Well, just realize how time flies? This is the last week of our English 103. I do not know If I should say Yippeee... because finally our class is over with or sad to say that there are no more busy working habits that would occupy my in between busy schedules.
Tonight is our church night and I am having a second thought if I should go or not because I have to submit our final blog. But I decided to go for one simple reason, to give thanks that I survive till the end. I am glad I did attended tonight's church. The Pastor's word is "Take whatever is left and keep on pushing". I still remember all those times of brain storming, crumming and  sleepless nights trying to submit all the homework in due time. I am alone in front of the computer, can not think anymore, frustrated and confused how I will do it.  All I did is just bow down and pray.  All those times that I struggled doing my homework I almost think of quitting and just let go with it because it is overwhelming. But my spirit does not want me to stop.  All I have is a little knowledge in me, a little time to squeeze  my homework, a support from my husband, a word of encouragement from Professor Gross, faith in GOd and a strong determination. These are the only things that is left in me and I push really hard to overcome my fear and accomplished my homework week by week.
Now this is the final week and I am jumping with joy not just because it is over but there are some good things that I achieved with this class. Although this is an on line class I was able to know some people through their ideas. Their writing is the reflections of their personality. Just amazed how people can connect through their blogs. I definitely dislike the group work but peer draft review is really great.  It helps a lot when you are doing your final draft. I just love Mrs. Lilly Green , she is awesome.  She is really on top of everything, maybe I should call her the leader of North Kargar. She really took her time reviewing all our essay and she always initiates our group work. She deserves an applause.
When I was thinking of what could be a good name of my blog, I just thought that "lifesjourney" would be fine. But now I think it is just a perfect name! I can relate English 103  just like life's journey. I came across with stress, struggles, joy, fear, frustrations and confusion. It is a journey of ups and downs, then by the time you know it is the end.
It is over...and it is sad to say goodbye. No more sleepless nights of twisting and turning trying to put all my thoughts together. No more owl nights of staying in the computer trying to make all the homework submitted in due time.  I will be missing those Wednesday, Friday blogs and Sunday night deadline. It is really true that time flies when you are busy doing what you like and have a strong determination to achieve your goal. To my classmates your thoughts are in my thoughts. Good luck to all of us. Cheers and Happy Holidays!!!

Almost there....

Last week is the busiest time of my life. Just thinking how will I manage to survive that week ...will be a relief. What a pleasant feeling... I did it. I felt so happy that I finished doing that research paper. I know....I procrastinated and whined.  But I did not let that feeling to over power me. I started it and I might as well finish it till the end.
After reading RLIT I am not sure if I am ready to read another book, although I found it very interesting. After looking at the second option, I gave a second thought about it. I look into some information that I could gather and feel myself how it will interest me. Actually after reading RLIT, it gives more idea what will be the best topic I will choose. I decided that "Women's Rights" is the best because it will answer my doubts regarding the culture of Iran.
I am aware that all nationality practice different culture and traditions. But not to the extent that if you did not follow it you are liable and bound for punishment. While I was reading RLIT I just wondered why this women has to hold a private gathering in somebody's house and why the veiling is a big deal.
I thought it is just part of their culture. So, I guess this is something to look into, to have a better understanding of women's right in Iran. What law did Iran goverment put into women? Unbelievable... I should say. If I am an Iranian citizen, I will not be satisfied of being just a hosewife. Of course I would love to to take care of my family, to see my kids growing. But what if they are growned...what would be my life without education and no opportunity for me in the society. I will be a useless citizen, that is boring without  participation in the society. I can not just be staying at home and follows what my husband dictate me to do. This researh project is really an awakening for me to thank what a blessing that I have, having a freedom that is priceless. That I have the freedom to live my life, to work and educate myself. I can be productive and be a useful citizen.
While I was doing the research project it opens up a different style in writing. Normally when I write my essay it is all about my opinion and ideas. With this research I found it difficult to start with because I have not incorporate a lot of information in one. My struggle is how I will connect the article from one to another and insert my analysis too. It is really hard to juggle all these information.  But I noticed this is exactly what other writers do. To quote, unquote and analyze an argument.
This research project is a challenge and I really put my work into it. Like I mentioned it opens a new style in writing which I think at first I think I can not do it. But I am just happy that I overcome my fear and stress and I learned a new style of writing. I am just holding my breath till the end...we are almost there.

Procrastinating at RLIT

When the RLiT project was posted at the Blackboard on Week 11, I know that I have a major project to do. After reading the instructions and requirement for the project, I said to myself, "Ahahh..another essay and another challenge". But since it is a few weeks away before submission, I will have plenty of time to prepare. And my perfect word for that... "Procrastinating".
So I put off my concentration on that project. It is not that I do not want to do it, but week by week there are other homework . I try to submit all my homework that is due and work on my reading. But it seems that my thought is not working all together with my goal. I had a terrible time choosing a novel. Maybe because I am not doing it right that is why I can not concentrate.
I planned some ways to fit my schedule at work, doing my homework, kids activities and family. I guess I need some time of organization and set my priorities so I can manage to fit everything together. Few weeks ago there is not too many homework, so I can have a breathe to do a little extra stuff. Then my work call and asked me to do extra shifts. That's not too bad, I think I can pitch in another shift anyway holiday is coming it will be an extra dollar to buy for a gift. Last week, I read the announcement again and alarmed that time is approaching for the project submission.
Seriously, I have to stay focus. So I read the instruction again for the project. I am stunned and lost. All those times that I am reading the instructions I scanned through it.  When I finally choose my option, I do not even know what are those initials stands for. I am wondering what is Itab, TGG, DM and Pap, all I know is RLiT. After spending so much time to figure it out, I was so embarrased to myself about my ignorance.
I took a trip to the library to look for any resources that would help me build my project. Then I google some articles that can relate to my issue. It is an endless reading. Till now I am still working on getting my  thoughts together. I am having difficulty to point out my thesis because of so many related articles. This is my weakest part finding the thesis and essay structure. It will be a challenge doing paragraph transitions and insetring related topics from other sources.
I thouht I have plenty of time to prepare for this project but I did not consider any challenge that might occur while waiting for that time. I should have been more assertive to think of what I will be facing doing this project instead ...I procrastinate. I tried to pitch in another shift before...now I have to call off because I have to cook for Thanksgiving and finish my project. At the same time I am not having enough sleep because after working night shift, I have to take care of  my children because they are out of school. I know... I am whining.  In fact, I am glad that I was able to vent my feelings thru this blog and take the load off from chest, take a deep breathe and wish me goodluck.

Difference in Email and Ordinary Conversation

The fast and growing use of email have a great influence on our society. Globally people tend to turn on their computer to check if they have messages. Most of those times are during their  free time when they have access to the computer. It is amazing how people are attracted to the metaphor of email rather than picking up a phone and have an ordinary conversation.
Few years I am not familiar with this world of electronic messaging.  It started out when I was back to school and do some on line registration. That's it after that, did not even bother to check my e-mail and has no interest with it. One time my aunt call me asking if I have any Friendster account. So she encouraged me to open one. Right after I opened an account, I am receiving messages from our friend and relatives back home. I got so excited hearing from those people whom I did not get in touch with for so many years. And what sounds more interesting, it is free... That is a great deal I should say. I will not have a pile of telephone bill with long minutes of expensive talking just to get in touch with these people.
It is also very convinient  for me to communicate via email because some of the friends and family that I missess the most lives internationally. We do not have the same time of availability because of time difference. So I can just leave my message any time and the recepient can reply whenever they want to. No pressureat all. Another thing that got me hooked about email is you can add attachments like important documents and pictures. I love seeing this digital pictures of my old acquiantances. This is just the perfect answer for all my curiosity. How are they doing and how do they look after all those years? It also saves a trip to the post office and postage. Could you imagine how long is that line in the post office just to send a document? Plus on top of that they will charge you that much of amount to deliver the mail overnight. With all these hassles it will be much easier for me just to scan  and email it. It will not even take hours for them to receive it. Contrary to all those good things about email communications you still feel isolated and there is a space in between.
Although email just fits my lifestyle it is still different how we converse offline. When I talked with my family, I like to hear the giggles, excitement and emotions. E-mail communications are limited to what and how people feel. We missed that facial expression of happines and sadness. And I think that is a great factor on people social interaction.  When we converse we can interact right away at that moment and can solve the puzzles that lingers in our mind. It does not leave any doubts and questions. We do not have to turn on the computer and wait for the answer.
Email and ordinary conversation have a lot of differences.  It is  helpful to some others that fits their lifetsyle and need. Both of them is  a medium of communication that bridge social interaction.

Editorial Cartoons Perks Me Up...

Editorial cartoons is another mode of communication. It's visual image presentation can go a long way in reader's imagination. It's visual presentation can directly or indirectly reach humans mind and emotion. It is interesting to those who can understand it and can draw an analogy of  what it is being portrayed. This is a pleasant way of exploring ideas thru drawing with just a stroke of a brush and funny animated characters. Cartoonist uses their drawing as a communication medium, as entertainment or for political purpose.
Visual language is totally different from writing. The message is not written in black and white. A hint of the message is sometimes blantly spelled out but normally it is a big puzzle. What message is it really trying to convey? We have to use more of our critical thinking abilty to draw the meaning of the message. Cartoonists want us to use our vivid imagination to understand their message. It might be difficult sometimes because we do not know if we are on the right path of understanding it. It can lead to misinterpretation of the reader because it is more visual than literal presentation. We are just looking thru caricatures, animations and objects to represent an issue. But it's complexity invites our human mind to explore and stimulate our interest towards the article.
Editorial cartoons can be entertaining for so many. There is a lot of crimes and violence we are reading in the newspaper and sometimes we look for something to read that breaks our morning stress. We want to read something that perks our day, bring a little smile and laugh on a dirty joke. That is why people tend to turn the pages to these editorial cartoons. I do not think it violates any mandated laws of writing or ethics in literature. It seems more easier to understand an issue if you add a little spice and flavor in it. Cartoonist shows a lighter side of an issue through jokes and funny animations. There is nothing wrong to throw a little humor here and there with the use of drawings, symbols and caricatures. To me it is a fun way and interesting to express your ideas without much much of never ending information.Editorial cartoons can be benefecial for political purposes. This is is a safe way to express a political opinion. Because of it's limited information it does not attack literally and does not give an obvious interpretation.  It is sometimes depends to the reader to judge and think what it implies. Political cartoons is designed to stimulate thought and discussion with some humor added to it. Funny pictures of caricatures and objects draws more of the reader's attention and interest in reading.Through the years of editorial cartoons it is less recognized in the business industries. It is endangered because of it's less exposures. But I think through this brush and ink with it's hidden ideas can give humor and interest to our stressfull lives. It does not need so much of blah..blah..blah... to reach reader's mind. What matters is... it perks up my day and I can a have a thought of it.     

"One Essay At A Time"

Going to school seems to be impossible to fit my busy lifestyle. Combining school with work, family and activities would be a multiple task. But my ambition is to reach higher education and the counselling office recommends to take English  103. Because of the limited availability of the class and for curiosity sake I decided to enroll on this on line class. I do not have any clue what I am getting into as far as reading and writing. There are a lot of struggle that I encounter during the course of this class in terms of blogging, responding, group work, essay writing and peer draft review.
Blogging is a new world for me and I am really panicking just how I will start it. I do not have any idea at all to create an account. Luckily through a lot of mess up I was able to post my first blog and the second. After those blogs, just for curiosity I check my grades and I am missing the grade. I did not even know the importance of copying and pasting it to the assigned area. I find it so hard to have all my ideas together and compose it. I have to really prepare myself reading the prompt and think how I will compose my blogs. It took hours of sitting, thinking and exploring my ideas. But then it gets better, those 6 hours of blogging get lesser each time I do it. Blogging gives me a new world of exploring my opinion ang letting out what I feel in various issues.
Responding to blogs and other related forum is not my favorite at all. Personally, I am not a very interactive person. Maybe because of my hectic shedule it is hard for me to catch up and respond of what is going around the class. I respond to blogs and other forum when it is really necessary. Honestly I do not actively participate in these manner but it open up a different perspective in views of other issues. It help me  in a way getting ideas from others and was able to respond  and relate my own opinion.
Students choose this on line system of education because they all deal with different lifestyle. Students do their homework depending their schedule and convinience. I sometimes do my part a little early so other member can join in but somehow other members post their collection in other area and mine was left out. I am totally confused where and when is the perfect timing to collaborate with the group.
Being away from school for a long period of time and having English as a second language is a great factor why essay writing is a challenge for me. The grammar that I learned from my college is already a history. When I am composing an essay I struggle in my grammar and my English. It is hours of  reading, gathering sources, putting my ideas, constructing sentences and  type it in MLA format. Just overwhelming! Compare from the first time it gets better but still not easier.
Because of my struggles in essay writing "Peer Draft Review" helps me a lot in revising my essay. I noticed some student are really gifted in this area. I am really amazed the way they critically analyzed the work of others. And with these reviews, I was able to correct my mistakes and craft it appropriately. It give me also the idea to see the differences in style of writing and evaluating variations of work.
So many times I  am thinking to give up this class. But as I looked back with all the stress and sleepless nights that put into the first part of the semester, I managed to pass all those challenges.
I consider this class as a journey of life. There is always a challenge, a trial, a pursuit but it takes one step at a time. English 103 just like life it get's better but not easier. I should say in life it is one day at a time but in English 103 it is one essay at a time to finish the journey.

"Taboo Language"- A Fredom of Speech or Just an Expression

People speak in different languages, attitude and behavior. We are not all equal in that aspect and humans are not made to be perfect. As our world changes generation to generation, people are becoming liberated and outspoken with the way they expressed themselves. Taboo language incorporates words and phrases that are relevant at that particular time and in that particular situation. Some of our verbal behavior express our emotions and ideas. Uncensored Taboo language in media has its advantages and disadvantages in our society.
There are advantages of uncensored Taboo language in media. Films always have the ability to be creative and realistic. Writer explores his/her imagination with creativity to make us angry, sad and disappoint us. In some point a movie can be controversial in several aspects like immorality, foul language and violence. This is the writer's purpose to make across the point. Using of this techniques in the movies makes the story  real and convincing. We should remember that the movie put us in a state of perception. The actors and actress portray their role magnificently thru the deliverance of this taboo language. One example of a latest movie "Kick-Ass", just with the title is very intriguing. But this is an original comic-book superhero movie about a high school geek  without super power become a phantom crime-fighter. It might show some violence but turn out to be a funny movie.
Through the years taboo language exists in television and radio  industry. Back in the 70's sitcom's have a lot of restrictions in the use of language. But in the 80's words just like "bitch", "shit" and so many to mention get tossed here and there.  This is use for commentaries making it sounds funny, notorious and just simply expressions.  In Jerry Springer Show, they are using many tabloid language but their purpose is to show the real life of those people in real world. People express their feeling without edits and re-enactment of their attitudes and behavior for the general public to judge which is right or wrong.
Taboo language in advertising is used to create an attention-getting shock in the consumer. This is their strategy of distracting the consumers' attention from taboo. Some advertising can be beneficial depending the purpose. In high school Health and Sex Education class, the use of condoms is essential to their knowledge to avoid sexual transmitted disease. Unintentionally condoms is being advertised for educational purpose but it may include uncensored pictures and words that is not appropriate.
Contrary to the benefits of uncensored taboo language in media its great disadvantage concerns the young and innocent. It affects their manners and personality. Children are very smart, they pick and learn things easily. Could you imagine children learning taboo language from the media. They will think that it is appropriate and accepted in our culture, suddenly it becomes their mannerism. I will surely not appreciate a child cursing and bullying another kid. It is not an acceptable behavior while growing up. In some way it destroy the children's personality. We  always said that whatever comes out in your mouth reflect your personality. Children can be judge unjustly because they copied the words not knowing the real meaning of it. People sometimes blame the parents when they heard the kids using taboo language, where in fact they just heard it in the media.
Uncensored "Taboo Language" in media has advantage and disadvantage. Whether it is a freedom of speech or just an expressions. Its advantage depends on purpose it may serve but a great disadvantage to our children.

Prejudicial Language In Our Society

Prejudicial language is a language that is harmful and insult to a person. It is a powerful tool used by many in our society. A negative opinion that forms a stereotyping in certain group. It creates a pre-judgement about certain issue, culture, tradition, race and gender. Its negative opinion often times use to disguise, brainwash or manipulate with the intention of destroying a character. Media is great  factor influencing the growth of prejudicial language in the society. It's network in television, books, movies and music makes it easy to communicate and reach out the majority.
Television is part of our daily lives. Communication reaches every household with it's daily broadcasting of everyday issues and events. It brings information and touch human mind in all ages. It's repetitious broadcasting will mark in our innocent mind. It brainwashes our thinking ability because of prejudicial language. Just for example the war in the Middle East, we seen a lot of bombings and killings done by the terrorist. So for that same reason, Muslim are generalized as terrorist. In September 11, twin tower bombing brings a lot of commotion globally. During those times of broadcasting in the TV news, creates a lot of speculations about the cause. Even before investigation it has a prejudicial thought that the perpetrator is the terrorists. So the focus of the investigation are the Muslims in the area. It helps to draw a conclusion but it is not fair for those who undergoes the surveillance.
Books send a prejudicial message to the reader. The writer uses prejudicial rhetoric language to persuade the reader to believe according to his/her opinions. Writing is a powerful tool using prejudicial language to
put the readers state of reception regading the issue. Its biased or negative opinion build a character or belonging. "Letter from Birmingham Jail' by Martin Luther King is a part of our history and a great book to read. It describes a lot of racism and prejudices in the African society. What happened from the past racial discrimination influence the prejudicial language to be alive in current generation.
The movie industry create a film mostly with regards as a generalization of group, lifestyle and norms within a society. The actors and actresses portray their roles magnificently to convinced the viewing public. Their goal is to make the movie a realization of the truth. Women stereotype as being weak and sexual object. Most of their portrayal shows their weak character in a dramatic role. Being physically attractive uses them in a pornographic or sexy films.
The music contributes in the growth of prejudicial language. Some of the songs written are bias with the writer's opinion and point of view. It's vast and repetitious playback in the radio mark in the mind of the listener. Sometimes music is labeled by it's category. If the music is a heavy rock it is the favorite of the drug users. If it is a rap music it encourages the young and the gangs.
Media is a network in communication that influence the active progression of prejudicial language. It can manipulate and brainwash the innocent minds of the young and the old.
  

"Self Respect....It's mine"

"Self-respect..It's mine", something we can possess and owe to ourself. We maybe rich or poor, that does not matter. I maybe poor but rich with self respect. One can have everything in this world like money, fame,cars and all the luxury....but missing one very important thing ..."self respect". It is not easy to possess self respect, we have to learn and earn it. We have to accept who we are as a person regardless of our nationality, culture, status and capabilities.
Often times we face challenges and trials in our daily lives. We have to make decisions and consider a lot of things around us may be our family, friends and even ourselves. Sometimes we forget to value what is important but those are the  things that makes who we are as a person. I remember of my father's personality, superior, authoritarian and domineering. Nothing is right about any of my decision during my teenage years because he believe that as long as I am living under his roof I will obey all the rules. But at that age, I have the sense of what I want to do and what I want to be. At times I snapped back at him just to voice my opinion and express what I feel which sometimes leads to an argument. I tend to raise my voice to stressed my point. But all I heard from him is simple and straight in a firm voice. He said, "do not disrespect me, that is all I've got..you can find new friends everyday but you can not find a father like me". "What a disgrace?", I said to myself. I turned around and felt so embarassed. In my quiet moments I realized that even though I know what I want I should not only think of me and myself. It is very unselfish for me not to consider my dad who is just concern of my decision. That I know he will be there in times of  failure or success.
In 1994, I am just new here in America. I have my strong accent, naive and very timid. That time, I just started to socialize with Americans and I met Charlie. My Burmese friend intoduced us to each other on her wedding. My first intuition is I do not think that he will be interested in me. Here it comes my fears..I am short, brown complexion, a pudgy nose and not fluent in English. That is right, I am trying to discriminate myself. But he made his first move, offered me a drink and a dance. Well amazingly I felt proud about it because there are a lots of blonde women in the party and he chosed to dance with me. Then it followed his second move. He invited me to watched a movie with my Burmese friend. "Joy Luck Club", a movie where an Asian girl and American boy fell in love with each other, showing their differences in terms of cultures and traditions. What a night mare just to remember from what I watched. I do not think I can handle that indifferences. I have to stop and think if should go on dating with him. I am scared that I will just fall out of love. But, I decided I can give it a try and maybe from there we will discover ourselves. We spent a lot of times knowing and adjusting to each other. We learned and adopted each other's culture with open mind. Now, we are married and I am so happy we found each other. We might have a lot of differences but we have only one heart and one mind combined as a couple. Each one of us  have that love and respect for ourselves and be able to share with one another.
Everyone are specially created by god. Each one of us are  different in so many ways but that is what makes us unique as a person. We have something that is deep within us, not stolen, not borrowed and not bought. "Self-respect...it is mine". Something that I can be proud of, I can carry it everywhere I go, it is my wealth, my happiness and my freedom. Nobody can take it away from me...it is mine.

Interpersonal Communication

Conversation within the family can be challenging at times especially if it involves gender and authority.We always have those moments of conversation  sharing ideas and opinions with our father and mother. Although we have our daily interactions, it may not be as easy as we think when we have to deal with some serious matter. But as always we give our due respect to our parents. We listen  and obey what they have to say.
I've seen family always have a great bonding, talking, playing and enjoying hobbies that they can share together. Having obstacles is unnoticed until you really get into into serious kind of conversation. Yes, gender does matter big time when  father and sons or mother and daughter has to talk. My mother is very sweet, kind and easy going. She spent most of her time at home taking care of us and cooking. We shared a lot of  bonding moments that is so meaningful and unforgettable. We love to talk about what is going on in our family circle while we are cooking . We are open to each other suggestion and  opinions toward a certain project. No big deal if we are on the opposite side. You think  we can fire out an argument if we don't agree, not my mom she is very understanding and patient. I remembered the time that she is teaching me how to sew, I will insist what I think. She will let me to do my way and explore. At the end I realized my mistakes of not following her. My mom knows how sensitive I am but she manage to explain and correct things after I learned from those challenges. There were some sensitive issues that at first I felt so intimidated to discuss with her. Like when a guy has to come over to our house for courtship. Knowing my parents being so protective and strict, it must be a big deal.  But my mom prefer my suitors to come over to our house and meet them rather than dating outside. She will cook and have conversation with them. I guess because of so much bonding time we shared together it so much easier for me to air out my feelings. It can be dramatic at times, we cried and be sad but who cares, I guess it makes us feel better. We are not afraid to show our feelings. We have same sentiments and sensitivity.
As in the case of father and son, I think they handle things differently. By nature, men wants to maintain their composure of having authority and strenght. They express their ideas and opinions with a degree of a certain power. That in turns blocks them to express their emotion and sensitivity. They do not have the drama like women does. Mostly, father guide and share sports activities with their son. But sharing intimate moments with the son might be so difficult. Sometimes, the son feels a little intimidated towards the father because of the authority status.  The status also of the father as the breadwinner and not staying at home most of the time contribute to the conflict. The son spend more time with their mother at home. Most specially father are straight to the point and does not reactive to emotions. Which can be misinterpret by the son of non-caring and domineering attitude.
Father and son can face more challenges as compared to mother and daughter relationship but for me it also depends on one's personality. We do not have to live and follow the stereotyping. We can break it to be a better person and have a good relationship within our family.

Authority Figure in Communication

Communication is a two way expression of opinions and beliefs. As a child we learned every little thing from our parents. They teach us to say our first words,what to eat, and guide us with our first steps. I grew up knowing that my parents is the highest authority in my life. The most important thing I learned since I was a child is the word respect and authority. That means I have to listen, follow and addressed those people who are older than me and it does not matter how old are they. They are our model, our teacher and our mentor. They shape our personality to be a better person. We do not have a choice at our young age because we look up to our parents like a hero. Sad to say that as a child we do not have a voice, in a sense that our parents has the highest authority in communication.
I grew up in a very conservative family with a traditions that influenced from the Spaniards. Parents that are domineering, overpowering and strict to their children. I mean there is pile of rule and regulations to follow. To tell you the truth, I can not even count it or remember most of them. It is a trial and error. You did something wrong you will be punish or you will pay the consequences. Better be straighten up or you will be sorry.
 As I remembered on our elementary days, we just like to play after school. So we are taking advantage while my parents are at work. The house rule is, we have to be home before they got home. So we are happy there is plenty of time for us to play. But as soon as we got home, we have to study. We can not even bargain a treat after doing our homework.  There is no way of goofing around. Our television is even locked, I can not even sneak in for few minutes.  And if there is an adult visitor we are not allowed to mingle and have a conversation, not unless we are asked to. We should stay out of the conversation and be quiet. We just want to enjoy the company of our visitors and socialized with them. But not with my parents, we have nothing to do with it and it is "for adults conversation only".
That took me 16 years to realize that I can not even speak for myself. At that age, I am so much aware what I want to do in my life. I want to be with my friends, go to the mall, attend parties and explore. But still everything is limited. Exception to the rule, we can go as long as my parents know my friends personally. It is all up to my parents and they were more stricter because we are teenager. My parents even tell us what will be our major and what career they want for us. They were even screening and spying who we dated with .                                                                                                                                                                                                    
Not any of those cultural tradition I grew up with is a two way communication. It is only one side of the story. There is something missing. I never had a chance to stand for myself and be independent. All my decision making was approve by my parents. I do not have a voice, my tongue is tied and my lips is sealed. Do I have any choice? Yes, I can either choose to rebel, disobey or follow the rules. But I chose to be a good girl.
On my mid 20's I went to America on my own. I do not have any shadow behind me and authority to worry about. I made my own decision and I learn from it. I stumble and fall, then I stood on my own. Until now I am proud that in midst of everything I can take care of myself. Having a parent as a higher authority of command varied in age level. On my experienced, I am proud that my parents were behind me during those early years of my life. They were strict for a good cause. All parents want the best for their children even it distracts effective communication. As an adult we can have our own opportunity to be heard, to voice our own opinion and make our own decision. Now, I am a parent I perfectly understand my parent's concern for me when I was young. I believe I will have that same respect from my children.  Through the years they will also understand that effective communication is a learning process from a higher authority.

Challenges of nonnative speakers in a global economy

Nonnative speakers  of all different culture are facing challenges as they try to fit in the strange land that they do not have their personal belongings.  As they face the new path of their life, mixed up emotions of fears, doubts and worries how they will compete in a global economy that seem to be dominated by a single language. It is a cultural shock for them, thinking that in this foreign land they step their feet  for a new beginning and leave their footprint on the culture they left behind. Full of uncertainties, that one has to take a step to see what is the future holds in the land where they got lost. To find, to seek and to learn in their best ability to conquer the fear that they are facing. 
When I came to America, I am full of hope, dreams and ambitions. That is all I have... but the truth is I do not have anything with me. No family, no relatives and not a single friend. It is so sad to leave everything behind me to seek for a better future. Having that courage and brave that I carry in my heart....I told to myself there is no turning back. I am ready to face all the trials and challenges. To start with, I met some people on my own nationality to get acquainted and have some connections. It is nice to meet some people of my own heritage because I do not feel home sick.  In the long run, I felt inside me that  my socialization is limited. I want to have friends too outside of my culture but I am intimidated to converse fluently in English. Not that I do not speak and understand English, I am just scared to be criticized with my accent. Nor I can not converse fluently in a long conversation. I am limited to short and simple English conversation. As it goes, things get more complicated because I have to find a job. I finished Accounting as my major but surprisingly there is not too much job available from where I lived. If there is any, being not fluent in English is my greatest disadvantage. Of course employer will hire somebody that can relate and communicate better in an office set up. I dropped my ambition to work in Accounting firm. So then, I have to look for another option that probably having skill will help me to find a job. There  is always shortage in nursing, so I went to school and took Certified Nursing Aassistant then worked my way up to LVN. As a foreign student, I am a little slower as compared to the other student when it comes to comprehension because English is my second language. I refused to be a leader in  laboratory experiment because it takes a lot of coaching and team leading. So that limits my intellectual ability to share my ideas and knowledge.
English language is the main tool on the global economy. We are talking in the field of science, technology, computer, business, commerce, trade and international travel. This is the language that conquers all nations. Educations standards of teaching are basically in English language. Books, encyclopedia, dictionary and bible are mostly written in  English. In this modern technology, we use computer world wide. People from all walks of life are benefited from the Internet communication service. It is rare that every country has its own language of interpretation. People of different nationality shares their interest, opinion and ideas with one language in the Internet. Our trade and commerce are not limited to our own product. We have imports and exports policy written in English for all business people who wants to sell their products.
English have great impact in our global economy. It reaches out people around the world to connect and build our economy. It is in English language that we have a greater understanding that no matter where we came from, we share a common interest to improve every one's livelihood.

Writing for an Audience

All writing has to serve a certain purpose.  It is designed to reach the mind of the reader. "Think about your audience", we are writing for them. It is the writer's goal to have a connection with the reader.  You want to share your knowledge with the purpose of bonding with the mind of your reader. Does it serve a common purpose? Normally, people have different ideas and beliefs. But as a writer, when we present our ideas we can help them to understand our stand point and incorporate it. Linda Flower believe, that a good piece of writing closes the gap between the writer and the reader. I strongly agree with that.
When we are writing, we have to analyze our audience. We all came from different levels and categories.  It is important to consider the reader's knowledge, their attitude, personal or professional needs. Having different perspective is the most difficult part for the writer. But for the sake of serving it's purpose to the audience, we tend to weigh things to minimize the differences.
When we share our knowledge, regardless of what we think, the center of our main goal is the reader. Whether our purpose  is to share what we know, we also have to consider the reader's knowledge regarding the issue.Writer should know the reader's needs and what they can learn from the article. And it is the writer's best abilitly to inform and educate the reader.
We view our concepts with different things. We associated words in different perspective just like others give meaning to it. In Flower example, the image of the lake includes fishing, water skiing, stalled ouboards, and lots of kids catching night crawlers with flashlights.  In my own experienced , lake is where my family enjoys swimming, boating, knee boarding, tubing and picnic on the shore during summer. As I mentioned , we have a different attitude in one concept. But as a writer, we just present our image hoping our reader will see the other side of the picture and understand your point.
Bridging the gap between the writer and reader is not easy.  In some situations, the writer has to compromise his status in accordance to job's requirement. Like Flower example of a writer in a TV program, the writer only propose for a program that meet the needs of the consumer and pass the guideline of the station. Some TV station and media have regulations to protect the reputation and credibility of the organization. Their ideas are limited to give respect of their job.
As a student, we are writing for the purpose of passing and meeting the requirement. We were given a thesis to research, analyze and think critically. We learn, develop and discover our ability in writing in a way that our teachers expect us.  There is a reason behind for following and learning the curriculum that is assigned to us. 
Good writers does not only express and share their knowledge. They bind their mind and heart  to the reader's interest. Whether their goal is to influence, educate, inform or for personal aspirations. Their self worth as a writer give only meaning when the reader understand where they are coming from.

"Everybody's Dream"

"America" the land of freedom, liberty, equality and richness. People in other land wants to come here in America. An "Everybody's Dream" that people want to experience. I am so fortunate that I fulfilled my own dream of being an American Citizen. My friends and relatives are so jealous because I am living the Filipino Dream, enjoying the richness and beauty of America. So, are they right?

"I Have a Dream" famous speech of Martin Luther King was an eye opening for all the people that live here in America.  He delivered his speech in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., in 1963. The location made a great impact because it connects his speech after one hundred years ago. Where he stood in front of the symbolic statue of  Abraham Lincoln who signed the Emancipation Proclamation in January 1, 1863. The proclamation freed many negro slaves from captivity. It pronounced the acceptance of black men into United States Navy and Army. It gave hope for all black people. But after one hundred years later, in commemoration of the proclamation Martin Luther King stood up and voiced out the unchanging world.  The proclamation promise is still a promise.The black people were still looking for freedom, liberty and suffering from inequality. A lot of people came from many different places and touched by his speech.

"Language that inspired change" that many who heard the voice of  Martin Luther King regardless of race realized the inequality among American people. I may not be aware how bad was black people been treated on those days. It surely brought a big change in the lives of many black people. As I observed now, regardless of nationality everybody has the equal opportunity to vote, work and  practice their rights. A very good example is Barrack Obama being the first black President in United States. That means majority of the American people voted for him. He was not  discriminated because of his color. He won in his candidacy with fair judgement. People trusted his knowledge and ability to lead this country. Equal opportunity is observed in many business establishment and government offices. We have many black people serving our country in the military, many of them are leaders. There is no segregation of where we have to live and where to go. Nobody is discriminated in regards with education. As a student we share the same class room with everybody else. We are all  dining in the restaurant and enjoy different kinds of entertainment. Mixed nationality goes to the church and pray together. Laws were written for everybody. All are obligated to follow the law of the Constitution, nobody is exempted. Everybody is judge fairly and recognized. In media, everybody has the freedom of speech. We all can write and voice our plea. We are not restricted to enjoy our freedom.

Martin Luther King's dream is every body's dream. It is true that "America is the land of the free". All minorities enjoyed the independence, liberty and equality. We are all given the same opportunity like everybody else. I myself  is having that opportunity to work and treated fairly. My husband is a white, he recognized my culture and traditions. He respected me and my family. His parents treated me like their own children. I was accepted with his circle of friends and family.

All that dreams came into reality. People from all walks of life regardless of race, color, culture and nationality enjoyed America's freedom. Martin Luther King's plea for "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness" is what we have in America. From generation  to generation it affects lives of many leaders and citizens. We are all given the opportunity to practice our rights. To stand, fight and live to the belief of what Martin Luther King had started.

Language Barrier

Language is the most difficult problems that  foreigners are experiencing when they visit other country. Different nationality, beliefs, culture, traditions and most importantly language. You feel like a total stranger not knowing of what to do first. Guess what! Communication is the key for finding and adapting yourself to the new environment. If you do not know the language, "goodluck' is  all I can say. Being able to communicate is an essential part of our daily tasks. In our daily interactions having good communication skills is critically linked to words and language. Not being familiar with the language could have some disadvantage to have a comfortable living.
My mother only finished elementary grade and lived in the Philippines all her life. She is a dressmaker working at home with her antique pedal sewing machine. Customers paid her a little amount of  money to made them custom gowns and dresses. No patterns and instructions to follow, it's all in her imaginary creations. My father finished high school. As he grew up, he works in a construction and later in a beer manufacturing company as an electrician.  Most of us in the Philippines find opportunities in other country to work. My dad sacrificed to be away with the family and worked in Saudi Arabia. Fifteen years of working in a foreign land was a challenge,  most specially learning Arabic. Most of his co-workers are Filipinos and he learned most of the translation through them. With his little English knowledge, it helped him to learn more of the Arabic language because some Arab speak English. Daily interactions using Arabic and mostly English language help him to adapt in the environment. He was able to practice Arabic and English well. My parents did not have a formal education on their chosen career but successfully supported our family.
Immigrants biggest problem is "language barrier". My parents migrate from the Philippines to United States in their late 50's. Having a little English educational background is very traumatic for them. They can talk and write English,  but very limited. During the first few years we have to accompany, guide and translate for them on their interviews. Being in the medical field, I helped them a lot with their doctor's appointment. I filled their medical history as well as symptoms and medical allergies. This would help the doctor to have a correct diagnosis and treatment for them.
My parents have a little savings from what my dad earned in Saudi Arabia. But to support their daily living, it will be not enough. We helped them a little bit at the start but fortunately my dad found a job. He was able to passed the interview and got hired as a dishwasher. First few weeks we dropped and picked him up at work, then he rode his bicycle. After learning the directions and his way, he managed to take the bus. My mom on the other hand, stayed home and  took care of my friends children. With their little earning it help them to support their daily needs.
On their daily lives, Tagalog which is the Filipino language is still their preference even now that they lived here in America.  They are more comfortable to speak it at home. They can understand each other well and they can express more of their feelings. But because of the reason to survive, they learned and practiced English language. They adopted the policies, rules and regulations to become a good American citizen. They realized the importance of  English language in all areas of their life.  They are able to obey those laws wholeheartedly, because ignorance in not an excuse in any legal system. They have a good communication with my husband who is an American and my kids. They gain a lot of  friends and respectfully talk to them in English. Now, they can see their doctor on their own without me translating how they feel. My parents did not have a high education in English. But they did not limit themselves to learn and practice the language. I am so proud of them because they patiently adopted the culture, traditions, beliefs and most specially the language that we as a family could enjoy together.

Reading Journal Entry

Going to school at age of 44 is a nightmare for most people. Studying on a limited time combined with handful responsibilities in the house as a parent, a wife, working as a full time nurse and a student at the same time. What else should I add? Oh,no! I am not wonder woman. It is great if I will be. But on top of everything family is a priority. Going to school is a part time, until it's perfect timing for me to be called in Nursing Program. While waiting, it is beneficial for me to add a little spice to my academic credentials.
Taking English 103 is the best choice for me. Mainly, because English is my second language. It will help me to enhance my skills in writing, reading, and critical thinking. But I am panicking and overwhelmed with this on line class. Why? I am not a computer genius that can tackle all the technical issues. But, not too bad  I am learning slowly.
Critical thinking is a part me and every human being. We have the ability to think of whatever information we gather from other people, facts and environment.  With those information, we create ideas of our own based on what we believe, orientation, cultural background and lifestyle. It does not necessarily mean that is true and acceptable to all. It might be influence with  personal interest and this would create a conflict regarding thinking critically. According to" Dan Kurland's", critical thinking includes a combination of skills  rationality, self awareness, honesty, open-mindedness, discipline and judgement.  We  have  to separate our emotions  and interests, analyze, weigh each side of the story, open to new ideas and  gather an evidence to support our ideas. When I am reading a magazine, newspaper or books just like everybody else, we are entitled to our own opinion. There is always a question and an imagination that lingers in my mind. Honestly, it is always biased beacause I think based on how I feel and my interst. But like I said, everybody thinks differently.
It is totally different at work when I think critically . We have to follow of what it is written, skills, procedures and doctor's order for the benefit of patient's well being. I set aside of what I think because we have rules to follow in our profession. Our judgement as a nurse will always be within "Facilities Protocol" which is safe also for our professional license.
I am proud to be a Filipino, with its richness in  it's culture, tradition, food and beliefs. But sad to say, our country is known for dirty political strategies. There is no such thing as law, it is always about popularity. Who you are, people you know, wealth and power that conquers all.  Freedom of speech is limited and media is under protected by law or you are paid by some powerful authorities to seal the secrets. Most politicians on my point of view sits there for fame and personal interest, very seldom has the heart for a  change. Of course I have bit analysis of political issue, like why I have to work and other's not and got paid. And all that food and rent is paid by the goverment, while I am working hard budgeting my check, adjust my hours at work to take care of my kids and still has to pay a huge amount of tax.
On my academic work, I have to think critically to pass my subject. It is a requirement as a student to research and gather information, to answer question and come up on  a fact based conclusion. No guessing games, it takes a lot or reading from a lot of sources and critical thinking for me to be able to do my academic work.
My age, responsibilties and  English as a second language always concerns me to limit my ability to learn. Sometimes, I would like to stop and be satisfied. I had my bachelor's degree in the Philippines, finished my LVN at Long Beach City College but with this economy and for my family's sake, I kept on going. I expect this class to change my belief that  there is no limit to learn regardless of what situation you are facing. That I will enjoy reading, think critically and explore my writing ability to best express myself . And lastly, to help me achieve my goal, use it in my profession and my daily struggle in English.