On December 14, 2012, a tragic event occurred in Newtown, Connecticut. An armed intruder broke into Sandy Hook Elementary school, killing 20 students and 6 adults. The event broke hearts of American across the country, from Los Angeles to New York, from Chicago to Miami. With the recent Ferguson and New York crisis, gun violence has been an important issue brought into the eyes of Americans. Today, on the second anniversary of the Sandy Hook killings, a mother of one of the victims spoke out on gun violence, described in TIME magazine.
Nelba Marquez-Greene, who lost her first grade daughter Ana Grace, spoke out against gun violence. She spoke of how the events in Newtown, Fegurson, and New York leave all these mothers unable to breathe. She pleads people to end gun violence; to think of the mothers who are losing their children. The common factor in these events lies within gun violence, something that must come to an end.
Nelba Marquez-Greene is a pure example of greatness. Her ability to keep strength through losing her daughter is amazing. To speak out on such a controversial topic is very difficult as well, and her strength shows in that as well. Marquez-Greene lost her daughter and her breath on December 14, 2014. Two years later, she found her voice and spoke out. In the memory of the Sand Hook tragedy, in the memory of the children and teachers lost, we all must work to end gun violence.
Sunday, December 14, 2014
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Service at St. Margaret of Scotland
On November 5, I returned to St. Margaret of Scotland with Cate. I was less nervous this time because I felt I knew the drill: the kids would come in, sit down, and start their homework. After Cate and I signed in, we went down to the cafeteria to wait for the students.
This time, I helped the kindergartners with their homework. When they came in, I met their teacher who advised me to just give a guiding hand and not do it for them. His students were working on learning how to say -ch- with words such as chair, chicken, and cheese. It was interesting trying to help them because it seemed like such a simple concept to me, and it seemed impossible to just help with. All they had to do was trace the letters and pronounce the words. I made sure each child I help traced all the letters as they were told and had to tell a few to go back because they missed letters. Before they put it away, I asked them how to say the words. What astonished me was most of them could not do it. So, I sounded through each word with the child I was working with and he or she seemed to understand a bit more. It was interesting to see someone learn the basics of our language because I have no memory of learning to read. I can not imagine how difficult it is to be a kindergarten or pre-school teacher and try to teach children to read and spell.
Helping these kindergartners was a bit of a struggle. It truly demonstrated the greatness each and every teacher possesses. Teachers must have patience and unbelievable strength and care for others in order to do their job. Without great teachers, our world would be a lesser place. The kindergarten teacher at St. Margaret of Scotland is just one example of a great teacher. He really seemed connected to his students and wanted them to succeed. Teachers are a prime example for what it means to be great. When I return next, I hope to learn more from the wonderful students and staff at St. Margaret of Scotland.
This time, I helped the kindergartners with their homework. When they came in, I met their teacher who advised me to just give a guiding hand and not do it for them. His students were working on learning how to say -ch- with words such as chair, chicken, and cheese. It was interesting trying to help them because it seemed like such a simple concept to me, and it seemed impossible to just help with. All they had to do was trace the letters and pronounce the words. I made sure each child I help traced all the letters as they were told and had to tell a few to go back because they missed letters. Before they put it away, I asked them how to say the words. What astonished me was most of them could not do it. So, I sounded through each word with the child I was working with and he or she seemed to understand a bit more. It was interesting to see someone learn the basics of our language because I have no memory of learning to read. I can not imagine how difficult it is to be a kindergarten or pre-school teacher and try to teach children to read and spell.
Helping these kindergartners was a bit of a struggle. It truly demonstrated the greatness each and every teacher possesses. Teachers must have patience and unbelievable strength and care for others in order to do their job. Without great teachers, our world would be a lesser place. The kindergarten teacher at St. Margaret of Scotland is just one example of a great teacher. He really seemed connected to his students and wanted them to succeed. Teachers are a prime example for what it means to be great. When I return next, I hope to learn more from the wonderful students and staff at St. Margaret of Scotland.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Finding Greatness in Who You Are
For gay people, "coming out" can be extremely difficult, especially for those who have so much influence in society. Recently, CEO of Apple, Tim Cook, officially "came out" of the closet in his published essay. In an article in TIME Magazine, author Daniel D'Adarro discusses the importance of Cook's essay and the affects it has on all of us.
Although many already new that Cook was gay, he officially "came out" in his essay. However, he did not take a traditional approach: he brought a new view to the idea of sexuality. Most influential people, when they come out, convey the idea that their sexuality does not change who they are. Cook begs to differ, saying "Being gay has given me a deeper understanding of what it means to be in the minority and provided a window into the challenges that people in other minority groups deal with every day. It’s made me more empathetic, which has led to a richer life.” Being gay has changed who he is and is a big part of who he is. He has has learned to accept this lifestyle change.
D'Adarro also comments on how Cook, now 53 years old, took so long to "come out". However, he said being gay has changed his view on life. Cook challenges the idea that being gay is the same thing as being straight because accepting his sexuality changed the way he viewed the world. It also urged him to work for the greater cause of equal rights.
Cook gives us a great insight on what it means to be great. Cook learned to believe in who he is. As teenagers, many of us struggle to find who we are. Cook, "coming out" at the age of 53, relates to how many teens feels about finding our place in high school. As a successful business man, he shows us all that we can do anything. With a new insight on who he is, Cook now wants to do more for the world.
Although many already new that Cook was gay, he officially "came out" in his essay. However, he did not take a traditional approach: he brought a new view to the idea of sexuality. Most influential people, when they come out, convey the idea that their sexuality does not change who they are. Cook begs to differ, saying "Being gay has given me a deeper understanding of what it means to be in the minority and provided a window into the challenges that people in other minority groups deal with every day. It’s made me more empathetic, which has led to a richer life.” Being gay has changed who he is and is a big part of who he is. He has has learned to accept this lifestyle change.
D'Adarro also comments on how Cook, now 53 years old, took so long to "come out". However, he said being gay has changed his view on life. Cook challenges the idea that being gay is the same thing as being straight because accepting his sexuality changed the way he viewed the world. It also urged him to work for the greater cause of equal rights.
Cook gives us a great insight on what it means to be great. Cook learned to believe in who he is. As teenagers, many of us struggle to find who we are. Cook, "coming out" at the age of 53, relates to how many teens feels about finding our place in high school. As a successful business man, he shows us all that we can do anything. With a new insight on who he is, Cook now wants to do more for the world.
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Greatness in Action
For as long as I can remember, I have always had a strong desire to help and serve others as best as I could. When Mr. Woak presented us with different service opportunities, St. Margaret of Scotland instantly appealed to me and is the one I chose to try out. Because I am considering working with kids in the future, I thought this was the perfect opportunity for me.
On Wednesday, I went to St. Margaret of Scotland and volunteered in their after-school program with Cate Llewellyn. As we were getting out of the car, I was extremely nervous. So many questions popped into my head: will the kids like me? Will I understand their homework? What if I cannot help? However, the minute I walked into the building, my entire mood shifted.
Everyone was so welcoming to me and Cate. They were so happy they had two volunteers for the day. The woman in charge, Ms. Cameron gave us a hug when we walked in and began running around getting everything ready for the kids. When the kids walked in, I understood why everyone was so grateful. There were over fifty children from pre-k to junior high.
While there, I helped many kids with their math homework. The kids were working on word problems and many were confused on the same question: Why does your answer make sense? It struck me as such an odd question for a math worksheet. Personally, I had no idea what to tell the kids to write at first. In the end, I just asked them, "why do you think your answer makes sense?" They all had a variety of responses and I just told them to write it down. What seemed like a simple question confused so many of them, and it confused me as well. As I thought, I realized it was the fact that there was no right or wrong answer that confused many of them. It was amazing to see their different opinions and views on this question.
Overall, my time at St. Margaret of Scotland was very entertaining and just great. I met so many funny kids and felt so blessed to be there. I really do not know how Ms. Cameron does it. If Cate and I were not there, she would have been watching all those kids by herself. Although there are teachers walking in and out, she basically does it all on her own, with a smile on her face. She is the definition of greatness. Her kindness and strenth are some qualities that I hope to emulate in my own life. She has a strict, but caring tone with all the kids and you can tell she really cares about each and every one of them. I hope to learn more and more from Ms. Cameron and the kids when I return next.
On Wednesday, I went to St. Margaret of Scotland and volunteered in their after-school program with Cate Llewellyn. As we were getting out of the car, I was extremely nervous. So many questions popped into my head: will the kids like me? Will I understand their homework? What if I cannot help? However, the minute I walked into the building, my entire mood shifted.
Everyone was so welcoming to me and Cate. They were so happy they had two volunteers for the day. The woman in charge, Ms. Cameron gave us a hug when we walked in and began running around getting everything ready for the kids. When the kids walked in, I understood why everyone was so grateful. There were over fifty children from pre-k to junior high.
While there, I helped many kids with their math homework. The kids were working on word problems and many were confused on the same question: Why does your answer make sense? It struck me as such an odd question for a math worksheet. Personally, I had no idea what to tell the kids to write at first. In the end, I just asked them, "why do you think your answer makes sense?" They all had a variety of responses and I just told them to write it down. What seemed like a simple question confused so many of them, and it confused me as well. As I thought, I realized it was the fact that there was no right or wrong answer that confused many of them. It was amazing to see their different opinions and views on this question.
Overall, my time at St. Margaret of Scotland was very entertaining and just great. I met so many funny kids and felt so blessed to be there. I really do not know how Ms. Cameron does it. If Cate and I were not there, she would have been watching all those kids by herself. Although there are teachers walking in and out, she basically does it all on her own, with a smile on her face. She is the definition of greatness. Her kindness and strenth are some qualities that I hope to emulate in my own life. She has a strict, but caring tone with all the kids and you can tell she really cares about each and every one of them. I hope to learn more and more from Ms. Cameron and the kids when I return next.
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Hope for Ebola Orphans
Ebola, the disease that has killed many in Africa, has a struck a nerve for everyone across the world. With a recent case found in America, many people are on high alert. However, in this time of distress and sickness, greatness can be found. In a recent article, Aryn Baker talks about the many, now orphan, African children who lost their parents to the disease. One three-year old girl, Berlinda, watched her mother die and then was taken away by men in bio-hazard suits. In fear she was infected, she was taken away to an observation room. After her test results came out negative, she had no where to go and no family. The United Nations Children's fund estimated that around 3,700 other children have lost parents as well. So what will happen to these children?
In Berlinda's case, she was taken in Katie Meyler, a founder of an education center for young Liberian girls. Meyler, after seeing Berlinda, decided to change her education center into a home for Berlinda filled with toys. After taking in Berlinda, she began to take in more and her center became an orphanage for children who lost their family to this deadly disease. Meyler named the house HOPE, or Housing, Observation, and Pediatric Evaluation.
With the government unable to do anything for the children at this point, this HOPE house gives hope to many orphan children. Through this horrible tragedy, Katie Meyler has given children a place to stay, food to eat, and a reason to hope. Katie Meyler is a great example of what it means to be great. She lives a selfless life, serving those in need, and does it with all her heart. HOPE has been found in this Ebola outbreak.
In Berlinda's case, she was taken in Katie Meyler, a founder of an education center for young Liberian girls. Meyler, after seeing Berlinda, decided to change her education center into a home for Berlinda filled with toys. After taking in Berlinda, she began to take in more and her center became an orphanage for children who lost their family to this deadly disease. Meyler named the house HOPE, or Housing, Observation, and Pediatric Evaluation.
With the government unable to do anything for the children at this point, this HOPE house gives hope to many orphan children. Through this horrible tragedy, Katie Meyler has given children a place to stay, food to eat, and a reason to hope. Katie Meyler is a great example of what it means to be great. She lives a selfless life, serving those in need, and does it with all her heart. HOPE has been found in this Ebola outbreak.
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Strength in A.L.S.
The A.L.S. Ice Bucket Challenge took the nation by storm over the summer. Millions of Americans dumped a bucket of cold water over the head to support those affected by A.L.S. and over $115 million was raised for research. Many asked, how do those affected by A.L.S. respond to the challenge?
In a recent article, Roni Rabyn describes her father's experience with A.L.S. Her father, David Roni, started walking with a limp when she was in college. Her parents referred to the disease as a, "back problem" keeping her and her younger sister in the dark. At 19, her mother told her the truth: her father was dying from A.L.S. She watched her father's health deteriorated, but never his spirit. He stayed in good spirits and kept his humor until the end, even when he could barely talk. He swam laps at the pool to slow down the disease, but it came and took over his body.
Rabyn also took time to describe the community's reaction. There were those who drifted away to give the family their space, something they did not want. However, there were the good ones who stayed with the family and through all their support behind them. When the A.L.S. Ice Bucket Challenge started, Rabyn did not appreciate it and felt people were being fake. However, when she saw patients getting into it and all the money raised, she realized how much awareness was raised and began to appreciate it more.
Although A.L.S. is a horrific disease that took her father from her, Rabyn continued to see the greatness within the situation; she saw what made her father truly great and the people around her. The fact that her father kept good spirits and remained determined is something beautiful in the face of tragedy. Greatness lies within determination and strength through tragedy. Another great thing Rabyn recognized was the A.L.S. Ice Bucket Challenge. She first saw it as in-genuine but saw it in its true glory when those struck with the disease got a chance to participate. In her conclusion, Rabyn urges readers to take on a new challenge:continue raising awareness for this horrific disease; find a cure.
In a recent article, Roni Rabyn describes her father's experience with A.L.S. Her father, David Roni, started walking with a limp when she was in college. Her parents referred to the disease as a, "back problem" keeping her and her younger sister in the dark. At 19, her mother told her the truth: her father was dying from A.L.S. She watched her father's health deteriorated, but never his spirit. He stayed in good spirits and kept his humor until the end, even when he could barely talk. He swam laps at the pool to slow down the disease, but it came and took over his body.
Rabyn also took time to describe the community's reaction. There were those who drifted away to give the family their space, something they did not want. However, there were the good ones who stayed with the family and through all their support behind them. When the A.L.S. Ice Bucket Challenge started, Rabyn did not appreciate it and felt people were being fake. However, when she saw patients getting into it and all the money raised, she realized how much awareness was raised and began to appreciate it more.
Although A.L.S. is a horrific disease that took her father from her, Rabyn continued to see the greatness within the situation; she saw what made her father truly great and the people around her. The fact that her father kept good spirits and remained determined is something beautiful in the face of tragedy. Greatness lies within determination and strength through tragedy. Another great thing Rabyn recognized was the A.L.S. Ice Bucket Challenge. She first saw it as in-genuine but saw it in its true glory when those struck with the disease got a chance to participate. In her conclusion, Rabyn urges readers to take on a new challenge:continue raising awareness for this horrific disease; find a cure.
Thursday, September 18, 2014
True Friends in Texas
For a high school girl, being homecoming queen can mean everything. Recently, at Grand Prairie High School in Texas, Anahi Alvarez, a high school senior, gave her homecoming crown away to her best friend, Lillian Skinner. "Why?" do you ask. In a recent article, Alvarez describes how Skinner had been targeted in a prank the previous week. Certain girls had convinced Skinner she had been nominated for homecoming queen along with her best friends, Alvarez and Naomi Martinez. Both girls vowed that when they won, they were giving the crown to Skinner, who was hurt and embarassed. They even got their principal, Lorimer Arendse, in on the surprise. Arendse led Skinner to the field telling her she was just taking pictures of her friends. Then, as Skinner neared the stage, Alvarez motioned her on stage and gave her the crown. Skinner could not have been happier, and felt as if she was in a dream.
What does this story teach us? Well, within this story, one can find what it means to be great. Through a simple sacrifice, Alvarez and Martinez made their best friend's day. Although a small sacrifice, it can compare to Eric Greiten's, an American war hero's, choice of sacrificing his education to defend his country. Alvarez's sacrifice teaches us all the how simple it is to make a difference in someone's day and achieve greatness.
What does this story teach us? Well, within this story, one can find what it means to be great. Through a simple sacrifice, Alvarez and Martinez made their best friend's day. Although a small sacrifice, it can compare to Eric Greiten's, an American war hero's, choice of sacrificing his education to defend his country. Alvarez's sacrifice teaches us all the how simple it is to make a difference in someone's day and achieve greatness.
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Attacking ISIS
Wednesday night, President Obama addressed the nation on the ever growing threat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Greater Syria, or ISIS. Zeke Miller wrote an article in TIME Magazine discussing the president's national address. Obama asserts that the US will go on the offensive and continue airstrikes on the ISIS government. He did not give a time frame for the war, saying "it will take time to eradicate a cancer like ISIS." Obama clarified that ground troops will not be fighting in Syria, but will implement more airstrikes and help train Iraqi rebels.
Americans have been waiting for action to take place after several threats had been made on the country, including the beheading of two Americans. Some have referred to ISIS's actions in Syria and Iraq as a genocide, attacking and killing the innocent people in Iraq and Syria. Throughout its history, the United States has defended the innocent and the minorities in repressive countries. Obama now asserts that The United States will go to war with ISIS.
American's actions on ISIS illustrates similar beliefs to Eric Greitens' The Warrior's Heart. Greitens urges his readers to take action and serve others. After helping relief efforts in Rwanda after the Rwandan genocide and other struggling countries, Greitens insisted action must be take to protect others. This is what President Obama and the United States must do with ISIS. America must not only defend its people, but the innocent people in Syria and Iraq as well.
Americans have been waiting for action to take place after several threats had been made on the country, including the beheading of two Americans. Some have referred to ISIS's actions in Syria and Iraq as a genocide, attacking and killing the innocent people in Iraq and Syria. Throughout its history, the United States has defended the innocent and the minorities in repressive countries. Obama now asserts that The United States will go to war with ISIS.
American's actions on ISIS illustrates similar beliefs to Eric Greitens' The Warrior's Heart. Greitens urges his readers to take action and serve others. After helping relief efforts in Rwanda after the Rwandan genocide and other struggling countries, Greitens insisted action must be take to protect others. This is what President Obama and the United States must do with ISIS. America must not only defend its people, but the innocent people in Syria and Iraq as well.
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