Who I Am

I am a 25 year old mother of two boys ages 5 and 6. My husband and I are expecting one on the way! I have been with my husband for the last 10 years and married for about 7 of those years. Having children and marriage started at a very early stage of my life. I was 19. But thankfully, it was one of the best things that could ever have happened. I finally had the chance to find my way out of homemaking to become a full time college student and prepare a future for my family. I was blessed to have graduating become a nurse. Now my next challenge in life, besides welcoming number 3 into our lives and home, is to find my way through college once again to eventually earn a Registered Nurse license.

Life was not always easy as it is never easy for most. My past growing up is not something I dwell on, but positive things most certainly can come from the most negative times in one’s life. I am proud to have grown into who I am today. I have a loving family that provided me with great motivation.

At 3 years of age I began to grow without a father. Daddy took off to never return. My brother and I had a wonderful stepfather for seven years who happily accepted us to raise as his own children. Unfortunately marriages do not last, so we lost the only father we ever knew. Of course there were several other stepfathers along the way. I felt sympathy for my baby brother because I knew there to be a void in his life that needed to be filled. There was no support from a father to his son. Life at home became harder and my grandmother accepted me and that is where I stayed until marriage. Of all the things to be thankful for in my lifetime, my grandmother would definitely be at the top of the list other than my beautiful family. I often wonder what would have happened if not for her. I believe things happen for a reason. We all have our destinies and at any given time we can change for the best or worst.

Growing up in private school was never the easiest task as a small child. Home life and school were two different worlds. I would do anything from eating the teacher’s sandwich in kindergarten to writing on a child’s jacket with a marker in the first grade. The paddle was always my closest friend. Since we were always moving constantly, I was finally able to transfer to a public school while in the fourth grade. I got bullied sometimes around the sixth grade; either from an eighth grader or this big red headed chick that had just moved in the neighborhood. It wasn’t just the fear of having to meet at the same bus stop every morning with the red head and any given moment she’s in my face; the worst of it all was not having a parent do anything about it. So finally I had enough courage to talk with my grandmother and that’s where it all began to change for the best.

Having gone through so much in life, it provided a guide for my future. I never had any intentions of dropping out of school and making babies. Thankfully I had enough intuition to pursue college. There were only 8 of us out of originally 30 students who graduated from the nursing program. It was the most challenging time in life other than giving birth. But I will never regret any second of it.

I try my best everyday to not take life for granted. Sometimes life is moving at such a rapid pace that it can be quite easy to forget what matters most and the things in life that we are most thankful for. I know we tend to remember all we had when it is gone and lost. I try and make the absolute best of my days. My family knows I love them and I thank God for them every single day. They make me who I am today; they are my inspiration in life.

Alligator River Tragedy

Prompt: The Alligator River Story

Abigail rated a 5. She is the kind of woman that only deserved a hateful and disrespectful mate in life. To belittle yourself and give your body away not out of love but as a sexual favor is very sad. She has no respect for herself so she couldn’t quite possibly respect another. Then to be ignorant and not understand why someone who loves her dearly would be saddened and angry that she could throw herself at another so carelessly. Those who do not have self respect do not understand why those closest to them are hurt when betrayed and deceived by the ones who love them the most. How could she enjoy watching someone go through pain and suffering that was intentionally caused? Abigail was the source of this event. It never would have taken place if not for her. And why even mention the actions she chose? It didn’t sound as if she were trying to deviate from her previous engagement.

Slug rated a 4. He is a bully that needs his @*! kicked. He isn’t any better off that Abigail. I think it is foolish for a man to fight a woman’s battle, especially when there are always two sides to every story. He was a bully to make a good impression.

Poor Sinbad rated a 3. How pathetic to be so desperate. We cannot be quick to judge when it comes to certain men. Woman sometimes claim that men do not always think with their brains : ) Sinbad is scum…bottom line. Once again there is no self respect and definitely none for women. It is sad when you have to make bargains in order to receive comfort from others.

Ivan rated a 2. He was definitely one of the smartest individuals in this story. He stayed out of it. Although he and Abigail were friends, he didn’t appear to want to lend a helping hand. Perhaps he knew only trouble would come from the situation. It seemed his friend was always up to nothing good.

Lastly, Gregory rated a 1. He had an innocent heart. Of course being betrayed from the one he loves would cause him to be outraged. Although he pushed her away, he was sad to do so. He seemed to care for her greatly, otherwise, he would have shown no reaction to her doings.

My Metaphysical Assumption

Prompt: Metaphysical Assumptions

My Metaphysical Assumption is that God created our planet and us human beings. Not because of an explanation of our existence, but rather from evidence. In the bible information was documented. Some perhaps do not believe in the bible due to religion purposes. Just the same as those who do not believe in God. Man was created in such a way that every human being would have their own individual personality; personalities that collide to create the future of Earth. It was and is up to man to determine the outcome of our futures.

When something fails, we learn and move on whether from our mistake or another’s. For example, where does organization come from? I don’t believe there has to be one particular source. It was how man was created. We learn to adapt within our societies. We understand what works and what doesn’t. We learn to solve problems. Ontology is the theory of being in itself. It starts with elementary actions that are the building blocks of our vision of reality that remain undefined. My assumption is that they will never be defined due to man’s ideas and creations.

Then we have Cosmology. I think Cosmology is more “proof” than that of Ontology. We use science to define the origin and structures of our universe. Our world has scientists who invent and create and then there are groups who merge together as the “whole”, such as, researchers finding a cure. We don’t have to necessarily come up with a concept as to why it is the way it is. Complex organizations during evolution include DNA, atoms and cells. Man is created; society’s forms then cultures are adapted. Our individual personalities come together and create the “whole”. Lifestyles are passed from generation to generation while with each new generation a new idea takes place and therefore a new custom is adapted.

We all have created our own pattern of beliefs. The origin from that of which we acquired from our ancestors or patterns that changed to fit our individual lifestyle. We develop traits and characteristics that explain who we are; just the same as having created a blueprint of our life.

"The love of one's country is a splendid thing. But why should love stop at the border?"-Pablo Casals

Prompt: America as Empire?


In Mailers text, he wrote a question asked by Eric Alterman in The Nation, regarding the war in Iraq: What if America ends up alienating the whole world in the process? Bush responded: “At some point, we may be the only one’s left. That’s okay with me. We are America.” (72-73) Mailer also used a statement from Robert Byrd who said:

I truly must question the judgment of any President who can say that a massive unprovoked military attack on a nation which is over 50 percent children is “in the highest moral traditions of our country.” Our challenge is to now find a graceful way out of the box of our own making. Perhaps there is still a way if we allow more time.

That comment from Bush felt very derogatory when speaking of our world as a whole. He basically said, dam the rest of the world as long as we are left standing. I related that comment to the way our society is today. Discrimination and racism are among the greatest contributions to our communities. We are to be in this world and come together as one, and to support, learn from and respect one another. It seems to be discrimination when there are those who choose not to fight and to then turn your back and alienate them from our country; especially those countries that rely on our aid in order for their survival. I also took it that our president was somewhat intimidating when he made the comment that he did. We on the other hand, also rely on others for our own survival needs. I respected the war and still do. Especially for our loved ones risking their lives to serve and protect.

For anyone with or without children, there is no question that Robert Byrd’s statement doesn’t leave you with a heavy heart. Where is the morality when our President can so casually remark that going into battle is the highest moral tradition of our country? It’s not a moral tradition….it’s war! Yes it is moral to stand and fight for the freedom of your country, but the morality of the Iraqi war is slowly fading. Finding a graceful way out of the box of our own making….I don’t see that happening before Bush’s presidency is up.

Not all countries in this world will be like America. Thank God for our freedom and the peace that we share and dwell upon. As for our President, don’t use our military forces to satisfy your ego and claim “CEO” of another country.

Building An Empire........Really?

Prompt: Why Are We at War Blog


It’s not that I don’t like politics; I just don’t understand the majority of politics and what it all really means. Sometimes, I think, what’s the point of it all anyway? Will my beliefs or anyone else’s really change anything? As I read Why Are We at War, I came across an interesting passage: The push behind the war with Iraq is because our president has the desire to take over the world. Um……….Really?

In part II, Mailer stated that Bush wants a huge military presence in the Middle East as a stepping-stone to taking over the rest of the world. Mailer also claimed that Bush believes that this country is the only hope for the world and the only solution for our dissolute society, is to strive for world empire.

My argument is that Bush did what he thought was right for our country. First of all, bin Laden was thought to be linked with Saddam. And, if I’m correct, I thought our country was to capture both monsters and bring them to justice. Instead, we found one, but the other has support from his country keeping him well hidden among the caves. I can’t imagine being President during such an attack on our country. What is he to do….nothing? A massive murder took thousands of innocent lives. Something had to be done. Saddam was killing prior to 9/11. It was unfortunate that he had to pay for being a cold-blooded murderer to his own people post 9/11, rather than years earlier; however, thankfully for Iraq justice finally came. Although I truly don’t believe that they will ever have true peace among their homes and lives.

I can somewhat understand and agree with the statement that Bush believes our country to be the only hope for the world. Because of our freedom and independence, we are a vital resource to our neighboring continents around the globe. I don’t think Bush stated that in a way to imply his need for an empire. And I certainly can’t relate putting military forces overseas for his own gratification. We have established military bases in such countries to provide security and re-enforcements to our men and women who are fighting for our country.

Kate's Advantage

Prompt: Kate's Conundrum

To be a social worker is to do just that. You make a commitment to serve those throughout the community who are less fortunate than most; and without such support they would not survive. Who are we judge why people end up the way they do? Perhaps they were never educated, had children at a very early age and never had the desire to better their life. No matter the cause, people need help. We all need help with some things in life. I’m sure we all have had unexpected situations occur and the last thing we would ever want to go through are others judging us.

It’s not so much growing up in a “poor” home. That’s not a reasonable excuse. Being poor does not make you a bad parent nor does it provide an unstable home. It’s sad when a child has to grow up in a home where education is not supported. There is no path for them to lead down in life; there is no guide to help them along the way.

If in Kate’s shoes, my first response would be directed at the school. What does it mean for our children and our future? What does it mean when an educational facility whose only purpose is to educate the world, turns their backs and condemns our children “uneducable”?

Dealing with an alcoholic as a young teen I know all too well. It’s hard as hell to live sometimes and all you want to do is GET OUT. As Kate, I might relate a probable cause of these children’s positions in life not only due to a family who is illiterate, but also the possibility of abuse. There is a pregnant child, school wants nothing to do with the children and there is an alcoholic father in the picture. Maybe they should be taken from the home altogether. If not, they will have reached a dead end without the hopes of a better tomorrow.

To work beside fellow employees who have derogatory attitudes, who took the vow to serve and help provide a support system to human beings, would deeply trouble me personally. It would bother me, but not to the point of having an effect of how I pursued my decision. Even now, as I’m starting my career in nursing, there are many discouraging individuals whom I have to look over. Their thoughts and opinions will never influence neither my work ethics, nor the support and care that I provide to others.

Yes, the government system is robbed everyday by those who choose to live off of welfare instead of getting a job; which then leads to the increase of taxes and angry Americans. In regards to the situation of this family, one would probably exhibit resentful perceptions. For example, women having children because they know they’ll receive an increased salary at the end of every month or an alcoholic who receives monthly disability checks because they can’t find employment that allows drinking on the job.

Slaying is something you hear of in a third world country; that’s exactly the definition I would use to define this situation. Even though losing my job would be inevitable, I would never forgive myself for an innocent life yet to be born, to be taken without the consent of the mother. The family would be notified of such decisions; it is their right.

"Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

Prompt: Human Rights v. Majority Rule

When asked about this topic I have somewhat of a mixed emotion. I never want to come across as someone who stereotypes or treats others differently just because they are not like me or that I do not share the same beliefs as they do. I do believe that everyone has their own human rights and should be free to express themselves in whatever way makes them who they are or want to be.

To me, it’s rather sad to think that one could not be a school teacher or have the career of their choice based on their sexual preference; however, as a mother of two small children, I have to admit I would feel uneasy knowing my children had a homosexual teacher. Especially for subjects such as physical education; just as I would also feel if I had a young daughter and her PE coach was a heterosexual male. Not all homosexuals mean to harm innocent children as we hear on the news from time to time and in no way am I implying that every homosexual is a child molester, nor would I assume just because of there sexual status.

I believe the gay community to no longer hide their status because they feel as if they should no longer conceal who they are as an individual. I try and put myself in their shoes, how would I feel knowing I had to keep my true identity to myself; practically hiding away from the world. I could never imagine having to go through such an ordeal just to be accepted by mankind.

If we are to discriminate and deny employment of homosexuals, doesn’t that counteract our own human rights? Such as a human rights violation: “A certain race, creed, or group is denied recognition as a person.” Another thought, what about fighting in war? Illegal immigrants are able to fight and when they are killed in battle, they are granted citizenship. But a homosexual is not allowed into the military. When looking up information on gay rights in the military I came across a fact via Yahoo answers: “gays can serve in the armed forces, but not openly. They must conceal their sexuality.” Just the same as gay couples having children; what’s to happen in the future when the child has to explain to the world that they have two mothers or two fathers? As long as the child is presented with a structured home with loving parents, who cares?

"We have some planes. Just stay quiet and you'll be okay."

Prompt: Hijack!

I often wonder….. what if we had the choice on September eleventh two thousand and one….what if we had the choice of our loved ones dying that day or living? What would we have done…? Obviously, we didn’t have an option that day.

While researching our nations’ policies, I came across conflicting statements: (1) Our official U.S. policy states that we are to make no concessions to and strike no deals with terrorists and bring terrorists to justice for their crimes. (2) U.S government will not pay ransom, release prisoners, change its policies, or agree to other acts that might encourage additional terrorism. (3) At the same time, the U.S will use every appropriate resource to gain the safe return of American citizens who are held hostage by terrorists. Then it States: U.S has established counter-terrorism assistance programs to resolve terrorist incidents in a manner that will deny the perpetrators benefiting from their actions.

So, what would our country do? If there ever came a day it was up to me to prevent a plane with innocent people from being destroyed or allowing terrorists to walk free…..there would be no other alternative than to sadly decline the offer. Why save a few hundred to put billions of Americans in danger? And, can you really “negotiate” with terrorists? It’s very sad to think more blood would have to be shed by the hands of terrorists. But at the same time, to give them what they want, they would only learn their tactics to be successful for future catastrophes.

It’s very different to be on the plane rather than somewhere safely on the ground making such a decision; however, a very different perspective came into play when those aboard Flight 93 came to a decision to do something. What that something is, we do not know. They however, did not think in fear. They knew what had happened to the World Trade Center and Pentagon. They were either going to die and do nothing; or die trying to do something.

There comes a time when we have to draw a line between Liberal actions based on personal beliefs and those of conservatives supporting political policies.

Are You Right or Wrong?

Prompt: Right or Wrong?

I personally am a moral relativist. I believe that certain ideas or beliefs can be changed. As far as all moralities are equally good and that all belief systems are true, I agree due to the fact we all came to a decision at some point in life where we chose to become who we wanted to be and what we wanted to believe. Points of views are different and we may protest another’s thoughts or opinions; however, our decisions are what makes us who we are. It builds our character and I truly believe that is what makes us unique and it is to be appreciated whether we agree or disagree.

It was noted that Moral absolutists judge circumstances to be absolute and inarguably immoral regardless of the beliefs and goals of a culture that engages such practices. Some examples were child abuse, death penalty and war. One might look at such a topic and automatically agree them to be immoral.

But we first have to look at the whole picture and not just from our angle. Such as child abuse; well, what do you consider child abuse? Some might say disciplinary actions such as spanking. I disagree. Where it seems immoral to some, it is a moral approach to others. The death penalty; it is viewed as killing another human being and that is immoral any way you look at it. Whereas in my opinion, it is a justifiable cause due to the slaying of an innocent human being that didn’t choose for their life to be taken from their loved ones.

And lastly war, a very touchy subject. Some portray war as it’s pointless and that there is nothing to gain from war. No one anticipates war. We think of our loved ones being sent off to not return. But on the other hand, we go to war for the good of mankind and for the freedom of our country. There are men and women who chose to serve and protect and their families who love and respect them and their decision. War is immoral to many, but the moral thing any soldier can do is to take a stance and fight and serve for the good of humanity. Frederick William Robertson wrote: It is “Undeniable that out of evil comes good – that evil is the resistance in battle, with which good is created and becomes possible.”

Is it right or wrong? Of course there will never be an absolute answer to that question. I believe you are right in choosing your own beliefs and it’s wrong to not follow your instincts and disregard your own thoughts and opinions just because the person next to you disagrees. We are all equally different and we all learn from one another.

The Ugly Duckling

Prompt: Perception

Georgia’s asserted that objective perception is impossible. He believed that the only way to understand something is to experience it and that people cannot truly understand each other because of the problem of varying perceptions. From a nursing standpoint I find this to be very truthful. Then on the other hand as a citizen of this country, I also find it truthful and logic.


Georgia’s also believed that since people have different ideas about the same thing, no conceptual ideas actually exist. The way I perceive his understanding is one in which we all have our own concepts and beliefs in life so therefore an exact correct answer would be impossible. This is why we have our governments in the world. I have to say I am thankful to be in this country; however, certain ideas and decisions that are made within our government greatly affects us and we are to accept them and move on, no matter how much we may disagree or how much we are hurt in the process….ex: (family going into war; OR family being deported taken away from their loved ones due to immigrant status).


Back to the statement above….the only way to understand something is to experience it. Who are we to judge just because someone looks a certain way? Objective perception does seem impossible because we are quick to look at something or someone and automatically make subjective decisions and then those decisions are the objective and that is how we believe an idea to be truthful. As I mentioned earlier, as a nurse I agree very much with Georgia’s thoughts. For example, a patient in pain; we as nurses are not to judge pain regardless of our opinions such as, knowing from a medical standpoint that the patient is a drug user. We are to treat that person as we would anyone. Every effort is to be made to ensure our patient comfort and relief. Cultural beliefs take a part as well. We are not to make decisions about a patient just because of what they believe and trust. Someone may not accept blood because that is their belief. To us it seems ludicrous because we know that the person could possibly die without the transfusion. But if we are to be competent caregivers, then we have to look at other perceptions other than our own.


Socrates argued that knowledge and virtue are so closely related that no human agent ever knowingly does evil: we all invariably do what we believe to be best. Improper conduct, then, can only be a product of our ignorance rather than a symptom of weakness of the will. I find it very interesting when criminals of our time are time lined back to their origin and we then are able to piece together the traits of their doings. For example, being raised through neglect and abuse, then as they grow the world is how they perceived it as a child and that is the only way they understand how to live. No, that does not support the crime or make punishment less severe, it is an insight, a guide to help us understand how someone perceives and makes judgments to do such things.