ENG 273 FD#5: Where Dreams Come True

Kristine Asato

ENG 273

FD#5

Where Dreams Come True

The trip happened so fast, it’s hard to believe we had spent ten days there.  My boyfriend and his family invited me to come along, and it would be my first time.  I didn’t realize what was in-store for me, and didn’t have too many expectations.  The moment I saw the castle, I knew it was real, and without even dreaming it, it was a dream come true.  Every minute I spent there was a cliché to my memory.  But what I took home was so much more.  While most people bring home stuffed animals, or t-shirts, I brought home a profound understanding of a great corporation based on the dreams of the people of the world.  [THESIS] My first trip to Disney World was more than just an unknown childhood fantasy come true, it was the beginning of an entirely knew appreciation for a cliché. [THESIS]

Within the ten days I spent in Orlando, I was able to see the usual attractions.  The Tree of Life, the Cinderella Castle, the Sorcerers Hat, and Spaceship Earth, were all on the agenda.  It was amazing to see all these attractions in real life, instead of looking in from my television set; I was here, where the magic began.  We did the whole tourist thing, took our pictures, and bought some souvenirs to take home.  Everything around me just made me feel like a child again.  But there was one attraction that changed the way I saw Disney forever.  In a small corner of the Disney Studios, was a museum with all of Walt Disney’s history, and how the Disney Corporation came to be.  Little did I realize I would be walking out a changed person, with a whole new look at every Disney catch-phrase.

The museum first introduced Disney as a child, and where he came from, laced with pictures from his childhood.  As you walk down the yellow pathway further into the museum, are actual replicates of his early work.  Different versions of Mickey Mouse, and it allowed people to see Mickey’s growth over the years, and have a glimpse of Disney’s train of thought.  I realized that Mickey along with Disney grew from something, into everything.  I saw how Mickey Mouse became the everlasting legacy of Walt Disney himself.  I found that I had more of an admiration for Mickey Mouse than before.

The museum continued to the line of work that Disney had created.  Steamboat Willy was the début of Mickey Mouse, followed by a parade of cartoons that was a culmination to Disney’s ultimate success.  Continuing through the line of achievements, were Disney’s releases of movies, establishing itself with Snow White.  This was the beginning of a line of amazing classics that will never die, and are continuously reborn into the hearts of children all over the world.  These characters, took us to places that we only dreamed of, and the imagination behind it was nothing short of groundbreaking.  It hit me that these Disney characters stood for more than a childhood memory; it was a statement that anything is possible if you believe.  I was no longer a child, and the happiness these movies brought me was a mere memory, but my appreciation for them grew.

The museum included a show that told the story of Walt Disney’s dream for Disney World, and how it all came true.  In the museum stood a picture of Walt’s brother Roy Disney with Mickey Mouse in front of the Cinderella Castle.  It was here I learned that before Walt Disney World opened, Walt Disney himself passed away.  Walt Disney wasn’t able to see his dreams come true, and so it seems only right that his dreams live on in those who come to this place of magic.  Maybe the cliché magic that is Disney World is the hopes and dreams of Walt Disney himself. 

When we think of Disney, we don’t think of Walt Disney the person.  We see Mickey Mouse and his friends and the Princesses from the movies.  We also think of children, and how, like Santa Clause, we must all grow out of Disney as we grow up.  The Disney name is followed closely by a long list of clichés, but the only way to have a cliché is if everyone understands their meaning. It is true what people say, that you don’t have to grow up, that Disney World is a place where you can be a kid again.  A place overflowing with happiness, that you begin to believe anything is possible, and you begin to believe that your dreams can come true.  Walt Disney wanted to create this place of dreams and magic, and a child-like imagination.  But this feeling of great euphoria can be achieved in our everyday lives, if we believe.  All of Disney’s clichés mean so much more, and are now my lessons to live by.  Believe in yourself, dreams come true, and even some day, maybe my prince will come. 

ENG 215 FD#5: A Day In The Life of A Gay

Kristine Asato

ENG 215

FD#5

A Day In The Life of A Gay

Through the years, many things in our world have changed.  Unfortunately, there are people who are still unaccustomed to these changes.  There are those who still discriminate against African-Americans, some who still think tie-dye is cool, and many out there who haven’t accepted the growing gay community.  There have been efforts to promote tolerance for these ever changing times, but there are still hate crimes being committed, and harassment going unnoticed.  Educating people has proven to be a failure, and a harsher punishment is sentenced for those who presumably are caught in the act.  For those who commit hate crimes, it seems that they are resistant and afraid of change.  [THESIS]  People need to spend a day with a gay, and see that they are not freaks or some type of plague, but religious, loving, normal people just like everyone else. [THESIS]

In 2009 University of Hawaii head football coach Greg McMackin, used the derogative gay slang “faggot” during a press conference.    Almost instantly, McMackin apologized for his comment.  “I’ve made a mistake, “ McMackin said, and “now I have to show the leadership in dealing with the football program and building respect for all people in our community”.  Realizing the misuse of his words, McMackin agreed to take a 7% salary reduction, suspension, and would volunteer with members of the LGBT group on campus.  McMackin also realizes that he has hurt many feelings, but has taken the blame as well as the punishment.  He is setting an example for those who take part in hate crimes big or small, and is sending a message that these things should not be tolerated and they do have repercussions.  It is a step forward to see a man of such a position, to realize that what he did was in fact a mistake.  Being in the islands with such a diverse group of people, we must learn to accept everyone.  Something McMackin learned the hard way, but none-the-less, it was a lesson learned. 

Throughout the country, it was reported that in 1996, 30% of all hate crimes were against property, while 70% involved attacks against individuals.  A hate crime encompasses numerous offenses, ranging from vandalism, to name calling, and also includes murder.  It has been found that many of those who create hate crimes are “otherwise law-abiding young people who see little wrong with their actions” says an article online entitled “Hate Crimes Today: An Age-Old Foe in Modern Dress.”  Many who commit hate crimes hold a personal prejudice towards gays, and can cause both physical and emotional damage beyond their imagination.  Since these people are unable to comprehend the destruction they are doing, they should be forced to spend time with their victims.  Get to know them, their habits, and the routine of their day, and in no way, encouraging any sort of homosexual activity.   It would be to just allow others to see that being gay is no different then being straight, with a different partner. 

One of the strongest arguments towards the gay community is that God did not say it should be so.  What has never been understood is that, God also said to love thy neighbor as thyself.  He did not specify in bullets underneath, love thy neighbor if he is straight, or white, or only Christian.  It is simply stated straight from the Bible to Love your neighbor as you love yourself.  For any Christian to say that gays are unloved by God, are unwelcomed in this world, and are going to hell, they are saying that they too are held by the same standards that they preach.  Because God also created everyone equal, unless they’ve been lying to us. 

Growing up in a mixed plate of ethnicity such as Hawaii, many of us are able to befriend gays, or at least come to an understanding.  In a place where everyone knows everyone, these islands are no place for hate crimes.  There are those who no doubt disapprove of a gay lifestyle, but feel no hate towards them.  A report done by Curt Anderson in the Associated Press released that “All states except Hawaii reported at least one hate crime last year.”  This statistic is made possible because, like it was stated earlier, everyone knows everyone on this small island.  This being said, everyone knows gay people, and it’s on such a personal level that it will always be accepted or at least understood.  Hate crimes can not be found in a place where everyone knows a gay person, a place where we are able to understand that the gay community thrives, and are not here to bother us, so we should not bother them.

Being able to understand and accept the gay community can’t happen over time.  Mere education in a classroom will not diminish the percent of hate crimes.  A clear understanding is all we can ask for.  An understanding that gays love, and hate, and read, and pray the same way everyone else does.  Anyone who seems to think otherwise does not have a gay friend; anyone who thinks otherwise needs to spend a day with a gay.    

Arab, Zahid.  “University of Hawaii Coach Greg McMackin Suspended.” 31 July 2009.  KHNL.com.  12 Aug. 2009 [<http://www.khnl.com/Global/story.asp?S=10830037>]

“Hate Crimes Today: An Age-Old Foe in Modern Dress.” APA Online 1998. 9 Dec. 2004 [http://www.apa.org/pubinfo/hate/#top].

ENG 273 FD#4: Where His people at?

Kristine Asato

ENG 273

RD#4

Where are His people at?

Everyone has standards.  Sometimes we surpass them, and sometimes we fail, it is our way of life.   In this day and age, sometimes we change our standards so that it is possible or sometimes easier for us to meet them.  But every where you look there will always be a standard for everything.  However, there are times when our list of standards, are unattainable because of our growing lives, social standards, economy, or even our growing personalities.  There are people that fail at every standard set out for them.  They congregate in churches, and attempt to redeem themselves by other means.  They’ve been around for hundreds of decades, and each generation more disappointing then the last.  But they’re everywhere, and in every field of work imaginable.  Held to standards as old as the First Testament, and complex as a labyrinth.  They are religious as the children that praise on Sunday and pester on Monday. For some people, standards are interchangeable with the advancements of time. [THESIS] For those who respect the standards set for them millions of years ago, being able to live up to such expectations will only end up in their destruction.  [THESIS]

These people, who call themselves Christians and lecture us about doing good will to others, are full of shit.  There are seven Deadly Sins, nine Fruits of the Spirit, and Ten Commandments, that were all signed off by the big man to insure that we little people are worthy to be in his presence.  I’ve met a lot of Christians through the years, some admirable and some downright unpleasant, but none without any sin.  But the standards I hold them to are different than those who do not flaunt their Christian ways in my face.  There are standards, and they’re all over the internet, just type in “Christian Standards” and I’m sure you’ll get at least a million related websites.  So here’s something I learned outside of Sunday school; nobody’s perfect, not even them. 

The Seven Deadly Sins, honored by Christians, go something like this.  I’m not sure how popular they are with our new generation, but there’s wrath, greed, sloth, pride, lust, envy, and gluttony.  These feelings or Sins, from what I understand is a spiritual standard that allows us to progress and are the starting point of the rest of our sins.  But from the way I see it, these Sins, are all apart of human nature.  These are things that we are able to feel because of our deep limbic system in our brain.  This is in no way a stab at science vs. religion.  It is merely a statement that we are going to feel some of these Sins at one point in our lives or another, whether we mean to or not.  It’s apart of life.  By doing or feeling these Sins, we may do exactly what is supposed to happen if we avoid them.  We will grow, and maybe even spiritually become better people.  I’d sure like to meet the Christian that has truly upheld these standards. 

The standard consequence for Sin is the notion that we are not guaranteed a spot in heaven.  But there should be some other standards for each Sin.  For instance, if my mother was murdered and her killer was not found, there should be something else I should be allowed to feel if not wrath.  Now lust is a tricky one.  When you get married, the standard night of the wedding by Western Culture would be for the groom to mount his bride like an untamed thoroughbred and ride till she kneels.  Now by simply reading it, you have a thought in your mind, and whether or not you enjoy it, the simple thought of it should be considered a Sin; bad you.  Not to mention, lust has an entire industry based on it, with millions of viewers, some of which have to be Christian.  It’s only a matter of time before the numbers begin to merge.  Gluttony would be like an over indulgence in food.  Please people, there’s a city known for this Sin, Las Vegas, Nevada.  The other Sins are pretty by the book I guess, but it’s still impossible to find someone in the world who hasn’t done any of them.  It purely impossible to even knows of these sins if no one, not excluding those of Christian belief to have committed it themselves.

The Fruits of the Spirit is a little trickier.  These Fruits are strictly by the book, and encompasses an entirety of one who lives the perfect example of a true Christian life.  Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodnesss, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, are all tiny parts of one big fruit pie.  Now upon closer examination, our first runner up would be love.  In the English language, love cannot be summed up to one simple meaning; it can however be the main theme to an entire book.  But with love, and sometimes because of love, we can become engulfed with greed, pride, lust, envy, and gluttony.  That’s five out of the Seven Deadly Sins.  Peace has become more and more distant over the years as our war in Iraq continues.  Many of our soldiers, claim their cross on a necklace to their chest, and pray to God they can return home safely.  Against the Fruits of the Spirit, these men and women over seas, are not the direct cause, but are fighting for an un-peaceful cause that gives any loved ones at home un-peace as well.  Therefore by reason, our soldiers are Christian sinners.  That’s some standard to have to uphold. 

It’s completely possible to exercise the Fruits and avoid the Sins.  I will practice self-control to avoid an over indulgence.  I will practice faithfulness to my cheating wife and church so as to avoid having any pride in myself.  I will love my family only so much so as to avoid any wrath if something happens.  Christians hold themselves to these standards everyday they are living, and I would assume exercise them at length on Sundays.  That means, free meals at church for everyone on Sundays.  You’ll probably score big bucks if you dress in rags and beg for money outside a church, they may even let you inside for a warm place to stay as you stuff their golden crosses in your pocket.  A thousand years ago, it was completely plausible to practice kindness to the person who needs a ride home.  Now with greed at its all time high, and our economy at its worst, we can’t be always afford to practice the rules of Christianity. 

Finally, everyone has heard of them.  They’re on every laminated bookmark and magnet out there, being printed on every size poster board imaginable.  Supposedly given to Moses by a burning bush, they are known as The Ten Commandments.  We all know them, or at least most, it seems unnecessary to list them, although one Commandment always puzzled me.  The second Commandment states that we are not allowed to make any sort of imagery of God because He cannot be capture in a simple picture or statue.  But the bible quotes “For I, your God, am a jealous God” and it seems as if the statement seems almost prideful with a slight hint of greed.  Although a mere statement can be interpreted into so many things, so I could easily be out debated.  There’s also a Commandment that says we can’t murder anyone.  Thousands of years ago, when the only way to kill a person was to physically harm them it seemed like an outrageous idea to even think about murdering anyone.  But now, there are untraceable chemicals, guns, cars, technology itself has made this commandment hard to abide by.  Even for the innocent lady who was texting and not paying attention to the road and accidently ran over and killed a little girl.  The court would probably rule it as murder to some sort of degree.  All the godly things however kind and patient she might have been, is no longer worthy. 

There are also the Commandments that state, “You shall not commit adultery” as our rate for divorce because of adultery skyrockets.  But there are the people who were done wrong during said divorce.  They promised themselves, in a church before God, to love the other for better or worse.  Lying to God, and breaking a promise you made to him, for whatever reason is considered a Sin.  Finally there is the Commandment that says to honor your father and mother.  Yes that was fine and dandy back in the days when people actually worked to make a living.  Now with the introduction to alcohol and a great number of experimental plants, it may sometimes be hard to honor your parents if they’re knocked out on the couch from the night before.  With everything that there is in the world today, it seems futile to try to uphold any of the Commandments.

Christians are very hypocritical.  Again, I have never met, or even heard of one that would be the perfect Christian in the eyes of God.  It seems more of a joke nowadays.  Anyone who believes that they can uphold that many expectations and standards throughout their entire lives must be insane.  They come and preach to you about the goodness of prayer, and how you must obey this and follow that, when they are just like you.  These people want to change the world, make it a better place, but they can’t even come to peace with themselves or even others.  It’s the only reason why Christians are so commonly categorized with politicians, but most of them are Christians anyway. 

They’re not a cult, or a gang of idiots, there just people, like everyone else.  They’re just trying to better themselves to the rules they chose to live by.  This image that God seems to have for us is very fleeting.  No one is perfect, and everyone Sins.  If He keeps forgiving us every time we’re dipped into holy water, or blessed by some priest who got his degree at a college online, we’re screwed up in heaven too.  They’re everywhere, they’re all wrong, and in light of recent times, they are all going to hell. 

Log of Completed Activities
L  Nov. 9t- Intro to Paper #4: Read Guidelines for Paper #4: Literary Journalism (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Nov. 15M- Complete readings for paper #4: chap. 15 (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Nov. 22M- Laulima Discussion #1.
X  Nov. 29M- Laulima Discussion #2.
X  Dec. 3F- RD4 due [50 pts] Review the guidelines. (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Dec. 6M- RD4 Evaluations due [50 pts] Review the guidelines. (Confirmation reply required.)
L   Dec. 9-12- FD4 due [150 pts] Review the guidelines. (Confirmation reply required.)

ENG 215 FD#4: A New Perspective

Kristine Asato

ENG 215

RD#4

A New Perspective

The Bill of Rights as well as the First Amendment states that, under the Constitution of the United States people are able to express themselves without government interference.   There are people who at times seem to disagree with the Amendment because of the commotion it presents.  But just as there are opponents to the Freedom of Speech, there are many people in this country that use it to its fullest extent. These people are writing articles in newspapers and tabloids, taking and publishing pictures of nude actresses at a strip club.  Many of these people have a lot to say about politics and religion, and are free to do so under the Constitution.  [THESIS] These people, some who are veered as activists as well, are unveiling another part of the world around us that we are unable to see. [THESIS]

One man in particular has a very strong voice, and is known for some of his recognizable statements on particular subjects.  Ward Churchill is an activist, an author, and most importantly, a citizen of the United States.  Churchill exercises his right as an American Citizen by expressing his views, however controversial, to those willing to listen.  Recently referring to the victims of September 11, as “little Eichmann” Churchill claims that he was just trying to make a point.  Churchill’s statement has caused quite an uproar of protests from the families of the World Trade Center victims.  Upon further readings, Churchill does have a point.  It would do some of us good to listen and be open to a new perspective.

Churchill has not apologized for his statement, an action he should not have to do.  Like many outspoken people, Churchill is only trying make people see things differently.  Simply speaking Churchill believes that the employees of the World Trade Center were responsible for their own deaths because of their support for unfair U.S. foreign policies.  In a sense it is true.  Here in the United States, we cannot cause havoc to other countries and not expect any consequences to come from it.  We as a nation can’t just go to Iraq or Afghanistan and force people to change their ways of life or kill them if they refuse, and go on living our lives.  In many conferences Churchill is asked whether or not he feels sympathy for the victims.  Churchill’s statement was not a personal attack on anyone, but a different outlook on such a one-sided issue. 

Classmate Ryan Watanabe who has family in the military expresses his outrage towards Churchill by saying that “Professor Ward Churchill misuses the first amendment to hide behind their obnoxious claims”.  Watanabe goes on to say what can only be assumed the initial reaction to a statement such as Churchill’s, that he should be punished for such disrespect to his country.  It is clear that because of his ties to the military, Watanabe may be blinded by his emotions to see that what Churchill is saying is not a misuse of the First Amendment or any disrespect to the United States.  Many people make crude statements about our government, and our nation.  John Stewart host of The Daily Show, and Steven Colbert, host of The Colbert Report, make a living out of mocking our government; they are not being punished.  On the contrary, John Steward has been awarded a total of fourteen Emmy Awards for his show.  Steward and Colbert are just like Churchill, they are merely presenting the situation with a different perspective.  The only difference is Steward and Colbert’s reports are funny because we know they are true and we hardly any personal connection to those being reported on.  However, Churchill is doing the same thing in a more deliberate tone.  People who feel the way Watanabe does, is influenced by their personal feelings to see that Churchill is simply making a point.  Churchill wants us to know that we, as well as the victims are not innocent. 

Through a brief discussion, a classmate Patricia Miller-Ho states that “as a professor Churchill is in part accountable for the sound development of the minds that will influence our nation years after his resignation and death”.   Miller-Ho goes on to explain that if this was Churchill’s belief, he should have said so in a more concise manner, and that he has no right to impose these beliefs in such an offensive manner.  In rebuttal and support for Churchill, he has a right to say what he wishes, and to say otherwise would be implying that Churchill is not apart of the United States, and oppressive.  Also to refer to Churchill’s statements as his own personal beliefs is an inaccuracy.  It’s as if to say that when a news reporter states that a person convicted of murder is innocent, is their personal belief.  As far as being accountable for developing the minds for our future generation, Churchill is doing the future generation a favor by allowing us to see a whole new perspective of a situation that unanimously seems to be simply one sided.

The attack on September 11, 2001 was mainly remembered for the destruction of the World Trade Centers because it was the only fully successful attack.  Many people seem to have forgetten that two other planes were aimed for the White House and the Pentagon.  These places were not selected at random.  These locations are the heart of command for the United States.  Each monument was a representation of oppressive power to other countries.  We are the bullies of the world, and the assailants of the September 11 attack the rebellious geeks we pick on in the playground.  Ward Churchill’s statement was nothing appropriate.  By referencing Colonial Eichmann, who took part in the holocaust, Churchill has a right to say that we as Americans are also taking part of a holocaust of Middle-Eastern society.  Those who died on all four flights, as well as the respected landmarks, represented their country as bullies, and died because their government was too arrogant to believe that they were untouchable. 

In 2005, Ward Churchill was invited to speak at the University of Hawaii despite the University President David McClain’s discontent with Churchill’s statement.  McClain has shown a lot of courage in bringing in such a controversial speaker, but can be respected for his reason.  McClain was quoted from a written statement that "Freedom of inquiry and of expression are what universities are all about”.  Although it seemed not many of the faculty members were thrilled to have Churchill speak, McClain found a way to draw a crowd and find funding for Churchill’s visit.  Despite conflicting views, McClain supports Churchill’s rightful freedom of speech.  This is what we seem to lack in this great nation, an open-mind such as David McClain.  These great men are what make progress in this world possible.  There are the people who have the power to can introduce a new perspective on things and change the way you look at it forever.  There are also people who despite any personal controversy can swallow any pride or emotions that might get in the way, and allow others to forge a pathway for the next generation. 

Martin Luther King Jr., also an activist, was also an outspoken gentleman who used the Constitution in his favor.  Speaking out for the African American community, King Jr. was met with much resistance.  King Jr., and his outspoken words, promoted the acceptance for African American’s for civil rights in the United States. No longer seen as, blacks, or niggers, or a disease brought on mankind, those of a different skin color, have added the American to their name, and are politically known as African American’s.  King Jr. has forever changed the perspective we have had towards our African American neighbors, co-workers, and most importantly, fellow American’s.  During a bus boycott, action was taken towards the outspoken King Jr.  It was reported that during a boycott, “King was arrested, his home was bombed, he was subjected to personal abuse, but at the same time he emerged as a Negro leader of the first rank.”  These activists, or leaders, such as Churchill and King Jr., can’t be stopped.  They will stop at nothing to be heard, so people might as wells stop and listen. 

Another prime example of outspoken people is comedians.  Littering the Comedy Central Channel are outspoken comedians of every race, using any form of religious, bad tasting, unpatriotic punch line.  One particular comedian is named Ralphie May, who has created humor through real life situations people would not normally think funny.  “That’s the only place fun is, you know. “ May begins to explain,  “When I get to push the boundaries, and make people laugh at things that they probably didn’t want to laugh at.” Shortly following this remark he segued into a bit about the Pope passing on.  Throughout this particular television special, May goes on to say “Was he [the Pope] a saint when he was moving pedophile from church to church so they could rape kids, was that saintly?”  The funny thing about this is, no one seems to be getting as worked up about May’s remark as that made by Churchill.  No one is picketing outside of May’s home, making death threats, or wants to see him go to jail.  May is seen a person who has the capability to take a serious situation and unveil the humor in it.   

The things that outspoken people such as Ward Churchill, Martin Luther King Jr., and Ralphie May have to say are not insensitive or disrespectful.  Churchill is an insightful human being who hopes that one day we can no longer be naïve to the truth.  We are all entitled to our own beliefs.  Ward Churchill simply presents another option of belief.  Who are we to say that he is wrong.  In the case of Martin Luther King Jr., he was revered as a hero to many, and is honored by our nation.  King has changed our perspective on people as we know it.  Ralphie May is not trying to change things, he’s not attempting to make a statement.  May is simply finding the humor in things, and presenting them in a more burlesque nature.  Many believe that those who are blunt with their words or actions, are bad people or considered wrong.  But the truth is, that we are unable to accept just that; the truth.  We need to take responsibility for our own actions and listen to those who might be speaking the truth.  The only way to do that is to be able to see why it is we are wrong, and be open to every perspective.

Log of Completed Activities
X  Nov 9t- Intro to Paper #4. Read the Guidelines for Paper #4. (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Nov 15M- Complete readings for paper #4. (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Nov 22M- Laulima Discussion: Attack Ward Churchill
X  Nov 29M- Laulima Discussion: Defend Ward Churchill
X  Dec 3F- RD4 due. [50 pts] Review the Review the guidelines. (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Dec 6M- RD4 evaluations due [50 pts] Review the guidelines. (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Dec 9-12- FD4 due [150 pts] Review the guidelines. (Confirmation reply required.)

WORK CITED:

Creamer, Beverly. "UH Takes Heat Over Visit by Professor." HonoluluAdvertiser.com 19 Feb. 2005. 19 Feb. 2005 [<http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2005/Feb/19/ln/ln22p.html>.]

Miller-Ho, Patricia. “Class Discussion: Attack Ward Churchill.”  Laulima: My Workplace.  22 Nov.  2010.  3 Dec. 2010.

[<https://laulima.hawaii.edu/portal/site/KAP.XLSENG215js.201110/page/580d9883-374c-4194-bb60-e4e1fe68988c>]

Ralphie May- Video Clips.  “Ralphie May- The Pope.”  ComedyCentralJokes.com 26 Nov. 2006.  11 Dec. 2010. 

[<http://comedians.jokes.com/ralphie-may/videos/ralphie-may---the-pope>]

Steers, Stuart. "Churchill, the Man, an Enigma." RockyMountainNews.com 2 Feb. 2005. 19 Feb. 2005 [<http://www.insidedenver.com/drmn/local/article/0,1299,DRMN_15_3516107,00.html>.]

King Jr., Martin Luther.  “The Nobel Peace Price 1964.”  Nobelprize.org.  1964.  10 Dec. 2010.    

[<http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1964/king-bio.html>]

Watanabe, Ryan.  “Class Discussion: Attack Ward Churchill.”  Laulima: My Workspace 19 Nov. 2010.  3 Dec. 2010. 

[<https://laulima.hawaii.edu/portal/site/KAP.XLSENG215js.201110/page/580d9883-374c-4194-bb60-e4e1fe68988c>]

ENG 273 RD#4: Where are His people at?

Kristine Asato

ENG 273

RD#4

Where are His people at?

Everyone has standards.  Sometimes we surpass them, and are greatly rewarded.  But sometimes we fail, and are met with a few consequences.  In this day and age, sometimes we change our standards so that it is possible or sometimes easier for us to meet them.  But every where you look there will always be a standard for everything.  However, there are times when our list of standards, are unattainable because of our growing lives, social standards, economy, or even our growing personalities.  There are people that fail at every standard set out for them.  They congregate in churches, and attempt to redeem themselves by other means.  They’ve been around for hundreds of decades, and each generation more disappointing then the last.  But they’re everywhere, and in every field of work imaginable.  Held to standards as old as the First Testament, and complex as a labyrinth.  Some are religious as the children that praise on Sunday and pester on Monday.  [THESIS] In this day and age, we could surely use more of them, but can’t seem to find any worthy enough to listen to.  [THESIS]

These people, that call themselves Christians that lecture us about doing good will, and to others, are full of shit.  There are seven Deadly Sins, nine Fruits of the Spirit, and Ten Commandments, that were all signed off by the big man to insure that we little people are worthy to be in his presence.  I’ve met a lot of Christians through the years, some admirable and some downright unpleasant, but none without any sin.  But the standards I hold them to are different than those who do not flaunt their Christian ways in my face.  There are standards, and they’re all over the internet, just type in “Christian Standards” and I’m sure you’ll get at least a million related websites.  So here’s something I learned outside of Sunday school; nobody’s perfect, not even them. 

The Seven Deadly Sins go something like this.  Used by some Christians, I’m not sure how popular they are with our new generation, but there’s wrath, greed, sloth, pride, lust, envy, and gluttony.  These feelings or Sins, from what I understand is a spiritual standard that allows us to progress and are the starting point of the rest of our sins.  But from the way I see it, these Sins, are all apart of human nature.  These are things that we are able to feel because of our deep limbic system in our brain.  This is in no way a stab at science vs. religion.  It is merely a statement that we are going to feel some of these Sins at one point in our lives or another, whether we mean to or not.  It’s apart of life.  By doing or feeling these Sins, we may do exactly what is supposed to happen if we avoid them.  We will grow, and maybe even spiritually become better people. 

The standard consequence for Sin is the notion that we are not guaranteed a spot in heaven.  But there should be some other standards, like if my mother was murdered and her killer was not found.  If wrath is a Sin, there should be something else I should feel.  Now lust is a tricky one.  Now, when you get married, the standard night of the wedding by Western Culture would be for the groom to mount his bride like an untamed thoroughbred and ride till she kneels.  Now by simply reading it, you have a thought in your mind, and whether or not you enjoy it, the simple thought of it should be considered a Sin; bad you.  Also, the Sin of lust has an entire industry based on it, with millions of viewers, and millions of Christians, it’s only a matter of time before the numbers begin to merge.  Gluttony would be like an over indulgence in food.  Please people, there’s a cit named for this Sin, Vegas.  The other Sins are pretty by the book I guess, but it’s still impossible to find someone in the world who hasn’t done any of them.  It purely impossible to even knows of these sins if no one, not excluding those of Christian belief to have committed it themselves.

The Fruits of the Spirit is a little trickier.  These Fruits are strictly by the book, and encompass an entirety of one who lives the perfect example of a true Christian life.  Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodnesss, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, are all tiny parts of one big fruit pie.  Now upon closer examination, our first runner up would be love.  In the English language, love cannot be summed up to one simple meaning; it can however be the main theme to an entire book.  But with love, and sometimes because of love, we can become engulfed with greed, pride, lust, envy, and gluttony.  That’s five out of the Seven Deadly Sins.  Peace has become more and more distant over the years as our war in Iraq continues.  Many of our soldiers, claim their cross on a necklace to their chest, and pray to God they can return home safely.  Against the Fruits of the Spirit, these men and women over seas, are not the direct cause, but are fighting for an un-peaceful cause that gives any loved ones at home un-peace as well.  Therefore by reason, our soldiers are Christian sinners.  That’s some standard to have to uphold. 

It’s completely possible to exercise the Fruits and avoid the Sins.  I will practice self-control to avoid an over indulgence.  I will practice faithfulness to my cheating wife and church so as to avoid having any pride in myself.  I will love my family only so much so as to avoid any wrath if something happens.  Christians hold themselves to these standards everyday they are living, and I would assume exercise them at length on Sundays.  That means, free meals at church for everyone on Sundays.  You’ll probably score big bucks if you dress in rags and beg for money outside a church, they may even let you inside for a warm place to stay as you stuff their golden crosses in your pocket.  In this day and age, sometimes we can’t afford to be Christian.  A thousand years ago, it was ok to practice kindness to the person who needs a ride home.  Now with greed at its all time high, and our economy at its worst, we can’t be always afford to be kind. 

Finally, everyone’s heard of them.  They’re on every laminated bookmark and magnet out there, The Ten Commandments.  Supposedly given to Moses by a burning bush.  We all know them, or at least most, it seems unnecessary to list them, although one Commandment always puzzled me.  The second Commandment states that we are not allowed to make any sort of imagery of God because He cannot be capture in a simple picture or statue.  But the bible quotes “For I, your God, am a jealous God” and it seems as if the statement seems almost prideful with a slight hint of greed.  Although a mere statement can be interpreted into so many things, so I could easily be out debated.  There’s also a Commandment that says we can’t murder anyone.  Thousands of years ago, when the only way to kill a person was to physically harm them it seemed like an outrageous idea to even think about murdering anyone.  But now, there are untraceable chemicals, guns, cars, technology itself has made this commandment hard to abide by.  Even for the innocent lady who was texting and not paying attention to the road and accidently ran over and killed a little girl.  The court would probably rule it as murder to some sort of degree.  All the godly things however kind and patient she might have been, is no longer worthy. 

There are also the Commandments that state, “You shall not commit adultery” as our rate for divorce because of adultery skyrockets.  But there are the people who were done wrong during said divorce, and promised them in a church before God to love the other for better or worse.  Finally there is the Commandment that says to honor your father and mother.  Yes that was fine and dandy back in the days when people actually worked to make a living.  Now with the introduction to alcohol and a great number of experimental plants, it may sometimes be hard to honor your parents if they’re knocked out on the couch from the night before.  With everything that there is in the world today, it seems futile to try to uphold any of the Commandments.

Christians are very hypocritical.  Again, I have never met, or even heard of one that would be the perfect Christian in the eyes of God.  It seems more of a joke nowdays.  Anyone who believes that they can uphold that many expectations and standards throughout their entire lives must be insane.  They come and preach to you about the goodness of prayer, and how you must obey this and follow that, when they are just like you.  These people want to change the world, make it a better place, but they can’t even come to peace with themselves or even others.  It’s the only reason why Christians are so commonly categorized with politicians, but most of them are Christians anyway. 

They’re not a cult, or a gang of idiots, there just people, like everyone else.  They’re just trying to better themselves to the rules they chose to live by. 

This image that God seems to have for us is very fleeting.  No one is perfect, and everyone Sins.  If He keeps forgiving us every time we’re dipped in holy water blessed by some priest who got his degree at a college online, we’re screwed up in heaven too.  Many of us going through tough times, yearn for the help and satisfaction of someone who is always there to listen, but who’s answers your going to have to decode from one of the thousands of copies of the many different testaments.  Sometimes it just seems like an endless cycle of disappointment. 

ENG 215 RD#4: A New Perspective

Kristine Asato

ENG 215

RD#4

A New Perspective

The Bill of Rights as well as the First Amendment states that, under the Constitution of the United States people are able to express themselves without government interference.   There are people who at times seem to disagree with the Amendment because of the commotion it presents.  But just as there are opponents to the Freedom of Speech, there are many people in this country that use it to its fullest extent. These people are writing articles in newspapers and tabloids, taking and publishing pictures of nude actresses at a strip club.  Many of these people have a lot to say about politics and religion, and are free to do so under the Constitution.  [THESIS] These people, some who are veered as activists as well, are unveiling another part of the world around us that we are unable to see. [THESIS]

One man in particular has a very strong voice, and is known for some of his recognizable statements on particular subjects.  Ward Churchill is an activist, an author, and most importantly, a citizen of the United States.  Churchill exercises his right as an American Citizen by expressing his views, however controversial, to those willing to listen.  As a previous professor at the University of Colorado, Churchill made a statement about the victims of the World Trade Center attack, and referred to them as “little Eichmann”.  Churchill is referring to Staff Sergeant Lieutenant Colonel Eichmann who was the culprit of many deaths in the Jewish race during World War II.  Stating that he was trying to make a point, Churchill’s statement has caused quite an uproar of protests from the families of the World Trade Center victims. 

Churchill has not apologized for his statement, an action he should not have to do.  Like many outspoken people, Churchill is only trying make people see things differently.  Simply speaking Churchill believes that the employees of the World Trade Center were responsible for their own deaths because of their support for unfair U.S. foreign policies.  In a sense it is true.  Here in the United States, we cannot cause havoc to other countries and not expect any consequences to come from it.  We as a nation can’t just go to Iraq or Afghanistan and force people to change their ways of life or kill them if they refuse, and go on living our lives.  In many conferences Churchill is asked whether or not he feels sympathy for the victims, to which he replies that it is completely irrelevant to the topic.  This is also true, just because Churchill said it, does not mean that he personally believes everyone should have died.  Churchill’s statement was not a personal attack on anyone personally, but a new perspective of the situation.  

The attack on September 11, 2001 was mainly remembered for the destruction of the World Trade Centers because it was the only fully successful attack.  Many people forget that two other planes were aimed for the White House and the Pentagon.  These places were not selected at random.  These locations are the heart of command for the United States.  Each monument was a representation of oppressive power to other countries.  We are the bullies of the world, and the assailants of the September 11 attack the rebellious geeks we pick on in the playground.  Ward Churchill’s statement was nothing appropriate.  By referencing Colonial Eichmann, who took part in the holocaust, Churchill has a right to say that we as Americans are also taking part of a holocaust of Middle-Eastern society.  Those who died on all four flights, as well as the respected landmarks, represented their country as bullies, and died because their government was too arrogant to believe that they were untouchable. 

Through a brief discussion, a classmate Patricia Miller-Ho states that “as a professor Churchill is in part accountable for the sound development of the minds that will influence our nation years after his resignation and death”.   Miller-Ho goes on to explain that if this was Churchill’s belief, he should have said so in a more concise manner, and that he has no right to impose these beliefs in such an offensive manner.  In rebuttal and support for Churchill, he has a right to say what he wishes, and to say otherwise would be implying that Churchill is not apart of the United States, and oppressive.  Also to refer to Churchill’s statements as his own personal beliefs is an inaccuracy.  It’s as if to say that when a news reporter states that a person convicted of murder is innocent, is their personal belief.  As far as being accountable for developing the minds for our future generation, Churchill is doing the future generation a favor by allowing us to see a whole new perspective of a situation that unanimously seems to be simply one sided.

Classmate Ryan Watanabe who has family in the military expresses his outrage towards Churchill by saying that “Professor Ward Churchill misuses the first amendment to hide behind their obnoxious claims”.  Watanabe goes on to say what can only be assumed the initial reaction to a statement such as Churchill’s, that he should be punished for such disrespect to his country.  It is clear that because of his ties to the military, Watanabe may be blinded by his emotions to see that what Churchill is saying is not a misuse of the First Amendment or any disrespect to the United States.  Many people make crude statements about our government, and our nation.  John Stewart host of The Daily Show, and Steven Colbert, host of The Colbert Report, make a living out of mocking our government; they are not being punished.  On the contrary, John Steward has been awarded a total of fourteen Emmy Awards for his show.  Steward and Colbert are just like Churchill, they are merely presenting the situation with a different perspective.  The only difference is Steward and Colbert’s reports are funny because we know they are true and we hardly any personal connection to those being reported on.  However, Churchill is doing the same thing in a more deliberate tone.  People who feel the way Watanabe does, is influenced by their personal feelings to see that Churchill is simply making a point.  Churchill wants us to know that we, as well as the victims are not innocent. 

In 2005, Ward Churchill was invited to speak at the University of Hawaii despite the University President David McClain’s discontent with Churchill’s statement.  McClain has shown a lot of courage in bringing in such a controversial speaker, but can be respected for his reason.  McClain was quoted from a written statement that "Freedom of inquiry and of expression are what universities are all about”.  Although it seemed not many of the faculty members were thrilled to have Churchill speak, McClain found a way to draw a crowd and find funding for Churchill’s visit.  Despite conflicting views, McClain supports Churchill’s rightful freedom of speech.  This is what we seem to lack in this great nation, an open-mind such as David McClain.  These great men are what make progress in this world possible.  There are the people who have the power to can introduce a new perspective on things and change the way you look at it forever.  There are also people who despite any personal controversy can swallow any pride or emotions that might get in the way, and allow others to forge a pathway for the next generation. 

There have been many controversial statements made about Churchill’s heritage.  People attack Churchill as if it is his heritage that defines the validity of our actions, our words, and ourselves. Suzan Harjo’s, president of the Morningstar Institute, a national American Indian-rights organization claims, “In 15 years of being interviewed and investigated, he hasn't come up with a single Indian ancestor".  Harjo’s continues to say that Churchill has “besmirched the good name of Native Americans”.  But the irony is, seeing as there is no proof that Churchill is of Native American ancestry, Harjo should not feel any offense culturally towards Churchill.  Although, if Churchill could somehow produce some proof on ancestry, it would not change Harjo’s feelings towards his statements.   Churchill’s statements have no reflection on the members of his heritage.  Harjo should not be against Churchill seeing as, it is the terrorists that are invading her homeland.  Churchill is the one with the answer as to why. 

The things that outspoken people such as Ward Churchill have to say are not insensitive or disrespectful.  Churchill is an insightful human being who hopes that one day we can no longer be naïve to the truth.  We are all entitled to our own beliefs.  Ward Churchill simply presents another option of belief.  Who are we to say that he is wrong.  Many believe that those whoa are blunt with their words or action, are bad people or wrong.  But the truth is, that we are unable to accept just that; the truth.  We need to take responsibility for our own actions, and the only way to do that is to be able to see why it is we are wrong. 

WORK CITED:

Creamer, Beverly. "UH Takes Heat Over Visit by Professor." HonoluluAdvertiser.com 19 Feb. 2005. 19 Feb. 2005 <http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2005/Feb/19/ln/ln22p.html>.]

Miller-Ho, Patricia. “Class Discussion: Attack Ward Churchill.”  Laulima: My Workplace.  22 Nov.  2010.  3 Dec. 2010.

<https://laulima.hawaii.edu/portal/site/KAP.XLSENG215js.201110/page/580d9883-374c-4194-bb60-e4e1fe68988c>

Steers, Stuart. "Churchill, the Man, an Enigma." RockyMountainNews.com 2 Feb. 2005. 19 Feb. 2005 <http://www.insidedenver.com/drmn/local/article/0,1299,DRMN_15_3516107,00.html>.]

Watanabe, Ryan.  “Class Discussion: Attack Ward Churchill.”  Laulima: My Workspace 19 Nov. 2010.  3 Dec. 2010. 

<https://laulima.hawaii.edu/portal/site/KAP.XLSENG215js.201110/page/580d9883-374c-4194-bb60-e4e1fe68988c>

ENG 273 FD#3- Everybody Else

Kristine Asato

8 November 2010

FD#3

Everybody Else

I had met them at different times, and in different rooms, but all of them lived in the same place.  I had just gotten a job at a Care Home filled with over two hundred residents.  Each resident that I took care of on my first day was very kind.  I went through the preliminary “how are you doing today” and that was it.  I was so scared I couldn’t think of anything else to talk about.  But I adapted fast, to my surprise, and become more sociable with each resident.  [THESIS] Little did I know how each story behind each resident would change my perspective on people forever.

[THESIS]

With over two hundred residents, I thought it was going to be impossible to remember everyone.   During my first few weeks, I met some of these residents, and got to know them.  I didn’t realize it when I first met them, but they would make a lasting impression on the way I look at people.  I won’t judge first and then rule out whether or not I want to get to know them.  I’ll get to know them, and then I’ll be their friend.  These new friends will share their stories, and invite me into a world more limitless then the little one I currently live in.

The first resident I met was Mr. White.  He was more than a little large around the belly.  I learned that he constantly needed help getting up because he couldn’t manage the weight himself.  As I rolled Mr. White out of bed, his stomach followed like a slow avalanche of molasses.  Not wanting to be rude, I tried not to grunt with the effort of getting him up.  Mr. White on the other hand laughed at my efforts.  As if he knew what I was trying to hold back.  His hearty laugh countered with the putrid smell of urine due to his incontinence.  The smell was like a memory smell.  One when, even after you’ve showered with your best Victoria Secrets bath wash, you still smell it, becoming more of a memory than a smell.  Despite his smell, everyone, residents and faculty alike, always said the same thing “Mr. White is such a nice man.”  And they meant it, to its fullest extent.   

A glass case at the foot of Mr. White’s bed displayed medals whose’ colors were altered from age, and so old you couldn’t even read the inscriptions anymore.  I asked Mr. White about it later and he told me that he was in the Army for twenty-five years.  He went on to share with me that he had been around the world five times.  The succeeding questions lead to these answers.  Mr. White lived in Japan for a few years and couldn’t speak a single word.  His favorite place was Hawaii, which explains why Mr. White chose to retire here.  And finally what he wouldn’t give to do it all over again.

I was warned about my next resident, her name was Mrs. Steel.  Before I had even met her, I had an image set in my head.  This snappy old lady, who wanted things to go exactly her way, and would talk your head right off if you didn’t stop her.  Mrs. Steel was exactly as everyone had said she was.  But they left one thing out.  Of all the residents that said thank you and I appreciate what you do, Mrs. Steel was different.  She remembered everything.  Once I had brought Mrs. Steel lemonade from the kitchen and she thanked me for the effort.  The next day when I took her for her walk, she thanked me again, for going out of my way.  It was here I realized Mrs. Steel was not like the other residents.  She seemed completely alert, almost like I was talking to my parents, who were not touched with dementia or senility. 

Our first walk I took her to the library, where we spent the whole time discussing books.  With every step she groaned with the effort, and the simple act of walking seemed like a marathon of breathing for her.  Mrs. Steel loves coffee, so almost every time I smell a freshly brewed pot I think of her.  She would carry a cup in the compartment of her walker, so the smell literally followed us around.  I never drank coffee, but I imagine the relief she felt when she drank it was probably like hot cocoa on a cold night. 

One morning Mrs. Steel asked me to go out of my way and get this man a cup of coffee.  I was exhausted from earlier that day, and I already had to take care of one resident.  Stubbornly she wouldn’t let me walk on unless I did it, so reluctantly I complied.  To my surprise, the man’s reaction to the single cup of coffee was nothing but appreciation.  The sound of his voice was filled with admiration, and I was his super hero for the day.  I learned something from the difficult Mrs. Steel that day.  Behind her rough exterior, was a woman just trying to do some good.

There is a couple that both need our help in being escorted to places, Mr. and Mrs. Beau.  I enjoyed watching them interact with each other.  Mr. Beau would always put his hand out for his wife.  But when I took it to balance him back to his walker, it was cold, as if his hand needed the warmth of Mrs. Beau to make things better.  A little confused Mr. Beau would look at me and tell me “that’s my wife” his voice strong and assured, and almost protective.  One day I asked Mrs. Beau how long they have been married.  She told me, in her high-pitched foreign accented voice that they were high school sweethearts and had been married for seventy years.  “I never really liked him, but he was very persistent” she continued.  Mrs. Beau then took this opportunity to grab my hand and ask me whether or not I was married.  Her hand was warm from the years of comfort given to her by Mr. Beau.  But when I told her I wasn’t married, she pulled away almost as if the cold from my hands surprised her. 

The next evening, Mr. Beau was going on about his early days.  He was part of the Army for three years, and was married to his wife for fifteen.   Mrs. Beau went on to correct her husband, and with an exasperated breath she tells me without taking her eyes off him “Seventy years is a long time to be married to the same person and still love them.”  And I couldn’t tell whether the look on her face was love, or the calm acceptance that the man she was looking at was no longer the man she had fallen in  love with. 

Mrs. Chip loved to sing, and she had a beautiful voice to match such a passion.  When I first met her she was singing a song that gave glory to the Lord.  Resonating through the elevator walls, her voice flaunted years of training and experience.  But something else lied behind Mrs. Chip’s cheery exterior, I soon found out.   “How are you today?” I asked one morning, to which she responded, “I feel Dopey”.  Of course, I responded with the proper counter question as to why she felt that way.  The answer ambushed me and shattered my whole perspective of growing old.  The entire discussion was summed up to a little trill of sorrow that escaped her, and Mrs. Chip felt like she was getting old, and senile.  The only difference was, she consciously knew what was happening to her, and she knew why she couldn’t remember or felt lost.  Mrs. Chip was loosing her mind to old age, and Mrs. Chip knew she was fighting a loosing battle. 

I wasn’t sure if Mrs. Chip just hid from the realization by singing, or if it was her default and singing was the only place she could come back to and feel safe.  But now when Mrs. Chip sings a gospel, or an old tune from the thirties, I join in.  Mrs. Chip showed me a different side to getting old, one that I had never even thought of.  I had never been afraid of getting old. 

When I go home, I tell their amazing stories to my friends and family.  I’ve come to realize that it’s the people with stories that make it into the stories of other people. These aren’t just people.  These are people with pasts, and presents, and a hope for the future.  These are people with stories to tell, feelings to share; I want to be the one with stories.  I want to have medals to show off, and elaborate stories to tell for each.  I want to teach others that doing good things that will reward you greatly, and tell them about love that knows no end.  These people, none of them from Hawaii, made me see that there is more out there.  It isn’t just about me.  It’s me and everyone else in this world.

Log of Completed Activities
L  Oct. 13W- Intro to Paper #3: Personal Essay. (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Oct. 18M- Complete readings: all of chapter 12. (Confirmation reply required.)
L  Oct. 20W- Laulima Discussion 1: “Chimera“
X  Oct. 22F- Laulima Discussion 2: “Notes of a Native Speaker“
X  Oct. 25M- Laulima Discussion 3: “Under the Influence“
X  Oct. 27W- Laulima Discussion 4: “Being Brians“
L  Oct. 29F- Laulima Discussion 5: “Warring Memories“ and “Snakebit“
X  Nov. 1M- RD3 due [50 pts] (Confirmation reply required.)
X  Nov. 5F- RD3 Evaluations due [50 pts] (No confirmation reply required.)
X  Nov. 8M- FD3 due [125 pts] (Confirmation reply required.)