**This is another mini paper written for my Trends and Problems class. It was written sophomore year at PBC***
Classroom management is one of the most essential elements of a successful classroom. There cannot be a well-managed classroom without discipline. Discipline is a way of training students to be able to manage the classroom. Steve Glenn, contributor to eHow, says “Lack of classroom discipline results in academic chaos, low student performance and teacher exhaustion and frustration” (“Importance”).
Many do not realize the sheer importance of discipline. Glenn states in his article, “The Importance of Discipline in the Classroom,” that some of the reasons discipline is important are safety, effectiveness, and lack of distractions (“Importance”). This article is mainly geared to elementary and secondary education, but the preschool teacher can get the same benefits from it as well. Safety is a very important key factor in education. Teachers spend a lot of time in the preschool, like Brenda Hunter (certified preschool teacher) points out in her article, making the students feel secure (“Best Discipline”). They need this or they will not trust the teacher and will not be easily controlled. In order to do that, the teacher has to remain patient and take time to explain the rules and attempt to explain why the rules are there. Hopefully, the student will grasp hold of the concepts and respect and admire the teacher. Effectiveness is also a key factor in preschool. Early Education is essential in building for the future. The concepts taught need to be grasped early on so future teachers can build off of that education. In order to have effectiveness though, the student needs to be trained on how to act. Lastly, lack of distractions is a reason for discipline. This is so easily understood with younger children because they are so easily distracted. Good discipline can help prevent many of the unnecessary distractions. All of these distractions will not be prevented, but a well disciplined and managed classroom will rid the majority of distractions aiding the idea of effectiveness.
There are several articles and books that will not only tell a teacher or teacher-in-training the importance of discipline but also methods of discipline. Brenda Hunter’s article, “Best Discipline Strategies for a Preschool Classroom,” is an excellent example. In this she gives ideas such as time-out, group learning, playtime, positive encouragement, and a set disciplinary policy or plan. She says “a teacher needs to have simple rules with simple consequences” (“Best Discipline”). Her article is one of many that provide great insight to the discipline problems teachers face today.
Some would say disciplining kids is hard nowadays. It can be. There is still a great importance for discipline- safety, effectiveness, limited distractions, and more. There are many books and resources to help in coming up with very effective ways of discipline. There are workshops that one can take to improve their methodologies. Whatever the case, discipline is so important in a classroom whether preschool or college.
Works Cited
Glenn, Steve. “The Importance of Discipline in the Classroom.” eHow.com, 2010. Web. 4October 2010.
Hunter, Brenda. “Best Discipline Strategies for a Preschool Classroom.” Lifestyle: Education, 2009. Web. 4 October 2010.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Thursday, December 16, 2010
State and Local Laws Regarding Preschool Operation
**This is another mini paper written for my Trends and Problems class. It was written sophomore year at PBC***
In order to have a successfully operating pre-school, certain laws and regulations need to be understood and followed. There are several laws the states and counties make in order to make sure children are being kept in safe environments. Most laws are made by the states in accordance with federal laws and the counties make sure these laws are followed through in their law books. Some counties will also add to these laws, but not subtract. Davidson County, North Carolina follows the state guidelines thoroughly. These laws and guidelines are usually checked up on by state and local officials regularly.
In North Carolina there are a few laws that need to be followed. The North Carolina Division of Child Development gives a list of laws needed to be followed by pre-school facilities. The first has to do with transportation- “Child care centers or family child care homes providing transportation for children must meet all motor vehicle laws, including inspection, insurance, license, and restraint requirements. Children may never be left alone in a vehicle and child-staff ratio must be maintained” (“North Carolina”). The second section of laws has to do with record keeping. It seems as though a record needs to be kept for everything- children's attendance, children’s immunizations, children’s emergency phone numbers, and monthly fire drills (“North Carolina”). The next law is that every center or preschool has to have a discipline policy (“North Carolina”). They have to discuss the policy with parents and give them a personal copy when they enroll their child in the school (“North Carolina”). Corporal punishment is prohibited (“North Carolina”). Another law is that child abuse or neglect, if suspected, has to be reported (“North Carolina”). Also, the school must keep in mind parental rights- parents have the right to enter a family child care home or center at any time while their child is present, parents have the right to see the license displayed in a prominent place, and parents have the right to know how their child will be disciplined (“North Carolina”). There are specific laws related to staff members- “The administrator of a child care center must be at least 21, and have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent. Lead teachers in a child care center must be at least 18 and have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent. If administrators and lead teachers do not meet this requirement, they must begin credential coursework within six months of being hired. Staff younger than 18 years of age must work under the direct supervision of staff 21 years of age or older. All staff must complete a minimum number of training hours including ITS-SIDS training for any caregiver that works with infants 12 months of age or younger, and CPR and first aid training. All staff must also undergo a criminal records background check” (“North Carolina”). The staff/child ratios are the following- one to five for zero to one year olds, one to six for one year to two year olds, one to ten for two year olds, one to fifteen for three year olds, one to twenty for four years olds, and one to twenty five for school-age children (“North Carolina”). The maximum number of students is ten zero to one year olds, twelve one to two year olds, twenty two year olds, and twenty-five for three year olds and up (“North Carolina”). Space and equipment are regulated- “To meet licensing requirements, there must be at least 25 square feet per child indoors and 75 square feet per child outdoors. Outdoor play space must be fenced. Indoor equipment must be clean, safe, well maintained, and developmentally appropriate. Outdoor equipment and furnishings must be child size, sturdy, and free of hazards that could injure children” (“North Carolina”). Lastly, there are few health laws such as the food should be nutritional and offered every four hours, and everything in children’s reach should be sanitary (“North Carolina”).
There are many laws and regulations in place in order to run an successful child care center. Sometimes these laws become somewhat of a hassle, but they are needed. In order to keep the children safe there needs to be understood requirements for every center. Laws provide organization and a firm basis for protection. Laws are needful and helpful. Every teacher should know the laws of her country, state, county, and center.
Works Cited
“North Carolina Child Care Law and Rules.” Division of Child Development: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, 2009. Web. 1 September 2010
In order to have a successfully operating pre-school, certain laws and regulations need to be understood and followed. There are several laws the states and counties make in order to make sure children are being kept in safe environments. Most laws are made by the states in accordance with federal laws and the counties make sure these laws are followed through in their law books. Some counties will also add to these laws, but not subtract. Davidson County, North Carolina follows the state guidelines thoroughly. These laws and guidelines are usually checked up on by state and local officials regularly.
In North Carolina there are a few laws that need to be followed. The North Carolina Division of Child Development gives a list of laws needed to be followed by pre-school facilities. The first has to do with transportation- “Child care centers or family child care homes providing transportation for children must meet all motor vehicle laws, including inspection, insurance, license, and restraint requirements. Children may never be left alone in a vehicle and child-staff ratio must be maintained” (“North Carolina”). The second section of laws has to do with record keeping. It seems as though a record needs to be kept for everything- children's attendance, children’s immunizations, children’s emergency phone numbers, and monthly fire drills (“North Carolina”). The next law is that every center or preschool has to have a discipline policy (“North Carolina”). They have to discuss the policy with parents and give them a personal copy when they enroll their child in the school (“North Carolina”). Corporal punishment is prohibited (“North Carolina”). Another law is that child abuse or neglect, if suspected, has to be reported (“North Carolina”). Also, the school must keep in mind parental rights- parents have the right to enter a family child care home or center at any time while their child is present, parents have the right to see the license displayed in a prominent place, and parents have the right to know how their child will be disciplined (“North Carolina”). There are specific laws related to staff members- “The administrator of a child care center must be at least 21, and have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Administration Credential or its equivalent. Lead teachers in a child care center must be at least 18 and have at least a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or its equivalent. If administrators and lead teachers do not meet this requirement, they must begin credential coursework within six months of being hired. Staff younger than 18 years of age must work under the direct supervision of staff 21 years of age or older. All staff must complete a minimum number of training hours including ITS-SIDS training for any caregiver that works with infants 12 months of age or younger, and CPR and first aid training. All staff must also undergo a criminal records background check” (“North Carolina”). The staff/child ratios are the following- one to five for zero to one year olds, one to six for one year to two year olds, one to ten for two year olds, one to fifteen for three year olds, one to twenty for four years olds, and one to twenty five for school-age children (“North Carolina”). The maximum number of students is ten zero to one year olds, twelve one to two year olds, twenty two year olds, and twenty-five for three year olds and up (“North Carolina”). Space and equipment are regulated- “To meet licensing requirements, there must be at least 25 square feet per child indoors and 75 square feet per child outdoors. Outdoor play space must be fenced. Indoor equipment must be clean, safe, well maintained, and developmentally appropriate. Outdoor equipment and furnishings must be child size, sturdy, and free of hazards that could injure children” (“North Carolina”). Lastly, there are few health laws such as the food should be nutritional and offered every four hours, and everything in children’s reach should be sanitary (“North Carolina”).
There are many laws and regulations in place in order to run an successful child care center. Sometimes these laws become somewhat of a hassle, but they are needed. In order to keep the children safe there needs to be understood requirements for every center. Laws provide organization and a firm basis for protection. Laws are needful and helpful. Every teacher should know the laws of her country, state, county, and center.
Works Cited
“North Carolina Child Care Law and Rules.” Division of Child Development: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, 2009. Web. 1 September 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
Parental Involvement
**This is a mini paper I wrote for my Early Childhood Degree. The class was Trends and Problems in EC ED during sophomore year at PBC.**
“I dreamed I stood in a studio and watched two sculptors there, the clay they used was a young child's mind and they finished it with care. One was a teacher; the tools she used were books and music and art; one a parent with a guiding hand and a gentle and loving heart. Day after day, the teacher toiled with a touch that was careful, deft and sure. While the parent labored by her side, and polished and smoothed it o'er” (qtd. Matton). It is important for all to realize that teachers are not the only people responsible for educating children. The parents play a very vital role in a child’s education and this paper will show just that.
Parents are known as the first educators of a child. This is just a common fact. The child is in care of the parent starting from conception. The parent takes time to teach their child to walk and talk. Most do this without really even thinking they have to. It’s just a joy to hear the child say “Momma” or “Dadda” for the first time. A lot of the times, the child learns just by seeing or hearing the parent doing it constantly.
The parent should not stop their involvement in education there, however. They are the ones responsible for choosing the school. A parent should take the time to look at different schools and choose the one they think will best suit their child. This task should not be taken lightly. They should decide what plan to try. This means some schools can do half day programs or whole day programs. The parent needs to know and plan what they want to try with the child when enrolling. Not only the program, but they should also decide if the child is ready or needs to wait. Not all children can start school as early as others. The parent needs to have some semblance of their child’s capabilities.
After choosing the school, the parent should not back off. The parent needs to be there for the child the whole time the child goes through their educational process. The parent, like in Matton’s article, should be there to “polish” what the child is being taught in schools (Matton). Matton also argues that parental involvement starts before school and long after school (Matton). Molly Kreider argues, like many psychologist, that a child whose parents are active in their education do better in school (Kreider). Does this mean the child will be a straight-A student? Of course not, but the child will have a better chance at making the grade if the parent is helping and coaching along.
Now that the importance of involvement is understood, the parent needs to know how to be involved. The main way is through contact with the teacher to see how the child is doing. The main way this done is through parent-teacher conferences. There is also the phone. Parents can call the teacher. The worse thing the teacher can say is, “Sorry, I do not have time to discuss this now.” The other way a parent can be involved is by keeping track with what the child is learning. It can be easier to do this is elementary and up because the child has homework, but the same thing needs to be done in pre-school. Normally the child will be excited about what their learning and want to share if the parent will only listen.
Parental involvement is so vitally important. It helps strengthen a child not only academically but also emotionally. It “polishes” what the teacher is working to teach and it shows the child they are loved. So, parents need to show the child they are loved and be involved in their education. Remember, it takes two sculptors to help shape a strong mind in a child- the teacher and the parent(s). Parents need to be involved.
Works Cited
1. Kreider, Holly. “Getting Parents ‘Ready’ for Kindergarten: The Role of Early Childhood Education.” Harvard Family Reseach Project, April 2002. Web. 13 September 2010.
2. Matton, Kyla. “‘Unity’ of Home & School?” Lifestyle: Parental Involvement in Educating Children, 15 October 2009. Web. 13 September 2010.
“I dreamed I stood in a studio and watched two sculptors there, the clay they used was a young child's mind and they finished it with care. One was a teacher; the tools she used were books and music and art; one a parent with a guiding hand and a gentle and loving heart. Day after day, the teacher toiled with a touch that was careful, deft and sure. While the parent labored by her side, and polished and smoothed it o'er” (qtd. Matton). It is important for all to realize that teachers are not the only people responsible for educating children. The parents play a very vital role in a child’s education and this paper will show just that.
Parents are known as the first educators of a child. This is just a common fact. The child is in care of the parent starting from conception. The parent takes time to teach their child to walk and talk. Most do this without really even thinking they have to. It’s just a joy to hear the child say “Momma” or “Dadda” for the first time. A lot of the times, the child learns just by seeing or hearing the parent doing it constantly.
The parent should not stop their involvement in education there, however. They are the ones responsible for choosing the school. A parent should take the time to look at different schools and choose the one they think will best suit their child. This task should not be taken lightly. They should decide what plan to try. This means some schools can do half day programs or whole day programs. The parent needs to know and plan what they want to try with the child when enrolling. Not only the program, but they should also decide if the child is ready or needs to wait. Not all children can start school as early as others. The parent needs to have some semblance of their child’s capabilities.
After choosing the school, the parent should not back off. The parent needs to be there for the child the whole time the child goes through their educational process. The parent, like in Matton’s article, should be there to “polish” what the child is being taught in schools (Matton). Matton also argues that parental involvement starts before school and long after school (Matton). Molly Kreider argues, like many psychologist, that a child whose parents are active in their education do better in school (Kreider). Does this mean the child will be a straight-A student? Of course not, but the child will have a better chance at making the grade if the parent is helping and coaching along.
Now that the importance of involvement is understood, the parent needs to know how to be involved. The main way is through contact with the teacher to see how the child is doing. The main way this done is through parent-teacher conferences. There is also the phone. Parents can call the teacher. The worse thing the teacher can say is, “Sorry, I do not have time to discuss this now.” The other way a parent can be involved is by keeping track with what the child is learning. It can be easier to do this is elementary and up because the child has homework, but the same thing needs to be done in pre-school. Normally the child will be excited about what their learning and want to share if the parent will only listen.
Parental involvement is so vitally important. It helps strengthen a child not only academically but also emotionally. It “polishes” what the teacher is working to teach and it shows the child they are loved. So, parents need to show the child they are loved and be involved in their education. Remember, it takes two sculptors to help shape a strong mind in a child- the teacher and the parent(s). Parents need to be involved.
Works Cited
1. Kreider, Holly. “Getting Parents ‘Ready’ for Kindergarten: The Role of Early Childhood Education.” Harvard Family Reseach Project, April 2002. Web. 13 September 2010.
2. Matton, Kyla. “‘Unity’ of Home & School?” Lifestyle: Parental Involvement in Educating Children, 15 October 2009. Web. 13 September 2010.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Health and First-Aid Laws
**This is a mini paper I did for Trends and Problems in Early Childhood Education sophomore year at PBC.**
When operating a daycare or a pre-school one of the most important things to be concerned with is keeping the children healthy and safe. In North Carolina, there are a few laws to be noted when it comes to having a law-approved preschool center. The first section of laws is concerning health and the second set is concerning first aid requirements.
When it comes to keeping children healthy there are a few things to keep in mind. First each child kept in the daycare needs to have his/her immunization records up to date and turned in to the office for filing (“North Carolina”). Second, sanitation is very important. Germs are so easily spread so in order to keep them from spreading among all the children everything needs to be sanitized and clean (“North Carolina”). Obviously, when it comes to being healthy, watching what is eaten is very important. Snacks and meals should always be nutritious (“North Carolina”). Portion sizes also need to be monitored so the kids are not being overfed (“North Carolina”). They need to be satisfied, not extremely stuffed. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, “Food must be offered at least once every four hours” (“North Carolina”). Another way to stay healthy is to be active. If weather permits, allow the children time outside to get the “wiggles out” and get some exercise (“North Carolina”). Also, give them “space and time to rest” (“North Carolina”). Lastly, health inspectors need to visit regularly to make sure all standards are up to par to keep the children healthy (“North Carolina”).
Not only is it important to make provisions for keeping the children healthy, but there also needs to be provision made for the “just-in-case” moments. What this means is having a first-aid kit and first aid regulations. According to the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education website, North Carolina defines a first-aid kit as consisting of “a collection of first aid supplies (such as bandages, tweezers, disposable nonporous gloves, micro shield or face mask, liquid soap, cold pack) for treatment of minor injuries or stabilization of major injuries” (“Child Care”). There also needs to be a permission slip for emergency medical care to be administered and contact numbers for an emergency situation on file for each child just like the immunization records (“Child Care”). The center needs to have specifics outlined on what organization, hospital, clinic, doctor, and emergency room just in case an emergency ever arises (“Child Care”). There also needs to be someone designated to accompany the child or accompany the leftover children when one does need to be rushed to the hospital or clinic (“Child Care”).
It is so very important to not only educate children, but to also keep the children healthy and safe. An education is a very good thing to have but if they are not kept healthy and safe the education will be pointless. All organizations devoted to child care should have these ideas in mind.
Works Cited
1. “Child Care Rules.” National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education: North Carolina, 1 August 2010. Web. 2 September 2010. 2. “North Carolina Child Care Law and Rules.” Division of Child Development: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, 2009. Web. 1 September 2010.
When operating a daycare or a pre-school one of the most important things to be concerned with is keeping the children healthy and safe. In North Carolina, there are a few laws to be noted when it comes to having a law-approved preschool center. The first section of laws is concerning health and the second set is concerning first aid requirements.
When it comes to keeping children healthy there are a few things to keep in mind. First each child kept in the daycare needs to have his/her immunization records up to date and turned in to the office for filing (“North Carolina”). Second, sanitation is very important. Germs are so easily spread so in order to keep them from spreading among all the children everything needs to be sanitized and clean (“North Carolina”). Obviously, when it comes to being healthy, watching what is eaten is very important. Snacks and meals should always be nutritious (“North Carolina”). Portion sizes also need to be monitored so the kids are not being overfed (“North Carolina”). They need to be satisfied, not extremely stuffed. According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, “Food must be offered at least once every four hours” (“North Carolina”). Another way to stay healthy is to be active. If weather permits, allow the children time outside to get the “wiggles out” and get some exercise (“North Carolina”). Also, give them “space and time to rest” (“North Carolina”). Lastly, health inspectors need to visit regularly to make sure all standards are up to par to keep the children healthy (“North Carolina”).
Not only is it important to make provisions for keeping the children healthy, but there also needs to be provision made for the “just-in-case” moments. What this means is having a first-aid kit and first aid regulations. According to the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education website, North Carolina defines a first-aid kit as consisting of “a collection of first aid supplies (such as bandages, tweezers, disposable nonporous gloves, micro shield or face mask, liquid soap, cold pack) for treatment of minor injuries or stabilization of major injuries” (“Child Care”). There also needs to be a permission slip for emergency medical care to be administered and contact numbers for an emergency situation on file for each child just like the immunization records (“Child Care”). The center needs to have specifics outlined on what organization, hospital, clinic, doctor, and emergency room just in case an emergency ever arises (“Child Care”). There also needs to be someone designated to accompany the child or accompany the leftover children when one does need to be rushed to the hospital or clinic (“Child Care”).
It is so very important to not only educate children, but to also keep the children healthy and safe. An education is a very good thing to have but if they are not kept healthy and safe the education will be pointless. All organizations devoted to child care should have these ideas in mind.
Works Cited
1. “Child Care Rules.” National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education: North Carolina, 1 August 2010. Web. 2 September 2010. 2. “North Carolina Child Care Law and Rules.” Division of Child Development: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, 2009. Web. 1 September 2010.
Monday, December 6, 2010
“Comparisons of Satirical Writings- the Nun’s Priests Tale and Gulliver’s Travels”
**This is an essay I wrote for my final exam in British Literature my sophomore year at PBC**
Sometimes it is easier to release all anger and frustration by poking fun of the persons or ideals in writing. Satire is the term for this idea. A writer who is angered or frustrated or just simply picking at a person, group of persons, or an ideal composes a writing in which he makes fun of the subject. There are two tales in particular that are indeed satires written for one reason or another. They are the Nun’s Priests Tale and Gulliver’s Travels.
Both of these writings have very interesting similar literary techniques. Both of these stories are allegories- using animals or descriptions of people to illustrate ideas or other people. The difference between the two is how exactly that they use this technique. The Nun’s Priests Tale uses animals to describe types of people. Chanticleer is a rooster representing a persona of someone who is big and brooding, Pertelote represents the wise partner, and the fox represents someone who is sly and deceitful. In Gulliver’s Travels, Lilliput represents England and Blefuscu represents France. Epic simile, comparing two things that are extraordinary comparisons to be making, is also seen in both of these stories. The NPT compares people to animals. Gulliver’s Travels compares miniature people and their issues to Great Britain. Another issue of epic convention seen in both stories is the fact that both stories are told by a speaker within the story. The Priest from Canterbury Tales tells the story of Chanticleer, and Gulliver is telling the stories of his travels.
Not only are these two stories similar in literary technique, but they are also similar in their styles of satire. There are five styles of satire that one can use to describe a selection- direct, indirect, ironic, Horatian, and Juvenalian. Direct has the idea that the writer reveals in the writing the subject of the satire. Neither story, NPT or Gulliver’s Travels does this. Indirect is where the satire is communicated through characters. Both stories do this. However, is there more to it than communication through characters? Ironic satire uses exaggeration, understatement, and is indirect. Both stories exaggerate in their comparisons. Both are indirect. The glitch, the NPT seem to bring to light the issue, not mask it. The NPT explains the moral at the end of the story. Gulliver’s Travels, however, is a little more discreet about the issue, but does it really reflect it is of little importance? No. It uses grand comparisons leading to more direct light instead of belittling. The next type of satire is Horatian, poking fun for fun. Neither story is this type of satire. Lastly, Juvenalian satire is sharp, biting. It shows the anger and intensity. Both stories seem to do this. They deal with the issues by giving harsh, exaggerated comparisons. So, both stories are indirect, Juvenalian satires.
Satire can be an interesting literary technique to examine in different texts. The symbolisms and attacks used can make this a fun experiment. These two stories are excellent stories to observe to see the examples of two Juvenalian satires. Satire, a way of releasing anger, can be seen as a good laugh or a good learning experience for a future reader. NPT and Gulliver’s Travels are just two great satirical writings.
Sometimes it is easier to release all anger and frustration by poking fun of the persons or ideals in writing. Satire is the term for this idea. A writer who is angered or frustrated or just simply picking at a person, group of persons, or an ideal composes a writing in which he makes fun of the subject. There are two tales in particular that are indeed satires written for one reason or another. They are the Nun’s Priests Tale and Gulliver’s Travels.
Both of these writings have very interesting similar literary techniques. Both of these stories are allegories- using animals or descriptions of people to illustrate ideas or other people. The difference between the two is how exactly that they use this technique. The Nun’s Priests Tale uses animals to describe types of people. Chanticleer is a rooster representing a persona of someone who is big and brooding, Pertelote represents the wise partner, and the fox represents someone who is sly and deceitful. In Gulliver’s Travels, Lilliput represents England and Blefuscu represents France. Epic simile, comparing two things that are extraordinary comparisons to be making, is also seen in both of these stories. The NPT compares people to animals. Gulliver’s Travels compares miniature people and their issues to Great Britain. Another issue of epic convention seen in both stories is the fact that both stories are told by a speaker within the story. The Priest from Canterbury Tales tells the story of Chanticleer, and Gulliver is telling the stories of his travels.
Not only are these two stories similar in literary technique, but they are also similar in their styles of satire. There are five styles of satire that one can use to describe a selection- direct, indirect, ironic, Horatian, and Juvenalian. Direct has the idea that the writer reveals in the writing the subject of the satire. Neither story, NPT or Gulliver’s Travels does this. Indirect is where the satire is communicated through characters. Both stories do this. However, is there more to it than communication through characters? Ironic satire uses exaggeration, understatement, and is indirect. Both stories exaggerate in their comparisons. Both are indirect. The glitch, the NPT seem to bring to light the issue, not mask it. The NPT explains the moral at the end of the story. Gulliver’s Travels, however, is a little more discreet about the issue, but does it really reflect it is of little importance? No. It uses grand comparisons leading to more direct light instead of belittling. The next type of satire is Horatian, poking fun for fun. Neither story is this type of satire. Lastly, Juvenalian satire is sharp, biting. It shows the anger and intensity. Both stories seem to do this. They deal with the issues by giving harsh, exaggerated comparisons. So, both stories are indirect, Juvenalian satires.
Satire can be an interesting literary technique to examine in different texts. The symbolisms and attacks used can make this a fun experiment. These two stories are excellent stories to observe to see the examples of two Juvenalian satires. Satire, a way of releasing anger, can be seen as a good laugh or a good learning experience for a future reader. NPT and Gulliver’s Travels are just two great satirical writings.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
A Summary and Interpretation of Hamlet, by William Shakespeare
**This is another paper I did for school. This was written for British Lit my sophomore year at PBC.**
Summary. Hamlet is a tragic play composed in the years 1600 or early 1601, and published in the year 1603 (Spencer 307). Shakespeare opens the play with an immediate introduction to a ghostly figure stalking the palace grounds of Denmark. The ghost is the late King of Denmark. With numerous failed attempts of getting the ghost to speak, the men witnessing this sight wonder about the meaning of this visitation.
The ghost, the late king, is Hamlet’s father. When the apparition appears it had been two months since his death. At this same point, Hamlet’s uncle, Claudius, marries the widowed queen. When Hamlet’s father died, Claudius took over the throne. Hamlet is found among his uncle, his mother, and a group of courtiers in the next scene of the play. The newly crowned king and Hamlet’s mother are convincing him to stay in Denmark instead of returning to school in Wittenburg. The reader gets a sense of Hamlet’s true feelings about the marriage once the crowd exits. He is troubled by his uncle and mother’s marriage, and refers to the union as incest (Ham.1.2.).
Hamlet’s thoughts are interrupted with the entrance of the men who witnessed the ghost’s appearance. The men then reveal information about the ghostly sightings to the young prince. When Hamlet hears about the apparition, he decides to confront it himself. He believes that this appearing of his father is a sign of bad things- “My father’s spirit in arms! All is not well; / I doubt some foul play: would the night were come! / Til then sit still, my soul: foul deeds will rise, / Though all the earth o’erwhelm them, to men’s eyes” (Ham.1.2.). It is in this confrontation that the ghost reveals to Hamlet’s ears that he was murdered by King Claudius- “Thus was I, sleeping, by a brother’s hand, / Of life, of crown, or queen, at once dispatched” (1.4.). Thus begins the main plot of Hamlet.
Throughout the rest of the story Hamlet fakes madness contemplating how and when would be best to kill his uncle who committed the murder. All believe he has gone mad. Ophelia, Hamlet’s love, is badly mistreated in the midst of his plot. He tells her- “You should have not believ’d [sic] me; for virtue cannot so inoculate / our old stock but we shall relish of it: I loved you not” (Ham.3.1.). He also tells her to go join a convent to refrain from marrying with the traitorous men of Denmark (3.1.). His fits lead him to conduct a play causing the conviction of his uncle. He also accidentally murders a man when confronting his mom about the incestuous, deceitful relationship between her and his uncle. Is it genius or really madness?
In the end, the theme of tragedy becomes a reality. Hamlet escapes death at the hands of his uncle by condemning two other men, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, to their deaths instead of taking the blade himself. Polonius, Ophelia and Laertes’ father, was the man Hamlet accidentally killed in his fit. Ophelia then goes mad and accidentally kills herself in her insanity. Laertes returns to mourn his father’s death and ends up mourning his sister’s as well. He finds out Hamlet is the cause and challenges him to a duel. Hamlet’s uncle plots with Laertes on how to make the duel a permanent loss for Hamlet. This plot goes extremely wrong, however. The king plots to poison Hamlet by drink. Unfortunately, the queen drinks instead and agonizingly dies. Laertes dips the tip of his weapon in poison saying, “I will do’t [sic]: / And for that purpose I’ll anoint my sword. / I bought an unction of a mountebank / So mortal that, but dip a knife in it, / Where it draws blood no cataplasm so rare, / Collected from all simples that have virtue / Under the moon, can save the thing from death / that is but scratched withal. I’ll touch my point / With this contagion, that if I gall him slightly / It may be death” (Ham.4.7.). He does cut Hamlet to infect him, but a sudden twist of events causes Hamlet to also cut Laertes with the same sword. Laertes before breathing his last breath confesses the plot to Hamlet: “It is here, Hamlet. Hamlet, thou art slain; / No medicine in the world can do thee good; / In thee there is not half an hour of life. / The treacherous instrument is in thy hand, / Unbated and envenomed. The foul practice / Hath turned itself on me; lo, here I lie, / Never to rise again: Thy mother’s poisoned: / I can no more:-- the king, the king’s to blame” (5.2.). Before Hamlet dies, he takes his revenge by stabbing his uncle with the poisoned sword and forcefully causing him to drink the rest of the poison drink. Thus ends Shakespeare’s great tragedy- Hamlet.
Interpretation. Hamlet is indeed a great tragedy written by the hand of one of the greatest authors that ever lived. Spencer says "No comparable work of art has been so much discussed as this tragedy" (305). One would readily admit the greatness of this work. Shakespeare reveals the ideal of tragedy by utilizing and illustrating five main themes- the supernatural, revenge, madness, conscience, and divine providence. These various themes keep the reader interested in every scene.
The play begins with an air of tragedy by utilizing the theme of the supernatural. It begins gloomily with the quick introduction of a ghostly figure stalking the grounds of Denmark. The night is cold and dark. There is a slight fog rolling in. The ghost appears. He slowly and gloomily walks around the ground. The men spot him. He won’t talk- just stares. These images from the first scene so well decorate the rest of the play in tragedy. It is gloomy and dark. The supernatural world is at work. “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark” (Ham.1.4.).
The next utilization of theme to reveal tragedy is the theme of revenge. Hamlet is known as a revenge tragedy. The whole play centers on a Prince’s plot to avenge his father’s death. Hamlet is fulfilling his “sacred duty” to his father but plotting vengeance on his uncle as the ghost reveals in the beginning (Spencer 314). Revenge is the whole center of the play. Hamlet, as seen in another one of the plays themes, feigns madness in order to distract from his plotting revenge. His conscience, another theme, helps display the true purpose of the young prince- revenge. The whole entire play is the story of revenge for a death of a most beloved king and father.
Madness is another theme Shakespeare utilizes for his tragic air. The way Shakespeare uses this madness gives the air of tragedy. He has Hamlet fake madness in order to disguise the plot of revenge commanded by the ghost. Hamlet’s “madness” sends him to scare the people he loves- Ophelia and his Mother. Ophelia is mistreated in a fit. She is put out to trap Hamlet and he yells and rants about how he does not love her. His mother gets the brunt of Hamlet’s feigned madness in a confrontation in her bed chamber. He does inform his mother it is a fake madness, but the damage is already done. One, however, is assumed to not fall for his fake madness. Holzknecht claims Claudius did not accept the idea of madness. “Claudius and Polonius, in hiding, watch the encounter between Hamlet and Ophelia, with the result that Claudius is convinced that love is no cause of Hamlet's melancholy. He evens doubts that it is madness At all, scents danger to himself, and resolves that "madness in great ones must not unwatch'd go” (Holzknecht 334). Ophelia too goes mad, but her madness is not faked. She loses all her senses when her father dies by the hand of Hamlet. Her insanity leads her to death. Madness is used to severely hurt people emotionally and physically. Therefore, the theme of madness is an aid to tragedy.
The next theme to reveal tragedy is that of conscience. Conscience seems to be the undoing of the whole plot of both Hamlet and Claudius. Hamlet is uncertain about the ghost’s real message. He cannot kill his uncle if the ghost is really a demon. Spencer and Joseph point out the belief in demonic possession of humans and recently dead spirits during the time period of Hamlet (Spencer 315 and Joseph 32-35). He uses the play “Mousetrap” to catch the true conscience of the king. Joseph does an excellent job in showing this idea in his book, Conscience and the King. He argues the play is to catch the conscience of the king (Joseph 74). That is exactly what Hamlet does. The king’s conscience is also revealed in the midst of the play. He goes in a fit during the play showing his uneasiness. The next scene, Claudius is seen praying because of his guilt of his brother’s murder. He does indeed have a conscience. This is also where Hamlet hesitates taking his revenge because of Claudius’ prayers. Spencer says, “The Prince postpones his vengeance, not because he is weak, but because he is strong enough to wait till he can make it complete" (Spencer 315). The belief was that when one prayed and confessed they were clean and could go to heaven, but if the person was not confessed at the time of murder then he would go to hell (Spencer 315). Holzkneck claims that the play gives away each of the men’s secrets to the other (Holzknecht 335). Because Hamlet was successful in revealing the king’s conscience, his revenge was put off. Because Hamlet was too outright in the play’s design, the king now knows Hamlet’s mind.
The last theme in the outworking of tragedy is that of divine providence. The idea of divine providence is that each character gets what he deserves. Revenge is achieved and punishment is dealt. Hamlet plots during the whole play to conduct revenge against his uncle’s sin of murder. In order for this to be achieved, Hamlet has to kill his uncle but also ends up killing another man. Therefore, in the end he not only achieves his purpose in punishing his uncle, but he is too punished by Laertes. The queen gets her seeming punishment by also losing her life. Lastly, Laertes in his sinful plot dies as his punishment. So, another tragic event- everyone dies per divine providence. Something was at work to make this whole scene occur. Could it be God? Is His hand somehow at work? Whether Shakespeare was revealing God’s hand in this play or not is uncertain, but what is certain is each character seems to get a punishment of death.
Hamlet is a great play of tragedy. It has the supernatural, revenge, madness, conscience, and divine providence. The air of tragedy is all throughout the play thanks to the wise hand of William Shakespeare. It seems Spencer is correct in his reasoning’s of Hamlet’s popularity. He says- “this play has everything” (306). One of the greatest authors of all time created a masterpiece in his great revenge tragedy, Hamlet.
Works Cited
Spencer, Hazelton The Art and Life of William Shakespeare. New York: Harcourt, Brace and Company, 1940. Print.
Joseph, Bertram. Conscience and the King. London: Chatto and Windus, 1953. Print.
Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Lexington: Cricket House Books, 2010. Print.
Holzknecht, Karl J. The Backgrounds of Shakespeare's Plays. New York: America Book Company, 1950. Print.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
The Millennial Kingdom
**This is my research paper I did for Biblical Interpretation 2 my sophomore year at PBC.**
The thought of Christ being in rule on earth is amazing. Even more amazing is the thought that all nations will know and understand who He is. Is it really possible that Phillipians 2:10-11 would come true? “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:10-11). The Jews were offered this kingdom at another point in time, but they rejected it. This time will not be rejected when it comes to the dispensation of the Millennial Kingdom. This is the period of time in which Christ will rule on earth for one thousand years. Dr. Keith Bailey, a pastor and the editor of Christian Publications, calls this time period- “the most blessed age in human history” (Bailey 146 ).
Before one can discuss anything about a specific dispensation, one needs to understand introductory ideas on dispensationalism. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie, best-selling author of many theological books, gives excellent descriptions and definitions of dispensationalism in his book. Dispensationalism is the adherence to a literal hermeneutic or interpretation of the Bible, the separation of Church and Israel, and the doxological purpose of scripture (Ryrie 45-48). One of the key features in dispensationalism is the idea of different dispensations or ages throughout time (29-30). Each of these seven dispensations is classified by a test, failure, and a judgment (39-41). For example, the test in the beginning was to not eat of the fruit. The failure was the eating of that fruit. The judgment was expulsion from the garden (59). Each and every dispensation holds to this pattern. If a period in question does not have these three ingredients, then it is not a dispensation. The seven dispensations most dispensationalists hold to are innocence, conscience, patriarchal rule, human government, Mosaic law, grace, and kingdom (58-65). The kingdom is indeed the 1,000 year reign of Christ (64-65).
There are many different views about the Millennial Kingdom and the aspects of this time period. Dr. Bailey points this ideal out in his book, Christ’s Coming and His Kingdom. He also takes the time to mention at least two views. One view is the Amillenialist view which he describes as the belief that the current church age is the millennium. The other is the common view and it is that the millennium is a thousand years that will take place after Christ’s second coming (Bailey 146). The latter view is what most dispensationalists would hold to. It is believed that the Millennial Kingdom will start after the Battle of Armageddon (Bailey 145-46). Revelation 20:1 says, “And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled:” (Rev. 20:1-3a).” This shows two key aspects of the Millennium. First, that Satan will be bound at the start of the Millennium which chapter nineteen says is the end of the battle- “And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh” (Rev. 19:21). It also shows what will happen at the end of the millennium- the loosing of Satan. The verse goes on to say- “and after that he must be loosed a little season” (Rev. 20:3b). Bailey says, “This [loosening] will test the profession of man” (Bailey 164). Another key aspect of the Millennium is that many will come to know Christ which Bailey alludes to in this quote. He also goes on to state this ideal (Bailey 164). A fourth key aspect of the Millennium is that Christians will be ruling with Christ during this time (Bailey 154). Bailey uses Revelation 5:9-10 to prove this ideal (Bailey 154). Lastly, an aspect of the Millennium is that this time of peace and ruling of Christ will be done through Jerusalem as the capital (Otis 59). In conclusion, Ryrie attest to the test, failure, and judgment of this age. The test is will God’s people accept and remain faithful. The failure is that some will still refuse him. The judgment is the Great White Throne preceding this time (Ryrie 64-65).
Many could attest to the Millennium as being a favorite dispensation. A lot could hold to the aspects mentioned before as contributors. The main reason is because many will come to know Christ because of his holy presence on earth. Otis, founder of a Christian ministry known as High Adventure Ministries, reiterates the acceptance of the kingdom and king by the Jews in his book (Otis 81-83). The fact that the hard-heartened Jews will accept Him seems amazing. The other fact that hard-heartened Gentiles also come to accept the Lord is also amazing. One could look at the world today and find this impossible- that’s what makes this ideal so amazing! Another reason this period could be a favorite is that there is so much uncertainty about this time period. Otis says, “It is a strange paradox that enlightened man, even at the turn of this millennium is so poorly informed about this looming age” (Otis 26). He gives a solution that many seem to fail to heed and even one who does heed could still be left with confusion because one does not take the time to really research the ideals. He says to simply look to God for the unknown (Otis 35-36). He states- “The Bible authenticates itself” (Otis 37). One could still be left with uncertainty, however. The key fact to remember is that there are some things one will never know until God directly reveals it. One final factor could be that this is indeed the last dispensation. There may be some that this ideal causing fascination and favoritism. After this dispensation, God’s creation can finally live at peace with Him as was his original purpose.
The Millennium is a fascinating time period. It is a dispensation where Christ will finally be in rule and where Revelation 20 will come true. There will be an end to the cycle of dispensations for this is the last dispensation. The ones who will accept Christ will finally accept Him and those that still reject will be cast off to their judgment. There may be confusion in dealing with this period but one thing is certain- it is a time looked to with great anticipation.
Works Cited
Bailey, Keith M. Christ’s Coming and His Kingdom. Pennsylvania: Christian Publications, 1999. Print.
KJV Reference Bible. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994. Print.
Otis, George Sr. Millenium: The 1000 Year Reign of King Jesus. Oklahoma: Albury Publishing, 2000. Print.
Ryrie, Charles C. Dispensationalism. Chicago: Moody Publishers, 1977. Print.
The thought of Christ being in rule on earth is amazing. Even more amazing is the thought that all nations will know and understand who He is. Is it really possible that Phillipians 2:10-11 would come true? “That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:10-11). The Jews were offered this kingdom at another point in time, but they rejected it. This time will not be rejected when it comes to the dispensation of the Millennial Kingdom. This is the period of time in which Christ will rule on earth for one thousand years. Dr. Keith Bailey, a pastor and the editor of Christian Publications, calls this time period- “the most blessed age in human history” (Bailey 146 ).
Before one can discuss anything about a specific dispensation, one needs to understand introductory ideas on dispensationalism. Dr. Charles C. Ryrie, best-selling author of many theological books, gives excellent descriptions and definitions of dispensationalism in his book. Dispensationalism is the adherence to a literal hermeneutic or interpretation of the Bible, the separation of Church and Israel, and the doxological purpose of scripture (Ryrie 45-48). One of the key features in dispensationalism is the idea of different dispensations or ages throughout time (29-30). Each of these seven dispensations is classified by a test, failure, and a judgment (39-41). For example, the test in the beginning was to not eat of the fruit. The failure was the eating of that fruit. The judgment was expulsion from the garden (59). Each and every dispensation holds to this pattern. If a period in question does not have these three ingredients, then it is not a dispensation. The seven dispensations most dispensationalists hold to are innocence, conscience, patriarchal rule, human government, Mosaic law, grace, and kingdom (58-65). The kingdom is indeed the 1,000 year reign of Christ (64-65).
There are many different views about the Millennial Kingdom and the aspects of this time period. Dr. Bailey points this ideal out in his book, Christ’s Coming and His Kingdom. He also takes the time to mention at least two views. One view is the Amillenialist view which he describes as the belief that the current church age is the millennium. The other is the common view and it is that the millennium is a thousand years that will take place after Christ’s second coming (Bailey 146). The latter view is what most dispensationalists would hold to. It is believed that the Millennial Kingdom will start after the Battle of Armageddon (Bailey 145-46). Revelation 20:1 says, “And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, and cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled:” (Rev. 20:1-3a).” This shows two key aspects of the Millennium. First, that Satan will be bound at the start of the Millennium which chapter nineteen says is the end of the battle- “And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh” (Rev. 19:21). It also shows what will happen at the end of the millennium- the loosing of Satan. The verse goes on to say- “and after that he must be loosed a little season” (Rev. 20:3b). Bailey says, “This [loosening] will test the profession of man” (Bailey 164). Another key aspect of the Millennium is that many will come to know Christ which Bailey alludes to in this quote. He also goes on to state this ideal (Bailey 164). A fourth key aspect of the Millennium is that Christians will be ruling with Christ during this time (Bailey 154). Bailey uses Revelation 5:9-10 to prove this ideal (Bailey 154). Lastly, an aspect of the Millennium is that this time of peace and ruling of Christ will be done through Jerusalem as the capital (Otis 59). In conclusion, Ryrie attest to the test, failure, and judgment of this age. The test is will God’s people accept and remain faithful. The failure is that some will still refuse him. The judgment is the Great White Throne preceding this time (Ryrie 64-65).
Many could attest to the Millennium as being a favorite dispensation. A lot could hold to the aspects mentioned before as contributors. The main reason is because many will come to know Christ because of his holy presence on earth. Otis, founder of a Christian ministry known as High Adventure Ministries, reiterates the acceptance of the kingdom and king by the Jews in his book (Otis 81-83). The fact that the hard-heartened Jews will accept Him seems amazing. The other fact that hard-heartened Gentiles also come to accept the Lord is also amazing. One could look at the world today and find this impossible- that’s what makes this ideal so amazing! Another reason this period could be a favorite is that there is so much uncertainty about this time period. Otis says, “It is a strange paradox that enlightened man, even at the turn of this millennium is so poorly informed about this looming age” (Otis 26). He gives a solution that many seem to fail to heed and even one who does heed could still be left with confusion because one does not take the time to really research the ideals. He says to simply look to God for the unknown (Otis 35-36). He states- “The Bible authenticates itself” (Otis 37). One could still be left with uncertainty, however. The key fact to remember is that there are some things one will never know until God directly reveals it. One final factor could be that this is indeed the last dispensation. There may be some that this ideal causing fascination and favoritism. After this dispensation, God’s creation can finally live at peace with Him as was his original purpose.
The Millennium is a fascinating time period. It is a dispensation where Christ will finally be in rule and where Revelation 20 will come true. There will be an end to the cycle of dispensations for this is the last dispensation. The ones who will accept Christ will finally accept Him and those that still reject will be cast off to their judgment. There may be confusion in dealing with this period but one thing is certain- it is a time looked to with great anticipation.
Works Cited
Bailey, Keith M. Christ’s Coming and His Kingdom. Pennsylvania: Christian Publications, 1999. Print.
KJV Reference Bible. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994. Print.
Otis, George Sr. Millenium: The 1000 Year Reign of King Jesus. Oklahoma: Albury Publishing, 2000. Print.
Ryrie, Charles C. Dispensationalism. Chicago: Moody Publishers, 1977. Print.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Getting Old
I joke constantly that I am old or getting old. I just celebrated my 20th birthday. Wow. I feel old. LoL. In all reality, 20 is not old. It's quite young, actually. I have purpose in my funny expressions, though. All I have to do is look around my church and "man! i'm old!" I see kids I taught or held as babies and preschoolers that are beginning their teenage years! What is this world coming to? LoL. It's amazing to think that people I was friends with or was associated with now have three year old kids. Time is an amazing thing. I also look down and see my brother who is only five years younger than me getting to drive and thinking logically. Wow. I can look back and start saying, "When I was a kid..." It amazes me. It makes me laugh. It makes me say things like I'm old when really I'm only 20. I love it. Now, although I can look and see all these people and events and say I'm old, I can also look ahead and say- "I'm young!" In reality, there is so much more I haven't been through. There are more lessons to learn, more kids to see grow up, more experiences to go through, and more heartache to face. I may have already experienced alot but it's not over. There is so much more. I am in fact just getting older. There are people that look at me and think I am dumb because they have been through so much more. I think I'm old now- let's look back in 20 more years and see what I think then. LoL. I love getting older. I love being "old" and look forward to getting to be "old."
Monday, November 1, 2010
Storms
Storms are all different. Some are sudden, some are short, some are long, and some are barelyrecognizable. You can have multiple storms at thesame time. Anything can be a storm to you. Confused?I'm not talking about weather storms. I'm talking about "Christian" storms. These are the times where a Christian's faith and loyalty are tested. I hate storms. More than the storm itself, I hate when I fail. I'm going through a couple of storms right now, but one is about to be my undoing. It's a five-year storm. I don't care anymore it seems. I'm tired of rollar coasters. I want to be right with God at all times. Thing is- this is impossible. My storm is helping drives these ideas along to where- i'm in Bible college, but there's no benefit. I'm not letting it benefit me. I came here to grow. I'm not. I want to be a good Christian- on my way to heaven, witnessing, doing right, and training to lead others. I'm so far from that. I know I'm a Christian. The Bible says, "Whosoever shall call upon the name ofthe Lord, shall be saved." I've done that. Thoughmy actions cause doubt- I've called, therefore I'm saved. Next problem- I don't feel saved. I know I love because I couldn't not love him and hate disappointing him. It wouldn't make sense. Just likeI hate hurting Matt because I love him. My idea is I hate hurting and I hate hurting him. I don't deserve his help and even if he does help me and I change it won't be for long- what is the point? My error- it is worse to be at odds with him my whole life than slipping up every once in a while. At the end, if I am at odds then I've done nothing for him with right motivations. If I strive to do right, and slip up- I'm just human. I need to get right with my Lord. I need to strive to serve him. Until I'm right with him, my storm will just get worse. I will continue to fail, continue to hurt, and continue to hurt others. Storms are torture, but a life apart from Him is far worse.
"I was sure by now God you would have reached down And wiped our tears away Stepped in and saved the day But once again, I say “Amen”, and it’s still raining
As the thunder rollsI barely hear Your whisper through the rain“I’m with you” And as You mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives And takes away
I’ll praise You in this storm And I will life my hands For You are who You are No matter where I am Every tear I’ve cried You hold in Your hand You never left my side And though my heart is torn I will praise You in this storm
I remember when I stumbled in the wind You heard my cry You raised me up again My strength is almost gone How can I carry on If I can’t find You
As the thunder rolls I barely hear You whisper through the rain“I’m with you” And as Your mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives And takes away
I lift my eyes unto the hills Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord The Maker of Heaven and Earth" (Praise You in this Storm- Casting Crowns)
"I was sure by now God you would have reached down And wiped our tears away Stepped in and saved the day But once again, I say “Amen”, and it’s still raining
As the thunder rollsI barely hear Your whisper through the rain“I’m with you” And as You mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives And takes away
I’ll praise You in this storm And I will life my hands For You are who You are No matter where I am Every tear I’ve cried You hold in Your hand You never left my side And though my heart is torn I will praise You in this storm
I remember when I stumbled in the wind You heard my cry You raised me up again My strength is almost gone How can I carry on If I can’t find You
As the thunder rolls I barely hear You whisper through the rain“I’m with you” And as Your mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives And takes away
I lift my eyes unto the hills Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord The Maker of Heaven and Earth" (Praise You in this Storm- Casting Crowns)
Thursday, October 14, 2010
WoL Testimony
this is a testimony i typed out for the Word of Life Ministry...
Word of Life has had such an impact on my life. God has used this program to mold and shape desires in me. My name is Kristina. I grew up for the most part of my life participating in Patch the Pirate Programs. In my fifth grade year my church decided they wanted to make a switch to the Word of Life Program. I was devastated. I loved the program we were already doing. For the first two years, I didn’t allow myself to enjoy the program. Once I entered the teens, however, this frame of mind changed. I loved Word of Life. I especially loved the Teens Involved Ministry. I have always loved competition and this gave me a chance to compete in areas outside of school. I was involved in each category I could be- drama, puppets, piano, poetry, choir, and eventually teaching. I had always wanted to be a teacher and Word of Life helped me begin building towards that goal and I saw I had a talent for it. I loved it. I am currently training at Piedmont Baptist College in Winston-Salem, NC. You’ll never guess what my major is—elementary education! I am going to be a teacher. This is not all, however. My youth pastor left in the middle of my senior year. I continued to participate in Teens Involved, but I, in effect, left the youth group to begin ministering in the gopher buddies program of Word of Life. This change also impacted my life. My freshmen year of college I joined back up with the gopher buddies as my ministry. This year was a great experience for me and God opened my eyes to the wonders of preschool age children. I am now, thanks to the Word of Life program, working to gain two degrees in a four year time-span. The first is still a Bachelors in Elementary Education, and the other is an Associates in Early Childhood Education. I accredit this decision to God’s working through the Word of Life ministry. I hope to continue working in this ministry for the rest of my life as I watch “my kids” be impacted for Christ as well.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
My Teaching "Philosophy"
I have mentioned many times my goals and ideas about teaching or being a teacher. My reason for wanting to be a teacher is to inspire kids to make a difference in the world. In that, I can do my part making a difference in the world as well which is one of my main goals in my life. My salutatorian speech in high school was based on our class verse- "And having compassion, making a difference." This is how I look at teaching. I love kids. I am compassionate towards children. I want to make a difference in their lives. I can't prevent everything, but there are some things God can help me to prevent or just to be a help in my students' lives. My idea is to be a Christian school teacher. I have seen so many people come out of a Christian school and I seem to "scratch my head" in wonder at how these kids are the way they are coming out of a Christian school. In the end, it's not the school but the heart of the child. I know I can't change all, but if I can impact the hearts of some I'll feel as though I did accomplish something. I look forward to teaching. My teaching philosophy is simply- Have compassion and make a difference!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Summer '10
Sad to say but in about a week or so I will be heading back off to school. Well, who am I kidding? I'm not going "off" but I will be starting back. So, I wanted to go ahead and do my summer reflection now so that when I get even busier I will have done it still. LoL. Anyways. This summer has been crazy. I figured starting the summer that it would be alot different. I would'nt have that spiritual high like I did at camp those many years past. Well, I did have a spiritual high this summer. The Lord used a sin to get my attention. I will not share specifics because I am still so ashamed and you don't need specifics anyway. Just know that something I did God used in such a marvelous way that I did grow. Now, trick is keeping it up which I have slipped but I know he forgives me and I'm hoping to stay strong enough to do my part hoping my relationship with him will be stronger than ever by the end of first semester. In other words, New Years. I want my new years resolution this year to be, not necessarily to grow (which it will and should always be), but to stay strong. I'm tired of sinking down to the lowest of lows and then making a false resolution to grow. I want to be strong and become stronger instead of a sudden strong and then a sink. IDK if that makes sense and IDK what that has to do with summer. HaHa. Anyways. I have struggled and grown and learned all summer long. Healthwise I dealt with cyst which are still a problem but hopefully all will be ok. Grown as far as spiritual but am starting to slip so hopefully I can halt the slipping and get back to the growing. And learned as far as my job situation. It's been crazy so far financially this summer. My job has been no help and I'm farther away from buying a car than I was last summer. Mostly because I am indeed paying for my own college with a small monthly assistance from my father. It's not enough though, especially when your working 14 hrs a week when you could be pulling 40 hrs. But it's all good. It gave me the push I needed to get my name out to other companies and stores and even the registers..haha. So summer is ending but I want to leave on a positive note. I am trying to grow- PBC is calling. Chapels and multiple more opportunities to hear his word and learn more about Him. I am determined to become what He wants. It's gonna be hard, but I know if I strive to do my part He'll do his and help me. I'll miss the summer, but I look forward to what's ahead in a few wks although it does me, PAPERS!! haha.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
The Cross
I've been thinking here lately- why do we only think about the cross around easter? I was doing some searching for a video that my pastor showed in church a few sundays ago that caught my attention. In all the searching I did most videos about the cross said something along the lines of- "Easter Video". Why is that? Why does the cross just have to pertain to easter? If you're really a Christian the cross pertains to all days of the year! Even if you not a Christian. The cross is not something to just reflect on once a year. Christ went through pain and suffering and torture for us to be able to spend eternity in forgiveness with our Father! Why should such a tremendous deed and act of love be thought of once an entire year! The cross is wonderful, it's mercy, it's forgiveness- it's not just a good thought once a year. I fall into this idea many times of not reflecting on the cross but once a year, but this needs to stop. He died to save us for eternity- why not think about it for eternity? "Oh the wonderful cross, oh the wonderful cross, bids me come and die and find that i may truelly live.." "Blessed redeemer, Precious redeemer, seems now i see him on calvary's tree. wounded and bleeding, for sinners pleading, blind and unheeding, dying for me!"
Thursday, July 15, 2010
The Biggest Mistake
Love is a wonderful thing. So is marriage. Marriage was created by God to be between a man and a woman to be a lasting permanent bond- spiritually, physically, emotional, and every way between. It is not something to enter in lightly believing that if it doesn't work oh well. I'm not the best person to speak on divorce and young love, but I'm not completely ignorant on the subject. Me and Matt have been dating 4 1/2 years. We love each other. It's so hard to be apart. We want to get married. We don't want to wait, but we understand how stupid it would be to get married this young. We have no money, no permanent jobs, no place to live- it is not wise to get married this young. Understand it tears us apart to not be together. We yearn for each others presence and comfort each second we're apart, but it would be stupid to enter in to the bond of marriage with nothing. It's so hard. I cry constantly because it hurst so bad. Thing is, I'd cry more about all the hardships we'll be facing if we were to get married so soon. Don't be surprised though if I do get engaged soon, but don't be expecting a few months later to hear wedding bells. The bells won't be ringing til a few years later. We may be able to afford an engagement but the marriage portion ain't happening yet..lol. So many times young love is heard of and it's wonderful. It's so strong. So surprisingly true at times. Most people shake it off and say it's not possible, but I'm here to say it is. Marriage though, is not a light thing. It's only meant for when you're ready and it's meant to be permanent. It's such a sacred union- please anyone be smart. Don't take marriage lightly!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
July 4th~*
July 4th is a very important holiday to celebrate. Although I do not agree with where this country is going, it is our home. It's hard to turn your back completely on your home, no matter where your ideals lie. This country is not the best in the world. It is turning it's back on God so in my opinion it is doomed, but it's home. I hate the idea of my home being doomed, but it is true. I love this country because it's home. On this day it is important to reflect on those who have died and are continually fighting for the freedoms we hope to continue having. I love and respect all those in our military divisions. I hope and pray that this country can make a drastic turn around so that not only can we be safe, but also our brave, wonderful soldiers. For now all I can say is Happy Independence Day!!!!!!!!Saturday, June 26, 2010
Euthanasia
**research paper from Summer 2010 Christian Ethics Online**
There is always “a time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:2). These times are designated by God, but there are those who seek to become as God and decide for themselves when they or others should meet that end. This idea is known as euthanasia. People argue constantly on whether this idea of euthanasia is ethical or morally sound. There are many opinions and reasons for why these opinions are held. Most Christians would say it is wrong and that it is like “playing God.” Some would say that some types of euthanasia are wrong, but some types are right. Some would say the reasons for euthanasia are what make the idea moral or not. With all this debate the idea needs to be better explained and then shown where God actually stands on this issue.
Euthanasia is commonly understood as deciding when to allow death to come to an individual- whether this is physician-assisted suicide where the individual wants to die or just simply pulling a feeding tube out of a seemingly hopeless patient. Kirby Anderson, famous author and radio personality, had this to say about euthanasia in his book Christian Ethics in Plain Language- “The term euthanasia is derived from the Greek prefix eu- meaning ‘good’ or ‘easy,’ and the Greek noun thanatos, meaning ‘death.’ Critics, however, have said that euthanasia is anything but easy and anything but good” (Anderson 52). Author and orthodox theologian, John Breck, describes euthanasia as “an expression…[that] has lost its original meaning of ‘a good death’” (Breck). He goes on to say that “in current usage, it refers to an unnatural invasion into the life of the patient, the sole purpose of which is to hasten death. When we use that unfortunate expression, we are speaking about active intervention that intends to shorten the patient s life, usually in order to end severe suffering and to short-circuit the stress and distress of the dying process" (Breck). He says that euthanasia is a “way out” for the suffering patient by introducing a foreign substance into the body to quicken the dying process (Breck). “Scholars in heavy tomes and pragmatic lobbyists in state legislatures promote new ways for family and others to find a ‘good death’ for the sufferer,” says Robertson McQuilken, President of Columbia Bible College and Seminary for thirty years, in his book An Introduction to Biblical Ethics (327). Many claim euthanasia is “safe, legal, and rare” (Thomas). In the end, is it really safe? Should it be legal? How rare will it be in a few years? Is God fine with humanity taking death into their own hands?
Before the history of the argument and the biblical argument can be seen, the rest of the euthanasia idea needs to be shown. Meaning there are different types of euthanasia. According to Anderson, it is "crucial to any further debate on euthanasia [to have] a proper definition of the various forms of euthanasia” (Anderson 54). The four types are known as voluntary passive, voluntary active, involuntary passive, and involuntary active (54). Voluntary passive euthanasia refers to when the patient decides he just wants to let “nature run its course” and go off life support (54). This does not mean the physician hastens death (54). It means that the physician meets the patients request by just comforting him as he goes through the dying process (54). This is the type of euthanasia most people have no problem accepting. Voluntary active is considered to be physician-assisted suicide. "With PAS, the physician provides medication that the conscious and presumably competent patient self-administers,” says John Breck (Breck). Voluntary active euthanasia is simply the doctor helping the patient along in speeding up the dying process or dying sooner than destined (Anderson 54). Involuntary passive sounds exactly like it is. The patient cannot volunteer himself to die so the doctor withholds treatment to allow the patient to die (54). Involuntary active is where genocide comes in (54). This type of euthanasia is where the patient cannot volunteer or does not volunteer but the doctor opts to kill the patient by causing the dying process (54). He speeds up death by whatever means not simply allows death by removal (54). The person selected does not always mean someone who is already dying (54). Now that the meaning and types of euthanasia have been discovered, the history of the argument and the Biblical argument can begin.
Now that the idea of euthanasia is better understood, people need to understand that this is not just a new issue as well as the recent history of this issue (Anderson 52). The Greeks debated it, the Pythagoreans opposed it, the Stoics approved of it in hopeless disease, and Plato approved of it in terminal illness (52). England approved of it in 1935 by creating a society to allow it (52). Anderson claims America did the same thing a few years later (52). Derek Humphrey was a man who promoted euthanasia in America through being an author (53). Jack Kevorkian helped Americans and others die with use of his “Mercitron” (53). Anderson points out Kevorkian’s fame starting in 1990 with his assisted suicide of Janet Adkins (53). Michael Betzold, a Detroit Free Press reporter who became personally connected to [Dr. Kevorkian's] story, follows the story of Kevorkian in his book Appointment with Dr. Death. He shows how twisted this man was in his thinking. He was called Dr. Death and was fascinated by death itself (Betzold 3, 7). He would attempt to film people dying so he could know the signs of the exact point of death (7). He told many this was for research to help along medicine, but he admitted it was mostly for interest (7). He conducted experiments on death row convicts, used corpses for blood transfusions, and painted disgusting pictures of cannibalism and death (10, 12, 13). Betzold says that when Kevorkian saw a women suffering immensely with cancer with no hope of recovery just waiting to die, Dr. Death decided "doctor assisted euthanasia and suicide are and always were ethical, no matter what anyone says or knew” (9). Kevorkian successfully helped along the idea of physician-assisted suicide in America. In 1997, the U.S. Supreme Court deemed that states disallowing euthanasia were constitutional ending the argument against those states (Anderson 53). There are many other cases in American History as well as World History having to do with euthanasia. A few other famous American cases are Nancy Cruzan and Terry Schiavo. Nancy Cruzan was a young woman who had a family fighting for the right to have her feeding tube pulled (Colby). She died shortly after (Anderson 53). Her case can be seen in William H. Colby’s book The Long Goodbye. He was one of the lawyers on the Cruzan case. Terry Schiavo is another very controversial case. There are several different ideas about this case. In short, a lady who was assumed to have no hope had her feeding tube removed by her husband. Some say “Terri Schiavo's legal rights were never once violated. The result in the case was so unjust not because the courts ignored the law but because they followed it. The laws of Florida, like those of most states, specifically allow that, in cases like Schiavo's, some people may decide that others ought to die” (Miller). Then others rebuke this by saying, “removing Schiavo s feeding tube was an act of murder by omission, not an act of ‘letting die’” (“Endings”). Either way, this and many other cases prove the outrageous debate over euthanasia throughout all history.
Now that almost all about euthanasia has been observed, the Biblical argument can begin. Many will say, “Christians are hardhearted in not supporting euthanasia” (Gushee). They say this because the person may be in severe pain and Christians opposed allowing their pain to end. David P. Gushee, professor of Christian Ethics, says this view “is wrong” (Gushee). First of all, it depends on which type of euthanasia the person is talking about. If talking about voluntary passive, the view is partially wrong because many Christians would support allowing “nature run it’s course.” Many would say that “[people] should do away with the expression "passive euthanasia," since it refers to an omission that merely allows the dying process to run its course. The patient dies not from active intervention on the part of the medical team, but from the underlying pathology” (Breck). So, this can be considered as just simply death. Death is a normal thing according to Ecclesiastes 12:7. “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it” (Eccl. 12:7). So this type of euthanasia is not really euthanasia. So in this aspect, Christians are still not in favor of euthanasia. If you call this euthanasia, still, then Christians can be in favor of at least one type of euthanasia. The next type is where Christians start really opposing. Voluntary active euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide is where the line is drawn. This is wrong. This is murder. Many people seek suicide because they are suffering and do not want to suffer any more. God says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Is. 55:8-9). God has a reason for everything. Seeking to usurp God’s power by taking death into humanity’s hands is wrong. It is God’s responsibility and choice when someone is to die or go through a trial. He says in Deuteronomy 32:39, “See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither is there any that can deliver out of my hand” (Deut. 32:39). So, this is where Christians are against euthanasia. The last two types of euthanasia, Christians are also against. Involuntary passive and involuntary active euthanasia are wrong. It is not up to humanity when a person dies. Taking any action whether that be passive or active is wrong. Many cases the person in passive euthanasia was not dying in the first place, they were just in a vegetative state. It may seem wrong, but it is even more wrong to usurp God’s authority on death. The Bible says, “Thou shalt not kill” (Ex. 20:13). "Killing others deliberately, whatever the motive, violates God's law and should be condemned by human law," says McQuilken (331). Man is God’s creation- “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them” (Gen. 1:26-27). It is not up to humanity to dispose of God’s creation. So, in the end, Christians are opposed to euthanasia for the most part and for good reason. It may be torturous to see someone in pain, but it is not up to humanity to become “like God” and solve the problem by murder.
The idea of euthanasia, the types of euthanasia, the history of euthanasia, and the Biblical argument of euthanasia has all been seen in this report. Hopefully now, this whole idea of euthanasia can be better understood and the Biblical, Christian view of this complicated issue is seen. This may be a hotly, debated issue, but when the scriptures are searched the truth can come alive. There may always be “a time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:2), but at least now God’s idea of this time is revealed. No human should take God’s authority into their own hands.
“I have carefully proofread this paper OUT LOUD checking for spelling and grammatical errors (the spell and grammar check programs on the computer were applied to this paper)”. Kristina N. Jordan__
Works Cited
Anderson, Kirby. Christian Ethics in Plain Language. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2005.
Betzold, Michael. Appointment with Dr. Death. Troy: Momentum Books, 1993.
Breck, John. "Alternative to euthanasia." St Vladimir's Theological Quarterly 52.3-4 (2008): 389-401. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
Colby, William H. Long Goodbye: The Deaths of Nancy Cruzan. Carlsbad: Hay House Inc, 2002."Endings." Christian Century 122.8 (2005): 5-318. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
Gushee, David P. "Killing with kindness: why is the church against euthanasia in instances w here people are in terrible pain?." Christianity Today 48.12 (2004): 62-318. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
KJV Reference Bible. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994. Print.
Miller, Robert T. "The legal death of Terri Schiavo." First Things 153 (2005): 14-16. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
McQuilkin, Robertson. An Introduction to Biblical Ethics. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, 1995.
Thomas, Sally. "Shadows in Amsterdam." First Things 193 (2009): 13-15. ATLA Religion atabase with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
There is always “a time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:2). These times are designated by God, but there are those who seek to become as God and decide for themselves when they or others should meet that end. This idea is known as euthanasia. People argue constantly on whether this idea of euthanasia is ethical or morally sound. There are many opinions and reasons for why these opinions are held. Most Christians would say it is wrong and that it is like “playing God.” Some would say that some types of euthanasia are wrong, but some types are right. Some would say the reasons for euthanasia are what make the idea moral or not. With all this debate the idea needs to be better explained and then shown where God actually stands on this issue.
Euthanasia is commonly understood as deciding when to allow death to come to an individual- whether this is physician-assisted suicide where the individual wants to die or just simply pulling a feeding tube out of a seemingly hopeless patient. Kirby Anderson, famous author and radio personality, had this to say about euthanasia in his book Christian Ethics in Plain Language- “The term euthanasia is derived from the Greek prefix eu- meaning ‘good’ or ‘easy,’ and the Greek noun thanatos, meaning ‘death.’ Critics, however, have said that euthanasia is anything but easy and anything but good” (Anderson 52). Author and orthodox theologian, John Breck, describes euthanasia as “an expression…[that] has lost its original meaning of ‘a good death’” (Breck). He goes on to say that “in current usage, it refers to an unnatural invasion into the life of the patient, the sole purpose of which is to hasten death. When we use that unfortunate expression, we are speaking about active intervention that intends to shorten the patient s life, usually in order to end severe suffering and to short-circuit the stress and distress of the dying process" (Breck). He says that euthanasia is a “way out” for the suffering patient by introducing a foreign substance into the body to quicken the dying process (Breck). “Scholars in heavy tomes and pragmatic lobbyists in state legislatures promote new ways for family and others to find a ‘good death’ for the sufferer,” says Robertson McQuilken, President of Columbia Bible College and Seminary for thirty years, in his book An Introduction to Biblical Ethics (327). Many claim euthanasia is “safe, legal, and rare” (Thomas). In the end, is it really safe? Should it be legal? How rare will it be in a few years? Is God fine with humanity taking death into their own hands?
Before the history of the argument and the biblical argument can be seen, the rest of the euthanasia idea needs to be shown. Meaning there are different types of euthanasia. According to Anderson, it is "crucial to any further debate on euthanasia [to have] a proper definition of the various forms of euthanasia” (Anderson 54). The four types are known as voluntary passive, voluntary active, involuntary passive, and involuntary active (54). Voluntary passive euthanasia refers to when the patient decides he just wants to let “nature run its course” and go off life support (54). This does not mean the physician hastens death (54). It means that the physician meets the patients request by just comforting him as he goes through the dying process (54). This is the type of euthanasia most people have no problem accepting. Voluntary active is considered to be physician-assisted suicide. "With PAS, the physician provides medication that the conscious and presumably competent patient self-administers,” says John Breck (Breck). Voluntary active euthanasia is simply the doctor helping the patient along in speeding up the dying process or dying sooner than destined (Anderson 54). Involuntary passive sounds exactly like it is. The patient cannot volunteer himself to die so the doctor withholds treatment to allow the patient to die (54). Involuntary active is where genocide comes in (54). This type of euthanasia is where the patient cannot volunteer or does not volunteer but the doctor opts to kill the patient by causing the dying process (54). He speeds up death by whatever means not simply allows death by removal (54). The person selected does not always mean someone who is already dying (54). Now that the meaning and types of euthanasia have been discovered, the history of the argument and the Biblical argument can begin.
Now that the idea of euthanasia is better understood, people need to understand that this is not just a new issue as well as the recent history of this issue (Anderson 52). The Greeks debated it, the Pythagoreans opposed it, the Stoics approved of it in hopeless disease, and Plato approved of it in terminal illness (52). England approved of it in 1935 by creating a society to allow it (52). Anderson claims America did the same thing a few years later (52). Derek Humphrey was a man who promoted euthanasia in America through being an author (53). Jack Kevorkian helped Americans and others die with use of his “Mercitron” (53). Anderson points out Kevorkian’s fame starting in 1990 with his assisted suicide of Janet Adkins (53). Michael Betzold, a Detroit Free Press reporter who became personally connected to [Dr. Kevorkian's] story, follows the story of Kevorkian in his book Appointment with Dr. Death. He shows how twisted this man was in his thinking. He was called Dr. Death and was fascinated by death itself (Betzold 3, 7). He would attempt to film people dying so he could know the signs of the exact point of death (7). He told many this was for research to help along medicine, but he admitted it was mostly for interest (7). He conducted experiments on death row convicts, used corpses for blood transfusions, and painted disgusting pictures of cannibalism and death (10, 12, 13). Betzold says that when Kevorkian saw a women suffering immensely with cancer with no hope of recovery just waiting to die, Dr. Death decided "doctor assisted euthanasia and suicide are and always were ethical, no matter what anyone says or knew” (9). Kevorkian successfully helped along the idea of physician-assisted suicide in America. In 1997, the U.S. Supreme Court deemed that states disallowing euthanasia were constitutional ending the argument against those states (Anderson 53). There are many other cases in American History as well as World History having to do with euthanasia. A few other famous American cases are Nancy Cruzan and Terry Schiavo. Nancy Cruzan was a young woman who had a family fighting for the right to have her feeding tube pulled (Colby). She died shortly after (Anderson 53). Her case can be seen in William H. Colby’s book The Long Goodbye. He was one of the lawyers on the Cruzan case. Terry Schiavo is another very controversial case. There are several different ideas about this case. In short, a lady who was assumed to have no hope had her feeding tube removed by her husband. Some say “Terri Schiavo's legal rights were never once violated. The result in the case was so unjust not because the courts ignored the law but because they followed it. The laws of Florida, like those of most states, specifically allow that, in cases like Schiavo's, some people may decide that others ought to die” (Miller). Then others rebuke this by saying, “removing Schiavo s feeding tube was an act of murder by omission, not an act of ‘letting die’” (“Endings”). Either way, this and many other cases prove the outrageous debate over euthanasia throughout all history.
Now that almost all about euthanasia has been observed, the Biblical argument can begin. Many will say, “Christians are hardhearted in not supporting euthanasia” (Gushee). They say this because the person may be in severe pain and Christians opposed allowing their pain to end. David P. Gushee, professor of Christian Ethics, says this view “is wrong” (Gushee). First of all, it depends on which type of euthanasia the person is talking about. If talking about voluntary passive, the view is partially wrong because many Christians would support allowing “nature run it’s course.” Many would say that “[people] should do away with the expression "passive euthanasia," since it refers to an omission that merely allows the dying process to run its course. The patient dies not from active intervention on the part of the medical team, but from the underlying pathology” (Breck). So, this can be considered as just simply death. Death is a normal thing according to Ecclesiastes 12:7. “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it” (Eccl. 12:7). So this type of euthanasia is not really euthanasia. So in this aspect, Christians are still not in favor of euthanasia. If you call this euthanasia, still, then Christians can be in favor of at least one type of euthanasia. The next type is where Christians start really opposing. Voluntary active euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide is where the line is drawn. This is wrong. This is murder. Many people seek suicide because they are suffering and do not want to suffer any more. God says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Is. 55:8-9). God has a reason for everything. Seeking to usurp God’s power by taking death into humanity’s hands is wrong. It is God’s responsibility and choice when someone is to die or go through a trial. He says in Deuteronomy 32:39, “See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither is there any that can deliver out of my hand” (Deut. 32:39). So, this is where Christians are against euthanasia. The last two types of euthanasia, Christians are also against. Involuntary passive and involuntary active euthanasia are wrong. It is not up to humanity when a person dies. Taking any action whether that be passive or active is wrong. Many cases the person in passive euthanasia was not dying in the first place, they were just in a vegetative state. It may seem wrong, but it is even more wrong to usurp God’s authority on death. The Bible says, “Thou shalt not kill” (Ex. 20:13). "Killing others deliberately, whatever the motive, violates God's law and should be condemned by human law," says McQuilken (331). Man is God’s creation- “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them” (Gen. 1:26-27). It is not up to humanity to dispose of God’s creation. So, in the end, Christians are opposed to euthanasia for the most part and for good reason. It may be torturous to see someone in pain, but it is not up to humanity to become “like God” and solve the problem by murder.
The idea of euthanasia, the types of euthanasia, the history of euthanasia, and the Biblical argument of euthanasia has all been seen in this report. Hopefully now, this whole idea of euthanasia can be better understood and the Biblical, Christian view of this complicated issue is seen. This may be a hotly, debated issue, but when the scriptures are searched the truth can come alive. There may always be “a time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:2), but at least now God’s idea of this time is revealed. No human should take God’s authority into their own hands.
“I have carefully proofread this paper OUT LOUD checking for spelling and grammatical errors (the spell and grammar check programs on the computer were applied to this paper)”. Kristina N. Jordan__
Works Cited
Anderson, Kirby. Christian Ethics in Plain Language. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2005.
Betzold, Michael. Appointment with Dr. Death. Troy: Momentum Books, 1993.
Breck, John. "Alternative to euthanasia." St Vladimir's Theological Quarterly 52.3-4 (2008): 389-401. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
Colby, William H. Long Goodbye: The Deaths of Nancy Cruzan. Carlsbad: Hay House Inc, 2002."Endings." Christian Century 122.8 (2005): 5-318. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
Gushee, David P. "Killing with kindness: why is the church against euthanasia in instances w here people are in terrible pain?." Christianity Today 48.12 (2004): 62-318. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
KJV Reference Bible. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994. Print.
Miller, Robert T. "The legal death of Terri Schiavo." First Things 153 (2005): 14-16. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
McQuilkin, Robertson. An Introduction to Biblical Ethics. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, 1995.
Thomas, Sally. "Shadows in Amsterdam." First Things 193 (2009): 13-15. ATLA Religion atabase with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 18 June 2010.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Capital Punishment
*-This is what I posted in a Discussion Forum for my Christian Ethics Online Class-*
Capital punishment is a difficult topic to argue and discuss because almost everyone has a different opinion. Some people use the Bible to defend it, while others attempt to condemn it with the same methodology. For example, Elizabeth Morgan in her article Crime and Punishment uses her faith to debunk the death penalty argument. "It seems to me as a Christian that it contradictgs the gospel call for forgiveness and truncates the possibility of transformation." The second example is of someone using the Scriptures to argue for the death penalty. Rick Reed in his article Should Christians Support the Death Penalty? uses Romans 13:4 to support his argument. He says, "We also agree that governments with the responsibility of protecting the innocent and punishing the guilty." The verse states that "he [a ruler] does not bear the sword in vain." Seeing these two sides, how can we really know which is correct?
It is very hard to determine which is the correct ideaology, but in the end you have to look at what God says. The one trick is to remember to interpret the scriptures as what God says and not what you think. This is my argument for whether or not the death penalty contradicts the 6th commandment. It does say "Thou shalt not kill," but the actual meaning of the word kill does not contradict the idea of punishing by killing. According to Strong's Online Concordance the word kill is ratsach which means "to murder or slay or kill with premeditation, or accidental means, or for revenge, or intentionally as a slayer when used as a participle." So, it does not contradict.
In the end, I believe the dealth penalty is justifiable by NT scriptures (Romans 13:4 is one), but that our governments ideas of the death penalty needs fixing. My idea (not sure if I can completely prove the idea with scriptures other than he should be killed)- the offender is one who has killed and should be killed the same fashion as his victim.
Sources:
KJV Bible
Morgan, Elizabeth. "Crime and punishment: wrestling with the death penalty." Christian Century 123.20 (2006): 30-33. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 10 June 2010.
Reed, Rick. Should Christians support the death penatly? Delve Into Jesus. Web. 10 June 2010.
Blue Letter Bible. "Dictionary and Word Search for ratsach (Strong's 7523)". Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 10 Jun 2010
Capital punishment is a difficult topic to argue and discuss because almost everyone has a different opinion. Some people use the Bible to defend it, while others attempt to condemn it with the same methodology. For example, Elizabeth Morgan in her article Crime and Punishment uses her faith to debunk the death penalty argument. "It seems to me as a Christian that it contradictgs the gospel call for forgiveness and truncates the possibility of transformation." The second example is of someone using the Scriptures to argue for the death penalty. Rick Reed in his article Should Christians Support the Death Penalty? uses Romans 13:4 to support his argument. He says, "We also agree that governments with the responsibility of protecting the innocent and punishing the guilty." The verse states that "he [a ruler] does not bear the sword in vain." Seeing these two sides, how can we really know which is correct?
It is very hard to determine which is the correct ideaology, but in the end you have to look at what God says. The one trick is to remember to interpret the scriptures as what God says and not what you think. This is my argument for whether or not the death penalty contradicts the 6th commandment. It does say "Thou shalt not kill," but the actual meaning of the word kill does not contradict the idea of punishing by killing. According to Strong's Online Concordance the word kill is ratsach which means "to murder or slay or kill with premeditation, or accidental means, or for revenge, or intentionally as a slayer when used as a participle." So, it does not contradict.
In the end, I believe the dealth penalty is justifiable by NT scriptures (Romans 13:4 is one), but that our governments ideas of the death penalty needs fixing. My idea (not sure if I can completely prove the idea with scriptures other than he should be killed)- the offender is one who has killed and should be killed the same fashion as his victim.
Sources:
KJV Bible
Morgan, Elizabeth. "Crime and punishment: wrestling with the death penalty." Christian Century 123.20 (2006): 30-33. ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials. EBSCO. Web. 10 June 2010.
Reed, Rick. Should Christians support the death penatly? Delve Into Jesus. Web. 10 June 2010.
Blue Letter Bible. "Dictionary and Word Search for ratsach (Strong's 7523)". Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 10 Jun 2010
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Sick of Crap
You know, life is pretty bad when you suddenly wish you would've went through with killing yourself a few years ago. My life's not bad. I mean I've got a great guy, I'm going to a good school, I can "tolerate" my job, and I actually know people care for a change. When you're told though by someone who's supposed to care the most that they don't care anymore- it makes all else seems like nothing. The thing is I didn't think I cared all that much about this person and what they think considering how this person does tend to treat me, but I really do. It makes me feel like nothing. Pointless. Like I really should have killed myself when I wanted to. I don't want to because of all the other people who do say they care- especially Matthew. I'm just so sick of crap. You know, it's worse when all this had to do with a stupid car and a senseless "rule" and a forgotten "promise". I love this person, surprisingly, but as soon as I get my chance- I'm gone!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Birth after Menopause
I really didn't know what to title this blog so that'll just have to do. There is a movement I am going to rant about quickly where women are going and getting inpregnated by ivf at late ages. Late ages meaning sixty and seventy- long after menopause. People have dubbed this selfish and I agree. I mean think about it. Life expectancy for a women is around 70s-80s. Having the baby at sixty is pushing it, but waiting all the way to 70! You could die when that baby is only 10 years old or younger. Can you imagine the torture that child would be put through? Emotional distress. Poor kid. Selfish mother. A child needs his/her mother and your basically taking that away from him/her by giving birth to them just shy of death. I hate to be morbid and say yea your gonna die soon, but look at statistics. You have to think about it. At least for the baby's sake, think about it. Hopefully you've made good provision for the child but how often will that happen. I know the dr's wouldn't allow it if you were in bad health but still. It's pushing it. I call it selfish. You wanna baby so bad you don't think logically and in favor of the child. The other with this idea that should be more important but it's not is that God gave menopause for a reason- no more babies! Why are we determined to go against God and his design so much? So first, if you thinking about having a baby late- think about the innocent life your about to bring into the world. Second, which should be 1st, you are seriously going against how God designed the body to work in doing this. So, birth after menopause- my take, selfish.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Miley Cyrus
Ok. I was not gonna comment on the Miley Cyrus issue, but I am getting annoyed so here it goes. Stop calling her a slut. I know it's tempting. I know I've done it, but just move on. It's no use wasting your breath or w.e. I know it's hard. We need to overcome it though. Honestly, it's just giving her what she wants- more publicity, more fame. So, you want her to go away- stop making her a big deal. I know it's horrible. A sweet innocent girl is dressing skankily and having sex for the camera, but come on now! She never was that innocent to begin with. The only thing that still gets me is the fact that she does in fact say she is a Christian and say she wants to remain pure (ignoring the fact that kids look up to her). Honestly, it does affect us Christians because she does do this stuff after saying all that, but really Christians fall and screw up all the time. In the end, she alone is responsible for what she's done. She wants to be popular. She wants to be a pop artist. She knows what it takes and she's going for it. If you keep arguing and bringing her up, you're just egging her on. That's my opinion.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Freshman Year
Well, freshman year is over. I am actually workin' on my last day of classes as I write this blog. I look back at some good memories and some life lessons I will never forget. I learned how to better write a paper (w/ citations and everything), I learned how to "attempt" to manage my money better, I made new friends, I had my mind strenghtened, I had my beliefs tested, I had my eyes open, and so much more. This year, though difficult, has been so great. I'm a college student. I've been tested beyond measure. I really saw how this is not high school. :) There have been some great lectures and then those that completely sucked. There's obviously been procrastination, but I've seen how hard that is to do in college. It's kind of funny. It's hard to not do your work til the last minute. More understandable- it's hard to do all that work at the last minute. I have had a great time. Many memories have been made- Sara and her Cherry Coke, Elisabeth not understanding a word of spanish (except que now), sneaking pictures, being too scared to go get ice cream alone, playing life before class, playing my power point game, the [], and many more. I have mixed emotions being done with Freshman year, but it doesn't matter how I feel in the end- it's just over! After exams nxt wk, I'll be a SOPHOMORE!
(pictures from Freshman Year)
dude named Cam "playing" the piano before our last class of the day- Foundations of Education.
friend, Leah, waiting for the Caf to open for lunch
me during Survey of Fine Arts...friend took this to get back at me for always sneaking pictures of her.
friend, Sara, actually letting me take a picture of her
gettin' ready for chapel
friend, Elisabeth aka Que, txting HER Matt
(pictures from Freshman Year)
dude named Cam "playing" the piano before our last class of the day- Foundations of Education.
friend, Leah, waiting for the Caf to open for lunch
me during Survey of Fine Arts...friend took this to get back at me for always sneaking pictures of her.
friend, Sara, actually letting me take a picture of her
gettin' ready for chapel
friend, Elisabeth aka Que, txting HER MattThursday, April 22, 2010
Governmental Pet Peeves
I have many pet peeves- incessant clicking of a pen, idiotic drivers, tapping, and allowing me the pleasure to hear you chew your gum. There is one though that annoys me to no end. That is the people who complain about government and our officials and then don't vote. Why in the- How- ugh! I don't get it. If you don't vote, voice your opinion in the given fashion, why then are you voicing your opinion now! If you don't care enough when it matters- when you can make a difference, STOP CARING AT ALL!! In my opinion, if you don't try to make a difference, shut up about the way things are. Yea, I agree- this government is really starting to suck and these officials aren't helping (especially Obama >:-/ ). The only difference between me and you though- I actually vote! Now, I'm 19. I missed the past election because my birthday was the day after election day, so up until recently I hadn't registered to vote. What I did though is our county elections are coming up so I went to early voting so I could do both- register and vote! I got the voting packets after the actual cut off but called to find out if I still could. So, yes, I have only voted once. I'm hoping though that I can continue to do this duty. Yes, it's a duty. It's a privilege. You want to be able to complain with rights- then vote! If you don't vote, don't complain to me. Chances are I'll smack you upside the head! You don't like the way things are- then make your voice known by voting!
finally got to vote!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Thomas Jefferson
**Thomas Jefferson Paper I did for US History to 1865. Let me know what you think!**
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” (Jefferson). These words were penned by a man with intelligence, stubbornness, and skepticism. This man’s name was President Thomas Jefferson. One thing of two things come to mind when this man’s name is mentioned- his controversial relationship with Sally Hemmings or his authorship of the Declaration of Independence. These two things are not the only mentionable things about this man. This paper is designed to describe the person of Thomas Jefferson.
Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, to parents Peter Jefferson and Jane Randolph (Garrett 13, 14). His mother, Jane Randolph, gave birth to him at Shadwell- a frame house in Albemarle County, Virginia (Garret 13, 14). She was twenty-three years old when Jefferson was born (14). Wendell D. Garrett, Vice President and Secretary of The Thomas Jefferson Memorial Foundation, points out that Jefferson was the third of ten children (14).
Knowing that Jefferson was born is not quite enough, Jefferson’s parents are important characters to study in themselves. Knowing about the parents gives better insight into the person of Thomas Jefferson. His father, Peter Jefferson, was a surveyor, magistrate, justice of the peace, sheriff, colonel of the military, and member of the Virginia House of Burgesses (Garrett 13). He was a self-educated man and very successful (Garrett 13). Thanks to his father’s career, Thomas was able to have his first experiences with Indians (14). Garrett relates them to “friendly” encounters (14). Sadly, Peter Jefferson died when Thomas was fourteen on August 7, 1757 (14). When Peter died, there were two sons and six daughters still living (14). Jefferson’s mother, Jane, was a very accomplished woman (14). Not much is known about his mother other than there was an interesting relationship between them two that is discovered upon research. It can be assumed that Jefferson got some of his great ideals from the influence of two very intelligent parents.
Now knowing his beginnings on earth, his beginnings on the political scene need to be observed. Jefferson chose to attend college at William and Mary (Sanford 7 and Garrett 22). Charles B. Sanford, a United Methodist Minister, points out that Jefferson was exposed to deistic and enlightenment thinking during his college years (14). This exposure is argued to have had an effect on Jefferson’s religious ideals (Sanford 14). Jefferson began to practice law at age twenty-four (Garrett 31). He became a member of the House of Burgesses, like his father, when he was twenty-five in 1768 (Hitchens 14). Thus began his rise to the political grounds.
Stating that Jefferson’s college years had an effect on his religion imposes a force to look deeper into his religious life. It is known that he was a member of Charlottesville Episcopal Church (Sanford 4). Sanford points out that “[one of] Jefferson’s lifelong convictions was that religion was a personal or private matter” (12). With that said, there is not much known about Jefferson’s in-depth religious life. What is known, though, does give a somewhat wobbly foundation with which to begin a reflection of the inner mind of Thomas Jefferson. “He was called an ‘atheist, deist, or devil,’” claims Sanford (6). It is known that he did not believe in the trinity (4). Sanford also tells of Jefferson’s view of life after death- “he did not reject a belief in life after death, despite his questions on the subject, but he refused to be told that there was only one orthodox ‘way which according to the sacred geography leads to Jerusalem straight” (142). Jefferson did have some skepticism in him, but Christopher Hitchens, who was called “one of the most controversial and compelling voices in Anglo-American journalism,” tells that upon Jefferson’s death he made affirmation that he was ready to die (Hitchens 3). Whether this means he finally came to a conclusion on life after death or not is unknown. One very interesting fact about Jefferson is that he cut out his favorite New Testament passages and pasted them in a bound book reading through them for an hour every night (Sanford 3). Although much is not known about his religious life, it is concluded that he had some religious ideals one being the fact that he thought it best that religion should be a “private matter.”
Getting more personal with the religious aspect of Jefferson, the next topic to be discussed is the very “personal” love life of Thomas Jefferson. His first love is known to be a woman whom he found, after she rejected all his advancements, to be betrothed to another man (Hitchens 8). Hitchens’ claims that this was the cause of his plaguing headaches he had for the rest of his life (8). In 1770, he met his wife, Martha Wales Skelton (Garrett 34). Garrett says she was beautiful, smart, a wonderful musician, and Jefferson loved her (34). She was a widow with one son from her previous marriage to Barthhurst Skelton (34). It was said that she kept her father’s accounts to his plantation (34). Thomas and Martha were engaged in 1771 and were married on New Year’s Day 1772 (34). Martha died in September of 1782 (Hitchens 50 and Garrett 34). Hitchen’s asserts her death with the birth of Jefferson and Martha’s sixth child, Lucy (50). It is true that Jefferson promised her on her dying breath that he would never remarry (50). As the editor of Reason magazine, Damon W. Root, asserts, Jefferson’s promise to Martha did not mean he would “become celibate” (Root). Sally Hemmings was Martha’s illegitimate half-sister by her father’s slave (Hitchens 15 and Root). Both Root and Hitchens assert that the affair or sexual relationship between Jefferson and Hemmings started in 1788 when Hemmings was only sixteen years old during one of Jefferson’s trip to France (Root and Hitchens 64). Hitchens says that at that time Sally began to receive payment, nice clothes, and different housing accommodations (Hitchens 64). Root claims that Sally and Thomas could have been considered husband and wife according to law because it was a monogamous relationship, but because Sally was a slave she was left to be considered Jefferson’s concubine (Root). This relationship stirs the great Thomas Jefferson controversy which Root’s article, “The Trouble with Thomas Jefferson,” discusses. The controversy is the fact that Jefferson despised slavery going so far as to include “all men are created equal” into the Declaration, yet he held slave as well as had a sexual relationship with one of his slaves (Root). It is surmised that Jefferson indeed had a very interesting love life.
Now that Jefferson’s love life has been established, his family life or at least his family size needs to be mentioned. Jefferson had a grand total of thirteen children. Six of those children were from his marriage to Martha (Hitchens 15 and Sanford 3). Only two of those children outlived infancy (Hitchens 15). One child, Martha, survived to adulthood (Sanford 3). Jefferson also had children by Sally Hemmings (Hitchens 64 and Root). Hitchens says, “When they left for America [from France], with Jefferson insisting that [Sally] be berthed [sic] next to him on shipboard, it has been suggested by some historians that Sally was pregnant, though the child, if there was a child, did not survive. But all her subsequent children, duly entered in the log of Jefferson’s ‘farm book’ at Monticello, were born exactly nine months after one of his much-punctuated sojourns at the house. No other possible father was present at such times…” (Hitchens 64). Sally’s first child of Jefferson’s was born in 1795 which was the same year Jefferson became a grandfather by one of Martha’s sons (104). All of their children were eventually freed (64). They had seven children, but only four of them survived to adulthood (Root). Jefferson freed two of them himself, but the other two left Monticello on their own (Root). Root confesses that Jefferson never did free Sally, but she could have easily freed herself while in France (Root). He says that she did not do that because Jefferson promised that if she stayed with her he would free all of her children (Root). It can be well assumed that Jefferson had a rather large, interesting family.
Now that who Jefferson was has been asserted, a deeper look can be taken into this man’s ideals to see where he stood on issues. Thomas Jefferson has been called a republican. Forrest McDonald, a professor at the University of Alabama, says- “Jeffersonian republicanism was an ideology and an idea” (McDonald 161). Hitchens tells that Jefferson in 1778 proposed “a bill of proportion in crimes and punishments” to the Virginia House of Burgesses (Hitchens 40). This action shows a little of where he stood on some issues. His contradictory view of slavery is often talked about which shows a confusing side of Jefferson on the issues. Hitchens assess that Jefferson often said, when referring to Haiti and Virginia, that “the abolition of slavery could be as dangerous as slavery itself” (101). Not only is his statement true, but Jefferson’s struggle with this issue can also be seen. Slavery was bad, but would making it illegal really solve anything? It may be assumed that Jefferson was fearful of the changes this move would make. It is possible another war among the states would break out sooner rather than later. America was just starting. This issue was a very dangerous one to mingle in and Jefferson’s wisdom and yet skepticism can be seen here. It is also known that Jefferson recommended the Spanish dollar with its decimal principle to become the American currency (Hitchens 30). Jefferson was not only a republican, but a wise man despite his struggle with the slavery issue. Even the issue of slavery points out his wisdom as a politician.
Politician he was indeed. This moves the discussion now into his careers where his particular view of government and politics would be utilized. His first career outside of the House of Burguesses was Governor of Virginia. At age 36 in the year 1779, Jefferson became the second governor of Virginia succeeding Patrick Henry (Hitchens 40). He then became the next minister to France after Benjamin Franklin in 1785 according to the official site of the Whitehouse in Washington, D.C. (“Thomas Jefferson”). On February 14, 1790, at age 46, Jefferson made his next political move (Garrett 141 and Hitchens 75). Jefferson hearkened to the call of President George Washington to become the first Secretary of State (Garrett 141 and Hitchens 75). The next move was not made on Jefferson’s part. Upon the farewell address of Washington in 1796, Madison arranged a ticket with Jefferson’s name mentioned for the Presidency (Hitchens 107). On March 4, 1797, John Adams won the Presidency with Thomas Jefferson coming in second winning the Vice-Presidency (Garrett 155 and Hitchens 107-108). Thus, Jefferson became the second American Vice-President. The last political move by Jefferson came in 1800 where he and Aaron Burr became President and Vice President (McDonald 22). Jefferson won the presidency with seventy-three electoral votes, fifty-three of those coming from slaveholders (22). Columnist and Commentator for Fox News, Robert D. Novak shows the fact that Jefferson and Burr actually tied originally for the presidency (Novak). Although there was in fact a tie, Jefferson was dubbed the third President of the United States (Hitchens 121). His inaugural address took place on March 4, 1801 (122). Just three hours before Jefferson’s presidency was to take place, President John Adam’s made a series of “midnight appointments” under the provision of the Judiciary Act of 1801 (McDonald 35). These “midnight appointments” made Jefferson first term start off with slight difficulty. A lot took place during the two terms of Thomas Jefferson- the Barbary Wars, the Louisiana Purchase, and the Louis and Clark Expedition (Hitchens 125). In 1802, Jefferson put into action the Treaty of 1802 which is said by McDonald to “become the basis for Andrew Jackson’s ‘death-march’ policy of Indian removal” (McDonald 47). The original terms of this treaty were as follows- “to liquidate, by purchase or otherwise, Indian land claims in what remained of Georgia and to set aside one-tenth of the acquired lands for the compensations of Yazoo claims” (47). On January 6, 1802, the Judiciary Act of 1802 to repeal the Act of 1801 was submitted to Congress (50). With a tie, Vice-President Burr cast the final vote to send the bill back for revisions (50). The bill was passed a few weeks later (50). Marbury vs. Madison took place in 1802 judging the constitutionality of Adam’s “midnight appointments” (49-51). On March 3, 1803, the case of impeachment of Federal District Judge John Pickney went underway (51). He was being tried on drunkenness and insanity (51). On March 12, 1804, Pickney was simply removed from office (80). The Mobile Act of 1804, the embargo bill of 1804, and the enforcement act of 1808 also took place during Jefferson’s presidency (73, 143, and 149). March 1, 1809, Jefferson signed the repeal of the embargo act of 1804 (158). The Non-Intercourse Act was Jefferson’s last act of President (Hitchens 166). His presidency ended on March 4, 1809 (McDonald 158). There were also trials during his Presidency. The most notable trial was his opposition with Burr. Although Burr was not his Vice President for his second term, Jefferson still had to deal with him. Richard Brookhiser, renowned journalist and historian, shows in his article, “Plots and executive privilege: Jefferson and Burr squared off first in a trial about high treason,” that Aaron Burr was arrested for treason, but acquitted despite Jefferson’s testimony (Brookhiser). There were times in all this where Jefferson hoped and attempted to retire. Each attempt though was foiled by the call back into the political scene. It can now be assessed that although a very prosperous political career Jefferson still went through some big trials.
Even the greatest minds do not live forever. Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826 (Garrett 205). At 12:50 pm, on the fiftieth anniversary of his great work- the Declaration of Independence- a great mind was lost (205). It is said that he died of wasting diarrhea and an infection of the urinary tract (Hitchens 2). Due to his skepticism, he was ready- complete with will and designed tombstone (3). His legacy lives on in the Declaration of Independence and his movements toward the expansion of America with the Louisiana Purchase and his referral of the Spanish dollar as the American currency.
Thomas Jefferson was a great man. This is evident in his works, his actions, and his ideals. As seen, he is a man that dealt with hardship and enemies. Any great mind would deal with these things. Although Jefferson was not without great controversy, he was still a great man. Hopefully now the person of Thomas Jefferson can be better understood. Indeed a great man wrote these words- “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” (Jefferson).
Works Cited
Brookhiser, Richard. "Plots and executive privilege: Jefferson and Burr squared off first in a trial about high treason." U.S. News & World Report 124 (1998): 24. OmniFile Full Text Select. Web. 13 Apr. 2010.
Garrett, Wendell D. The Worlds of Thomas Jefferson. New York: Weathervane Books, 1971. Print.
Hitchens, Christopher. Thomas Jefferson: Author of America. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 2005. Print.
Jefferson, Thomas. The Declaration of Independence. Philadelphia: Independence Hall, 4 July 1776. Web. 13 April 2010.
McDonald, Forrest. The Presidency of Thomas Jefferson. Kansas: University Press of Kansas, 1976. Print.
Novak, Robert D. "Our Founding Partisans." The American Spectator 41.7 (2008): 42-3. OmniFile Full Text Select. Web. 13 Apr. 2010.
Root, Damon W. "The Trouble With Thomas Jefferson." Reason 40.8 (2009): 61-3. OmniFile Full Text Select. Web. 12 Apr. 2010.
Sanford, Charles B. The Religious Life of Thomas Jefferson. Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1984. Print.
“Thomas Jefferson.” Whitehouse.gov. Web. 13 April 2010.
Thomas Jefferson was born on April 13, 1743, to parents Peter Jefferson and Jane Randolph (Garrett 13, 14). His mother, Jane Randolph, gave birth to him at Shadwell- a frame house in Albemarle County, Virginia (Garret 13, 14). She was twenty-three years old when Jefferson was born (14). Wendell D. Garrett, Vice President and Secretary of The Thomas Jefferson Memorial Foundation, points out that Jefferson was the third of ten children (14).
Knowing that Jefferson was born is not quite enough, Jefferson’s parents are important characters to study in themselves. Knowing about the parents gives better insight into the person of Thomas Jefferson. His father, Peter Jefferson, was a surveyor, magistrate, justice of the peace, sheriff, colonel of the military, and member of the Virginia House of Burgesses (Garrett 13). He was a self-educated man and very successful (Garrett 13). Thanks to his father’s career, Thomas was able to have his first experiences with Indians (14). Garrett relates them to “friendly” encounters (14). Sadly, Peter Jefferson died when Thomas was fourteen on August 7, 1757 (14). When Peter died, there were two sons and six daughters still living (14). Jefferson’s mother, Jane, was a very accomplished woman (14). Not much is known about his mother other than there was an interesting relationship between them two that is discovered upon research. It can be assumed that Jefferson got some of his great ideals from the influence of two very intelligent parents.
Now knowing his beginnings on earth, his beginnings on the political scene need to be observed. Jefferson chose to attend college at William and Mary (Sanford 7 and Garrett 22). Charles B. Sanford, a United Methodist Minister, points out that Jefferson was exposed to deistic and enlightenment thinking during his college years (14). This exposure is argued to have had an effect on Jefferson’s religious ideals (Sanford 14). Jefferson began to practice law at age twenty-four (Garrett 31). He became a member of the House of Burgesses, like his father, when he was twenty-five in 1768 (Hitchens 14). Thus began his rise to the political grounds.
Stating that Jefferson’s college years had an effect on his religion imposes a force to look deeper into his religious life. It is known that he was a member of Charlottesville Episcopal Church (Sanford 4). Sanford points out that “[one of] Jefferson’s lifelong convictions was that religion was a personal or private matter” (12). With that said, there is not much known about Jefferson’s in-depth religious life. What is known, though, does give a somewhat wobbly foundation with which to begin a reflection of the inner mind of Thomas Jefferson. “He was called an ‘atheist, deist, or devil,’” claims Sanford (6). It is known that he did not believe in the trinity (4). Sanford also tells of Jefferson’s view of life after death- “he did not reject a belief in life after death, despite his questions on the subject, but he refused to be told that there was only one orthodox ‘way which according to the sacred geography leads to Jerusalem straight” (142). Jefferson did have some skepticism in him, but Christopher Hitchens, who was called “one of the most controversial and compelling voices in Anglo-American journalism,” tells that upon Jefferson’s death he made affirmation that he was ready to die (Hitchens 3). Whether this means he finally came to a conclusion on life after death or not is unknown. One very interesting fact about Jefferson is that he cut out his favorite New Testament passages and pasted them in a bound book reading through them for an hour every night (Sanford 3). Although much is not known about his religious life, it is concluded that he had some religious ideals one being the fact that he thought it best that religion should be a “private matter.”
Getting more personal with the religious aspect of Jefferson, the next topic to be discussed is the very “personal” love life of Thomas Jefferson. His first love is known to be a woman whom he found, after she rejected all his advancements, to be betrothed to another man (Hitchens 8). Hitchens’ claims that this was the cause of his plaguing headaches he had for the rest of his life (8). In 1770, he met his wife, Martha Wales Skelton (Garrett 34). Garrett says she was beautiful, smart, a wonderful musician, and Jefferson loved her (34). She was a widow with one son from her previous marriage to Barthhurst Skelton (34). It was said that she kept her father’s accounts to his plantation (34). Thomas and Martha were engaged in 1771 and were married on New Year’s Day 1772 (34). Martha died in September of 1782 (Hitchens 50 and Garrett 34). Hitchen’s asserts her death with the birth of Jefferson and Martha’s sixth child, Lucy (50). It is true that Jefferson promised her on her dying breath that he would never remarry (50). As the editor of Reason magazine, Damon W. Root, asserts, Jefferson’s promise to Martha did not mean he would “become celibate” (Root). Sally Hemmings was Martha’s illegitimate half-sister by her father’s slave (Hitchens 15 and Root). Both Root and Hitchens assert that the affair or sexual relationship between Jefferson and Hemmings started in 1788 when Hemmings was only sixteen years old during one of Jefferson’s trip to France (Root and Hitchens 64). Hitchens says that at that time Sally began to receive payment, nice clothes, and different housing accommodations (Hitchens 64). Root claims that Sally and Thomas could have been considered husband and wife according to law because it was a monogamous relationship, but because Sally was a slave she was left to be considered Jefferson’s concubine (Root). This relationship stirs the great Thomas Jefferson controversy which Root’s article, “The Trouble with Thomas Jefferson,” discusses. The controversy is the fact that Jefferson despised slavery going so far as to include “all men are created equal” into the Declaration, yet he held slave as well as had a sexual relationship with one of his slaves (Root). It is surmised that Jefferson indeed had a very interesting love life.
Now that Jefferson’s love life has been established, his family life or at least his family size needs to be mentioned. Jefferson had a grand total of thirteen children. Six of those children were from his marriage to Martha (Hitchens 15 and Sanford 3). Only two of those children outlived infancy (Hitchens 15). One child, Martha, survived to adulthood (Sanford 3). Jefferson also had children by Sally Hemmings (Hitchens 64 and Root). Hitchens says, “When they left for America [from France], with Jefferson insisting that [Sally] be berthed [sic] next to him on shipboard, it has been suggested by some historians that Sally was pregnant, though the child, if there was a child, did not survive. But all her subsequent children, duly entered in the log of Jefferson’s ‘farm book’ at Monticello, were born exactly nine months after one of his much-punctuated sojourns at the house. No other possible father was present at such times…” (Hitchens 64). Sally’s first child of Jefferson’s was born in 1795 which was the same year Jefferson became a grandfather by one of Martha’s sons (104). All of their children were eventually freed (64). They had seven children, but only four of them survived to adulthood (Root). Jefferson freed two of them himself, but the other two left Monticello on their own (Root). Root confesses that Jefferson never did free Sally, but she could have easily freed herself while in France (Root). He says that she did not do that because Jefferson promised that if she stayed with her he would free all of her children (Root). It can be well assumed that Jefferson had a rather large, interesting family.
Now that who Jefferson was has been asserted, a deeper look can be taken into this man’s ideals to see where he stood on issues. Thomas Jefferson has been called a republican. Forrest McDonald, a professor at the University of Alabama, says- “Jeffersonian republicanism was an ideology and an idea” (McDonald 161). Hitchens tells that Jefferson in 1778 proposed “a bill of proportion in crimes and punishments” to the Virginia House of Burgesses (Hitchens 40). This action shows a little of where he stood on some issues. His contradictory view of slavery is often talked about which shows a confusing side of Jefferson on the issues. Hitchens assess that Jefferson often said, when referring to Haiti and Virginia, that “the abolition of slavery could be as dangerous as slavery itself” (101). Not only is his statement true, but Jefferson’s struggle with this issue can also be seen. Slavery was bad, but would making it illegal really solve anything? It may be assumed that Jefferson was fearful of the changes this move would make. It is possible another war among the states would break out sooner rather than later. America was just starting. This issue was a very dangerous one to mingle in and Jefferson’s wisdom and yet skepticism can be seen here. It is also known that Jefferson recommended the Spanish dollar with its decimal principle to become the American currency (Hitchens 30). Jefferson was not only a republican, but a wise man despite his struggle with the slavery issue. Even the issue of slavery points out his wisdom as a politician.
Politician he was indeed. This moves the discussion now into his careers where his particular view of government and politics would be utilized. His first career outside of the House of Burguesses was Governor of Virginia. At age 36 in the year 1779, Jefferson became the second governor of Virginia succeeding Patrick Henry (Hitchens 40). He then became the next minister to France after Benjamin Franklin in 1785 according to the official site of the Whitehouse in Washington, D.C. (“Thomas Jefferson”). On February 14, 1790, at age 46, Jefferson made his next political move (Garrett 141 and Hitchens 75). Jefferson hearkened to the call of President George Washington to become the first Secretary of State (Garrett 141 and Hitchens 75). The next move was not made on Jefferson’s part. Upon the farewell address of Washington in 1796, Madison arranged a ticket with Jefferson’s name mentioned for the Presidency (Hitchens 107). On March 4, 1797, John Adams won the Presidency with Thomas Jefferson coming in second winning the Vice-Presidency (Garrett 155 and Hitchens 107-108). Thus, Jefferson became the second American Vice-President. The last political move by Jefferson came in 1800 where he and Aaron Burr became President and Vice President (McDonald 22). Jefferson won the presidency with seventy-three electoral votes, fifty-three of those coming from slaveholders (22). Columnist and Commentator for Fox News, Robert D. Novak shows the fact that Jefferson and Burr actually tied originally for the presidency (Novak). Although there was in fact a tie, Jefferson was dubbed the third President of the United States (Hitchens 121). His inaugural address took place on March 4, 1801 (122). Just three hours before Jefferson’s presidency was to take place, President John Adam’s made a series of “midnight appointments” under the provision of the Judiciary Act of 1801 (McDonald 35). These “midnight appointments” made Jefferson first term start off with slight difficulty. A lot took place during the two terms of Thomas Jefferson- the Barbary Wars, the Louisiana Purchase, and the Louis and Clark Expedition (Hitchens 125). In 1802, Jefferson put into action the Treaty of 1802 which is said by McDonald to “become the basis for Andrew Jackson’s ‘death-march’ policy of Indian removal” (McDonald 47). The original terms of this treaty were as follows- “to liquidate, by purchase or otherwise, Indian land claims in what remained of Georgia and to set aside one-tenth of the acquired lands for the compensations of Yazoo claims” (47). On January 6, 1802, the Judiciary Act of 1802 to repeal the Act of 1801 was submitted to Congress (50). With a tie, Vice-President Burr cast the final vote to send the bill back for revisions (50). The bill was passed a few weeks later (50). Marbury vs. Madison took place in 1802 judging the constitutionality of Adam’s “midnight appointments” (49-51). On March 3, 1803, the case of impeachment of Federal District Judge John Pickney went underway (51). He was being tried on drunkenness and insanity (51). On March 12, 1804, Pickney was simply removed from office (80). The Mobile Act of 1804, the embargo bill of 1804, and the enforcement act of 1808 also took place during Jefferson’s presidency (73, 143, and 149). March 1, 1809, Jefferson signed the repeal of the embargo act of 1804 (158). The Non-Intercourse Act was Jefferson’s last act of President (Hitchens 166). His presidency ended on March 4, 1809 (McDonald 158). There were also trials during his Presidency. The most notable trial was his opposition with Burr. Although Burr was not his Vice President for his second term, Jefferson still had to deal with him. Richard Brookhiser, renowned journalist and historian, shows in his article, “Plots and executive privilege: Jefferson and Burr squared off first in a trial about high treason,” that Aaron Burr was arrested for treason, but acquitted despite Jefferson’s testimony (Brookhiser). There were times in all this where Jefferson hoped and attempted to retire. Each attempt though was foiled by the call back into the political scene. It can now be assessed that although a very prosperous political career Jefferson still went through some big trials.
Even the greatest minds do not live forever. Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826 (Garrett 205). At 12:50 pm, on the fiftieth anniversary of his great work- the Declaration of Independence- a great mind was lost (205). It is said that he died of wasting diarrhea and an infection of the urinary tract (Hitchens 2). Due to his skepticism, he was ready- complete with will and designed tombstone (3). His legacy lives on in the Declaration of Independence and his movements toward the expansion of America with the Louisiana Purchase and his referral of the Spanish dollar as the American currency.
Thomas Jefferson was a great man. This is evident in his works, his actions, and his ideals. As seen, he is a man that dealt with hardship and enemies. Any great mind would deal with these things. Although Jefferson was not without great controversy, he was still a great man. Hopefully now the person of Thomas Jefferson can be better understood. Indeed a great man wrote these words- “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” (Jefferson).
Works Cited
Brookhiser, Richard. "Plots and executive privilege: Jefferson and Burr squared off first in a trial about high treason." U.S. News & World Report 124 (1998): 24. OmniFile Full Text Select. Web. 13 Apr. 2010.
Garrett, Wendell D. The Worlds of Thomas Jefferson. New York: Weathervane Books, 1971. Print.
Hitchens, Christopher. Thomas Jefferson: Author of America. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 2005. Print.
Jefferson, Thomas. The Declaration of Independence. Philadelphia: Independence Hall, 4 July 1776. Web. 13 April 2010.
McDonald, Forrest. The Presidency of Thomas Jefferson. Kansas: University Press of Kansas, 1976. Print.
Novak, Robert D. "Our Founding Partisans." The American Spectator 41.7 (2008): 42-3. OmniFile Full Text Select. Web. 13 Apr. 2010.
Root, Damon W. "The Trouble With Thomas Jefferson." Reason 40.8 (2009): 61-3. OmniFile Full Text Select. Web. 12 Apr. 2010.
Sanford, Charles B. The Religious Life of Thomas Jefferson. Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1984. Print.
“Thomas Jefferson.” Whitehouse.gov. Web. 13 April 2010.
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