My Presentation Reaction for 12-2

Patrick had a very good introduction to his essay that grabbed my attention and made me want to listen on and learn more about what he had to say about Hitler. He made his opinion very clear as he used words like "inhumane", "twisted", and "atrocities" to describe Hitler and his actions. This completes the requirement to be argumentative. He successfully stated the other side as well and admitted that Hitler was gifted in his leadership, political, public speaking, and organizational skills. Patrick just needs to complete his thesis, but overall, I was rather impressed with his essay writing skills.

Reaction to my Presentation on 11-30

After I read my essay about the evidence of worldwide leadership achievements of Thomas S. Monson, I received some helpful advice from my professor and my classmates about how to improve it. Alex King offered a compliment that he liked my essay so far and that I had nice points as well as plenty of good examples which I very much appreciated. Professor Silverman said I need to write a proper thesis that will better introduce my stand on the topic in a concise statement. Carly said I could expand more about Monson's achievements outside of the church to support my claim that he has positively affected the world, not just members of the church. She also mentioned that I could have a better introduction instead of just rattling off statistics. Alyssa mentioned a few places where I should move paragraphs to earlier in the essay to help the flow of my essay. I found their criticisms to be valid and I plan on heeding each of them. I know I need more words and sources before my paper is ready to turn in. After my presentation, I felt overwhelmed about all the work I had ahead of me, but this essay counts as the final and I very much prefer an essay to a test.

Hugh Nibley quote

What authority does Hugh Nibley have to say who Jesus thinks are sinners ? None- he should should just focus on his own life instead of saying that religious leaders who are strict and traditional are the worst kind of sinners.

What gets me up in the morning?

Both my parents and I sacrificed a lot to be able to pay for SVU. So I need to go class. If I don't pass, I am wasting time and money. In order to be able to get a good job and help to support my family in the future, I need to gave a degree and act responsibly.

God Bless the Prophet

Thomas S. Monson is an amazing world leader. He has been the prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints since February 2008. He was prepared for his lifetime commitment to service in the church as he was taught by his parents to live the gospel and as he studied its teachings often. His efforts over the years strengthened his relationship with Jesus Christ. He proved to be capable beyond his years because he was called as a bishop at age 22, he was in the stake presidency at age 27, served as a mission president of the Canadian mission at age 31, was called as an apostle at the age of 36, and eventually became prophet at age 80. He was the youngest man called to the quorum of the 12 apostles in 53 years and was 17 years younger than the next youngest member, Gordon B. Hinckley. The tasks put before him at such early periods of life were surely intimidating, but he put his faith in God and was able to fulfill his duties.

His whole life has been dedicated to service and he has helped the members of the church grow immensely. Every April and October since he has been an apostle, he gives one or more speeches in General Conference and admonishes those who listen to strive to live a more virtuous life. As a prophet, he teaches from scripture and revelation from God and warns about the evils and temptations of the world. He tells members what to do in order to be happy and receive exaltation. During the most recent conference he gave an especially inspirational talk, but not in the way he had planned. Towards the end of his talk named “Be an Example and a Light”, his 88-year old body weakened and he was visibly struggling to stand upright. However, he was determined to finish and as he relied heavily on the podium for support, he completed the message he had prepared to give. This was powerful to me because he has truly given up his life to the service of God and all who saw him struggling that early October day witnessed how his old age and hard work over the years are taking a toll on him.

In 2008, the inspirational film “On The Lord’s Errand: The Life Of Thomas S. Monson” was produced which depicts key events and experiences of Monson’s busy life. He was a very likable man and everyone who knew him loved him for his kindness and uplifting personality. He helped people one by one and was sincere to all he came in contact with. His willingness to serve God and and follow the spirit is amazing.

Throughout his ministry in the church, many changes have been made to strengthen its members and help more people world wide. Among them, more opportunities to serve were made possible for young adults when the mission age was lowered, a more interactive church youth curriculum was implemented, 33 new temples have been announced, and major humanitarian efforts for natural disasters in Haiti, Japan, and Thailand have been made. The world has certainly been enriched under the leadership of Thomas S. Monson.

Why does America have so many shootings?

Among developed countries, America has by far the most shootings. This could be attributed to the accessibility of guns. The shooter could be seeking revenge of bullying, have a high exposure to violence, or desire fame. Often the killers have severe mental illnesses or are abusing drugs. For future avoidance of the mass shooting issue, more empathy could be shown toward mental illnesses, effective bully prevention programs could be put in place, and changes could be made in gun policy. Unfortunately, America's society is becoming increasingly violent and narcissistic than ever before. Acceptance of immoral behavior in music, t.v shows, and movies is widespread as well. These flaws in the American culture are factors that cause shootings which would demand a substantial amount of revolution over a period of time and a monumental change of the modern American lifestyle before they were corrected.

It's a Great Day to be Alive

This week I haven't had very much homework for a change, so I have gone to bed at midnight on Monday and at 11 last night. Being well-rested makes it a lot easier to think clearly and have a positive attitude. I think I will try harder to get my homework done early because this feeling is awesome. It actually isn't raining today for the first time in four days, so I took the time to do my hair and wear a nice outfit. I feel so blessed to be here at SVU and to be surrounded by such great people who are helping me to become my best self.