Overview of Martin Luther’s Christian Liberty Essay

Martin Luther’s pamphlet, Christian Liberty, describes his feelings towards the Church. He did not agree with what the Church did. For example, the church had too many restrictions. Meaning that you could not practice another religion. Also, the Church had indulgences, which are supposed to be where if someone sinned, they would go to the church and pray, and have the church forgive you. But the idea of indulgences to the Catholic Church was if you sinned, then you were to pay a certain amount of money and then your sin would have been forgotten. Luther thought the Church should be about faith, not all about power and money. In the pamphlet, Luther believes that faith nurtures the body and soul. He believed that the Church did not believe in that. Luther eventually broke away from the Church for several reasons. Some reasons were how the Church made people pay for their indulgences, how that they had too many restrictions, and how the Church had so much power and how they abused it. Luther stated in his pamphlet, â€Å"From this anyone can clearly see how a Christian is free from all things and over all things so that he needs no works to make him righteous and save him, since faith alone abundantly confers all these things.† Luther in this sentence is saying how things such as indulgences are not needed to make him a better Christian, but if a man has enough faith, it alone will do the job. Luther also states that for preachers not to preach only about repentance, but also about the faith of the religion. The criticism that Luther has towards the preachers was that they abused authority that they don’t preach commandments and promises, and they don’t work solely out of serving one’s neighbor; they do it seeking their own profit. Luther was also angry with priests who use the word of Christ to make people dislike Jews. He believes that they should pray for the people and teach the people by example. Martin Luther’s solutions took the middle course and faced up too how, â€Å"They want to show that they are free men and Christians only by despising and finding fault with ceremonies†. What Luther meant by this was that the religious ceremonies done was not how they used to be; now they entail only the power that the Church has among the people. Luther believed that you should join a church and do as they say not to gain righteousness, but out  of respect for them. He said this by, â€Å"I will fast, pray, do this and that as men command, not because it is necessary to my righteousness or salvation; but that I may show due respect to the pope, the bishop, the community, a magistrate, or my neighbor.† Martin Luther believed of three powers or benefits of faith. One was that Christians are free from the land. If we honor God, he will honor us. He will see us as righteous and truthful people. Faith writes the soul with Christ. Christian soul therefore has all the good characteristics of Christ. Also Luther believes that faith gives us freedom. He states this by writing, â€Å"It is clear, then, that a Christian has all he needs in faith and needs no works to justify him; and if he needs no need of works, he has no need of the law; and if he has no need of the law, surely he is free from the law.† Since we are not perfect on earth, works help keep us moving towards our goal of perfection. Do works freely, only to please God. This is said by, â€Å"however, we are not wholly recreated, and our faith and love are not yet perfect, these are to be increased, not by external works, however but of themselves†. Through work, think only to benefit others. Faith is active through love. Luther stated this by, â€Å"we should devote all our works to the welfare of others.† â€Å"But works, being inanimate things, cannot glorify God, although they can, if faith is present, be done to the glory of God.† What Luther is stating here is if you have enough faith, then you can make the presence of God true. Because works don’t lead to righteousness, but with faith works can be done to the glory of God.

Western Civilization Reflection Paper # 5

How did the rulers of early medieval Europe like Charlemagne, Otto of Saxony, Alfred the Great, and William the Conqueror set certain precedents for their emerging nations? Well for starters, Charlemagne did bring a whole lot to the table. The only significant thing I got out of him was the fact that he split his empire into â€Å"countries†, with a total of 300 counts watching those territories. Otto brought his German self, and conquered all of the â€Å"Holy Roman Empire†. He starts the election process.Otto gets recognized by the Byzantines and Constantine, and then finally the pope recognizes him as well. That in and of its self shows that Otto was a legit ruler! Alfred has to survive in bog-like territory for a while. He was bookish, literate, big reader, fairly religious, and an effective warrior using guerilla warfare tactics. He finally takes back his kingdom and is recognized as the first official King of England. It shows that he was able to tough it out, and was a strong ruler when he took back his kingdom.Edward was eccentric, and obsessed with death. He also did not sire any sons or daughters. He builds the first cathedral, which is located in Westminster. Got to love dudes that are eccentric! He actually reminds me of Dumbledore from Harry Potter. ? William was tall, over 6 feet. William got stuff done, and didn’t take no nonsense from no one. That is where he got his boring yet ruthless reputation. William ends up battling for England, and wins which is no surprise. William ends up creating a good system of which the government ran.

Into the Wild Paper

Mehakpal Grewal Professor King Work, Leisure, & Play April 13, 2011 How Krakauer Balances his Bias? Jon Krakauer's non-fiction novel  Into the Wild  explores the mystery surrounding Christopher McCandless and his life before he inevitably ran off  into the heart of the Alaskan wilderness in an attempt to discover himself in some manner. In order to tell this story as accurately as possible, Krakauer uses a variety of techniques to give different perspectives to Chris’ life.The most prominent decision Krakauer makes though is in regards to his decision to try include or exclude himself and his views from the text. When telling Chris’ story, Krakauer takes an almost fully unbiased approach, and yet when he does present his biased empathy towards McCandless, he has full knowledge, and makes the reader fully aware. So, whether the reader ends up feeling empathetic towards McCandless or finds him rather selfish in dependent on how much they connect with him through his story.Because Krakaeur is able to portray McCandless’ life with such finesse and accuracy, including his faults, while incorporating his own personal observations and similar life experiences, he ultimately lets the reader make up their own mind in regards to how they should feel toward him. In order to truly understand Chris’ story to the smallest detail, Krakauer put a great amount of effort into retracing his past up until his death.As he states, â€Å"I spent more than a year retracing the convoluted path that led to his death in the Alaska taiga, chasing down details of his peregrinations with an interest that bordered an obsession† (Author’s Note 2). Even before the start of the novel, Krakauer points out that he followed Chris’ life like an â€Å"obsession† and became very attached to his story. Krakauer recognizes that his obsession or â€Å"bias† to the Chris will reveal itself throughout the story but makes a key decision i n letting the reader know that he doesn’t â€Å"claim to be an impartial biographer† but does try to â€Å"minimize his authorial presence† (AN 2).Krakauer, like most authors, has some type of bias. In his case, it would be even worse because of how close he got to Chris’ life and his emotional connection to the story. Despite this, Krakauer has already made it clear that his bias is there and his â€Å"convictions will be apparent† in order to â€Å"leave it to the reader to form his or her own opinion of Chris McCandless† (AN 3). So, while he may show empathy toward Chris throughout the novel, he gives enough perspective on Chris’ life for the reader to make their own decision.Throughout the novel, Krakauer manages to show us a character, Chris McCandless, who can be seen in a positive or negative light depending on how you connect to his story. Krakauer points out how McCandless â€Å"took life’s inequities to heart† (p. 113). He mentions how â€Å"Chris didn’t understand how people could possibly be allowed to go hungry, especially in this country† and on one occasion â€Å"Chris picked up a homeless man†¦ brought him home†¦ and set the guy up in the Airstream trailer his parents parked beside the garage† (p. 113).It is apparent here that Krakauer is painting McCandless in a positive light and possibly showing his bias in mentioning such minor details of his life. He also alludes to how Chris spoke out against the racial oppression of apartheid in South Africa and how Chris â€Å"believed that wealth was shameful, corrupting and inherently evil† (p. 115). However, he claims his view on wealth is hypocritical or ironic because he mentions how Billie, Chris’ mom, claimed â€Å"Chris was a natural-born capitalist with an uncanny knack for making a buck.Chris was always an entrepreneur† (p. 115). He describes in detail how he grew vegetables to se ll door to door when he was eight and started a neighborhood copy business when was twelve. Here, Krakauer is showing Chris’ hypocritical nature that has stayed with him throughout the years. Krakauer continues to show McCandless in a more negative light throughout the book. During Chris’ senior year at Emory, he â€Å"seldom contacted his parents and this caused Walt and Billie [to] grow increasingly worried about their son’s emotional distance† (p. 124).He furthers this by describing how Chris’ parents sent a letter saying† You have completely dropped away from all who love and care about you. Whatever it is—whoever you’re with—do you think this is right? † (p. 124). According to Krakauer, Chris saw this â€Å"as meddling and referred to the letter as stupid when talked to Carine† (p. 124). At this point, Krakauer is clearly pointing out Chris’ flaws and how he seemingly didn’t enough about hi s family to bother contacting them for long periods of time. He builds upon this when mentioning how Chris went on trans-continental journeys through he Mojave Desert and various places multiple times without saying a word. He even goes as far as to describe how in July 1992, 2 years after Chris left Atlanta, his mother awoke one night with tears rolling down her cheeks screaming, â€Å"I don’t know how I’ll ever get over it. I wasn’t dreaming. I didn’t imagine it. I heard his voice! He was begging, ‘Mom! Help me! ’† (p. 126). Krakauer could have deliberately left out such disheartening details that portrayed Chris in a negative manner, as someone who would make his mother suffer in such a way, but he included them in order to give the reader as much perspective on Chris as possible.In chapters eight and nine, Krakauer interrupts Chris’ story to tell a few strikingly similar stories of journeys into the wilderness. Through these chapters, he doesn’t characterize McCandless in a completely positive or negative light. While describing the story of Everett Ruess, who disappeared while in a remote area of Utah, he points out that Ruess, like Chris, â€Å"was a loner but he liked people too  Ã‚  damn much to stay down there and live in secret the rest of his life. A lot of us are like that –I’m like that† (p. 96).So while drawing parallels to Chris’ story and personality, he describes Chris as a loner but is quick to point out that many people including him are like that. While most of us would consider loners as outcasts from society and see them in a negative light, Krakauer’s personal comments leave us feeling some empathy toward him as an individual. Here, Krakauer shows a balance between his own feelings and looking at Chris through completely unbiased eyes. Through chapters fourteen and fifteen, Krakauer diverges from Chris’ story once again when makes a comparison of his own journey into the wilderness to that of Chris’.One would expect a very evident bias in these chapters that would show Chris in an overwhelmingly positive light but that is not the case. Although, Krakauer creates a parallel between his journey through Devils Thumb and Chris’ journey into the Alaskan wilderness, he is simply trying to give a different perspective to McCandless’ story. He mentions this is his notes when he claims he does this† in the hope that my experiences will throw some oblique light on the enigma of Chris McCandless† (AN 2).His point is made clear when he ends his personal account of his near death experience by proposing, â€Å"In my case—and I believe, in the case of Chris McCandless—that was very different thing from wanting to die†(p. 156). So while some may argue Krakauer may be showing some sympathy toward Chris, this is only because his story struck a â€Å"personal note† in him (AN 2). Regardless of this, Krakauer’s willingness to show Chris’ faults in a similar manner balance out Krakauer’s moments of including himself and his bias within the story.So, whether you end up liking McCandless to some sort of â€Å"hero† or find him rather selfish and irritating depends on how much you end up connecting with his story. Regardless of how you feel in the end, it is difficult to deny validity and effort Krakauer puts into this novel. He takes a mostly unbiased approach when telling McCandless’ story and even when the bias slips by, he makes it fully known to the reader. Krakauer might have a personal bias toward Chris but in capturing his story, he was able to keep a balance between showing Chris in a positive or negative light.Krakauer recognized â€Å"McCandless came into the country with insufficient provisions, that he tried to live entirely off the country†¦without bothering to master†¦crucial skills† b ut he like Roman, can’t help identifying with the guy† (p. 180, 181-82, 185). Despite â€Å"identifying† with Chris throughout the novel, Krakauer ultimately allows the reader to make their own decision in regards to Chris and the decisions he made leading up to his death. Works Cited Krakauer, Jon. Into the Wild. New York: Anchor, 1996. Print.

Birch Paper Company CASE Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Birch Paper Company - Case Study Example Brunner was adamant on that issue and claimed he had invested much in that development. Decentralization of the various units is successful as proven by the increased proceeds from each division. The significant result of the decentralization is the enhancement in the design of the boxes. If the company were still operating under the Birch Company, no manager would have taken the initiative to invest in the development of boxes. Decentralization has undermined the cooperation among the divisions. If the management was centralized, the selling of the supplies to the divisions would have been coordinated. The selling prices for the supplies would have been favorable. Mr. Brunner had invested heavily in the research and development of boxes and expected high returns. Yes, he is not considering the overall profitability of Birch Company and competition from other box producers. The best bid for the best interest of Birch Company is that of Eire Papers. This is because the bid is cheaper than that of Thompson division. The commercial vice-president should intervene on that matter. If he fails, the future of Thompson division will be at stake due to its high prices. He should advice Mr. Brunner to reduce the prices for its

People Management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

People Management - Assignment Example These other steps are of great importance in the marketing sector, where a good relationship with the customer is the ultimate goal( Armstrong, 37) Human resource is one of the most difficult and challenging resources to manage. Humans have emotions as opposed to machines which can be programed to do various tasks. Skills on management of people who are hard to manage are therefore very necessary. Most of the time the hardest challenges have the simplest solutions. First the managers have to accept that management is cumbersome and stop fighting it. This helps in approaching delicate employees’ issues with positivity. Secondly, they should face those issues head on and solve them promptly. In order to handle the challenges effectively, they should see them both from the managerial and employee perspective. Employees can sometimes be very difficult and stressful to deal with, therefore help from others like a colleague, a mentor or one’ own manager, would be very helpful. Their response about a given employee would be very critical in decision making. Setting up of clear and measurable goals is also an important to ol when evaluating individual employee’s performance. Lastly, they should view employees from the perspective of â€Å"a liability or an asset†. If an employee is an asset, keep him/her but if a liability let go (Richardson, 36). 1. Have a one-on-one discussion with her. Make her free to present her case and listen carefully to her concerns. This will help in coming up with an amicable solution to her problems. Listening to her would save the day because there could just be a mere misunderstanding. 2. Provide her with a crystal clear behavioral feedback. This would involve telling her what she should do differently to regain the trust of the customers. This may entail transferring her to another branch to meet new customers (Neil, 80). 3. Make a list of the mistakes Alexander has

The Important of the Immigrants in the USA Essay

The Important of the Immigrants in the USA - Essay Example The actions of immigrants to reach United States in the modern world have come to be derided and admired in equal measure but this has not deterred immigrants from putting in the effort to get to this country because they believe that they can have better lives within it (Foner & Fredrickson 2005, p.46). Those who deride immigration, whether legal or illegal, often do not take into account that it is immigrants who help in the development of a large chunk of the economy as well as its society and political scene so that America has become a unique and diverse society. Most of the immigrants to United States in the eighteenth century tended to come from northern Europe specifically Germany, Britain, Netherlands, and Scandinavian countries. These immigrants often came to this US to take advantage of the opportunities available and start their life afresh. The immigration that took place between the mid eighteenth century and the first half of nineteenth century was as a result of the agrarian revolution in Europe which forced many peasants out of their land, which they had worked for generations (Evans, 2001). As a result, many of them came to United States because it held the promise of significant land holdings, as well as work in its growing and developing cities. Those immigrants who came to United States after 1850 were predominantly of eastern European origin as well as of Irish descent. While the former often came to United States to escape the almost unceasing state of conflict and poverty that affected their homelands, the Irish immigrated mainly because of the potato famine that hit Ireland during this period. Most of these immigrants to United States from Eastern Europe were illiterate and often ended up working menial jobs in cities as New York and Chicago in order to make ends meet. From mid-20th century, immigrants ceased being predominantly from Europe and instead from across the world, as many individuals wanted to come to

Enterprise Process Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Enterprise Process Management - Essay Example As the corporate world shifts to a complete cooperative model and competitors elevate their abilities to stay competitive, organisations must enhance their individual business practices and processes. Organisations also must share critical information to the major dealers, providers and customers. Furthermore, organisations must advance their abilities to create and communicate suitable and precise information. To accomplish these objectives, organisations are progressively revolving to enterprise process reengineering methodology (Umble & et. al., 2003). Based on this aspect, the report provides information about Critical Success Factors (CSFs) for effective enterprise process reengineering (EPR) particularly in automobile segment. Furthermore, the report also provides recommendations to the Chief Executive and Board of Directors of Ford Motor Company regarding accomplishment of those CSFs. The Concept of EPR EPR is defined as a necessary reconsideration and thorough reformation of business processes with a view to attain remarkable improvement such as minimisation of costs, enhancement of quality and service and increased speed, which are currently considered to be essential constituents to enhance the organisational performance. EPR is regarded as modality of accomplishing new radical procedure or organisational transformation in order to better satisfy the clients’ requirements. EPR helps to redesign the business and production procedure with a view to eradicate such functions that do not add value. The key features of EPR include the aspects that: It focuses on fundamental issues of organisation, rather than organisational departments It focuses more on process and less on people and organisational structures It attempts to go to the core of organisational process in order to make apparent changes by removing outdated activities and discovering new means of carrying out different activities It creates strong connection with IT (Sabau, 2005) EPR in A utomobile Segment Presently, automobile manufacturing organisations are confronting essential changes to their businesses with the appearance of new technologies and relocation of international supply chains. Besides, rapid improvement of IT and transportation system also have allowed the synthesis of local and national markets into an international one. Unpredictability and changeability in both, internal as well as external business environment is also experienced by several automobile organisations. Hence, in order to sustain, automobile organisations necessitate receptiveness and flexibility in the accomplishment of business and operational process. For customer orientation, turning ideas into final products has increasingly become an important component for gaining competitiveness in automobile segment. Only quality, technical complexity and price attractiveness are not sufficient for gaining success in today’s market. The products must be capable to fulfil the customer demands. Due to these reasons, automobile organisations are directed to incorporate every aspect of business functions ranging from customers to suppliers in the product life cycle phase. Furthermore, information and knowledge are

Rational persuasion Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Rational persuasion - Term Paper Example The bargain wilds intensely as the teachers are seriously on the neck of the government terming them not serious about the lives of the children who are not being taught, as the government is quite reluctant about their issues (Hoch 2004 pg 64-9). Through out the bargains, the government given the tough economic times tries to use rational persuasion to try to sway the angry teachers to class. This evident since the government has directed their negotiations towards the influential minorities that is the teachers’ consultees; they are trained and given non-factual promises by the government (Hoch 2004 pg 97). The promises are non- factual given that they do not give any timelines and are not giving any statistical figures in form of percentage increase of the mentioned benefits. The limitation of this is that the method would not suppress the angry teachers are they are already aware of the conning that the government is likely to direct to them. Faced with such a situation in the future, an integration of both factual and rational would be considered to relay quite convincing information. Scenario 2 Rational persuasion for security of a country There is a terrorist group, which is seriously terrorizing the citizens’ of the country jeopardizing the role of the government of protecting its citizens. Though power is held by the state, the group is reckless and does not mind hurting any individual as they have nothing much to lose. The government on the other hand is not in the position of attacking those head on, as this may lead to the group unleashing its potential on the innocent civilians through their poisonous biological weapons. The government has therefore the option of engaging... There is a terrorist group, which is seriously terrorizing the citizens’ of the country jeopardizing the role of the government of protecting its citizens. Though power is held by the state, the group is reckless and does not mind hurting any individual as they have nothing much to lose. The government on the other hand is not in the position of attacking those head on, as this may lead to the group unleashing its potential on the innocent civilians through their poisonous biological weapons. The government has therefore the option of engaging the group in a discussion for a negotiation, which cannot be factual as the terror group, cannot be promised facts given that this would be against the sovereignty of the state.   In the persuasion efforts, the government presents on the table goodies for the terror group and promises them to be integrated in the running of the government. They are therefore, invited to select their top officials or the individuals they entrusts with t he promised positions and the intention of the government inviting them to this table is to peacefully detain the officials without the followers awareness. This is a divide and rule technique of running the government as the result is directed towards making the followers realize that soon they are likely to be detained as their leaders hence scaring their activities and the harms they are likely to create to the government. The rebels on the other hand purpose a negotiation through representatives.

Content Analysis Writing Assignment Research Paper

Content Analysis Writing Assignment - Research Paper Example The movie analyses how the less popular students in school suffer when they try to fit in the popular world. It becomes difficult for them to establish friendships and mingle with other students (Dubowski, Bicks, Kohn & Silverstein, 2009). As seen by the character of Josie, whereby the popular girls mimic her and isolate her. This makes Josie miserable and unhappy. She struggles to fit in, in vain. Friendship is crucial in every person’s life, be it a child, teenager or a parent. Through good friendships, one is able to discuss diverse ideas with regard to different life situation (Brougham, 2007). Everyone in the world requires friendships in one way or another. Without friends, one feels unhappy and isolated. As seen in the movie, Josie tries to establish friendships with different people without success. When she tries to fit in with the popular students, they neglect and make fun of her, when she tries to fit with the geek group she fails too (Dubowski, Bicks, Kohn & Silverstein, 2009). This makes her have no option, but be on her own. In every friendship, there are rules that ought to be adhered, to make the friendship last. For instance, trust, love and emotional support are crucial in every relationship. Therefore, it is essential for everyone to have a friend with whom to depend on and share life experiences (Brougham, 2007). The theme of love, also seen in the movie, the students want to feel loved by both their friends and experience romantic love. For instance, Josie tries to make herself noticed by men so that she could experience romantic love. Her efforts become fruitless after taking a cookie and misbehave in front of the entire school fraternity. She becomes a laughing stock the following day in school. She is thus forced to give up her dreams of getting a boyfriend. A similar thing happens in real life; this occurs in every person’s life when looking for that one

To combat poverty and increase growth in the worlds poorest countries Essay

To combat poverty and increase growth in the worlds poorest countries policy makers need to focus on decreasing world income inequality - Essay Example In the second section I will be dealing with the effectiveness of the policies in reduction of poverty and growth of economy in poor countries. I agree with the statement because, income inequality affects a country’s economy; which comes as a result of poverty in the society. Research done shows that income inequality is reflected in high relation to income poverty rates. Income inequality has also been linked with health problems. This is because income inequality is associated with many issues that affect the health of children adversely (Wilkinson 1996). Many health problems are also associated with the amount of income people earn. In a psychological interpretation, the health status of person affects their income and thus if one is unhealthy, there is a possibility of low income. Income inequality is also associated with mental illness. People with poor living standards are at higher risks of physical and mental illnesses as a result of stress and lack of balanced diet. According to Wainwright (72-69) to help in fighting poverty, equal distribution of income, developments in social and economic environments mus t be looked into. Income inequality affects the economy in ways and it leads to inflation too. It is therefore necessary for the government and the citizen to come up with policies to help curb income inequality which has lead to poverty in the society mostly affecting the poor countries. To combat poverty and economic discrimination, there has to be application of polices that are made and implemented by the society with total assistance by all sectors of the government. The implemented policies should enhance and promote equal opportunities and offer access to basic social services, strengthen collective and individual participation and responsibility in the fight against poverty, establish specific

Emerging Business Opportunities at IBM Case Study

Emerging Business Opportunities at IBM - Case Study Example They did this through identifying hindrances that prevented the company from growing from where they could workout possible solutions, which would assist the company to get back to its feet. There was need for radical changes, and for introduction of a strategy that would allow the company to systematically adopt the new measures that would ensure the growth of the company. Through a series of deliberate measures to check on the problematic issues within the company and efforts to change the dumb situation, IBM managed to get positive results for their efforts, since their sales gained momentum and they felt that they were in the right track. The greatest or umbrella concern here was the growth of the emerging businesses hence it became necessary to come up with strategies that could handle the issue of the emerging businesses, and ensure that their growth would be experienced and sustained to the reach the profit making level. The essay below is an analysis that shows the trend adopted by IBM to regain footage in the computer industry. The greatest issue that concerns the growth of large business units like IBM through creation of new businesses is the rigidity of structural creations of leadership within the companies. This is achieved through development of practices that only act negatively to their growth often leading to the stagnation in growth of the companies. Another reason that can account for lack of creation of new businesses is preoccupation with existing markets and the products offered thus concentrate much on the performance of existing system and overlook the possibility of creating new businesses to expand the existing system. This problem also blindens the company to possible new opportunities in the market (Pugh 2001p36). Development of systems that encourage attainment of short term results through insisting on the near-term performance of the specified short term goals is a barrier to the success of the big companies like IBM. Meeting of the specified goals discourages the leadership from taking challenges of better things to engage in as their performance within stated confinements are recognized and rewarded. Presence of rigid bureaucracies that often delay or steps into the way of development of new business marks the other problem hindering development of new businesses. This happens when an attractive opportunity is cited but has to be approved by a number of leaders before it can be implemented. Some of the leaders, might for some reasons, be opposed to this new development then fail to approve of them, thus forcing the company to discard the issue. Lack of a deliberate strategy for encouraging development of new businesses is another barrier. Development of new strategies might entail the need to encourage spotting opportunities, experimentalism, funding the opportunities among others. A case scenario of IBM can illustrate this. IBM would diligently fund existing businesses, and then fail to sponsor ideas for new businesses, fail to give them attention and cut them off from budgets when funding was hurdled. Biased information gathering for evaluation and decision making is another barrier. The biased system of information gathering means information gathered is necessarily biased as well

Adult Development and Life Assessment Essay Example for Free

Adult Development and Life Assessment Essay 1. Summarize the main ideas from the video and article in one paragraph each. A. Video – â€Å"The Science of Willpower: An Interview with Kelly McGonigal†* In this video Kelly McGonigal speaks about what willpower is to her and gives examples of what it could be. Kelly also speaks about reaching goals and how you need willpower to reach them. At last, Kelly talks about how technology plays a big part of today’s role but how certain approaches of it could benefit or damage our every day lives. see more:explain the benefits of using a personal development plan B. Article – â€Å"Academic Delay of Gratification, Motivation, and Self-regulated Learning Strategies†* In this article it talks about how delay of gratification can benefit in your educational assignments and tasks. Dr. Bembenutty also conducts a study on how male versus female can impact the result on the findings on the impact of decisions made by the students. 2. Using your own words, define willpower and explain what it means to you.* Willpower to me means anything and everything I am willing to do to accomplish a task or goal no matter what obstacle I face. 3. Think about a time in which you used willpower to delay instant gratification. Type to enter text PSY202: Adult Development and Life Assessment A. Explain what happened in detail.* B. While on the diet I am on now I have been in restaurants where I either couldn’t eat the food my family was eating or I had already eaten and needed to stick to my diet so I wouldn’t cheat. B. What were the results?* The results were that I stayed strong on my diet even though I wanted to  cheat and eat the foods that everyone else was eating I stuck to my diet and never gave up. C. How did you feel afterward?* Afterward I felt strong, proud, and knew that I could do this diet with no problem! 4. Think about a situation that you are currently facing as a college student that requires willpower and complete the items below. A. Describe the situation in detail.* A situation that I am facing is that I wake up early every day to take my kids to school and then watch the younger ones since they are not in daycare, then around three I go to work myself and don’t get off until eleven p.m. so when I come home I am exhausted but still have to either study, do an assignment, or complete a discussion. B. The links to the video and article recommend very specific ways to use willpower. Identify at least two strategies from either the video or the article that you can use to overcome the current situation so that you may achieve your academic goals. 1.* Kelly McGonigal speaks about how there â€Å"I will, I won’t, and I want) at 1:13 of the video The Science of Willpower. To me this helps by saying I will finish this assignment, I won’t quit, I wont give up, and finally that I want to succeed and I want to earn my degree. PSY202: Adult Development and Life Assessment 2.* Kelly also talks about how being on your phone before bed can effect your sleep pattern, I usually try to be on my phone before bed to help make me tired and by not knowing that it can actually be bad for you helps because with not enough sleep your mind is not rested either. 5. Think about a situation that you are currently facing in another area of your life (personal or professional) that requires willpower and complete the items below. A. Describe the situation in detail.* B. A personal situation I am facing is that my wife and I are at a rough patch in our marriage and lately we have been fighting and now trying to overcome those fights and better our marriage. B. The links to the video and article recommend very specific ways to use willpower. Identify at least two strategies from either the video or the article that you can use to overcome the current situation. 1.* Once again I can use the â€Å"I will, I won’t, I want† technique to tell myself that I will be better for my family or, I will try my best to stay calm and talk. I won’t argue or I won’t say things to put my wife in a offensive position. Finally, I want my marriage to succeed and that I want my family to always be happy. 2.* I didn’t see another way that I could use it to benefit my marriage. 6. Enrolling at Ashford University validates that education is one of your core values. Identify three of your educational goals that align with this core value. 1.* Finish each class with no less than a 3.0 G.P.A. PSY202: Adult Development and Life Assessment 2.* Study every night I can and take time to thoroughly understand the topics at hand. 3.* Focus and dedicate my time to my education studies, readings, and assignments so I can succeed. 7. Explain how willpower encourages choices that are consistent with your three goals.* Willpower encourages these goals because it shows that I truly have to do anything and everything I can to make sure I succeed even though I am a husband, father, soldier, student, and then a full-time worker. I know I face many obstacles but having that willpower will push me no matter what.

Constructivism Analysis of Chinas Rise

Constructivism Analysis of Chinas Rise China has been rising rapidly since the implication of reform and open-door policy in 1978. During the thirty years, China became the second largest economic power with $8.3 trillion GDP and growth rate of 7.8% in 2013. The income per capital is 6000$. On the political side, China has been taking actions on reform domestically and taking part in the international activities. Military, cultural as well as technology have been developed. Most important of this fact is that China consistently adopting the peaceful rise strategy which seeks a new regional structure of mutual trust, cooperation and mutual beneficial. This essay will explain Chinas rise process in Constructivism approach. Realism, liberalism and Constructivism are the three important theories of international relations. Under Realism, there is a game of super power states to survive. The rise of China is reasonable seen as a threat regarding its growing political, economic and military capabilities. Neighbour states should be cautious about the unsatisfied China (à §Ã‚ ½Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ) to transform the regional system. Liberalism argues that the increase of economic interdependence will increase of economic interdependence will decrease the likelihood of political conflicts (21111). Due to the high opportunity cost, violence could be avoided to maintain each countrys material interests. These two theories focus on visible facts in the international relations; while there is invisible factors should be highlighted. Social Constructivism is an important approach in explain international relation with a starting point of human behaviour and unconsciously follows cultural and historical norms; meanwhile, compared with other materialistic theories who regard countries are unitary actors to maximise their power, constructivists see countries as social actors that may follow both material power comparison and international rules.(32) Wendt thinks that the international structure would influences both national behaviour and identity, interest. Two important spheres should be highlighted in the ongoing international structures-the national identity and structural change for a certain region.(à ¥Ã¢â‚¬  Ã‚ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¡Ã‚ ¥Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ãƒ ¯Ã‚ ¼Ã¢â‚¬ ° National Identity of China In the international society (rather than international system (b1,193)), national identity is an important role for the regional security,(45) Wdent, one of the most prominent constructivists, defines identity is a property of international actors that generates motivational and behavioural dispositions'(wdent 1999,224 cited in36) and is a relatively stable, role-specific understandings and expectations about self(Wdent,1999,21 cited in 36). National identity is crucial in the international relations that matters foreign policy making as well as the interaction between Self and Other. (b1, 197) Under the constructivism view, East Asia is a society of states with various national images among which China is quite unique since it has been à ¨Ã‚ ¡Ã…’à ¨Ã‚ µÃ‚ ° in so called Chinese Model for about forty years. A better understanding of Chinas national identity is based on the application of Wendts four identities categories (b2,224-233). First, corporate identity of China argues the essential properties that rarely changes. Domestically, no matter which kind of political regime is applied, government policies are deeply influenced by thousands-year Confucian morality which values harmony and prosperity(Culture Revolution from 1966 to 1976 is an exception and an extreme case in very special situation). The huge population of 1.3 billion from 56 ethnic groups and large geographic territory helps China to achieve a successful domestic market but regard domestic stability of first importance. Second, type identity is corresponding to regime type which reflects self-organising and social quality(b2,226). Stated in 1982 Constitution, http://english.people.com.cn/constitution/constitution.html The Peoples Republic of Chinais a socialist state under the peoples democratic dictatorship led by the working class and based on the alliance of workers and peasants. Even though the word democratic is always ignored by foreign scholars, the tight central control does not mean an arbitrary all the time, nor does it possible in the globalising process. Marxism with Chinese characters is the main doctrine (47), as a result, the so called arbitrary governance is actually a Chinese style governance based on social reality rather than the compelling aspiration from a single party, it is the lesson learned from massive history from 1959 to 1976. On economic aspect, China now is applying a two-track system of socialist plus market economy with Chinese characteristicsà ¯Ã‚ ¼Ã‹â€ once again), which has led to huge achievements in last two decades. Chinese develop process has constructed the Beijing Consensus that draws many attention from the world. Third, the following two national identity categoriesroleà ¨Ã‚ Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ³Ã‚ »Ãƒ ¥Ã‹â€ Ã‚ °Ãƒ §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ºÃ…’à §Ã‚ §Ã‚ Ãƒ ¦-†¡Ãƒ ¥Ã…’- and collective identity are more important in this article because they are closely related to interactions with foreign countries and contribute to structural change in a long-term. Chinas rise is a continuing process, so collective identity would be discussed in the next section. Wendt (b2,227-228) argues that role identity cannot realised by oneself, but carry Others around with us in our heads. In the international society, role identity is based on the degree of interdependence†¦of Self and Others. Corresponding to the rising China, is the increasing cultural, political and economic interactions with East Asia countries. This raises the question to many countries that whether China is a status quo power. Though status quo and revisionist power are two concepts under realisms power transition theory, they are vital in constructivism by showing that how would neighbour countries identify China and to interpret their further foreign policies in the region. For this question, Chinese foreign policies such as neighbour friendly and peace-loving would make sense if there is a positive answer. However, China Threat idea, which indicates an unsatisfied and revisionist China, is also widespread and seems quite convinced. Numbers of literatures have been discussing about the problem and Johnston(49) summarised that China for now is generally a status quo power while seeking a more favourable international system in a moderate method, a revisionist situation would occur when territory dis pute and Taiwan dilemma are heavily intensified. Back to the theme of the article, a status quo power is more aligned with Chinas peace rise strategy. Wendt also find the constructive approach to describe the undergoing situation of China in East Asia. He(1999) promotes three kinds culturesHobbesian culture, Lockean culture, Kantian Culture with dominant roles of enemy, rival, and friend respectively to illustrate the tendency of an anarchic system. Since Hobbesian is naturally related to the realism theory of a hard world (b2,259) and the high level coherence in Kantian culture (there is no need for any discussion if China and other East Asian countries are already morally good friends), Kantian Culture is applicable in East Asia, furthermore, Wendt himself also agree the status quo is implicit in such culture(279). It is a shared idea for every East Asian country recognise others sovereignty, life and liberty(279),even for small countries like those ASEAN members, sovereignty and rights are recognised by others, however, there is no guarantee in East Asia that violence will disappear, especially concerning the territory disputes between China-Japan on Diaoyu Island and South China Sea Dispute. Rivalry also admits the uncertainty of Others but denied the realist approach to prepare for the worst because they are not enemies. The reactions of China and neighbour countries just reflect Wendts policy implication of Lockean culture. The avoidance of hot conflict with Japan and dispute suspend, development policy with ASEAN members are examples for behave in a status quo toward each others sovereignty and High-risk aversion(282). On the other hand, military power is still important, this is could be seen from Chinas deep-blue navy development and more frequent Japan, Philippines joint military exercise with the United States since 2010. As Wendt notes, rivals limit rather than delete violence. Projecting Chinas new identity and Changing East Asians Structure The section above has defined China as a big developing power with unique Chinese characteristics and a status quo country in the region. This kind of image would more or less provide confidence for East Asians future, as Wendt argues, even though it is too difficult to reach Kantian Culture, the situation will not go backward. In fact, China and its East Asian neighbours do put effort for a better regional system. To be specific, the constructivism task is to à §Ã‚ ¼Ã‚ ©Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ °Ã‚  identity gap(45à ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ ­Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬42à ¦Ã‚ ³Ã‚ ¨Ãƒ ©Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ã…  Ãƒ ¯Ã‚ ¼Ã¢â‚¬ ° and then promote a collective identity. à ¥Ã‚ ®Ã… ¡Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¹Ã¢â‚¬ °Ãƒ ¯Ã‚ ¼Ã‚ Ãƒ ¯Ã‚ ¼Ã‚  Shared knowledge, material resources and practices are the three components of a social structure (34), this norm reflects the society is composed of both objective and subjective knowledge and more importantly, it is a dynamic process of change. Mearsheimer gave one site on the change logic how social structure effect actions by constituting actors with certain identities and interests and Wendt add another site of interaction and reproduction of structures. Wendt thinks that there is much slack in the international structure which encourages policymakers work toward peaceful change. To sum up, Identity and structural change is a matter of micro and macro level. New identity of one country would cause the collective identity change in that region, usually by way of foreign policy and interaction. This kind of common in-group identity and we-feeling would ultimately create a new regional structure. China has been projecting a new national identity since the came out of reform and open-up grand policy in 1978 when jieji douzheng à ©Ã‹Å" ¶Ãƒ §Ã‚ ºÃ‚ §Ãƒ ¦Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ºÃ¢â‚¬ ° is replaced by à ¥Ã‚ ®Ã… ¾Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ºÃ¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ±Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ ¦Ã‹Å" ¯ and development, it is corresponding to the national political and economic development. In general ,more actions are made from the 1990s when Overseas Propaganda Department under the Party Central Committee and a new Information Office under the State Council were established, there are many white papers with subjects of human rights, environment protection published, for example 1992 Tibet — Its Ownership and Human Rights Situation, 1996 Environmental Protection in China and 1999 National Minorities Policy and Its Practice in China.(40) The change from avoidance or ignoring such issues to engagement indicates that China is beginning to think about the soft power development. Cultural and media communication event is another method to promote Chinese new image and the hiring of a American firm in the 2008 Olympic Game is a case in this point. A research by Hongying Wang(à ¤Ã‚ »Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ §Ã‚ »Ã‚ Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ½Ã…“à ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ãƒ ¯Ã‚ ¼Ã¢â‚¬ °shows that China’s self-conception in international affairs consist with These four national images — a peace-loving nation, victim of foreign aggression, anti-hegemonic force and developing country. Though there is still difference from others perception, this project does makes China à ©Ã‚ ¡Ã‚ ºÃƒ ¥Ã‹â€ Ã‚ ©Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾ in foreign affairs.(40) Good neighbour policy(41) is the core theme for East Asia. In the 1950s, though Chairman Mao had adopted leaning to one side as grand foreign policy, Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence was proposed as the main doctrine in Asian affairs especial with third world countries. During the 1990s to 2010s, the main period of Chinas rise, China adopted Deng Xiaopingsâ€Å"Tao guang yang hui, you suo zuo wei † to active defence of China’s interests†¦ and not try to be either a hegemon or challenger to one as well as to be a participant or co-builder that contribute to the construction of a New International Order.(41) After established the diplomatic relations with neighbour countries like Indonesian, Singapore and South Korea, China gradually find the importance on multilateral means for the common interests. From the late 1990s, China has been promoting the democratisation of international relations in the New international Order. Accord with Wendts emphasise of verba l communication, terms like shelve difference, common grounds, peaceful, multi-polar are frequently seen from Chinese foreign policy papers. Apart from foreign policies, China has been passion about participating in regional activities. For Southeast Asia, China formalised its interaction with Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1991, and became a regular dialogue partner in 1996 which led to ASEAN plus Three (Japan, India and China) and ASEAN plus China. Joining in China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and ASEAN Regional Forum reflects increasing economic and political interaction. For Northeast, efforts put on both bilateral relationship with Japan and South Korea, as well multilateral relations on whole region, the Six-Party Talks and the â€Å"Track II† Northeast Asia Cooperation Dialogue (NEACD) strengthen its involvement in Northeast Asian affairs(41). The effort and interaction would significantly influence the future of East Asia. Besides the huge economic gains and the general peaceful environment, on the constructivism aspect, the interactions would cause a collective identity of We in East Asia that has more confidence in dealing regional affairs peacefully. Countries are more interdependent which could be seen from the data and interaction facts above. Chinas engagement in East Asia would also create the common fate with its neighbours because it is impossible for China to escape from any international events, especially the for non-traditional security problems. Nevertheless, there is also fear of exploitation, just as skeptics judging Chinas peaceful rise is buying time, however, in the long term, the worry can be overcomed since the gain is reduced compared with a high level of interdependence and states has already internalised the collective identity at that time. (b2,349). In order to be more accepted by neighbour countries during communication, China has been working on eliminating the regime differences in proper areas. Under the principle of 1982 Constitution (socialist country led by Chinese Communist Party) and general domestic stability, more authority is distributed to local units as well as marketised several areas of economy aligned with the international market. These efforts are building the homogeneity or alikeness to other countries that China is, the same as any else, a developing country needs a peaceful environment. Homogeneity would have à ¦Ã‹Å" ¾Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ-à ¥Ã…“ ° effect on military development which decrease the uncertainty for Chinas bullying action (even though China will never do that). The trend of a Kantian Culture in East Asia also benefits for everyone, to say that if the cooperation now is coloured with much material interests in Realism, but would change in a long period. The impact of structure on the agent could be seen from the ASEAN involvement of China in the very early stage. (32) When China became the candidate of regional hegemony, ASEAN posed a wide range of diplomatic initiatives contrary to realist way to intensify the dilemma that welcome China as a friend. Even though met many difficulties in the multilateral approach, significant achievement is undeniable. The structure change in East Asia is not as simple as we thought and we should consider the following points. First, the historical stereotype. For a big power, national identity à §Ã‚ ´Ã‚ §Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¯Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ³Ã‚ » with its historical legacy.(45) Wendt (34) also notes history matters. It is quite hard to breakdown old identity and emerge new identity (b2,228) and (38) agrees it is a long-term proposal. In modern political society, the socialism China spent about forty years establish a national identity of exclusive (especially towards capitalism countries), assertiveness (both inside and outside). This situation began with Maos leaning to one side to Soviet Union in the early Cold War and à ©Ã‚ «Ã‹Å"à ¥Ã‚ ³Ã‚ ° in the Culture Revolution. After reform and open-up, China has been confronting with double difficulties of China Threat view in west world as well as breaking the former identity. These encourage China be intelligent in its friendly foreign policy but enhance its material power simultaneously. Second, regime differences. China as the biggest socialist country in the world, its political and economic regime is till mysterious to many countries. Though China tight center control is gradually understood and accepted based on Chinas achievements, so called none-democratic society is usually accused meeting sensitive cases, which makes it the biggest barrier for a homogeneity. On the contrary, Japan went through a better situation for its political revolution in the U.S. occupied period (45). However, this does not deny Japans other efforts of unmilitarisation, international assistance, etc. A westernised democratic regime helped it accepted easily psychologically. Based on the content above, China should keep on its process of reform domestically and externally. Peaceful rise is the only way in so that new national identity could be internalised to every countries and a co-existence East Asia is built. Conclusion The understanding of Chinas rise is a combination of realism, liberalism and constructivism. In the 2008 financial crisis, Chinas soon recovery makes it stronger economic power and the assistance for neighbour countries also contribute to a country of responsibility and kindness. Constructivism also helps explained why East Asia is generally peaceful with numbers of disputes. Apart from the economic lose in liberalism view; the shared norm of mutual trust and peace-loving plays an important role. Chinas peaceful rise strategy is the achievement made by both China itself and other countries in the region. Their transforming attitude toward China form hostility to acceptance is a core condition for Chinas proactive engagement. Finally, in the East Asian society, the entire process of Chinas rise is a Spiral Model (b1,198) that countries generate norms in the increasing interaction, and new norms and identities would result in a new regional structure that encourage the formation of interdependence, common fate and homogeneity. Even though there are obstacles, East Asian countries are à ¥Ã…  Ã‚ ªÃƒ ¥Ã…  Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾ towards it.

Study And Definition Of Total Quality Management Management Essay

Study And Definition Of Total Quality Management Management Essay W. Edwards Deming firstly introduced TQM (Total Quality Management) in 1950s in Japan. It is a modern quality management based on the conventional quality management. Along with the development of science and technology as well as the requirement of management, it has become a strong systematic science. It is a philosophy that involves everyone in an organization with a frequent effort improving quality and achieving customer satisfaction (Boyne and George.2002). Feigenbaum, the famous experts from the United States, gave the definition of TQM in the early 1960s as follows: to be able to make market research, design, manufacturing and after-sales service in the most economical level, and fully meeting customer requirements (Chiaburu and Dan, 2005). Moreover, the quality development, quality maintenance and the quality improvement of various departments in the enterprise constitute an effective integrated system. Specifically, TQM implies main ideas that are, strong customer focus, continuous improvement, and employee authorisation. From the perspective of present and future, the customer has become roles that should never be neglected. Customer-centered management model is gradually being attached great importance by enterprises (Chiaburu and Dan, 2005). TQM focus on customer value and the leading idea is customer satisfaction and recognition is the key to gain market create value for long-term. Therefore, TQM must be taking Customer-centered throughout the enterprise management process, that is in all aspects, from market research to product design, sample, production, inspection, warehousing, sales and after-sales service, it is important to establish the customer priority attitude firmly, not only to produce affordable products, but also good services for customers, and ultimately make customer satisfaction assured. Continuous improvement is a philosophy of never-ending improvement. TQM is a commitment that could never to be satisfied, the quality that can always be improved, There is always a better choice beyond the best. Under the guidance of this concept, enterprises improve the product, service quality and reliability continuously, all of which ensure to access a competitive advantage. As for employee empowerment, TQM enables workers on production line to join in the improvement process and uses the form of teams extensively to identify and solve problems (Grote, 2000). Employees are expected to seek out, identify, and correct quality problems. Besides, some other aspects are also important, such as ongoing employee training in the use of quality tools, design products to meet customer expectations; process management; and extend quality concepts to a companys suppliers. Improvement of TQM cause what kind of improvements of relationship between customers and front line staff? Total quality management means that everyone should be responsible for quality, which not only refers to the quality of the product, but also refers to the quality of services. Meanwhile, the quality of service is not limited to customer service, but also refers to the service for company employees, such as co-ordination among the colleagues, the convergence between departments etc. Nevertheless, everything in the company, should give customers and consumers a good impression (Longnecker and Nykodym, 2000). Therefore, if the concept of TQM is deep into the heart of the staff and implemented effectively, it will guide the staff to give good customer services, so that make customer satisfaction. More importantly, it can improve the relationship between employees and customers. Take the following case as an example: if an employee fails to be motivated by the leader, he may not take active contribution in the meeting to identify problems and to find solutions in the process. What is worse is that he may work passively; his team spirit will be reduced, which will have a negative impact on the whole company. Conversely, if the manager can fully mobilize the enthusiasm of each employee, the departments team spirit will certainly be fully exposed, and the overall objective of the company will be achieved to meet the customers wants, needs and desires. Therefore, it can be effective to strengthen the skills and quality consciousness of workers (Rainey and Pandey, 2000). The following steps are creating appropriately incentive, training the sense of ownership and efficiency in all staffs, and strengthening the sense of Teamwork. All these will make the internal staff work with enthusiasm, thus the target customers will get first-class product and high-standard se rvice quality. How to improve? To improve the TQM, it is necessary to know what customers want, more importantly, understand customers psychology, all of which requires doing market research ahead of time. Then the production of qualified products and quality services should be provided for customers to meet their needs and desires (Janssen and Yperen, 2004). A Significant feature of Total quality management is the preventive, that is to change the after checking to strengthening the idea of advance prevention, and make management results as the management factor. So it is necessary to make clear factors, which affect product quality during the production process. They are Man, Machine, Material, and Method (Rainey and Bozeman, 2000). In the four main factors, the man is the most vital one. Whether the equipment operation, maintenance, or the acceptance and check of materials, and even the compliance and improvement of method, that all depend on workers intelligence and enthusiasm, so they play a most important role during the whole process. Machine (Equipment) management includes the early detection of equipment daily maintenance and appropriate measures and certain standards of maintenance and regular adjustment. Material managements are to enhance the acceptance, improve the storage method, and avoid the damage and the metamorphism of material and so on. As for the method, the best operation method should be standardized, written, and introduced to the workers (Hui and Lam, 2000). All in all, it is necessary to apply the PDCA cycle during the process. That is carrying out all the plans with the quality as the centre basing on full participation. The PDCA cycle is also called Deming Wheel or Continuous Improvement Spiral that is Plan-Do-Check-Action cycle showed in the following graph. In other words, plan is to analyse the situation, identify problems to find out the major factors of the reasons and at last develop an action plan. Do is to carry out the plan. Check is to Check the implementation results of the plan, and A is to sum up the successful experience and develop an appropriate standards, at last ,take the unresolved or emerging issues into the next PDCA cycle ¼Ã‹â€ Briggs and Charlotte, 2003 ¼Ã¢â‚¬ °. Specifically, it is appropriate to seek for what the customer wants at first, and then design a product or service that meets or exceeds customer wants, further more, design processes that facilitate doing the job right the first time, and keep track of results at last to extend these concepts to suppliers. Brief description Hyatt is a globally recognized hospitality company with more than fifty-year history. The Hyatt regency sanctuary cove is a five-star resort hotel and this hotel has a traditional Queensland homestead style. It is also in a beautiful position amid lush, tropical gardens. This resort hotel features a colonial design that is an elegant reminder of former times, offering a unique blend of Australian hospitality and sophistication. There are different types of rooms offered in Hyatt regency sanctuary cove hotel. King room, twin room, lagoon view king, lagoon view twin, club king, club twin, Queenslander suit, homestead suit, federation suite and manor suit. There are 14 dedicated meeting rooms, conference and banquet facilities accommodating groups of 10 to 500. Each room has different types of amenities such as balcony, individual heat control, separate sitting area and so on. This hotel provides special offers to government, AAA or CAA members, senior citizens and corporate or group members. There are variety of services and facilities such as 24-hour in-room dining and resort security, shuttle bus service, Camp Hyatt that offers parents free time to enjoy gym and playing golf while their kids are engaging exciting activities, laundry and valet service and 24-hour medical centre. And also wineries and gourmet trails, national park and waterfalls, theme parks surround this hotel and they are easy to reach from the hotel. TQM implementation process Total quality management is applicable to all kinds of businesses. On the other hand, it is more difficult for hospitality industries to implement TQM because products are intangible, services are produced and consumed at the same time and customers values are different (Vrtodusic, 2000). As Hyatt hotel is well known on the tourist market and the guests are recognising it as a good four-star hotel, it is important to have continuous improvement to keep the business healthy. In hotel industries, people participant in rendering particular services cope directly with other people every day and for that reason they are required to be extremely sensitive to exceed the personal needs, wants and desires (Lakhe and Mohanty, 1995). One of the best ways to achieve quality improvement is obtained by focusing on its customers concerns. By surveying its customers and owners in related to safe operating procedures, attitude, degree of communication, service delivery system and performance, the hot el can improve its TQM effectively. Hyatt must identify and choose processes that are to be of interest to the committee and also likely to give reasonable results. Its reservation processes, from the time guests make bookings until they arrive at their room can be an example. In order to improve and identify this process, first, meetings need to be held with the managers of departments who are directly involved in the process. Second, interviews need to be done with its staff, and lastly observation of the processes is needed (Saunders and Graham 1992). Through these steps, measurement points can be identified such as timeliness, integrity, predictability and satisfaction (See Appendix 1). Hyatt hotel also need to provide quality-training programme. Employees, however, need to be trained from upper management to the in-house trainers and facilitators to emphasise the importance of training. For the management training, it needs to cover basic topics such as importance of customer s atisfaction, background, overview and benefit of TQM. More importantly, managers need to understand steps in implementing TQM, principles of team building and employee empowerment. Furthermore, non-supervisory employees need to be informed clearly about Hyatts vision, mission and guiding principles (Witt and Muhlemann, 1994). Empowerment is the most popular concept in modern management and organisation applications, which means giving workers responsibilities for solving customers complains. It makes employees more productive and esteemed (Wilkinson, 1998). In addition, it is important for employees to take a positive action to find out what went wrong. For instance, handling guests complains on the spot rather than asking their manager and fix it later will reduce the cost. There are some possible improvements when quality improvement teams are established. It will provide increased employee value, informed and skilled employees, employee suggestions and participation, and personal development. Feedback is also an important part of TQM. If Hyatt hotel can reduce the time between identifying guests needs and satisfying these needs, it might increase customer retention. Even though it is significant to increase occupancy rate for the hotel, focusing on quality goals will develop quality of service and products and make more profits. Suppliers also need to improve their quality in terms of the time between ordering and delivery. If they do not improve and have willingness to do that, it is not recommended to deal with them. References Briggs, C. L. Joan, S. (2003). How do we know a continuous planning academic program when we see one? Journal of Higher Education. Vol. 16, No. 2: 361-370. Boyne, G. A. and Richard, M. W. (2002). Total quality management and performance: An evaluation of the evidence and lessons for research on public organizations. Public Performance Management Review. Vol. 26, No. 2: 111-123. Chiaburu, D. S. (2005). The effects of instrumentality on the relationship between goal orientation and leader-member exchange. The Journal of Social Psychology. Vol. 25, No.3, 365-369 Grote,. D. (2000). Public Sector Organizations: Todays Innovative Leaders in Performance Management. Public Personnel Management. Vol. 29, No. 1: 1-20. Hendrick, R. (2002). Comprehensive management and budgeting reform in local government: The case of Milwaukee. Public Performance and Management Review. Vol. 23, No.3: 312-37 Hui, C. Lam, S. S. K., Law, K. K. S. (2000). Instrumental values of organizational citizenship behavior for promotion: A field quasi-experiment. Journal of Applied Psychology. Vol. 85, No.11: 822-828. Janssen, O. Van Yperen, N. W. (2004). Employees goal orientations, the quality of leader-member exchange, and the outcomes of job performance and job satisfaction. Academy of Management Journal. Vol. 47, No.7: 368-384. Lakhe, R. R. Mohanty, R. P. (1995). Understanding TQM in service systems. The international journal of Quality Reliability Management. Vol. 12, No. 9: 139-153. Longnecker, C. O. Nykodym, N.. (2000). Public Sector Performance Appraisal Effectiveness: A Case Study. Public Personnel Management. Vol. 25, No.2: 151-164. Rainey, H. G. Barry, B. (2000). Comparing public and private organizations: Empirical research and the power of a priori. Journal of Public Administration Research and Theory. Vol. 10, No.2: 447-69. Rainey, H. G., Pandey, S. and Barry, B. (2000). Research note: Public and private managers perceptions of red tape. Public Administration Review. Vol. 55, No.6: 567-74. Saunders, Ian W. and Graham, Mary Ann (1992). Total quality management in the hospitality industry, Total Quality Management Business Excellence. Vol. 3, No.3: 243-256 Vrtodusic, A. (2000). Standardization and TQM in the hotel industry. Hotel 2000. Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management Opatija, Opatija. Pp. 1. Wilkinson, A. (1998). Empowerment: Theory and Practice. Personal Review. Journal of employee management. Vol. 27, No. 1: 40-56. Witt, C. A., Muhlemann, A. P. (1994). The implementation of total quality management in tourism: some guidelines. Journal of Tourism Management. Vol. 15, No. 6: 416-424.

Dating - An Issue of Personal Choice :: Personal Narrative Essays

Dating - An Issue of Personal Choice First there was the passing notes, hand holding and name-calling of middle school. Then you survived your first heartbreak when your high school sweetheart decided it would be best to be â€Å"just friends.† Now swept away in college life, with an important aspect being dorm life, you hardly take the time to step back and ask yourself, â€Å"What am I doing here? Who’s bed did I just wake up in, and how the hell did I get here?!† Okay, so the second part may not be applicable to all students, but at the same time you cannot deny that it happens, likely more often than one would be comfortable thinking about. If you have not yet taken the time to ponder what it is you plan to do with the so-called â€Å"best four years of your life,† besides studying and eating dorm food, perhaps it is about time you did. What do you want to be accomplishing in these prime dating years? More importantly, is that what you are accomplishing? In short, the purpose of this writing is to discuss the question: â€Å"What role should dating play in college students’ lives?† Initially one might think this is a frivolous subject. On the contrary, there is a quite a range of opinions on the subject with marriage incorporated into a number of them. Marriage is not a frivolous topic. Consequently its precursor, dating, also bears significance. One might also think that college students, being in the midst of their own dating lives, would be able to define dating, be familiar with their intentions, and have a strong concept of where the decisions they make today will take them tomorrow, as they relate to dating. Surprisingly, of the students I spoke with here on the Colorado State University campus, while conducting an informal survey, none would have met that standard. All hesitated greatly when asked to simply â€Å"define dating.† Once done struggling through that answer, they were asked â€Å"In your opinion, what is the purpose of dating in college?† These students’ answers ranged from â€Å"getting laid!† to â€Å"discover more about yourself through others and to find the person you want to marry† to â€Å"I have no clue.† Clearly, the college masses are blissfully unaware of exactly what it is they are doing when they are in pursuit of the attractive sex.

Free Awakening Essays: The Parrot :: Chopin Awakening Essays

The Importance of the Parrot in The Awakening "Go away! Go away! For heaven’s sake! That’s all right!" (1) Chopin opens her poetic novella, The Awakening, not with the dialogue of a character, but with the ramblings of a brash parrot. Immediately, Chopin compels her readers to ponder what significance, if any, these seemingly random words will have in the following tale. Yet, it is not until the final pages that we recognize the bird’s true importance and meaning. The parrot, though seldom referred to within the text, comes to symbolize Edna’s role in society and the woman she becomes as she is spiritually awakened. At first impression the parrot’s bold demeanor creates an image of eccentricity. His spirited exclamations give him an air of impertinence, defiance, and intelligence that one would not expect of such a bird. Chopin portrays Edna in the same light, showing that perhaps as the parrot may deviate from the norm, so does Edna, who digresses from the society in which she lives. She does not conform to the image of a typical woman in society, playing the roles of a devoted mother and wife. Edna ignores these standards by engaging in two extra-marital affairs and by placing her own life before those of her children. Her desire to live as she pleases lies in direct opposition to the duties she is expected to perform, and she refuses to put on this performance to satisfy society. As a result, Edna seems as brazen and audacious as the parrot that obviously does not mimic the sounds he hears and instead seems to create his own. Again squawking, "Go away! Go away!" at the bothersome piano playing of two girls, Chopin writes, "He was the only being present who possessed sufficient candor to admit that he was not listening to these gracious performances for the first time that summer." (23) Edna shows similar candor in her unwillingness to accept society’s burdening stereotypes. The seemingly intelligent bird "could speak a little Spanish, and also a language which nobody understood..." (1) Though the parrot’s remarks appear to fall on deaf ears, Edna is one who can identify with his presumable wisdom, as her existence too is misjudged. Both Edna and the parrot are depicted as extraordinary and misunderstood in their surroundings, yet they are not free:as the parrot must exist in a cage, so Edna is caged by the restrictions society places upon her.

1. Analyse Three Themes in the Novel Maru, Showing How These Themes Are Portrayed, How They Are Effective and How They Support Each Other as the Plot Progresses.

Born from a white mother and a black father, Bessie Head grew up in the early stages of Apartheid South Africa. In Maru she reflects upon her own experiences of love, loneliness and prejudice. Prejudice spreads as one discriminates against another and creates false images. Love contradicts loneliness, which diminishes as the plot progresses. Prejudice affects love and promotes loneliness. Initially one may assume that prejudice is only between different races. However, Bessie Head displays tribal prejudice through, â€Å"the expressions of disgust on the faces of the Batswana nurses as they wash the dead woman’s body for burial† (page 9-10).The nurses are reluctant to wash the dead woman’s body because she was Masarwa. Masarwas are considered as, â€Å"a low and filthy nation† (page 8), because they have decided to sustain their ancestral ways of life and customs. They have thus been pushed to the margin of society, â€Å"owned as slaves† (page 19), by the authoritative and affluent chiefs of the community. Being associated with Masarwa would infer that one stoops down to their level. For this reason, Moleka’s love for Margaret is suppressed. He loves her but is not keen to sacrifice his status for her.By, â€Å"[sharing] his plate of food and fork with one† (page 51), he wishes to show the community that Masarwa are equal to Batswana and eradicate the belief that they are non-human. Moleka attempts to terminate prejudice immediately. He does not understand that, â€Å"prejudice is like the skin of a snake. It has to be removed bit by bit† (age 48). This metaphor illustrates to the reader that change occurs over a long period of time. According to Moleka, this plate sharing becomes a symbol for the emancipation of the Masarwas and qualifies Margaret to be his equal.Moleka is a hypocrite because he wants to change other people’s attitudes towards Masarwa but he is not willing to walk down the aisle w ith Margaret. His prejudicial demeanours compel him to quash his feelings towards her. This shows that love does not always have the power to overcome prejudice. In addition, Margaret is lonely. Similar to Bessie Head, Margaret feels lost because she is unaware of where she belongs. Born a Masarwa but raised by an English woman,she is, â€Å"unable to fit into a definition of something as narrow as a tribe or race or nation† (page 11).Knowing which culture or group one belongs to defines a person. People discriminate against her because they do not know what she is. Margaret has no one to relate to. Nobody understands her. She lives in a village with magnitudes of people but in her heart she is alone. This is only until she encounters Moleka and experiences a, â€Å"bang! † (page 26), in her heart. This onomatopoeia is significant in Margaret’s life because it symbolises the beginning of her journey. She has always lived as a recluse but from this point onwards she instigates a presence that cannot be ignored.For the first time, she feels important because, â€Å"She [is] really no longer lonely† (page 26). Her relationship with Dikeledi is the closest Margaret comes to friendship. During her school career, Margaret is a brilliant, yet lonely student. The other students mock her by saying phrases such as, â€Å"you are just a bushman† (page 13). Prejudice, in this case causes loneliness. Bessie Head displays this throughout the novel. In Dilepe, Masarwa are slaves. When the news about Margaret being Masarwa spreads, she is ostracised by society because she is supposed to be a slave.Moreover, Maru’s marriage to Margaret appears to overcome her solitude. However, she still feels lonely due to the fact that she is not married to her first love, Moleka. She agrees to marry Maru because it is the only, â€Å"alternative to the living death into which she [has] so unexpectedly fallen† (page 120). Maru waits for the pe rfect moment, when Margaret loses her only companion and her first and only ‘love’, to propose marriage to her so that he appears to be her best option. He becomes her redeemer. Bessie Head uses the oxymoron, â€Å"living death† (page 120), to emphasize the severity of the situation Margaret finds herself in.It is so dreadful that it may be considered as fatal. She thinks that it is her decision to agree to marry Maru. Maru makes, â€Å"people do everything he [says] they [will]† (page 67). This brings into question whether he really loves Margaret or if he weds her in his attempt to conquer prejudice towards Masarwa. Maru realises that overcoming prejudice is a process that requires cautious planning. Furthermore, after the marriage between Maru and Margaret takes place, â€Å"a door silently [opens] on the small dark airless room in which their souls had been shut for a long time† (page 122).This metaphor describes the change that occurs as Maru h ad expected. The Masarwas are slowly being freed from the oppression that they have been subjected to. Bessie Head uses imagery, â€Å"small dark airless† (page 122), to give the reader an understanding of how the Masarwa suffer because of the Batswana. Love, loneliness and prejudice carry out a significant role in Margaret’s life. Bessie Head uses these three themes to demonstrate to the reader that in order to triumph one has to work hard and be strong.Margaret’s, â€Å"single abrupt tear from one eye† (page 18), shows that she, too, is human. Even though she is trained not to exhibit emotions her body unexpectedly displays her at moments when she is overwhelmed sensations that she does not understand nor come across before. In conclusion, where there is real love there is loneliness because and prejudice is one of the major entities that bring about loneliness in the novel. If there was no prejudice, there would have been fewer problems for everybody i n the town. Love is the source of happiness. 1. Analyse Three Themes in the Novel Maru, Showing How These Themes Are Portrayed, How They Are Effective and How They Support Each Other as the Plot Progresses. Born from a white mother and a black father, Bessie Head grew up in the early stages of Apartheid South Africa. In Maru she reflects upon her own experiences of love, loneliness and prejudice. Prejudice spreads as one discriminates against another and creates false images. Love contradicts loneliness, which diminishes as the plot progresses. Prejudice affects love and promotes loneliness. Initially one may assume that prejudice is only between different races. However, Bessie Head displays tribal prejudice through, â€Å"the expressions of disgust on the faces of the Batswana nurses as they wash the dead woman’s body for burial† (page 9-10).The nurses are reluctant to wash the dead woman’s body because she was Masarwa. Masarwas are considered as, â€Å"a low and filthy nation† (page 8), because they have decided to sustain their ancestral ways of life and customs. They have thus been pushed to the margin of society, â€Å"owned as slaves† (page 19), by the authoritative and affluent chiefs of the community. Being associated with Masarwa would infer that one stoops down to their level. For this reason, Moleka’s love for Margaret is suppressed. He loves her but is not keen to sacrifice his status for her.By, â€Å"[sharing] his plate of food and fork with one† (page 51), he wishes to show the community that Masarwa are equal to Batswana and eradicate the belief that they are non-human. Moleka attempts to terminate prejudice immediately. He does not understand that, â€Å"prejudice is like the skin of a snake. It has to be removed bit by bit† (age 48). This metaphor illustrates to the reader that change occurs over a long period of time. According to Moleka, this plate sharing becomes a symbol for the emancipation of the Masarwas and qualifies Margaret to be his equal.Moleka is a hypocrite because he wants to change other people’s attitudes towards Masarwa but he is not willing to walk down the aisle w ith Margaret. His prejudicial demeanours compel him to quash his feelings towards her. This shows that love does not always have the power to overcome prejudice. In addition, Margaret is lonely. Similar to Bessie Head, Margaret feels lost because she is unaware of where she belongs. Born a Masarwa but raised by an English woman,she is, â€Å"unable to fit into a definition of something as narrow as a tribe or race or nation† (page 11).Knowing which culture or group one belongs to defines a person. People discriminate against her because they do not know what she is. Margaret has no one to relate to. Nobody understands her. She lives in a village with magnitudes of people but in her heart she is alone. This is only until she encounters Moleka and experiences a, â€Å"bang! † (page 26), in her heart. This onomatopoeia is significant in Margaret’s life because it symbolises the beginning of her journey. She has always lived as a recluse but from this point onwards she instigates a presence that cannot be ignored.For the first time, she feels important because, â€Å"She [is] really no longer lonely† (page 26). Her relationship with Dikeledi is the closest Margaret comes to friendship. During her school career, Margaret is a brilliant, yet lonely student. The other students mock her by saying phrases such as, â€Å"you are just a bushman† (page 13). Prejudice, in this case causes loneliness. Bessie Head displays this throughout the novel. In Dilepe, Masarwa are slaves. When the news about Margaret being Masarwa spreads, she is ostracised by society because she is supposed to be a slave.Moreover, Maru’s marriage to Margaret appears to overcome her solitude. However, she still feels lonely due to the fact that she is not married to her first love, Moleka. She agrees to marry Maru because it is the only, â€Å"alternative to the living death into which she [has] so unexpectedly fallen† (page 120). Maru waits for the pe rfect moment, when Margaret loses her only companion and her first and only ‘love’, to propose marriage to her so that he appears to be her best option. He becomes her redeemer. Bessie Head uses the oxymoron, â€Å"living death† (page 120), to emphasize the severity of the situation Margaret finds herself in.It is so dreadful that it may be considered as fatal. She thinks that it is her decision to agree to marry Maru. Maru makes, â€Å"people do everything he [says] they [will]† (page 67). This brings into question whether he really loves Margaret or if he weds her in his attempt to conquer prejudice towards Masarwa. Maru realises that overcoming prejudice is a process that requires cautious planning. Furthermore, after the marriage between Maru and Margaret takes place, â€Å"a door silently [opens] on the small dark airless room in which their souls had been shut for a long time† (page 122).This metaphor describes the change that occurs as Maru h ad expected. The Masarwas are slowly being freed from the oppression that they have been subjected to. Bessie Head uses imagery, â€Å"small dark airless† (page 122), to give the reader an understanding of how the Masarwa suffer because of the Batswana. Love, loneliness and prejudice carry out a significant role in Margaret’s life. Bessie Head uses these three themes to demonstrate to the reader that in order to triumph one has to work hard and be strong.Margaret’s, â€Å"single abrupt tear from one eye† (page 18), shows that she, too, is human. Even though she is trained not to exhibit emotions her body unexpectedly displays her at moments when she is overwhelmed sensations that she does not understand nor come across before. In conclusion, where there is real love there is loneliness because and prejudice is one of the major entities that bring about loneliness in the novel. If there was no prejudice, there would have been fewer problems for everybody i n the town. Love is the source of happiness.

Time Traveling Art Historian

Through my travels of time and space I’ve seen remarkable sights of the world that have made an impact on my many journeys through the centuries. One place I visited through my time travel was the Sistine Chapel and the exquisite works of art that are contained inside the building. The year is 1542, and I am exploring the town of Vatican City. I see that the Sistine Chapel has just added the new artwork of The Last Judgment no more than two months ago. This was one of the artist most famous visual art pieces. The artist Michelangelo Buonarroti was charged in performing a duty by Pope Clement in 1534, to create a fresco that would cover the entire wall behind the altar of the Sistine Chapel. It took Michelangelo four years to complete The Last Judgment, which was not until 1541. The artwork depicted the final judgment and the second coming of Christ. The style used in the painting reflects the Mannerist style. The painting lacked the sense of optimism and beauty that define Michelangelo’s work on the ceiling. His figures in the painting were no longer proportioned, but looked twisted and grotesque. The heads looked too small for the bodies Michelangelo had envisioned. As I scurried through the city streets of Venice City to see to the renowned piece of artwork, I can feel the excited just flowing through my body. When I finally gazed upon the beauty of the chapel, I was in awe by the magnificent work of the entire painting. The fresco appeared as the figures in the painting were in movement. The fascination with the immense blue sky and various colors that Michelangelo Buonarroti used like touches of reds and browns kept my eyes from focusing on one spot, but the entire painting. The Last Judgment was Michelangelo Buonarroti’s depiction was considered very controversial at this period in time because of his use of the naked body and the conservative society the artist lived in. Michelangelo was critiqued for integrating mythological creatures in the Biblical portrayal of his art. Even though, many individuals didn’t like the painting for various personal reasons, The Last Judgment soon became a masterpiece for the artist. Chapter Two: Egyptian Civilization The Great Temple of Aten After being in Italy for several days, I decided to taken in some of the beautiful and majestic architecture artwork in Egypt during the summer season in 1343 B. C. When I arrived in Egypt I made sure to get a guide to show me around the country. I traveled down the River Nile in a boat, taking in the scenery of the desert. For five days I traveled to Cairo, where my destination was to go to the city of el-Armarna. This is where the Great Temple of Aten is located. The city was a plain of desert land surrounded by many hills. Upon my arrival to the city, the boat docked by a platform on the east bank of the Nile River. Later I embarked on my journey of making my way towards the city of el-Armarna, Egypt. When I entered the city, I went looking for the Great Temple of Aten. I traveled north along Royal Road, in adjacent to the east bank of the river, which I road on a camel for several miles before arriving to the temple. When I came upon the Great Temple of Aten, I was surprised of how gorgeous the architectural structure was to me. The temple was for the worship of the god Aten during the reign of Akhenaten. It was dedicated for proper cult and worship of the sun-disk. With the association the city had with other gods, Akhenaten established a new city and capital at Amama (then called Akhetaten). Construction on the first architectural structure began in 1347 B. C. ; it was the chapel in the Great Temple. By 1343 B. C. the structure as completed and the temple was to be built. The temple has width of 300 yards and a length of 800 yards. Most of the temple was made of bricks because Akhenaten wanted to quicken the building process and using brick gave the workers more swiftness to finish the job. Timber was used in order to provide the architecture with support for the surroundings walls and towers. The temple also housed public building in the inside that was constructed out of stone, providing extra support. As I stepped through the entrance of the temple, I passed through a couple of towering pylons which I was led to a hallway lined with columns called the House of Rejoicing. As I kept walking, I came to a corridor known as the Gem-Aten. It didn’t have a roof, but only an opening that had shown the wide range of sky. The axis allows for the sun to be worshipped as it rises and sets everyday. The Gem-Aten consists of six courtyards. The first courtyard has a high alter containing small chapels. The second, third and fourth courts have rooms and altars for storing supplies; and for the usage for worship offerings. As I kept walking, I noticed that the fourth temple had chambers that were furnished for coverage in the shade. The last court is the High Alter where offering for Aten is done. The temple has a total of 365 altars. Each day of the solar year and the dividing of the altars on each side of the High Altar; it is representation of Upper and Lower Egypt. As I kept walking, I came upon the Sanctuary. This was the last structure of the temple that had statues of Akhenaten and his family. The entrance had an open courtyard that had three houses to lodge the priest who are on duty. With my mind still fascinated on the statues, I continued walk across the courtyard, I feel like I am seized by an army because they are various styles of statues of Akhenaten on both sides of me. This certain court that resembles the sixth court of Gem-Aten was utilized by the Royal family of Egypt. I decided it was time to go back to the main entrance of the temple, as I took on one more look around; I felt a greater respect for the architecture that has lasted through the centuries. It was wonderful to see firsthand the Egyptian cultures and how the society is devoted to their religion beliefs and culture. The temple is a reminder of a time Egyptian religion became monotheistic for a moment; and how the Atenism of religion has been viewed as an influence in creation of future monotheistic religions. While getting ready to transport myself to another place in time, I start to feel misery in knowing that every beautiful piece of architecture that I gazed upon will be back returned back into crumbling rubble, buried under the earth’s soil. In another perception, it’s good to know that the ruins will be rediscovered by future generations that will still be able to give distinct insight on the evolution of the Egyptian culture, civilization and architecture. Chapter Three: The Late Middle Ages Maesta Altarpiece On my last time traveling voyage, I decided to visit Siena, Italy for the unveiling of visual art of the Maesta Altarpiece in 1311. The creation is by artist, Duccio di Buoninsegnaa who was commissioned by the city to paint an altarpiece in the city of Siena’s cathedral. In 1314, the painting was completed. It was agony watching di Buoninsegnaa bond several panels of wood together so he could begin his creation. He had to paint the front and back of the panels with different types of paintings because the piece was to be located in the center of the cathedral where all the sides can be viewed. The altarpiece was painted using tempera and gold. Duccio possessed the confidence about his quality of work he created because of the medium that was chosen for the art project. Tempera is a medium used in paintings that is permanent, which dries quickly. It’s made by mixing a colored powder pigment and a water-soluble binding agent such as an egg yolk. Duccio used this technique to incorporate in his painting by using tempera and gliding produced colors, which was essential in preserving his masterpiece through time. While taking a long look throughout the cathedral, I think about how important the painting is to this era in time. I watched a parade of people making a pilgrimage to the cathedral through the city. It seems like a journey everyone was willing to take because of the religious significance it stands for. I decided to go out and follow the crowd, in which I observed that the procession of people consisted of priests and monks whom were praying, and then the citizens of Siena carried candles; followed by numerous other people. I noticed the journey was for the entire city to accompany the altarpiece to its final destination. It was an honor to be part of such a momentous and joyous event in history. Once the altarpiece made it to its destination, the procession showed an excitement that was overwhelming. The Maesta is then installed with the welcoming sound of bells coming from the cathedral. It was not too long before I was finally able to approach the altarpiece and examine the breathtaking art of Duccio Buoninsegnaa. On the front panel, the artist has managed to create a captivating painting that depicts the Mary (the Madonna) sitting on a throne cradling the baby Jesus in her arms. They are surrounded by saints and angels in colorful robes. While looking at the panels, I found myself studying the imagery of how real it seems. Even though it possess a new style of painting it has traditional aspects that Buoninsegnaa wanted to keep simple. It was a joy to experience the new style of painting created by Duccio Buoninsegnaa. He made his artwork look real with physique gestures. The painting is so captivating that I’m so sorry that I’m the only person that could time travel that could experience the artist masterpiece. It is wonderful to have a front row seat to something spectacular that the world won’t be able to recognize as a remarkable piece of art until centuries later. Though it took much time for the new style of Buoninsegnaa painting to evolve, it was good to know that it will be later embraced by the Italian Renaissance. My travels through the periods of history will always be an experience that I will treasure forever. The best thing about time traveling is that I can always go back in time and recreate any event in any period. Getting a firsthand lesson of the history of life-changing events is a gift within itself. I feel blessed and gifted to have traveled to these exotic cities and experience a beginning of history from the very start. I can’t wait to find out where my next adventure will take me. Until then, see you after my next big trip!