Stand Up!

When our personal values and morals are put into question, we have a choice to make. We can stand up for what we truly believe and go against the grain or back down and pretend to be something we’re not. Everyday we are put in situations to make decisions. Everything from agreeing to what your professor’s say even though you feel offended. Following your boss’ orders when they are unethical. Or something as minuscule as being pressured into that extra beer when you feel you’ve had enough. We more often than not, don’t say anything. We just go along with it even though we feel uncomfortable. We don’t want our grade to be affected, lose our job, or seem "uncool." So, we find it easier to just overlook the problem and go with the flow. It’s what they expect of us.

We all "believe" that we follow our morals, but when put to the test, we sometimes take the less impacted way out and throw our beliefs aside. I’m pretty sure, no matter how much we don’t want to confess, we have all let our feelings, friends, pressure, or acceptance overpower our values and lead us to the bad side. I can think of many instances myself right now. Just like we know we should always take the high road when situations get out of hand, but it is often easier to lower our standards and give in. We demean ourselves by doing this, it shows we can’t handle the pressure. Try to stay controlled and keep your composure. They are just life’s little tests in every experience we face. Get used to it, they’re not going away anytime soon. So, the more familiar you are with these annoying little "tests", the better prepared you’ll become.

Next time you’re in an awkward, uncomfortable or unethical situation, stand up for yourself. I know, I know, easier said than done when actually put on stage. But you’d be surprised to find you might actually be respected for your morality and honor. I know in my books, you’d basically be a bad-ass. No one should be forced into doing something they don’t feel is right and everyone can fight for what they believe. That’s one of the great things about this country. We HAVE the freedom to express our opinion and make our own choices. Words of wisdom: Don’t change your identity, define yourself by "who you are." It’s not about finding yourself, it’s about creating yourself.

Inevitable Truth

If you haven’t noticed, gas prices are on the rise and there is no slowing them down. It seems like every time you go fill up, you can add a few more bucks to your balance. Ultimately, we as consumers have to pay the price for all the political problems and other issues that affect theincrease.

We all hate it, but the truth is we have absolutely no control over it and there is nothing we can do to change it. Gas is a necessity and will always be in demand, unless they come up with some universal and available alternatives. The sad thing is that many people have to choose between food and other necessities to driving to work. I really feel bad for those who have along commute to work everyday, it’s ridiculous when they are spending half or more of their paycheck on the darn gas to get them to work. Where is the profit margin here?

Many families are struggling right now with the high gas prices and something needs to be changed, but in reality it doesn’t look like the outlook is good. There are many alternatives to gas, but they just aren’t readily available, affordable and on the market. As if the economy isn’t already bad enough right now, they have to bury us even deeper in the hole with gas prices.
Even though we complain about gas, we don’t really seem to be doing anything to fix it. If Americans weren’t so spoiled by all of us having our own cars, so we can go wherever, whenever at our own convenience, we could actually take some steps in keeping gas costs down. Most of us think we are too good to take the bus to work or are too independent to arrange a carpool. Yeah, we may not have the best public transportation system compared to Europe and other countries, but we do have something and if you actually make the effort to use it, it will probably workout. There is always the good ol’ man powered automobile, the bike, which would be good for everyone, their health, the environment, and your wallet Also, arrange your schedules to be most gas efficient, do things like your grocery shopping on your way home from work, not take a separate trip. We all just need to face the fact gas is out of control and try to do the best we can in these hard times.

A Little Respect Please

Why is it that people feel they can treat complete strangers like crap for no reason? I have worked as a waitress the last three summers and have never been treated so badly by complete strangers. Although, most of my customers have been fine, but it is always the bad ones that weremember most. I just don’t understand who people think they are treating an innocent waitress so horribly. Is it a position of power they feel they have over someone for that moment when I am serving them? I honestly feel that is a huge part of it, because the customers that gave me the hardest time were usually the least educated and lower class citizens. They take advantage of servers, because that is probably the only time they have power over someone or something in their lives. I would give great service and take good care of them while they were dining at the restaurant I worked at, but they would always find someway to demean me and make me feel worthless. My coworkers and I would always talk about the rude customers and tell each other we shouldn’t even care because those people mean nothing to us, but I would always take things personally unfortunately and it would make me feel bad. Some of the worst customers I have ever had would make personal attacks on me that had absolutely nothing to do with the service or food. It was really unnecessary, but I guess it made them feel better about themselves and boost their self-esteem. I just think there are better ways to do that then attack your friendly local restaurant server, who is just trying to make a few bucks to keep the college loans down. Also, while I’m ranting about that, people need to know about gratuity. I don’t think they understand that a server’s job is based on tips. That we get taxed on 11%, so the government assumes we make at least 11%, so basically when we get stiffed, we are technically losing money to serve you. Good tippers usually can make up for bad tips. Don’t eat out if you aren’t going to tip. It should just be assumed and if not there is always a McDonald’s down the road, with a dollar menu. Waitressing is not a fun job, so try not to make it even harder on the server. You really think somebody likes waiting on rude people that always need something or there is always something wrong? It is usually just good money and flexible hours for college students. The good thing about working in a restaurant is that it really made me want to get a good education so I won’t have to be doing it my whole life. I really feel sorry for the older ladies that have waitressed their whole lives and have to rely on it as their only income. If you ever need an incentive to get an education and go to school, become a waitress. You will quickly be motivated to get a degree.

Election Feelings 2008

With the election soon approaching many of us are still left in the dark or hastily trying to draw a conclusion for our candidate. This election is possibly the biggest historical election thus far. Whoever would have imagined there would be both a minority man and a woman, now that Sarah Palin is involved, in the race. This shows how far we have truly come from when our four fathers began and that anything is possible. It really wasn too long ago when women suffrage started around the late 1800s and now we have had a woman run for president and one that could be vice president. This is history in the making and we are fortunate enough to witness it.

"From concerns about the economy and the war in Iraq to the perennial topics of Social Security and the health care system, a range of issues is guiding this year presidential race," according to CNN 2008 Election Center. With this being such an important election, more people are registering to vote and becoming more aware of the issues and topics that affect our country.

"More than 10 million viewers tuned into Wednesday’s Democratic debate on ABC, making it the most-watched debate of the primary election season," according to The New York Times. The media coverage and amount of viewers of the presidential debates topped the scales and that truly shows how involved people are becoming in this election.

"I want to vote and feel like I need to, but I’m not sure of which candidate to choose or why. I feel like I don’t know very much about the election and the candidates. I only know about them from what I see on TV and read in the paper," said college student Leona Witenberg. Leona along with many other Americans is unsure of her presidential candidate selection and is very swayed by the media. With so many new voters and more people than ever registering, not everyone is informed about their decisions. They base them strictly off of how they are portrayed by media and influences from their family and friends. When they need to just take the time to find out about the issues that concern them and how the different candidates view their stances. People want to take action in voting and be part of the change, but unfortunately some are very naive and inexperienced with politics and government. Although, there are many Americans who hold strong opinions and are very well educated on their decision.

"Obama’s campaign spent over $377 million and McCain $194 million," according to open secrets.org, a center for responsive politics. Millions of dollars are spent for candidate’s campaigns and most of it is raised through private donors and corporations. Candidates rely heavily on donations and without them their would be no campaign. It sometimes turns into a popularity contest, with how many signs your committee can get out or how many commercials are on television. The more the public can see your name or face the more it sticks with them and the better chance they will end up voting for that candidate. It shouldn’t be about who has the most money to spend or who has the best campaign committee, it should be about the issues and how they will affect our country.

There are many ways and resources out there that can educate voters about the two presidential candidates, Barrack Obama and John McCain. The information is widely available, but it is up to you to choose whether or not to use it. A good website that discusses a wide array of issues and topics is PresidentialElection.com. It is a non-partisan directory and information center to educate voters. It doesn’t endorse any of the candidates and is only intended for informational purposes, according to the site.
"It is exciting to vote in such a big election that can make a big difference for our country," said student Kyle Herd. For Kyle and many other new voters their first election is an important one that can have a tremendous impact on our nation.

Even if you’re tired of hearing about the election, put that aside for the next few months and become involved, because although this year's election is historic, its consequences have a bigger outcome. The next president of this country will make a difference for you and me. If you think your vote doesn’t matter, that one person can’t make a difference, you’re wrong. You can’t win the lottery unless you buy a ticket. Yes, the outcome of this election matters. So be sure to do your research about both candidates and find out exactly where they stand on the issues that affect you most.

Technological Dependency in the 21st Century

Sometimes we don’t know how hard it is to go without something until it is gone. We take our luxuries for granted and don’t truly appreciate them. Sophmore, Stephanie Christen, knows exactly how that feels. She was recently out of commission for a whole three days, while her cell phone was broken. Being in the 21st century in American society everyone is so connected to their phones and technological gadgets that those few three days can seem like a lifetime. "I didn’t realize how dependent I was on my cell phone," said Christen and I’m sure most of us can relate to that as well. It is such a convenience to constantly have our cell phones by our side, but it also restricts us from solving some problems by ourselves and just being able to get away and not be "connected" to everyone and everything.

Majority of college students have a cell phone and it is typically their main or only source of staying in touch with their family and friends. So, when we don’t have our cell phones for a few days, it really is a hardship. "I don’t have any other way of people reaching me than through my phone," added Christen. It is a weird concept for us and we feel disconnected from the norm that society creates. It is harder to get in touch with friends and you can possibly even miss out on things, by not being informed through phone. Students always have their phones with them wherever and whenever they go. It is a comfort to students to have their phones for easy access to not only family and friends, but also for safety resources, which is very reassuring to everyone.

Our society is very connected to the luxuries of technology. "I feel like I can’t live without it," said Senior Krystal Martinez. Youth these days are getting cell phones as early as six years of age. What a change from just as recent as fifteen years ago, when cell phones weren’t hardly even available. How did past eras ever survive without them? Well, they seemed to manage just fine and life was very different from what we know now in our high tech age. In earlier times, phones were a privilege to have and only the elite could afford them. Now they are readily available and in large supply. Some people even have multiple cell phones and those that don’t have phones are seen as some sort of outcast.

While Christen experienced a disconnection from her family and friends last week, she truly realized how much she depends upon her cell phone, but also knows she can survive without it. With technology taking over and becoming the future, the people who totally rely on it, sometimes lack or loose social and communication skills. The impact technology has on people is overwhelming. "You loose emotional and personal connection through a phone," agreed Stephanie. Whereas communicating in person, we can truly see and feel what we are saying through facial expression, feelings, emotion, emphasis, etc. Remember phones are great to have, but don’t loose that personal connection either.

NFL: Part of the American Life

So, why DO Americans love football so much? Many people believe Americans take football too seriously or are just completely obsessed. You may think it is overrated but leave it to the fans to decide that. Only a true fan will ever know the real feeling and the passion it brings out. It’s more than just something to look forward to on the usually dreaded Monday nights. It’s part of the American culture, American life. It’s about the excitement, anticipation, halftime shows, tail gating and parties. But even more important than the game itself, it is about traditions, family past times, bonding with your son and buddies, and coming together for a common cause. A good excuse to throw down a few cold ones. Getting that first jersey when you’re a kid, going to your first game and Sunday barbeque’s with your family and friends are what the love for the NFL are all about. Of course, a win always makes things better, but there is more to football than the literal aspect.

It is the reason some people get up in the morning, the light that keeps them going, okay now I may be exaggerating a bit now, but people do take it seriously and it does become a big part of their lives and themselves. Sometimes, literally, I mean how many team logos have you seen tattooed on people? I know I sure have seen a fair share.

Although, there are definitely some over obsessed hardcore fans out there that would literally die for their team. My brother included, it actually scares me sometimes. He gets so into the game that it literally determines his attitude for the week. I always knew to stay clear of him when the niners lost. I’ll admit there are those crazy fans that get a little too intense and involved at games. The ones that find themselves being hauled away by security after brawling with the other team’s fans. If that pertains to you, words of advice: you should probably get a life and know that whether your team wins or loses, life WILL still go on.

The Super Bowl might as well be declared an official holiday. As it is, more people do celebrate it than most holidays. I bet some of you fans out there are already guilty to missing Sunday service or calling in sick to work so you could watch the game. Don’t be ashamed to admit it, we know it is true.

Some of us, especially women don’t fully understand the football frenzy and may never know, but don’t judge until you have experienced it yourself. I get really annoyed by people out there that put professional sports down and criticize them. Saying, "it is just a stupid game and people need to get a life." Well, maybe THEY need to get a life, what is so bad about having a passion for something or a healthy outlet to your daily routine. People need something to look forward to in their busy lives and if it happens to be game day, then good for them. It seems healthy to me. The ones who knock it are usually the people that were last to get picked for kick ball when they were younger and it is built up resentment. They just need to get over it.

It may mostly be a guy thing, but women also love football. One word: shopping. Game days are the only time of the year they can go shopping without being hassled and are actually encouraged to leave. Women, be sure to take full advantage of football season, that great opportunity may never arise again.

True fans are dedicated to their team until the day they die and will never back down or give up. "Their team" will always be "their team", and they would never ever consider switching. They are not front runners or band wagoners. Go Niners, I stand by them in their good and as we have seen in the past few seasons, definitely their bad as well.

It’s more than just being a spectator, NFL fans live it. There is a real feeling and
importance football plays in your life. If this wasn’t true, the NFL wouldn’t have such a remarkable impact on American culture, as it has more than proven to be.

My Life Blues

I hope to have a fulfilling life and I want to accomplish something before I die,
I hope to have a fulfilling life and I want to accomplish something before I die,
I want to make something out of myself, so I don’t have to live a lie

Everyday my life gets shorter and every year I get even older,
Everyday my life gets shorter and every year I get even older,
The obstacles that I face help to make me bolder

I don’t want to be just another human being in this world we live in,
I don’t want to be just another human being in this world we live in,
I want to be happy then I won’t need to sin

I get stressed about school and sports,
I get stressed about school and sports,
I just need to relax while cruising to many ports

I’m tired of the same routine and need to break out of the shell,
I’m tired of the same routine and need to break out of the shell,
But I would never do anything to go to hell

The tragedies that I encounter through my life make me stronger,
The tragedies that I encounter through my life make me stronger,
But the triumphs have helped me to live longer

Sometimes all the negative in the world makes me want to run away and hide,
Sometimes all the negative in the world makes me want to run away and hide,
I can only hope this world will get better so the next generations of lives will have a fun ride

I often dream of being thebest,
I often dream of being the best,
But I’m sure I will just be one of the rest

I want to someday meet a true and loyal mate,
I want to someday meet a true and loyal mate,
Not just a boring date

Life isn’t fair and the world is full of hate,
Life isn’t fair and the world is full of hate,
The best we can do is wish for a great fate

When I think about getting old and dying it makes me cry,
When I think about getting old and dying it makes me cry,
So I should live life to the fullest and wipe my tears dry

Time is running out I need to conquer my dream,
Time is running out I need to conquer my dream,
And if it comes true the excitement will make me scream

I guess I shouldn’t worry, because things always find a way to workout and when I find my place in the world the world will find me,
I guess I shouldn’t worry, because things always find a way to workout and when I find my place in the world the world will find me,
Hopefully that’s the way my life will be

The troubles that I face on a day to day base,
The troubles that I face on a day to day base,
Are something we deal with in the human race

When it is my end of time,
When it is my end of time,
I hope you will all remember this rhyme

I should not worry because I’m sure I’ll be fine,
I should not worry because I’m sure I’ll be fine,
And this is the end to my poetry line

Torn

Not a day goes by that I dont wish you were by my side,
but sometimes things get too complicated and I just want to run away and hide.
Youre more to me than just a boring date,
maybe even a loyal mate.
I enjoy all the time we spend together,
and hopefully it can last forever.
You seem different from all the other guys,
I never want to have to say our goodbyes.
I can share my feelings with you, unlike the rest,
and thats what truly makes you the best.
I thought we really had something, all was going well,
then my heart was broken and I felt like hell.
I stayed up in bed,
and cried from what you said.
But its better that you didnt lie,
than to never know before I die.
My trust and respect for you went down,
then I remembered our nights on the town.
I want so hard to give you a second chance,
and everything to be as good as it was with our first dance.
I think about you all the time,
and this is the end of my poetry rhyme.

Living the Dream

Living the dream,
the dream I've always had.
Never knew it would come true,
until the day I saw it through.
I worked so hard to make it happen,
now I get to live what I've imagined.
The light is on and shinning so bright,
that all I can do is make it feel right.
So lucky to be in this position,
with all of these opportunities.
Can only hope the drive will follow
on to bring the unexpected.
No urges can fight with me now,
that the hard times are down.

Until the End

Things are turned all upside down,
and upon my face is a frown.
But when I look out and see the sun,
I just want to forget it and go have fun.
Our time here goes by so fast,
thats why we need to make it last.
Life is full of challenging obstacles and tests,
that when we fight through them it brings out the best.
Sometimes it seems like its all I can take,
but I guess thats because its what we make.
I want to be the best I can be,
and people to truly know me.
I want to forget the mistakes of my past,
so the years to come can be a blast.
I dont really care what people think,
as long as while I sail through life, I dont sink.
Im not really one for fades or fashion,
Id rather be known for having compassion.
Life is gone in the blink of an eye,
so I want to live like Im not afraid to die.
I love to hangout with all my friends,
I hope their will never come an end.
As the days go by and weeks rush on,
it seems before I know it a year is gone.
Each day is going at a different pace,
with a new look on my face,
for life is one hell of a crazy race.
I want to make a name,
but sometimes I feel like giving up on this game.
As days come and go,
the distance between reality and dream grow.
I know that I am no longer a kid,
and will soon have to prove the things I did.
I can choose to live my life many ways,
whichever will provide me with the most memorable days,
I want to break out and try something new,
but I tell myself to keep pushing through.
I will keep strong with my belief,
so that at the end of my life I can be relieved,
that all my goals have been achieved.
Everyday my mind is full of reason,
which I express through each season.