International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

International Business - Essay Example Japan is experiencing an intensive change as a result of its aging population and decrease in labour force. The country has faced challenge from deflation from previous years, but due to the help of government and political factors, the country is gradually gaining economic advantages at present. In this paper, major business sectors of Japan will be discussed. Socio-economic and political issues have a serious impact on the business growth, GDP growth along with economic development of the country. The growth of business has an impact on population of the country, which has been discussed in this paper as well. 2.0 Principal Business Sector of Japan Japan is one of the highly developed nations in the world. Since resources are limited in the country, companies import raw materials and process them to finished products. Fishing industry in Japan is a growing business sector because a huge amount of marine resources are available in the country (Kids Web Japan, n.d.). Manufacturing in dustries is a key sector in business of Japan. The development of manufacturing industries has been in the first rank. The country is one of the world’s leading shipbuilders. Majority of ships are exported along with large oil tanker in the world (Country Studies, 2011). Automobile business sector is one of the core industrial sectors of Japan. The country is also considered as one of the top automobile producers. Advanced technology of Japan in the design of buses, motorcycles, bicycles and high-speed trains are the major factors in the business growth of transport industry. Chemical in addition to petrochemical industry are primary business sectors. Semi-conductor business of Japan developed in size and thereby stimulating profits. Automotive products comprise of 16.9% of the entire value of manufacturing shipment of Japan and manufacturing industry comprises of 36.3% of combined shipments (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, 2010). Figure 1: Major Manufacturing Sec tor in Value Terms Source: (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, 2010). Japanese computer manufacturers (JCMs) play a leading role in the technology as well as business sector of Japan. As a core competence, JCMs have absorbed and mastered expert system technology (Feigenbaum, 1993). 3.0 Socio-Economic Issue and Political Issue Relating to Future Business Growth, GDP Growth and Economic Development Socio-economic issues of Japan have tremendous impact on the economic development of the country. The economic development of the country is facing challenges due to decrease in birth rate as well as aging population. At domestic and global level, socio-economic development can only be achieved by dealing with global warming along with environmental issues. A variety of economic activities are conducted on the assumption that environmental issues need to be properly addressed. Japan produces about 90 percent of global warming gases that originate from sources of energy. Japan has i ncorporated an approach to the issues of energy as well as global warming and they are responding to waste management issues by means of â€Å"3 Rs† (reduce, reuse and recycle). On the supply side, a point of competitiveness suitable for an advanced industrial economy is essential to achieve economic development in Japan. The government is assisting the efforts of companies to

Organizational Systems and Quality Leadership Essay Example for Free

Organizational Systems and Quality Leadership Essay Nursing-sensitive indicators are defined by the American Nurses Association as indicators that â€Å"reflect the structure, process and outcomes of nursing care. The structure of nursing care is indicated by the supply of nursing staff, the skill level of the nursing staff, and the education/certification of nursing staff† (ANA, 2015). These indicators are outcomes that increase the quality and safety in patient care. Some indicators are patient falls, surgical complications such as infection and pulmonary failure, restraint prevalence, patient satisfaction, nurse satisfaction and staffing, complications such as urinary tract infections and pressure ulcers. The National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI) provides a guideline for nurses and nurse managers for direction in patient care and how to use patient acuity, patient needs, and referral indicators to provide good, safe, quality patient care. Nursing-sensitive indicators that could be identified as possible interference with patient care in Mr. J’s case are his being drowsy from pain medications, his mild dementia diagnosis, his being restrained, and his cultural and religious values preferences. Mr. J is said to answer simple questions but with the diagnosis of mild dementia and the pain medication given, any information given by Mr. J may not be accurate. The nurses and staff should have recognized this immediately and gotten with a caregiver or family who knows Mr. J to ask healthcare questions so staff could establish care appropriately from that information. The reason the patient is being restrained is never revealed but patients should never be restrained to the bed. There are more useful and humane ways to monitor a patient who may be at risk for falls with mild dementia such as bed alarm/chair alarm or a sitter. The patient, admitted with a fractured hip and restrained to a bed, is at high risk for pressure ulcers. The CNA should be well educated on the need to turn patients and make sure pressure points are well monitored to prevent skin breakdown. The lack of cultural respect and understanding regarding Mr. J dietary requests as a retired Jewish rabbi are a nursing -sensitive indicator which can lead to patient dissatisfaction, maybe not realized by the patient with mild dementia but certainly by his daughter. The hospital acquiring data on the above indicators of pressure ulcer incidence, prevalence of restraints, patient and family satisfaction could go a long way to advance the quality of patient care throughout the hospital. This hospital is a 65-bed rural hospital but it is the job of every hospital to give the best patient care possible. With a pressure ulcer developing while in the hospital and Medicare not reimbursing for the cost of the care of that ulcer, it is important to make sure for the patients and the financial aspect that these do not happen. The care of a pressure ulcer can take many weeks and be very costly. The development of this in the hospital is uncalled for and does not bring patient satisfaction. I think too often hospitals forget they are treating not just their patients but their families as well. Evidence-based practice could be used to see what could have been done to prevent pressure ulcers, education for the staff on what signs to look for concerning pressu re ulcers as well as education on the laws and when it is appropriate to use restraints on patients. Care of the patient should always be on the individual needs and cultural practice of the patients. As the nursing shift supervisor, I see several issues that need to be addressed. I would first ask who restrained this patient and why they felt this was needed. Evidence-based practice shows us that restraints are usually more dangerous to the patient than not being restrained. Restraints are to be used only in an emergency. In our book it states, â€Å"Restraint of any kind is a form of imprisonment, and the reasonable and prudent nurse will closely adhere to all laws, rules, and policies pertaining to the use of restraints† (Cherry, 2008). Furthermore, restraint† (Cherry, 2008). Policy and procedure needs to be addressed hospital wide with education and clear instructions given to prevent this in the future. The supervisor should not have ignored the dietary error nor told her staff to â€Å"keep it quiet.† â€Å"Each culture has a value system that dictates behavior directly or indirectly by setting norms and teaching that those norms are right. Health beliefs and practices tend to reflect a cultures value system. Nurses must understand the patients value system to foster health promotion (Cherry, 2008).† As nurses, we must recognize and respect the cultures and beliefs of our patients. This hospital may have a small population of Jewish residents but what hospital can afford to lose patients to a hospital 20 miles away? There needs to be education from administration down on how to value each culture and how we as healthcare members must understand the different values to promote health. Education on the ability of practicing the health beliefs and practices of each patient can and will help the patient get better. I think we get into the mind-set that we are healthcare providers and people have to come to us, they need us, but what some don’t understand is we are a business as well. We need to respect our patients and put our patients first. They can go somewhere else. Someone else out there wants their business, wants to show them what kind of quality care they can receive, and will show them just that. REFERENCES Cherry, B., Jacob, S. (2008). CHAPTER 8 Legal Issues in Nursing and Health Care. In Contemporary Nursing: Issues, Trends Management (5th ed., p. 185, p. 222). St. Louis, Mo.: Mosby/Elsevier. Nursing-Sensitive Indicators. (2015, January 1). Retrieved April 25, 2015, from http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ThePracticeofProfessionalNursing/PatientSafetyQuality/Research-Measurement/The-National-Database/Nursing-Sensitive-Indicators_1.aspx

Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods And Procurement

Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods And Procurement The term of procurement method is frequently complex network of relationships which are formed between clients, consultants and construction companies, to enable a building project to be realized. Quantity Surveyors know how to provide a full Procurement solution at the inspection stage. There are essential clients requirements at inspection stage such as; Advice on procurement method, Contractual advice, Contractor selection, Preparation of tender and contract documentation, Forms of contract, etc. Particularly on the construction project it is vitally important to arrangement of the right method of procuring the construction works. There are different types of procurement arrangements and options exist in the construction industry Such as; Traditional (Design-bid-build), Design and Build, Management Contracting, Construction Management, Design and Manage, etc. ADR typically refers to processes and techniques of resolving disputes that fall outside of the judicial process (HG.org Worldwide Legal Directories) ADR is takes few variety forms as Negotiation, Mini-trial, Mediation, Conciliation, Mutual fact-finding, Expert Determination, Private judging, Dispute resolution boards, etc. INTRODUCTION This report emphasize for identifying critical phases of the Construction procurement and Alternative dispute resolution methods Therefore, especially highlight concerning significant phases of procurement and disputes. And also critically discuss key role of Quantity Surveyor for Disputes resolution and opinions to improve the procurement methods. MAIN BODY DISCUSSION Explain the quantity surveyors role in the various needs of client for selection of procurement at inception stage of the construction project. What is the Procurement method of Construction Project? The term of procurement method is frequently complex network of relationships which are formed between clients, consultants and construction companies, to enable a building project to be realized. It is important to discriminate the contractual relationships from managerial links, and in complex modern procurement systems. (Which Contract? 4th edition by Sarah Lupton, Stanley Cox and Hugh Clamp) Clients Requirements at the Inspection Stage Quantity Surveyors know how to provide a full Procurement solution at the inspection stage of project for all clients, such as Main Contractors, Private Public Clients. Whatever level of construction procurement is required; Quantity Surveyors have the knowledge and experience to guide clients toward a successful construction project. Hence as identified essential clients requirements at inspection stage those can be specify as follows; Advice on the most appropriate procurement method for the project, Contractual advice, Contractor selection advice, Preparation of tender and contract documentation (bills of quantities schedules of rates), Forms of contract, Reviewing tender documents (drawings and specifications). Quantity Surveyor Role based on Client requirements at for select the Procurement methods Quantity surveyors have an important role to perform in building procurement selection at the inspection stage based on client requirements because choosing the right procurement method is vital to the success of a building project. Some experience clients who may have their own professional team and an effective procurement policy and inexperience client have little or no knowledge of procurement methods; hence they require extensive professional advice at the inspection stage. Below mentioned are the vital important roles as identified. Advice on the most appropriate procurement method: as a specialty of construction Contracts, Quantity Surveyor has to advice for select a suitable procurement methods based on client requirement. Since some clients need different type of procurement methods according to their project scope. Contractual advice: as an important part of contract at the initial stage of project, required preparing an agreement to obtain clear understand and less disputes until finish the project. Hence Quantity Surveyor involves selecting and advising proper suitable contract agreement for the project as per client requirements. Advice for Contractor selection: selection of suitable contractor is complex process within role of Quantity Surveyor, because project success is depend on which selected contract organization. Hence Quantity Surveyor involves at the project inspection stage considering client needs for select a reputed contractor according to the standards procedures. Preparation of tender and contract documentation: Quantity Surveyor involves directly for preparation of calling tenders and documentations, such as, Company guarantee, Sectional Completion, Limitation of Contractors Liability, Price Adjustment for Inflation , Bonus for early Completion, Delay Damages , Changes in Law, Condition of contract, Additional Conditions, Bills of quantities schedules of rates, etc. Forms of contract: Quantity Surveyor involves selecting suitable form of contract expelling having advantage to the project when select most suitable form of contract according to the considering client requirement. One of those as JCT forms FIDIC form, NEC form, ICTAD form of contract in Sri Lanka. Reviewing tender documents: Quantity Surveyor involve to review drawings and specifications for tenders process, also tender evaluation based on predetermined estimate and preparing final report for tender award. Analyze the different type of procurement arrangement (process of conducting with advantages and disadvantages). Particularly on the construction project it is vitally important to arrangement of the right method of procuring the construction works. Not only is it important to choose the right contractor but it is vital that the contract documentation and form of contract is appropriate to the project. In basic terms Procurement is the process used to obtain construction projects. It involves the selection of a contractual framework that clearly identifies the structure of responsibilities and authorities for participants within the building process. There are different types of procurement arrangements and options exist in the construction industry as follows; Traditional (Design-bid-build) Design and Build Management Contracting Construction Management Design and Manage Traditional (Design-bid-build) Generally Traditional methods can be described under few forms procuring process as follows; Cost Reimbursed Contract Cost plus percentage Cost plus Fixed fee Cost plus Targets Lump Sum Contract Measure and pay contracts Engineers Main Contractor CLIENT Cost Consultant / Quantity Surveyor Nominated Sub-Contractor Domestic Sub-Contractor Consultant The client who is appoints an Architect as initial appointment to the project under this method, subsequently the architect appoint his design team and other consultants as requires to the project. And also the design team provides advice to the client until completion of project execution. Furthermore understand of Contractual relationship shows by below given chart. (Refer to diagram 01) Diagram 01- Contractual relationship Cost Reimbursed Contract Introduction This method is not constructive for any client due to absence of tender sum or final predicted final cost. Hence cost reimbursed contract also often provide some incentive to contractors to control costs. This method generally used only for following situations; Emergency projects, when the correct scope is unavailable where payments will be paying day work basis etc. Cost plus percentage: The contractor paid for cost of labour, material, plant and subcontractors overheads profit. And Profit directly subsists with contractors expenditures. Hence this is not constructive for clients. Cost plus Fixed fee: Profits of Contractors are pre-determined and agree with both client and contractor under this method before the start of work. Also contractor will try to control the project cost by reducing his management costs etc. Lump Sum Contract This method generally both contractor and client agree for a fix amount before the commencement of the project. The contractor is responsible to carrying out works according to the contract documents referring to the agreed cost. Further lump sum contract obtain two forms as with Quantities and without Quantities. Measure and pay contracts Particularly the Contractor is paid for actual work done according to the contract documents. There are several types of methods under this process, based on provide Drawing and Specification, Performance specifications, Schedule of rates, Bill of quantities, Bill of Approximate quantities, etc. Advantages of Traditional Method The total cost of the project Client is familiar with early, Tender price is little, High tender quality and superlative tender competition, Allow to design changes, Assist the cost management process. Disadvantages of Traditional Method Acquire additional time to start work execution from inception, Risk of design mistake occur to project delay, Lack of participation of contractor with design process. Design and Build Employ of a contractor is directly by Client instead of appointing an architect to a project under this method. Hence the Contractor is responsible for both designing and execution of the project. Also appoint a design team for develop the design using tender process by Clint. The contractor is invited by the client to develop and build the design which is done by the clients consultant under this form. (Refer to diagram 02) Design and build Contractor Client Nominated Sub-Contractor Domestic Sub-Contractor Cost Consultant / Quantity Surveyor Architect Consultants Licensees Diagram 02- Contractual relationship Advantages Contractor cant make any charge on client for design errors, High level of price certainty exists, Reduced project duration and enhanced degree of buildability, Not necessary to appoint employees other than the Contractor. Disadvantages Difficult Cost management and comparison of tenders, The building may aesthetically less acceptable if the constructors organization is smaller or less experienced team, Less knowledge about the value for money client has. Management Contracting Architect Engineering Consultants CLIENT Quantity Surveyor Trade Contractor Management Contractor Trade Contractor Trade Contractor In this method, Contractor employs by the client for mange the whole project by considering past experiences. The management contractor not doing any construction works himself. Generally distributes work packages to sub-contractors and manages them. Also paid by the client for management fee and also any other additional costs for services if has to provide before or during the construction period. (Refer to diagram 03) Diagram 03- Contractual relationship Advantages Contractor work under clients team, therefore it influence to identify clients requirements. Design team can use Contractors knowledge and management experiences for design requirements. Work is able to start early once the design of each work package is completed and also reduce project duration. Disadvantages Final cost of the project available only after the completion of the last work package only. The client would have risk on cost which can increase due to design errors. Construction Management This is similar to the management contracting but deferent is each trade contractor has direct contract with the client. The client is appointing a construction manager either consultant or contractor for organize and plan construction work. Also there is responsibility of appointing a design team as client needs. Advantages Every trade contractor have direct contract with the client therefore it is easy to redress delays. Easy to avoid or minimize practical troubles due to close relationship between construction manager and design team. Work is able to start early once the design of each work package is completed. Construction works and Project management integrated directly. Disadvantages Financial commitment difficult to identify to the client until the final work package is signed. The client has to deal with another consultant and contractors instead of main contractor more. Design and manage Designer Work Sub-Contractor Scope designer CLIENT Design Manage Contractor This method also similar to the management contracting and however the major difference is additional design responsibility to the management contractor. The form of procurement of this type of contract shows similarities to the design and build contracts but extend of the single point design responsibility. (Refer to diagram 04) Diagram 04- Contractual relationship Advantages Design team can use project managers knowledge and management experiences. Work is able to start early once the design of each work package is completed. Practical problems possible to minimize or avoid and also reduce the project duration. Explain your view on the construction procurement and suggestion to improve the effectiveness. Suggestions to improvement of Traditional method Need to be avoiding design errors and project delays by involvement of a knowledgeable independent professional body at the inception of the project. Carryout the tendering process separately for each trade package once it is completed and start execution accordingly for reduce the time duration. Suggestions to improvement of Design and Build method Client can check contractors recourses to make sure the capability of the firm to execute his project It is possible to develop the design by a 3rd party to makes sure better value for money. Briefly explain each ADR methods with advantages and disadvantages in contract. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Introduction ADR typically refers to processes and techniques of resolving disputes that fall outside of the judicial process (HG.org Worldwide Legal Directories) Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is originated in the USA, was adopted in Britain in the 1980s and is now practiced worldwideà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Page123, Quantity Surveying Construction Management, 2012) Goodwill between both parties is very important to achieve good results from ADR applications without wasting time and recourses with Arbitration or litigation. General advantages of ADR applications can review as Private, Quick, Economic, etc. ADR is takes few variety forms as follows. (Page123, Quantity Surveying Construction Management, 2012) Negotiation Mini-trial Mediation Conciliation Mutual fact-finding Expert Determination Private judging Dispute resolution boards Negotiation In negotiation participation is voluntary and there is no third party who facilitates the resolution process or imposes a resolution. There are no limits for arguments. Advantages:- All Parties can find their own judgments and Time and money saving. Fully confidential if third person not involving with the process. Disadvantages:- This might effect to the relationship of the both parties due to unnecessary arguments. Mini-trial Mini-Trial involves the top decision makers of the corporations having a dispute by engaging them in the presentation of their respective cases and the subsequent negotiating process. A mini-trial is generally not a binding method unless the parties agree otherwise. Advantages:- Independent advisor and facilitator is available. Time and money saving is exist. Unfriendliness is reduced. This method is not a trial at all and maintained confidentiality. The business relationship of the both parties is maintained Disadvantages:- Resolution if fail, parties can go to the court. Process will not succeed if the parties have any doubt on his impartiality and independence. Any party at any point of time, there is a possible to withdraw. Not much cost effective all the time. Mediation Mediation a forum in which a neutral third party facilitates communication between parties to promote settlement. A mediator may not impose his or her own judgment on the issues for that of the parties. Advantages:- Avoid unfriendliness and Less cost than go to the courts. Mediators knowledge helps to the parties guide clear future disputes. Disadvantages:- When parties week and strong, Possible to make agreement it may be lopsided to favor of the more prominent side. Conciliation One party invites to other party to resolve disputes trough Conciliation and the process will commence once the invitation is accepted. This process newer commence if other party rejects the invitation. If both party fail the process they has to go to the arbitration to resolve disputes. Advantages:- Both parties attempt to become for negotiation as of the great respect of the neutral person and also it is faster than negotiation. Disadvantages:- Less confidential due to involvement of conciliator. Expenses are higher. No any binding between both parties. Mutual fact-finding All the parties strongly engage and make a report with or without assistance of a mutual expert. The parties can solve their disputes trough the report and also this report is possible to use as a trial, as well as can give as evidence to the court or arbitration. Dispute resolution boards In the background of construction contracts, a DRB include a board of one or three persons, independent of the contracting parties, engaged to carry out an overview role of the execution of the project. Its primary function is to assist the parties to avoid disputes if possible or if not, to assist them to a quick, cost-effective and avoid the need for arbitration or litigation. (Dr Donald Charrett, Barrister, Arbitrator and Mediator Owen Dixon Chambers East, Melbourne) Advantages The panel acts realistically as third person. The Panel members are industrial experts. Early responses save time and money. Disadvantages:- Select and appoint of members are complicate process. Not retain confidentiality. Expert determination This is a private alternative to court litigation for the resolution of disputes. It is one of a number of ADR  methods available including arbitration,  mediation and adjudication. (Daniel Djanogly Forensic Accountants Chartered Arbitrators) Advantages Cheaper than running a case to trial. Allow both parties a greater knowledge of how the factual evidence is likely to be decided if the case goes to trial. Disadvantages The expert has no power to force his findings on the parties. One party is probable to have to sure the other to implement determination of the expert. Private judging Private Judging is a special type of decisional process, based on arbitration.    A retired judge is appointed by parties in dispute to preside over a private trial. Advantages It offers convenience and flexible to all parties. The flexibility of this method ownership and control of the litigation to the dispute. It is speedy process confidentially Disadvantages This is some considerably costly method in ADR The parties are unable to evaluate the quality of the judgment which given under this method. The parties entered into the contract they may face to various disputes. Discuss the role of the quantity surveyors input, from the inception to completion of the project. Role of the quantity surveyors for Disputes Resolution To be identified and scheduled might be occurred disputes at the early stage. Involving and discuss with line managers regarding the identified disputes. Advice to the client for selecting an accurate method of dispute resolution. As an initial action try to be settle by negotiation action to avoid wasting time and money. If negotiation is unsuccessful, to be advised to the senior management for go to the ADR methods by avoiding go to the Arbitration or Litigation. Perform to evaluate and advise to select the correct method from available in ADR process. Collects and prepares all necessary supporting documents required to the ADR process. Attending for relevant meetings and review the issues of meeting CONCLUSION/RECOMMENDATION Basically Construction project disputes are occurred due to selection of inappropriate procurement applications for the project. Hence selection of suitable procurement methods at project inspection stage is a very important responsibility within role of Quantity Surveyor. I recommend every Quantity Surveyor should develop their knowledge in-field of Construction procurement application and disputes resolution methods in practically.

The Comitatus Relationship in Beowulf Essay -- Epic of Beowulf Essays

Throughout history rulers have always been protective of their kingdoms. In hopes of always being in control of their territory, rulers develop special relationships with the people to protect them. This relationship was usually achieved by of instilling fear into the minds of their warriors, or instilling respect between each other. In the story Beowulf the relationship between the ruler and his thanes is that of honor, friendship, and respect. In Anglo Saxon stories, the relationship between the ruler and his thanes is known as comitatus. The comitatus relationship requires that "the thane swear to defend a lord to their death, while he provides them with the protection and a share of his wealth and weapons." This sounds like a typical warrior defending master relationship, but the relationship between a lord and his thanes is far more complex than that. Along with the thane and lord each providing services for the other, there is also a great deal of camaraderie between the thanes and their lord: "Some of the native terms used for this group in Beowulf may suggest something of ...

Moving to America

MOVING TO AMERICA Do you know moving could be a very traumatic and scary experience for a child? When my mom decided to leave Trinidad and Tobago to pursue her Master degree, I don’t think she realized the impact it would have on me, knowing that you are moving to a whole different country is a big pill to swallow at the age of 14 years old. Me and my mom was having dinner when she broke the news that we were moving to America I remembered that day like it was yesterday I felt like my heart had hit the floor I had mix emotions I was just numb I didn’t know if to be happy, sad or angry.After the news was broken to me everything that I loved flashed before my eyes my friends and my family. I was in high school at the time of our planning to move so I knew I would have to make new friends which is very hard for me because am very shy and soft spoken. But I knew in my heart my mom was making the move for us to better herself and to provide a better life for me and my brothe r. Leaving my country where I grew up and where all my family and friends were really saddened me.Trinidad and Tobago is two islands that makes up one country I lived in Trinidad is the place I call home. It’s a beautiful island in the Caribbean its hot all year round and it only has two seasons the rainy season and the dry season. I absolutely enjoy the weather but at times the heat can be very scorching and unbearable, the beaches are amazing white sands blue waters I remember when my best friend and I would go to the beach on Sundays and spend the whole day. So the day before I left which was a Thursday, which meant I had school.My teacher gave a farewell speech telling the class I was leaving and today would be my last day my Best friend Adanna broke into to tears so did I was an emotional wreck because we have been friends since age 5 we did everything together. So when class was over we walk to the bus hugging each other and cherishing our last moments together and then she told me she have a present for me. When I opened it was a letter that consist 10 pages and a framed picture of me and her at age 8, I was so grateful that she gave that to me I told I would keep it close to my heart. At 14 years we jetted to Colorado the flight took about 8 hours to arrive.I arrived in Colorado my body was in shocked of how cold it was coming from a country that is warm it was snowing heavily. I was so excited because I have always dreamt of wanting to see snow and on the first day of my arrival to America I saw snow I just thought to myself how lucky am I, I just smiled to myself. So a taxi cab came to pick us up at the Denver International Airport my new home was located in Colorado Springs it was an hour and a half away. On our way to Colorado Springs I couldn’t see the landscape or anything because everywhere was covered in snow so I just laid back and enjoyed the ride.When we arrived at our new home I fell in love with our new townhouse home it was new, hardwood floors, a tall ceiling it was just marvelous. My first night in my new home, a new country and a new neighborhood felt pretty weird I felt so out of place like I didn’t belong. I woke up the next morning feeling pretty lonely the house was quiet it was just not what am use to because back home in Trinidad we were living in a house with my grandparents and my other family members like my cousins and aunts so the house was always noisy.My mom came in to my room to tell me to get ready we are going grocery shopping I was a little excited I must say just to be out. So we went to the grocery I was so amaze on how big it was and all the different selections of foods items there was to choose from. After grocery shopping, my mom stopped at her school Colorado Technical University to do some finishing for her registration to start to attend school for the Spring Semester. The following day I had to register for school because it was nearing close for the spring school t erm to start so we went to the North Middle School to sign me up.I so nervous when I enter the doors of North Middle School I was so overwhelmed and I hadn’t even started school as yet it was just to register me. So January 9th rolled around that was the beginning of school it was the most traumatic and scary experience ever so many thoughts were running through my mind would I make friends, would any of the students laugh at my accent when I speak. The diversity of the students at the school with all different culture backgrounds was a lot to take in but I was eager to learn about them.I went to my first class it was my Algebra class my teacher was Mr. Brice, seeing as it was the first day of school he suggested that we stand up and introduce ourselves to the class. Everyone stood up and introduce there selves and then it was my turn I started sweating bullets I was so nervous so I stand and these was my exact words â€Å"Hi am Ariane and am from Trinidad† one the cla ssmate laughed at me I felt so hurt I wanted to cry right then and there but I had to hold my composer.When the bell rang for the class to be over there was this one girl her name was Desiree came up to me and told me my accent was cool and she liked it. We became great friends from then so my school experience wasn’t as bad as I thought. When I got home from my first day of school, I laid on my bed thought to myself today wasn’t a bad day at all I can get use to this. But then I started to think about back home and I felt so empty and lonely and I missed everything my family and best friend.After spending 7 years in Colorado, my mom completed her degree and got an incredible job opportunity she was ecstatic I was to, then she told me we had to talk every time she said we have to talk I knew there was some bad or disappointing news she was going to tell me so I took a deep breath and asked â€Å"What is it mom? † she replied and said â€Å"We will be moving to New Jersey† I screamed out in excitement my mom was shocked at my reaction and she had a puzzling look on her face. She asked me â€Å"Aren’t you sad you are leaving Colorado† because she knew how sad I was when we left Trinidad I quickly responded â€Å"No†.I was excited to leave Colorado although I did develop a friendship with Desiree, I wanted to be close to family and New Jersey was the place for me because I have lots and cousins and aunts there. Moving to a whole different country has made me into a stronger person and has broadened my horizon to different cultures, atmosphere and opportunities. It also allows me to see and experience life in a new and different way. My mom has taught me that once I put my mind to anything I can do it. Because she went to Colorado without knowing anybody there and we conquered it together. Test: â€Å"Study Guide Algebra†

Free Essays on A Critical Examination Of Valls’ Interpretation Of Just War Theory

A Critical Examination of Valls’ Interpretation of Just War Theory In light of recent events and the current â€Å"war on terrorism† it seems critical to move away from political rhetoric and approach the issue with as much reasonable objectivity as possible. The central question that Andrew Valls attempts to answer is weather terrorism can be justified. He argues that it can in some cases when measured against just war theory. Just war theory sets moral limits on the waging of war while justifying its legitimacy. I am in agreement with his conclusion but my defense of his argument relies on acceptance of his definition of terrorism, which seems to me rather broad. Valls defines terrorism as political violence done to persons or property committed by nonstate actors. It must be politically motivated for any other form of violence is considered crime and subject to domestic laws. He adds violence against property to include attacks that would be considered terrorism even though they do not harm people. An example of this would be the bombing of an abortion clinic. When he limits the violence to nonstate actors, he doesn’t deny the existence of state sponsored terrorism. He states that this type of violence is a matter of domestic justice, and in cases outside its borders, just war theory can be applied. With this definition he attempts to avoid two difficulties. He does not prejudge the issue by characterizing terrorism as something intrinsically wrong, which is what Walzer seems to do. How can there be serious discussion about a normative issue if it is already defined as unjustifiable? He also attempts to avoid making his definition stipulative. I would argue that Valls’ definition is too broad with respect to his contention that it is nonessential to include fear or intimidation as a deliberate strategy of terrorism. Of course if this provision were added, it would weaken his argument by disqualifying many case... Free Essays on A Critical Examination Of Valls’ Interpretation Of Just War Theory Free Essays on A Critical Examination Of Valls’ Interpretation Of Just War Theory A Critical Examination of Valls’ Interpretation of Just War Theory In light of recent events and the current â€Å"war on terrorism† it seems critical to move away from political rhetoric and approach the issue with as much reasonable objectivity as possible. The central question that Andrew Valls attempts to answer is weather terrorism can be justified. He argues that it can in some cases when measured against just war theory. Just war theory sets moral limits on the waging of war while justifying its legitimacy. I am in agreement with his conclusion but my defense of his argument relies on acceptance of his definition of terrorism, which seems to me rather broad. Valls defines terrorism as political violence done to persons or property committed by nonstate actors. It must be politically motivated for any other form of violence is considered crime and subject to domestic laws. He adds violence against property to include attacks that would be considered terrorism even though they do not harm people. An example of this would be the bombing of an abortion clinic. When he limits the violence to nonstate actors, he doesn’t deny the existence of state sponsored terrorism. He states that this type of violence is a matter of domestic justice, and in cases outside its borders, just war theory can be applied. With this definition he attempts to avoid two difficulties. He does not prejudge the issue by characterizing terrorism as something intrinsically wrong, which is what Walzer seems to do. How can there be serious discussion about a normative issue if it is already defined as unjustifiable? He also attempts to avoid making his definition stipulative. I would argue that Valls’ definition is too broad with respect to his contention that it is nonessential to include fear or intimidation as a deliberate strategy of terrorism. Of course if this provision were added, it would weaken his argument by disqualifying many case...

Lying Explored in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof essays

Lying Explored in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof essays "Mendacity is a system that we live in. Liquor is one way out and death's the other."[1] This quote by Tennessee Williams is expressed throughout one of his best-known works, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and the theme of mendacity permeates the entire play. Mendacity is a term that refers to lies, hypocrisy and deception that the Pollitt family uses to escape from falsehood. The overburdened circumstances of the family crisis reveal hidden truths that were being held by the characters in the play. Brick drinks in order to escape mendacity and lies, the Pollitt family, except Brick lies to Big Daddy about his terminal cancer and Big Daddy himself is Brick drinks in order to escape mendacity and lies. The alcohol helps him cope with issues he has bottled up inside and eases the pain he inflicts on himself by denying the nature of his relationship with Skipper and his culpability in Skippers self-destruction and death. Brick confesses to Maggie that alcohol is the only way he can obtain peace of mind and says, "The click in my head when I've had enough of this stuff to make me peaceful... (1.33)" Brick feels responsible for Skipper's suicide because he rejected him after he confessed his feelings for Brick. During his first real discussion with Big Daddy, Brick spits out his disgust with mendacity. He is repulsed with the fake life he has been living when his friendship with recently deceased Skipper was misinterpreted as "dirty". However, Big Daddy states that Brick's disgust with mendacity is really disgust with Uh-hu. Anyhow now!-we have tracked down the lie with which you're disgusted and which you are drinking to kill your disgust with, Brick. You been passing the buck. This disgust with mendacity is disgust with yourself. You!-dug the grave of your friend and kicked him in it!- before you'd face truth with him! (2.127) Big Daddy genuinely lov...