Blog post #4

Rejection

Responsibility is shown and defined in daily ways at my age. Perhaps one way most teens can relate to this would be bullying or regular high school drama. Let's set up a similar scenario to what occurs in a typical 2013 high school. A girl, Becky, says some harsh things about one of her classmates, Susie, on a social media website. One of their other classmates, Jackie, sees it and tells the girl. Susie goes to confront Becky and decides to use harsh words and violence. Both Becky and Susie get expelled. Does Jackie have any responsibility in this? All she did was make Susie aware of what was being said, right? Wrong. I feel that Jackie would be just as responsible because if she would have not told, it would have not escalated. But also, Becky is responsible because of what she said. The responsibility of ones self has to come from the fear of convictions. If someone does something they know is not right, they should take responsibility for it and not let other people get blamed.

Projects..

When I become presented with an important project, personal or academic, I always find a way to complete the project to the best of my ability. Last summer I was a "Rising Star"/ intern at Mercy Regional. It was a responsibility and a project for me to be able to wake up every day at 6 a.m. during my summer break, sit through meetings, get along with my co-workers, take notes, and watch surgeries. Since I was so young and oblivious to all of this, it took me a little while to get a fully comprehend certain things that happen within the hospital. One specific project within this internship was to broadcast Mercy's breast cancer survivors in a “dance-off”, hospital vs. hospital. They assigned it to us and we did it to the best of our ability. The Rising Stars had to go to Crushers stadium and get the whole audience to do a routine dance. Some of the most difficult aspects of this event would have to be; getting money to make all of this happen, passing out information, and getting everybody enthused about it. The result of this project was making our cancer survivors realize that they are not alone, and the hospital they got treated at is and will always be behind them 100%. I believe it helped a lot of women to realize that Mercy is not just a business, but a family. It helped the community spotlight and recognize people who have been through so much. Overall, to me anything that helps liberate others is worth all of my time and dedication.

People have explored what they believe is the unknown since the beginning of time. People have not only discovered the unknown from visiting places, but from experimenting certain things relating to technology. From Christopher Columbus to Bill Gates you can see how many years of incoming discoveries there have been and are left. I personally would not devote my whole life to something that I am not %90 sure about and have faith in. I would have to make sure whatever I was spending my life on is valuable and not a waste of my time. Individual’s become devoted to this type of work because they find a topic/concept that interest them, come up with an approach to it, and then embark on it with all the faith they have. Quite exceptional things have came out of these explorations and I suppose horrid things have became of them as well.

In the course of being exposed to the experiences of high school I have faced many struggles and accomplishments that have led me to set goals and aspirations for myself.  Even though it seemed like I was going to be stuck in a rough place for the rest of my life, I somehow managed to pull myself out, redirect my focus, and push through. As I began noticing that MY future is in MY hands, it has led me to set goals and aspirations that will be achieved with a little effort and of course struggle.

A wise person once said, “A struggle is pointless if you do not learn/grow from it.” A few of my struggles are personal, some are general, and some are only things Moriah Ballard could understand! One of my first ever struggles were going to Amherst schools from 2^nd grade-8^th. This was hard because I was obviously the minority and no one had any interest in accepting me. I will never forget two main things that changed everything about me. One of the incidents happened in 5^th grade at Nord Elementary School. One of my peers decided I should not speak my mind for whatever reason and took it upon his self to spit in my hair. That did not take as much of an emotional toll on me as the fact that I told my principal and there was no action taken. Even though I was mind blown, I realized it was only an opportunity to build my character.

Accomplishments throughout my high-school careers are scares because I am still an underclassman, but still there. One in particular was and is maintaining an appropriate GPA in order to stay in Early College High School. This requires me to turn in assignments on time, come to school, and participate even when I do not want to. It was definitely an accomplishment to not be cut and still be included in such a great program. This was also a struggle to continue, but I am.

All my life I have had aspirations. My first one was probably to be married, like every young girls is. But now since I am older, my aspirations have been thought over and better planned. So today, my aspiration is to graduate high school and attend Spelman College, graduate from there with my Bachelors degree and then go to University of Kentucky and get my doctrine. I have such a desire and passion to be successful. I will go to college and get straight A’s and come out in the top 10% of my class.

All of my struggles have turned me into this creation that I am now. They have brought phenomenal characterizations out of me that I had no idea were inside. Some people do not see how far I have come in this process called life. But I tell whoever thinks that to take a walk in my shoes, and you may get a glimpse of what I deal with.

 

Many people do not realize that they are participating in new thing called "cyber bullying". Most teenagers just get into an argument with an enemy/foe and then insult the person. This is NOT cyber bullying. Cyber bullying in my eye means that the bully preys on one person, and continually does it until they force a reaction. 

But, for the teenagers who actually do cyber-bully, I believe they do this because face to face confrontation is always harder and not as humiliating. Also there is an element of anonymity on the internet which results in a delusion that there is no way that they will be found out. If I witness an innocent person getting bullied, I probably would not physically get involved (It is the 21st century, people are crazy!). But, I would definitely try to talk some common sense into the person.

Picture

It is NEVER okay to take other peoples belongings! At all. Not only is it unethical to take "STEAL" someone’s property, it is depriving ones humane, hard-earned assets. Especially in such poverty struck area such as Africa. The things people have ownership over mean so much more when you work most of your life for it! Most women in Africa have to be the head of the family. Things such a working, cleaning, providing and raising youth is a 24/7 job! In my eyes, they never catch a break! The image this picture put in my head made me judge this family's whole life. They look like they are just coming home from school or work to see their home about to be demolished! They look as if they do not have pantries running over, or a full stocked Kenmore fridge! It looks like they have always been struggling to make ends meet; now they have to start from scratch. All because someone wants to be a bully! It is intolerable.

In my generation, people don't often find anyone, friend or stranger, who will lay their life down for them. If anyone ever comes in contact with someone of that much generosity it would be a surprise to the whole entire world! In most tragedies a humans body tends to go into a fight or flight reaction meaning a human will either stay until everything is okay, or the will leave as quickly as possible. Humans who usually go into that form of a reaction will save themselves first, based on their gut-feeling. Other people who tend to strategically plan things out will put their lives in harm’s way for others, because it is the right thing to do. Someone who may risk their life may realize that they should, in a sense, "pay it forward". Me, personally? I'd save the lives of others. I feel like if God out me in a situation to help his children, I would do it to the best of my abilities.

Carrie Walls

Carrie Walls is more than an idol to me. She is someone who I would want to have similar traits to. Carrie Walls was one of the first graduates of a new HBCU, Spelman College, which is my dream college. Like many students, Carrie Walls came to Spelman from Columbus, Georgia. Carrie graduated with the highest honors in her class from the high school-level program at Spelman in 1888.  She had seven children. Two of their sons attended Morehouse in Atlanta. Carrie herself maintained strong ties with Spelman, making regular donations. She especially enjoyed receiving the annual presidential letter that provided an update to alumnae. In the 1934, she wrote to then-president Florence Read: "Please keep sending me the letters [about events there] as long as I live." Carrie died in Cleveland in December of 1935. If I were to meet Ms. Walls, I would probably invite her to come on Spelmans campus. I would walk with her, take her on a tour and hope that she would share some of her knowledge and secrets with me. Being in her presence and having an in-depth conversation with her would be pure gold to me.

Christmas

One event that I did over Christmas break was visit my Godparents in Winter Garden, Florida. During my five day vacation, we did everything anyone could possibly think of to make a teenager excited! The weather everyday was always above 60 degrees, no humidity, and clear skies. Even the air smells differently than Ohio's! It is such a great spiritual feeling to be there, it is almost magic! This break, I got the pleasure of helping my Godmother prepare for her annual Christmas Party! She invited all her friends and family to enjoy the night with her! There were games, food, and music that everyone loved! The day after that, she took me to Universal Studios. Even though it was a little cold, we rode every ride in the whole park. We also enjoyed a parade and some expensive food. My Godparents are like my best friends ever! They are always the highlight of my winter break and I never want to leave!

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I love you.

God loves you.

Stay happy, beautiful, and pure.

Don't be discouraged.

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives.

Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid.

We would be endlessly thrown with hurtful words
piercing through us like daggers and swords. 

“Promise me you'll never forget me because if I thought you would, I'd never leave.” 



There are no good-byes, where ever we are, you'll always be in my heart.

Dj Toth

I have many people that are influential in my life. Some of them are friends, some are teachers, some are family, and so on. One person specifically  that I would like to talk about, is Mr. Benjamin Toth. He is more than just a success coach to me. He is a friend, mentor, guider, leader, and such an easy person to talk to! The positive influence that he has over my life is much needed and appreciated greatly. Not just by myself, but by the whole entire Early College High School! My success coach teaches me little life lessons, everyday, without even realizing it! He instills so much faith, and reassures me that I can do anything I put my mind to. He never lets me give up, but at the same time does not pound his students to do things they are supposed to. Mr. Toth helps with relationship problems, academic problems, and even regular high school drama! He also taught me to always remain positive, have humility, be open-minded and respect others, whatever their views are! He is truly a blessing.

Barcelona

There are many places in this never-ending universe I would like to live. But one place I would like to live, especially, is Barcelona, Spain. I could honest spend the rest of my life in this one place. From the movies, and everything I have read about it, it is quite a magical and enchanting place. One day soon, I plan to live there. It is often described as an amazing experience. Certain people say that all you do is eat, drink, sleep which are all things that I am good at. (100) I would also always enjoy their ancient history, which would always be surrounding me. I would often visit museums, concerts, and all of the festivals that light up the beautiful night sky. The number one reason I would like to move there is to go to Festa Major de Gracia. The week is packed with celebrations and entertainment, all taking place in the streets, which are decorated up by local citizens. People from all over the city come out to the event, showing that this town is a thriving place and can definitely hold its own in the big city.

if money were no object..

I promise that I will put things that I love, before things that I have to do to get by. Working on this project, I asked my brother and some of our friends from one of the top HBCU's, to partake in it. Being that they are all boys/freshman in college, I was shocked at the intelligent and well thought out answers they gave me. If you noticed in this video, most of them said they would make sure that what they do comes back and benefits society. They would help troubled some kids, and basically become mentors. While a couple of them said they would do things that only benefitted themselves. Personally, I would do something that would benefit my community before I benefit myself. Listening to these answers makes me realize that certain people feel like they owe something to society. Although, others would rather be by themselves, and simply relax. Either way, I think everybody in this world should just.....do them (:

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The Bible is a collection of books, accepted by Christians as sacred and inspired by God. Providing the basis for beliefs about spiritual matters and providing guidelines for moral living. The Bible is not simply, word-for-word by God; it is the work of around 40 different human authors. The different writing skills, writing styles, personalities, world views, and cultural backgrounds of the human authors can be seen in their works. Many of the New Testament books were originally written as letters rather than as Scripture. Some Bible writings include the authors' own research and recollection of historical events and their own opinions. The bible is my favorite book for many reasons. One reason the bible is my favorite book is because it is enriching and brings me great joy. I have been reading parts of this book since I was a child. My whole family life is based upon this book. The bible helps my family and I get through our day-to-day struggles.

After Apple-Picking

Poetry is probably the most vivid way people express their overwhelming emotions. Robert Frost is a very intrinsic thinker in the poem, “After Apple-Picking”. An intrinsic person means a person who reaches their goals because of person value and worth. The opposite of intrinsic is extrinsic. Extrinsic people focus more on power, fame, and glory. Through the use of imagery, Robert Frost conveys the message that people should always do what they love and follow their dreams and aspirations, no matter the trials or circumstances.
Frost uses quotes and an elaborate terminology to expand the readers’ mindsets in this piece of writing. For instance, Frost states, “The scent of apples: I am drowsing off” (l. 8). This quote has a way of forming a clear image in a readers’ mind of an exaggerated smell of sweet apples. It is such an amazing, sustainable smell that is overcoming him; it causes him to become so peaceful in the mist of it. I believe Frost says this to make his readers transfer into a certain mood so they can become really in tune with the poem by feeling the poem with their other senses.
Frost also uses some harsh, graphic words, which also makes us imagine how much he loves what he does. Frost says, “My instep arch not only keeps the ache, / It keeps the pressure of a ladder-round. / I feel the ladder sway as the boughs bend (l. 21-23).” Frost is displaying his love and commitment to apple picking. By using terms like pressure, sway, and ache he is conveying to his readers’ that even though he is in pain and sore, he will continue to pick his apples because he is aware of the ending season. By using those terms, the readers’ should be visualizing a man standing flat-footed on an old ladder, with his legs shaking from pain. The readers’ should be able to see a man with a look of persistence in his eyes.
In this whole story Frost wants us to understand that this man loved what he did for a living. No matter how hard it was, he still did what he loved and what satisfied him. Things like this are important because we would never want to be stuck doing something we hate for the rest of our life, just because it is high paying. If money were no object in this lifetime, I would defiantly enjoy being a motivational or inspirational speaker. I love to have long, drawn out, meticulous conversations. A motivational speaker is someone who aims to instill motivation in his or her audience. Many times, the speaker uses a very energetic manner to help encourage the audience to act. Public speaking skills will be the key tool of any motivational speaker to rouse the audience and encourage them to adopt the speaker’s point of view. Examples of motivational speakers are; Martin Luther King Jr., The President, Gandhi, Malcolm X.

Changes

Some people live with many regrets in their lives. Either it is a risk you are afraid to take, like sky-diving, or a decision you are confused about making, like what television show to watch, you are always choosing something that has its pros and cons. I do not have anything, per say I would like to change about my past because I believe it made me who I am. But, since that is not allowed in the writing assignment, I choose something else (decisions!).

If I could change anything about my past, it would have to be how quickly I mentally matured. I would grasp my childhood and realize how precious it really was. I started maturing around the age of 10, but I have always been ahead of my time. I believe this happened because I am the baby of the family. I always was forced to hang around my older cousins/sibling, which caused me to grow up and develop their habits at a young age. I can honestly say I do not remember being a pre-teen. I feel as if I went from elementary school straight to high school, which is kind of sad. Things like this really couldn't have been prevented if I wanted it to. But in a different family, the child might ask the mother, why can he or she not be with people his or her own ages. Or the child could just sit down around all the adults and watch their childhood pass them by. If I were able to not grow up as fast as I did, it would have a huge affect on myself and everyone. I would not have a lot of the friends/ associates that I have now. I can be goofy when I please, but being childish 24/7 is the quickest way to lose friends!

Hob.

My favorite hobby would be hanging out with my friends and my family together. This happens very often. Take today for example. I hung out with my best friends and family. My cousin surprised our family by coming home for the weekend, from Columbus. She bought pizza, talked about boys, and all the other things big cousins do. I am always so ecstatic to see her and her new baby girl, Kaila. She doesn't ever get to go any where because of her new title as being a mom/wife/nurse.

My family and I go every where together. Church, shopping, restaurants, sleepovers. EVERY together. There are so many of us, and it is always a great atmosphere when we are all surrounding each other. Although there are many of us, we remain a close knit family, like our ancestors taught us to do. My family is mixed with many things (African-American, Caucasian, Native-American, etc). Which pretty much sums up how exciting family reunions are!

Music

I have a wide variety of musical interest. I enjoy most of the things my family listens to, taking into consideration that I am a Vice President of one of the nations top Gospel/Soul/Jazz/Blues Record labels (been that way since 1997), I have been around that music my whole life. Seeing how the apple does not fall far from the tree, I listen to most of those things that I grew up around. Songs that were my favorite in 1999, are still my favorite to this day. People could say I am bias toward the music I like, but it is what I am use to.

I have many favorite bands/musicians. But if I had to think of one "band" I enjoy, it would be Beyoncé Knowles all female band. Listening to her music combined with their instruments always appears to be upbeat and brings me joy. I try to stay away from her super worldly/secular music, and just enjoy her simple, happy stuff. I love how so old school she is, and how she channels her alter ego Sasha Fierce. I listen to her because she reminds me of music that I was raised on. For example, Diana Ross, Whitney Houston, and Lauryn Hill all have similar styles that Beyonce and her band try to portray.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GY1BKt2z5Q&feature=related

Child Care...

Child care should be provided by a mother and a father, not the government. In my eyes, if a couple has taken time to conceive a child, they have time to plan and prepare to have somewhere for them to stay if they are not available. If the couple both work a 9 to 5 job, they must be ready to give up certain finances to put toward child care. Also, the couple has to take time to search and see which day care provider is right for their family and schedule. I think this country has enough financial problems, and to add more money to the debt crisis we are in, wouldn't make tax payers happy. As much as the government should be glad the couple both have jobs, the government can only do so much.

Now, single parents are a different issue. I think the government should supply some sort of assistant to a single parent verses a couple because things might be a little different for them. An example of this is, a single mother, on welfare has found a decent paying job. The only problem is, she has no place for her child to stay. This is a huge conflict in today's society. If giving her child day care service is cheaper than paying for her welfare, I am all for it!