation I felt very uncomfortable being in unfamiliar territory, I felt that it was unfair for me to subject this family to my own values, principles and prejudices. Although I felt that my chosen environment in which to observe was the right one, I had great concerns of my lack of experience and how the family would respond to me as an outsider in their lives. I was also very anxious about how this process would affect me as a parent and my parenting skills or lack of it was an intense moment. I questioned whether my role as an observer was really necessary but I had to get understanding of what observation was and meant to me. Trevithick (2012, pg: 169) stated that we learn a lot by observing others and as such learn what is being transmitted through tone of voice, volume, intonation, posture and gestures. As I observed the child I realised that I learnt a great deal not only as an observer but as a mother and reflection on my own childhood, upbringing and previous job role. There was a great deal of thought about the emotional impact of the observation on myself as the observer. Firstly I learnt the importance of observation, I realised that it was very essential to watch and listen than to speak because a great deal is achieved by watching, listening and being silent. Baldwin (1994, pg 83) stated through observation one is hearing and valuing the voice of the observed, and I believed that without words being said there was a connection between the child and I. (ability to remain detached to suspend judgement and refrain from participation, being aware of feelings and attitudes evoked, not initiating interaction, Precise recording which distinguishes what actually happened from what interpretation, Secondly I learnt that observation is a skill that is learnt and acquired with training and practice. Before this task as a family support worker I was required to observe people and make decisions, I had no prior train or knowledge but I did it .In addition Fawcett (2009 pg 16) stated that We learn much from our observations but we must accept that what we see is the tip of the iceberg.Observation assists the observer to get a better understanding of the childs internal and external world. Furthermore had a great awareness of the environment I was in and of verbal and non-verbal interaction between the child and parent as well. Fawcett (2009 pg 17) conquers as she states that observation is a rewarding chance to discover ways that people communicate and also how different gestures mean different things in different cultures. I was more aware of how power and hierarchies operate and how relatively powerless position of children, and this is clearly emphasised by (Fawcett 2009 pg18). Despite the advantages of the observation there were a few disadvantages such as: I felt that one hour was a very short time and I was not getting the whole picture from the family. The observation was taking place on Friday and that was a lot of time in between visits. Inexperience was a big deal because I continually observed the child as a mother I was unable to detach my role as a mother with my role as a student. Healy (2012 pg 34) argued that it is a practice which recognises the centrality of the emotions, body and mind of the worker and service user. It is essential to note that while there may be a few disadvantages as social workers the skill of observation is crucial to the day to day practice (Tanner 1995 pg 50). As part of the process I had to present my findings to the group and use PowerPoint presentation on reflection I learnt a great deal. As a social worker one requires good written and verbal communication skills and I believe that through presenting to the group I demonstrated the skills above. Stogdon Kiteley (2010 pg 147) emphasised that contributions to discussions and note- taking is the beginning of acquiring these skills. The feedback given to others made the subject area and what was expected clearer in the presentation. In practice we are given feedback from service users and colleagues this was a preparation process for what is expected. The importance of keeping eye contact and the audience interested in the subject matter, I had to ensure that the group was clear on the points that were being made. Verbal presentation by individual students is a chance to increase, advance and offer different methods of learning in the lectures, visual presentations. I had the benefit of the feedback and expertise, not only from the lecture but from my peers as well. My peers had an opportunity to ask questions and this helped me make my points clearer. By presenting to my peers, I was able to get constructive ideas which I used in order to make changes to the final draft. I also learnt that it is important to provide constructive feedback and how essential critical thinking was during this process. Furthermore I gained insight into other areas of child observation. The disadvantage of presenting was that it I felt time was too short and it took time for me to limit my information to present. I was very emotional and nervous and this may have come across during my presentation. During the observation I picked up from the mother that the childs father was not there for the first six months .Furthermore she stated that he only came to see the children when he felt like and on most occasions unannounced. On the two occasions that he came round as a woman and mother, I was very angry and disgusted by his behave and I felt that he was not a good parent. I then reflected back to my childhood and the close relationship I have with my father and this made me cross. As I observed him and the attachment he had with his children I realised that we are all human and can only do our best and I had no right to Judge him. This was a lesson for me and to realise that in practice there may be situations that will test my values beliefs and that I have to deal with them in a professional way. Gibbs (1998 pg 9) stated that it is from feelings and thought emerging from reflection that generalisations or concepts that allow new situations to be tackled effectively. Thomas and Pierson (1995pg 16) define anti discriminatory practice as a term used in social work training to describe how workers account of structural disadvantage and seek to reduce individual and institutional discrimination on grounds of race, gender, disability, social class and sexual orientation. Observation was listed as one of the five key stages that influence social work because it helps the worker to see and what to look for beyond race and gender (Howe 1987 pg 82).Thompson (1997 pg 34) model of anti à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å"oppressive practice demonstrates the three areas that are joined personal prejudice, cultural beliefs and ethos and social and structural factors. When working to safeguard and promote the welfare of a child the family, environmental factors, parenting capacity and a childs development are looked at which provides holistic view of a child. As social workers vital and complex decisions are made based on observations therefore it is essential that the skills t o observe and assess are achieved. This is due to the fact that decisions and actions have far reaching consequences it helps to come to objective conclusions while dealing with a family. In social work practice all children and their families should be treated the same regardless of their colour, gender, race or religious beliefs. On reflection the observation was a learning curve ready for actual practice.

Comparing Morality in The Prince, Second Treatise of Government, and Ut

Comparing Morality  in  The Prince, Second Treatise of Government, and Utilitarianism Niccolo Machiavelli, John Locke, and John Stuart Mill present three distinct models of government in their works The Prince, Second Treatise of Government, and Utilitarianism. From an examination of these models it is possible to infer their views about human nature and its connection to the purpose of government. A key to comparing these views can be found in an examination of their ideas of morality as an intermediary between government and human nature. Whether this morality must be inferred from their writings or whether it is explicitly mentioned, it differs among the three in its definition, source, and purpose. Approximately three hundred years separate the earliest of these works, The Prince, from the most recent, Utilitarianism, and a progression is discernible in the concept of morality over this span. Machiavelli does not mention the word "morality," but his description of the trends and ideals of human political interaction allow for a reasonable deduction of the concept. Locke, too, does not use the word, but he does write of "the standard of right and wrong." In contrast, Mill writes explicitly and extensively of morality in its forms, sources, and obligations. A logical starting point in this examination is a look at their relative views of human nature. To Machiavelli, people are children that need order. They are childlike, not in their innocence, but in their passions. They are ungrateful, greedy, deceptive, and fickle. However, they are also rational and interested in avoiding danger. In calculating their interests they can perceive the need to join together to pursue common goals, such as conquest for acquisition, p... ...e driven into civil society by their contentious natures. As such, all three have the need for an organizing and directing influence in society to ensure that it accomplishes the ends for which it exists. For Machiavelli and for Locke, this influence comes directly from the government. For Mill, this influence comes from within society, the associations one forms with other people; however it requires a certain minimal support from the government to keep it on the proper track. This influence is morality, and it is an extension of human nature. Works Cited Locke, John. The Second Treatise of Government, ed. Thomas Peardon, New York, Bobbs-Merrill, 1952. Machiavelli, Niccolo. The Prince. Trans. Hill Thompson. Norwalk: The Easton Press, 1980. Mill, John Stuart. † Utilitarianism Resources. BLTC. 19 January 2003.