American Argument Culture Ruined?!

Often times, I witness how the media frequently highlights funny or debated aspects of an event. I do not strongly disagree with this because after all, isn't media meant to inform and entertain its audience? However, I do see a problem when the public discusses an event and loses the focus of the argument. A while ago, I read an article that allowed me to see that I am not alone in this observation.

To begin, a few weeks ago during the "free the pot" argument, I found myself sitting on my couch watching some sort of national news channel. The point of the news segment was to figure out how people felt about the legalization of marijuana around the nation. On the news channel, one lady against the legalization felt the need to insult a male who disagreed with her statement. Earlier on in the program, that same male admitted to smoking marijuana on a daily basis. I believe she called him a "crack head" or something of that offensive nature. At this point, everyone involved was trying to get her to apologize for her statement, losing focus of the session's goal. 

The article that I referred to earlier, written by Kelby Carlson of Vanderbilt University, also summarizes an event in which the point of the argument was lost. In the article, "Fighting Words: Why Our Public Discourse Must Change", Carlson refers to the Sandra Fluke and Rush Limbaugh contraceptive argument of early February 2012, in which talk-radio host Rush Limbaugh uses “fighting words” and offensive language towards his opponent, Sandra Fluke, upsetting the public, and taking the focus off of the issue at hand. However, there were a few aspects in that article that I did not agree with.

Carlson suggests that advancements in technology and social media have led to this decline in public discussion practices and the culture of argument. Although I agree with this main claim, I believe that he should have added more pieces to his article that would further reveal and impact his argument, such as an example of what he believes an effective argument would look like and a more complex counterargument than the fact that social media can be positive in some cases.

Lastly, Carlson seems to aim his argument towards people in the public eye of America. Even though I agree with getting public figures involved in this renewal of argument culture, I believe that everyone in the world should be "focusing on concrete issues and ways to solve them", as Carlson suggests for public figures in America.

Overall, ignoring his missing elements, I see the potential that Carlson's article had to effect and persuade readers. Nevertheless, I believe that Carlson's article inspires individuals, including myself, to reflect on their social media habits. It also allows for readers to wonder if public discussion is in "shambles" as Carlson discusses, and if they are causing its possible decline.

HEY, ALL YOU PEOPLE!

Dear Friend,

I want to start off by letting you know, I am okay. I have arrived at my destination safely. In fact, I feel great. I am excited for this journey. So far, I have seen and done great things. The kind of stuff you only see on television. The kind of stuff that you'd never believe to be real. On the contrary, these things are unbelievably real. As a child, I dreamt of this experience. At that time, I wish that I knew that I would one day experience this wonder. 

It all began yesterday. I was hungry and I found this restaurant. The establishment is great. It has this sort of underwater theme going on. The cashier even stands in a boat. Today I came back to get more. I am actually waiting to meeting the creator of this extraordinary creation. I heard that he is kind of a square, but that's alright.
I actually just purchased another one. It's so good! I kind of just want to shout, "HEY ALL YOU PEOPLE! HEY ALL YOU PEOPLE!  HEY ALL YOU PEOPLE, WON'T YOU LISTEN TO ME???!" I just had a sandwich; No ordinary sandwich! A SANDWICH, FILLED WITH JELLYFISH JELLY! I can not wait until you meet me here because, YOU'VE GOT TO TRY THIS SANDWICH; IT'S NO ORDINARY SANDWICH! IT'S THE TASTIEST SANDWICH IN THE SEA!

Be Open-Minded (#ITSBEENALONGDAY)

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Although the book that we are reading incorporates multiple elements of gothicism, I find actions to be the most effective in inflicting horror, mystery, and supernatural aspects. The book does set the atmosphere and setting with very descriptive details, such as the scene where the author sets the tone for the bringing to life of the monster. Another instance where the author paints the scene for the readers would be the part of the book where Victor seeks solitude and locations that he enjoyed as an adolescent to distract him from his sorrow, such as his trip to Chammounix. However, no matter how discriptive, as a reader, I am not strongly effected. Mary Shelley also includes supernatural aspects such as the monster. Nevertheless, because I am aware that supernatural aspects do not exist in the real world, I do not find it to be an effective aspect in gothicism writing. As a result, I find actions to be an essential aspect because they indicate situations and feelings that could occur in everyday life, allowing for the reader to relate and be inflicted with what Mary Shelley tried to get across. For example, Victor's reactions when he met the monster after believing that he was the cause for the death of two individuals close to him. This scene was realistic, visual, and intense, creating high emotion and suspense for the reader. 

Goosebumbs...

Mary Shelley opens the novel Frankenstein with four letters. In these letters, Robert Walton, an explorer on a journey to unknown lands in the north, is writing to his sister, Margaret Saville about his journey. Throughout the letters, Mary Shelley provides background, mystery, and suspense. She also foreshadows and introduces characters, such as the stranger that readers will later see as the main character of the story, Victor Frankenstein. By doing so, the author introduces the main character in an uncommon way, creating an interesting and captivating prelude to the story. If I had to write a ghost story, I would be very creative, just as Mary Shelley was. I would make sure to begin it in a way that is very uncommon, as well. I would want to captivate readers and create an uneasy feeling right at the beginning of the story. I would do so by beginning with something that could be terrifying and that most can relate to. In this way, I would make it seem as if it were based on a true story. This would provide a realistic and horrific feeling for the reader. Therefore, allowing for the ultimate enjoyment throughout the rest of the story. Beginning the story in such a realistic but unexpected way, I would hope to create a very eerie, visual, and hair raising experience for the readers. 

What Did I Get Myself Into?!

One thing that I hope to do on my Spring Break is to actually relax. Unfortunately, I will not be having a genuine Spring Break. This is resulting from the many responsibilities I have taken. It also is resulting from the fact that LCCC's Spring Break was weeks before Early College's. During the college's Spring Break, I still had to attend my high school courses. Now that Early College is on Spring Break, I have to attend my college courses. For example, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays I have microbiology research lab. Although, I always have research lab, regardless of my school schedule. Even on breaks, such as summer vacation. I will also be going to Columbus on Friday for an American Society for Microbiology convention to present the research that I work on in Dr. Kestler's lab. On Tuesday, I  will have to attend my HIV and field production class. On Thursday, I have my field production class, again. That means that on every day of the week, I will have to give up my free time. On top of my busy schedule, I have piles of homework to complete. My life is a struggle, but I 

know it will pay off in the future. I rather have all of these responsibilities my sophomore year of high school than in my junior or senior year. In those years, I am determined to relax and flow through with ease. 

The Possibilities

If I had to choose between the ability to fly or the ability to turn invisible, I would choose to have the ability to turn invisible. I would not choose to have the ability to fly because I am afraid of heights and falling. Only being able to fly 10 mph would also be annoying and useless. However, the ability to fly would be an experience. On the other hand, I would want the ability to turn invisible for the simple fact that I could do multiple things without others knowing. I could use the ability for good or evil. Although for the most part, I would refrain from commiting crimes. For example, I could find out what is really occurring in Area 51. I could scare my siblings. I could sneak into the front row of concerts that I attend without security knowing. I could dance around people without them knowing. I could annoy my family. I could see what people say about me. I could hide when my mom wants me to do something. I could sneak backstage. I could attend confidential meetings. I could possibly meet Beyoncé. I could mess with random people. I could be on stage with celebrities without them knowing. I could get out of trouble easier. I could also do favors for others. Even though I would not want to, I could even be an assassin, secret agent, or ninja. From scaring people to finding out the unknown, the ability to turn invisible would allow me to do almost anything. 

If I could not control when I would turn invisible, I would still want the ability because some of the possibilities are worth the trouble of getting caught. 

I would also not let anyone know of my abilities. 

Depressed

It was the summer of 2012. My favorite boy group was going on their first major, headlining tour. The day that the tickets went on sale was a very depressing day. Unfortunately, the group was not coming to Ohio for this tour. My friends and I were devastated. We were strongly looking forward to the tour. We saved our money and we planned our outfits to be given the news that the tour would not be making it to our town. That was when we began to plot. We knew that they would be performing in Detroit because they had a large fanbase there. Detroit is also close to Ohio. The drive wouldn't have been bad. So we begged our parents to take us. My parents said no because of previous obligations. However, my friend's grandmother offered to take us. After pleading with my mom for days, she finally promised that I would be able to go. I was ecstatic. I was about to leave my family for the first time. My friend and I planned to meet up with other fans that we knew from social media. This was going to be the time of our lives. Little did I know, my mother only said yes because she planned on traveling to Detroit as well, without me knowing. Sadly, something came up, restricting my mother from following me to Detroit. Therefore, she revoked my clearance for the trip. For weeks, I was devastated and crying. All I would see on social media was images and videos of the concert and how much individuals were enjoying. My family thought I was depressed. Eventually, I got over it, but I will never forget how I missed out on such an amazing opportunity. 

Side note: The group is on tour again and I have front row seats!!! 

Desperate Times Call for Desperate Measures

It happened just the other day. I was leaving school around six in the afternoon. My mom picked me up from the parking lot outside of the University Partnership building. We then stopped to get gas. Next, we arrived home. I was hungry so I decided to put a mini Tony's Pizza in the oven. The box that the pizza came in had already been thrown away, so I did not know what temperature to preheat my oven to. I ended up preheating the oven to 425 degrees after my pizza had already been sitting in there for a few minutes. I set the timer for 10 minutes. When the ten minutes were up, I opened the oven door to find that the pizza was not cooking evenly. I decided that I was going to rotate it. I got a fork from a drawer and attempted to rotate the pizza. Being the clumsy person that I am, I dropped the fork inside the stove and it landed under an electric burner. I panicked, attempting to pick up the fork with an oven glove, but I could not quite reach it. The electric burner also started to spark. I was terrified, but I did not want to scare my family. I seriously considered using my hand to get the fork. I ended up finding a random scissor looking utensil with ends that grip things to retrieve the fork. 

Looking back on the situation, I did not handle the situation in smartest way. Although, I am glad that I did not burn my house down or lose my cooking privileges. The pizza also turned out to be very delicious. 

Trust Me!

Being a teenage girl,  I am often boy crazy. I also spend a good amount of time watching television. As a result, I was exposed to an actor named Charles Michael Davis. He is a 29 year old actor and model from Dayton, Ohio. He is very attractive. I discovered him on a relatively new show, The Originals, a spin-off of The Vampire Diaries. On the show, he plays as one of the main characters that goes by the name of Marcel. However, I was not the only one to discover this gorgeous man when the premiere episode aired. Discussing the show with my close friend, Taylor, I learned that she also found him attractive. That was when I knew that I had to call 'dibs'. Although, when I did so, Taylor found the opportunity to do so, as well. We then went back and forth, explaining reasons why he would choose one of us. Again, being a teenage girl, this is what we do. As a result of  his never ending amount of exquisiteness and perfection, Taylor and I tend to have this discussion very frequently. Nevertheless, we all know that if we were to meet Charles Michael Davis, he would pick me. TRUST ME!

Aspiration Paragraph

My struggle and accomplishments previously mentioned have greatly influenced my aspirations. For example, I aspire to counteract my struggles and to continue along the path of my previous achievements. I also hope that by doing so, I will be ready for junior year as well as college. I know that I can complete these goals by staying self-motivated and confident, ending my habit of procrastination, and keeping my organizational methods.

Flying Colors...

I am always nervous for tests. Exams, tests, and quizzes give me anxiety, in general. Whether I am prepared or not does not affect my nerves. As for the OGT, I feel the least prepared for the science OGT. My reasoning has nothing to do with Mr. Jaworski because he has been an awesome teacher. I am nervous about the science OGT because there is so much content to remember and recall. The OGT could include subjects from elementary school, and subjects that I do not ever recall learning. I am also nervous about Social Studies for the same reason. Again, it has nothing to do with my teacher; there is just so much content that could be put into the test. However, I believe that my feelings that I am unprepared stem from my confidence. As a result, I am nervous about those two subjects. When it comes to the other subjects, I am nervous about the simple fact that they are tests that determine my future. Although, I am not afraid of the content. I have never struggled when it comes to language arts and I know that with the amount of time we have to complete the test, I can figure out a large majority of the math. In order to feel these same feelings about the previous tests I mentioned that I was the least prepared for I need to develop a stronger confidence in my academic abilities. Regardless of my high grades, my confidence varies. In order to change these feelings, I need to make sure that I get a lot of practice in the subjects whether it be from OGT workbooks, OGT websites, or just reading more material. I believe that it all boils down to relaxing and not allowing the stress to get in the way. In the end, I am an intelligent girl and I know that I will pass the tests with flying colors.

So Thankful...

I very rarely win contests or competitions, but one contest or competition that I won was the presidential election for my sophomore class this year. I ran for vice president with a close friend of mine, India Worthy. Surprisingly, India and I ended up in the bottom two. We were so excited and happy. At first, we ran for fun, but when we won the preliminary elections we realized that we really wanted to win. Not only did we want the positions for a nice addition to our resumes for college, but for the greater good of our class. For instance, I find that because we are in early college we miss out on some of our high school milestones. I have also noticed that our class is relatively close and enjoys being around one another. I also recalled some of the things my peers wished we had. As we ran, India and I kept these observations in mind. Even though we brought in treats, I believe that we won out of popularity. I am not insinuating that India and I are popular. I am just aware of the fact that the majority of our class knew us and knew that we both smart, kind, and caring. I have been told. I believe that as a result, our peers thought we were great candidates for the positions. I am so proud, excited, and ecstatic to have won, and I can not wait to begin making things happen for the new year. I am so thankful for all of my peers that voted for us. We will not disappoint. If any of my peers read this and there are any suggestions or requests for something REASONABLE, please let India and I know.

The Most Influential or Entertaining Part of the JC Presentation was....

To be honest, I am not able to pinpoint a particular influential or entertaining moment of the Johnny Cupcake presentation. This is a result of my overall satisfaction with the whole event.

To begin, Johnny's childhood was influential for many reasons. First, Johnny faced obstacles such as a learning disability, family issues, and friends involved with drugs. Despite these impediments, Johnny still prospered and did not allow them to affect him negatively. Instead, he took advantage.

Another aspect of the presentation that influenced me was Johnny's sayings and quotes. All of his quotes pertained to being happy in life. One thing in particular that Johnny stated was that time is very valuable. Johnny also indicated aspects in becoming successful through teamwork and pursuing what a person loves and what makes them happy. He demonstrates these habits in his everyday life as well as his past. From the time that he pursued music to owning his million dollar business, Johnny signifies consistency, teamwork, time management, risk taking, and more.

I also enjoyed how Johnny not only got his message across but entertained his audience. A concluding moment where I began to genuinely understand Johnny was when he explained that he could be paying much less and saving money on packaging. Johnnny refused to do so to ensure the positive experience he strives for, for his customers. This spoke to me because I always stress that its not about the money.

In all, the Johnny Cupcake presentation opened my eyes and inspired me in so many ways. From Johnny's creativity to his overall message, this presentation influences me to practice better time management, to go for what I enjoy and what makes me happy, and to take educated risks. Lastly, I recognized a reoccurring theme in my life in the Johnny Cupcake presentation: to collaborate with others and not try to do everything on my own. I will always remember the showcase as well as the positive character that is, Johnny Cupcake.

(this is really not my best piece of writing. I can not seem to word it right and indicate what I'm trying to say....)

Quitters Never Prosper

One habit that I dislike about myself is my habit of quitting. It is a very bad habit to posses and it holds me back from multiple opportunities. 

I am not sure why I have no problem partaking in this habit in the moment. Although, I usually regret the action later. I also tend to dwell on things for years, so this habit becomes very unhealthy, as well. 

It usually begins with me being interested in an activity or hobby. I then try it out or attend one meeting. When I am met with a challenge, I suddenly have the urge to discontinue. Next, I contemplate my options and their consequences, in my head. Often times I choose to quit over my other options, resulting in this reoccurring process. 

For years, until I try again or conquer that challenge, I will have a feeling of regret and remorse that stresses and strains me. My family then gives me a lecture and pep talk. This usually motivates me to try again but I usually end up doing something completely different, continuing this habit. 

I believe that there is a deeper reasoning for this horrible habit. Maybe I lack the confidence or the motivation. I am not sure. Although, I am sure about a phrase I always hear as a result of this unfortunate

habit-quitters never prosper. 

Music=Life

Music is an important aspect of my life for several reasons. For example, music not only relaxes me, but it helps me concentrate, humbles me, and aids in my relation to others. In addition, music also provides an outlet for myself and my peers to express ourselves and distribute our thoughts, views, opinions, and experiences. Overall, music unites individuals in a positive way.

To begin, when I am stressed out from school, friendships, and life in general, I can listen to music to improve my mood. In correspondence, music helps me relax and concentrate when completing tasks such as school assignments and chores. It brings me to a very positive and happy place.

Through music, individuals can share their experiences and thoughts. Listening to different songs is a humbling experience for me. In addition to my previously stated reasons, music allows me to step into someone else's shoes and know how they felt in that situation. It queues memories as well.

Also, as a form of entertainment, music brings people together whether it is through attending a concert, sharing a favorite artist, dance, song, instruments, and more. As a result, music has aided me in various aspects of life from making friends to keeping my sanity. Therefore, music is my life.

#younggetmoney

Although I am a Five Star Stunna, if money was no object, many aspects of my life would be different. My future plans, goals, dreams, and my present life would differ the most. For example, I would want to apply a large majority of my interests to my occupation if money was no object. The platform that would allow me do so is a website known as Youtube. 

First, I would invest my money that I earn into quality cameras, lenses, lighting, and sound equipment. This would  allow me to create quality Youtube videos in which I could share my interests, talents, thoughts, and my overall life. I would strive to teach, inform, and most importantly: entertain. Being apart of the Youtube community would open opportunities for me to travel, meet and interact with new people, act, and express myself. 

Most likely, I would make vlog style videos allowing me to have creative freedom. Eventually, I hope to become an inspiration and role model to many young individuals in society just as the current Youtubers do for me. I could use this platform for a positive outcome as well, such as donating to charity and other worthy causes. Ultimately, my goal would be to put all of my money and time into making someone's day better when they watch a video of mine. 

The Hobby of A Five Star Stunna

   I have had multiple hobbies such as making youtube videos, collecting rocks, collecting nail polish, singing, and dance. Although, I have kept up with very few of these hobbies as a result of my habit of quitting activities. However, one hobby that I have always upheld is "Simming".

   "Simming" is a term used to describe the play of Sims, which is a PC video game. The video game is updated every few years, and it allows the player to make multiple characters and conduct their lives.

   I began this hobby around the age of five. I collected each expansion and stuff pack for the orginal "The Sims" game. Throughout the years, I have begun to purchase almost every expansion and stuff pack, excluding the few that I did not wish to add to my game. Upkeeping this hobby is very pricey. With each base game starting at $50, I can not imagine how much I have spent purchasing Sims merchandise.

   As of now, I barely have time to play like I used to. During the summers and weekends, I play the Sims for hours on end. Recently, I have been playing The Sims 3. The Sims 3 is the latest Sims base game released by Electronic Arts and Maxis, the creators of the entire Sims franchise. Because I have not had the time to play the video game, I am behind on purchasing the latest expansion and stuff packs. However, there is only one other expansion pack that I wish to purchase for this base game: The Sims 3 Seasons.

  Even though I have most likely spend hundreds of dollars purchasing Sims games, I do not regret the hobby. I have fun playing and turning friends and family into "Simmers", as well. I will definitely be purchasing the newest Sims, "The Sims 4", regardless of its price, on the day it release early next year. I am proud to say that this is the one of the hobbies that I have continued.

Below is the launch trailer for The Sims 4, a Sims game anticipated for early next year. It is still in the process of being created.

Meeting The Original Five Star Stunnas

   I am a firm believer of the idea that everything happens for a reason. As a result, I do not have an urge to change anything that has previously occurred in my life. Although, if I had to, I would change the day I met Mindless Behavior. Even though I enjoyed that day, with better preparation I would have enjoyed the experience more.

   Mindless Behavior is a group of four teenage boys that produce pop and R&B music. I was-and still am- crazy about them. When I found out they were having a meet and greet in Cleveland, I quickly purchased my admission, days before the event. 

  On the day of the meet and greet, I did not attend school in order to have my hair freshly done. In addition to my appearance, I had on a very cute but not very warm outfit. I refused to wear my winter coat, and I instead wore a fall jacket. This was only the beginning of my regrets. We ended up waiting outside in the winter cold for hours. It was so cold that my fingers were numb when I finally got inside. As a result, the first thing I would change would be my attire if I could go back to that day.

   In addition to my unfortunate preparation, I did not plan what I was going to say to each member. I ended up forgetting to wish two of the members who had recent birthdays, a happy birthday. I also forgot to introduce myself to them. All I could muster to say was "I love you", most likely with a dazed expression on my face. I am sure that I looked like a definite fangirl. To finish it off, when I exited the building, I screamed of excitement and happiness. I am positive that Mindless Behavior heard it. Going back to that day, I would also make sure to sound like the educated, logical human being I am. I would also introduce myself so that the member of Mindless Behavior that remembers most fans, would remember me the next time he saw me.

   If I could make the changes I previously mentioned, I would have a greater benefit from that experience. Although, reminiscing to that day, my actions are now comical but still a little embarrassing. Regardless of my unfortunate experience, I enjoyed myself in that moment, which was all that mattered. Now that I think about it, I am glad that they did not remember me the next time I saw them.

A picture my chauffeur snuck...(I am not in this picture)

Me after the event...LITERALLY

A Five Star Stunna Can Not Simply Value One Person

I value almost everyone I encounter in life, for many different reasons. Other than my mother, one person I greatly value would be my older sister, Mia. She has taught me so much, both intentionally and unintentionally.

To begin, Mia is a loving, hilarious, hard working, intelligent, and annoying person. As we were growing up, I looked up to her tremendously. She was always gorgeous, smart, brave, and loved by those who genuinely knew her. She is also athletic, daring, social, ambitious, caring, and exceeds academically. Everyone that has been graced by Mia's presence knows she has absolutely no problem confronting others. As a result, I still look up to her today.

In addition to what was previously stated, Mia has shown how confident, determined, and brave she is by graduating from high school, with no interruption, regardless of her unplanned pregnancy at the age of 17. She did not let the birth of my beautiful niece effect her negatively. Instead, she has become a loving, fun, and protective mother. Recently, Mia has graduated from Bowling Green State University with her Bachelor's degree at the age of 21, making her one of the first to do so in our family. She has now been accepted into a program that will lead her to achieving her goal of becoming a midwife.

Throughout the years, Mia has been one of the best older siblings anyone could ask for. I am so privileged to have her as not only my older sister, but my confidant, walking diary, personal tutor, protector, entertainer, chauffeur, and most importantly - my best friend. I can only hope that I can be as great of an older sister and role model for our younger sisters.