Alcohol and Illicit Drug Abuse in Pregnancy

Alcohol and Illicit Drug Abuse in Pregnancy Amy Luman COM/220 February 10, 2010 Philip Fasso When a woman becomes pregnant, it is vital to her baby's health that she leads a healthy life. This includes eating plenty of nourishing food, fulfilling an adequate amount of rest, and exercising regularly. For a pregnant woman, pregnancy substance abuse is twice as dangerous. First, drugs may harm her own health, which interferes with her ability to support the pregnancy. Second, some drugs can directly impair prenatal development. During pregnancy, virtually all illegal drugs pose a danger. Even legal substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs  are dangerous to expecting women. As many as one in 10 babies may be born to women who use illegal and prescription drugs during their pregnancies. While some prescription drugs may be necessary during pregnancy, alcohol consumption and illicit drug abuse is frightfully dangerous during pregnancy, and therefore pregnant women should value their value their babies and never misuse them. Healthy Lifestyle Pregnancy should be taken seriously and one should implement a healthy lifestyle to keep them and their unborn child safe. A pregnant woman’s lifestyle habits as well as her partner’s can gravely affect the health of their unborn baby. If the couple has already taken these precautions into action, it is encouraged and should be continued throughout the entire pregnancy. It is never too late for a pregnant woman to start thinking about making behavior changes, which in turn are good for her unborn child. Staying active during pregnancy is one stride closer to bearing a healthy child. Being active during pregnancy can have only positive effects on the expecting mother, with her feeling better and developing more energy. Physical activity can also help maintain muscle tone and strength for labor and birth. A great deal of benefits can come to a woman and her unborn by lightly exercising on a selected number of days a week. There are many types of physical activity and exercise, ranging from mild stretching to aerobic exercise. If an expecting mother is already involved in daily physical activities, there is no need for her to stop. If not, it is a good time for her to start doing something on a regular basis. Daily activities like walking up stairs, cleaning the house, and gardening are also good ways to keep active (Childbirth Connection, 2010). Making exercise an essential part of the day will in the end, only make a happy ending for both mother and her unborn. Being a healthy body weight is important before pregnancy. So eating a well balanced diet throughout pregnancy is very important to the health of oneself and child. Almost all pregnant women need to increase their intake of  protein, certain vitamins and minerals such as  folic acid  and  iron, and calories (for energy). Women who  eat  well and  avoid known risks  tend to have fewer complications during pregnancy and labor and are more likely to deliver larger, healthier babies. Eating a well-balanced diet, high in nutrients, is one of the most important things a woman can do to ensure the future  health  of both her and her baby (Isenberg, 2000-2009). Fetuses born to mothers who have unhealthy diets may be premature or have other problems at birth. In addition, recent research indicates that what a mother eats during the early months of pregnancy may determine her unborn child’s predisposition to certain diseases, such as diabetes  and cancer. Eating a balanced diet during pregnancy can help to  protect the health of both mother and baby. During pregnancy, a woman needs more of some nutrients, such as iron, calcium, and folic acid. For this reason, it is wise to start taking a multivitamin before pregnancy. Vitamins should be an essential part of every mother’s diet and daily routine when expecting. Prescribed multivitamins by one’s health care provider are very important to give the proper nutrients and prenatal care that an unborn child or fetus needs. It is proven that multivitamins, taken before one conceives, have a positive effect on the fetus’s chances of having birth defects. Although many drugs can potentially harm a pregnant woman’s fetus, some drugs are necessary for the wellbeing of both the woman and her fetus. Before making the decision to take any drug, whether it is prescription, over-the-counter, or a medicinal herb, a woman should always discuss both the hazards and advantages of the drug with her doctor to ensure the safety of both her and the fetus. A practitioner may suggest that a woman take certain vitamins and minerals during pregnancy (Merck Sharp & Dohme Corporation, 2009). Alcohol Any type of alcoholic beverage can have many hazardous effects on the developing fetus. Consuming alcohol during pregnancy can cause a wide-range of physical and mental birth defects. When a pregnant woman drinks, alcohol passes through the placenta to her fetus. In the fetus’s immature body, alcohol is broken down much more slowly than in an adult's body. As a result, the alcohol level of the baby's blood can be higher and remain elevated longer than the level in the mother's blood. This sometimes causes the baby to suffer lifelong damage. Recent government surveys indicate that about 1 in 12 pregnant women drink during pregnancy and about 1 in 30 pregnant women report binge drinking† (March of Dimes Foundation, 2010, p. 3). FAS or otherwise known as feta alcohol syndrome is a dangerous condition that occurs when a fetus has been exposed to excessive amounts of alcohol prenatally. One of the most common defects is facial abnormalities, although other defects may have gr eater consequences on the individual's health. These defects occur as a result of exposure to alcohol  while in the uterus. An estimated one in 500 to one in 2,000 babies are born with FAS (Ladue, 2001). The common facial abnormalities of FAS include: short eye-slit fissures; a long, smooth upper lip groove; and a thin upper lip. The following picture represents a small child with these facial abnormalities. [pic] Other common physical problems include heart malformations and defects; a hollow at the lower part of the chest; permanent curving of one or more fingers; fusion of bones at the elbow; scoliosis; kidney malformations; and cleft lip and palate (abnormal openings in the lips or roof of the mouth). FAS affects children's height, weight, and head circumference. Many children with FAS are short and thin prior to puberty. As girls enter puberty, they remain short, but frequently gain weight and appear plump. Boys seem to remain fairly short and slender. So far, there has been no cure identified for FAS, but several treatment models are available. For the reason that CNS damage, symptoms, secondary disabilities, and requirements differ extensively there is no one treatment that works for everyone (Wikipedia, 2009). Although many women are aware that heavy drinking during pregnancy can cause birth defects, many do not realize that moderate or even light drinking also may harm the fetus. In fact, no level of alcohol use during pregnancy is safe. Therefore, pregnant women should by no means drink any alcohol, including beer, wine, wine coolers and liquor, throughout their pregnancy and while nursing. Also because women often do not know they are pregnant for a few months, women who may be pregnant or those who are attempting to become pregnant should not drink alcohol. Illicit Drug Use It should be obvious that Illicit and other prescription drugs are extremely harmful to the developing fetus, but disappointingly substance abuse  continues to be a problem worldwide and drug  abuse in pregnancy  is no longer uncommon. Nearly four percent of pregnant women in the United States use illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, and other amphetamines, and heroin and virtually 90% of women who abuse drugs are of childbearing age and consequently substance abuse in pregnancy is increasing (Ludlow, Christmas, Paech, & Orr, 2007). These and other illicit drugs may cause various risks for pregnant women and their babies. Some of these drugs can cause a baby to be born too small or  too soon, or to have withdrawal symptoms,  birth defects,  or learning and behavioral problems. Tolerance and addiction to drugs and alcohol in pregnancy creates many potential problems for the mother, her fetus, and the obstetricians, anesthetists, pain specialists, drug, and alcohol specialists and neonatologists involved in her care. Pregnant women who use these drugs may also engage in other unhealthy behaviors that place their pregnancy at risks. Women who use heroin during pregnancy greatly increase their risks of serious pregnancy complications. These risks include poor fetal growth, premature rupture of the membranes (the bag of waters that holds the fetus breaks too soon), premature birth and stillbirth. As many as half of all babies of heroin users are born with low birth weight, use of heroin in pregnancy may increase the risk of a variety of birth defects. Most babies of heroin users show withdrawal symptoms during the first three days after birth, including fever, sneezing, trembling, irritability, diarrhea, vomiting, continual crying, and seizures. While heroin is usually sniffed, snorted or smoked, most users inject the drug into a muscle or vein. Pregnant women who share needles are at risk of contracting HIV and the hepatitis C virus. Such infections are capable of being passed on to the infant during pregnancy or at birth. Between 20 and 40 million Americans have used cocaine and five to six million are regular users. One million women of child-bearing age use cocaine (Blatt, Meguid, & Church, 2000). Cocaine use during pregnancy can affect a pregnant woman and her baby in many ways. During the early months of pregnancy, cocaine may increase the risk of  miscarriage. Later in pregnancy, it may trigger  preterm labor or cause the baby to grow poorly. As a result, cocaine-exposed babies are more likely than unexposed babies to be born prematurely and with low birth weight. Premature and low-birth weight babies are at increased risk of health problems during the newborn period, lasting disabilities such as mental retardation and  cerebral palsy, and even death. Cocaine-exposed babies also tend to have smaller heads, which generally reflect smaller brains and an increased risk of learning problems. Cocaine use during pregnancy can cause placental problems, including placental abruption. In this condition, the placenta pulls away from the wall of the uterus before labor begins. This will lead to heavy bleeding that can be life threatening for both mother and baby. The baby may be deprived of oxygen and adequate blood flow when an abruption occurs. Prompt cesarean delivery, however; can prevent most deaths but may not prevent serious complications for the baby caused by lack of oxygen (March of Dimes Foundation, 2010). After birth, babies regularly exposed to cocaine before birth may have mild behavioral disturbances. As newborns, some are jittery and irritable, and they may startle and cry at the gentlest touch or sound. These babies may be difficult to comfort and may be withdrawn or unresponsive. Other cocaine-exposed babies â€Å"turn off† surrounding stimuli by going into a deep sleep for most of the day. Cocaine-exposed babies may be more likely than unexposed babies to die of SIDS. Avoidance Virtually all illegal drugs, such as heroin and cocaine, pose dangers to a pregnant woman. Legal substances, such as alcohol and tobacco, are also dangerous, and even medical drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter, can be harmful. For her own health and the health of her baby-to-be, a woman should avoid drugs and alcohol as much as possible; from the time she first plans to become pregnant or learns that she is pregnant. Alcohol is one of the most dangerous drugs for pregnant women, especially in the early weeks. In the mother’s body, alcohol breaks down chemically to a cell damaging compound that is absorbed by the fetus. Heavy drinking during early pregnancy greatly increases the risk of a cluster of birth defects known as fetal alcohol syndrome. This cluster includes a small skull, abnormal facial features, and heart defects, often accompanied by impeded growth and mental retardation. Heavy drinking in later pregnancy may also impede growth (American Council for Drug Education, 1999). It is not known whether light to moderate drinking can produce these effects. However, even if the risk is low, the stakes are very high. Medical experts agree that a woman should avoid alcohol entirely when she decides to become pregnant, or at least when the first signs of pregnancy appear. Even such mild beverages as beer and wine coolers should be off limits. The Law Currently there is only one state, South Carolina that holds prenatal substance abuse as a criminal act of child abuse and neglect. Other states have laws that merely address prenatal substance abuse. Some of these states consider prenatal substance abuse as part of their child welfare laws. Therefore, prenatal drug exposure can provide foundation for terminating parental rights because of child abuse. Of these states include: Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin. A number of states have policies that implement admission to an inpatient treatment program for pregnant women who use drugs. These states consist of: Minnesota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. In 2004, Texas made it a felony to smoke marijuana while pregnant, resulting in a prison sentence of 2-20 years (American Pregnancy Association, 2000-2010). Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for a pregnant woman to become addicted to prescription medications and other illegal drugs. A mother who uses drugs during pregnancy risks her life and her baby’s life. Studies have shown that consumption of illegal drugs during pregnancy can result in miscarriage, low birth-weight, premature labor, placental abruption, fetal death, or even maternal death. While some prescription drugs may be necessary during pregnancy, alcohol consumption and illicit drug abuse is frightfully dangerous during pregnancy, therefore; pregnant women should value their babies and never misuse them.

Storm Born Chapter Seventeen

To his credit, he didn't really manhandle me too badly that night. At dinner, he kept a hand on mine or an arm around my shoulder but little more than that. As he pointed out to me in a quiet moment, anyone could make a brazen display of fleshiness. What really indicated intimacy was how two people interacted with each other, what their body language said. So I worked on looking comfortable and happy in his presence, and from the shocked expressions on people's faces, we must have done a pretty convincing job. He took me to his bedroom after that, looking smug and presumptuous to those watching. But when we got there, he actually gave me my first lesson. Honestly, it was a bit disappointing. I'd been ready for fireworks. What I got was a lot of practice on quiet meditation and focus. He claimed if I couldn't control my own mind, I couldn't control the power. So I spent the next couple hours with him working on this and found my most difficult challenge was in not slipping into trance or astral travel. Those behaviors came so automatically to me in still moments that I kept lapsing. The kind of meditation he wanted me to do involved turning my senses outward rather than inward, which seemed strange to me since I had thought magic came from within. We finally ended the lesson with him giving me a heavy gold ring that he'd put part of his essence into. It was an anchor. Now if he left the Otherworld through a thin spot, he could transition to mine without appearing in a corresponding thin spot. He would simply travel to wherever the ring was. It would save both of us extraneous travel time. What it also meant was that he planned on coming to my world for some of the lessons. I had mixed feelings on this. Certainly it would be more convenient for me. But the fact that he could even jump with an anchor like that indicated how powerful he was. That realization was just a teensy bit unsettling, as was the thought of him in the human world at all. And yet, by being there, his powers would diminish. He would be safer – or rather, humanity would be safer. Back home, the following couple of days were more of the same: fights, fights, and more fights. Yet, as Dorian had predicted, some of the traffic dried up. I liked to think this was because my reputation was scaring would-be suitors away. More likely, my new connection to the Oak King made my assailants think twice about incurring political fallout. As it turned out, I had to deal with my own share of fallout over this alliance – from Kiyo. â€Å"Are you sleeping with Dorian?† He stood in my doorway, his dark hair backlit by the late afternoon sun. He wore a white lab coat with KIYOTAKA MARQUEZ, DVM on the pocket. He must have driven here straight from work. â€Å"Good news travels fast,† I said. â€Å"Come on in.† I offered him a drink and a seat at my kitchen table, but he just kept pacing around restlessly. He reminded me of a wolf or a guard dog. I didn't really know anything about fox behavior. â€Å"Well?† he asked. I poured myself a cup of coffee and gave him a sharp look. â€Å"Don't take that tone with me. You have no claims to what I do.† He stopped pacing, and his expression softened. â€Å"You're right. I don't.† It wasn't exactly an apology, but it was close. I sat down in a chair, folding my legs up underneath me. â€Å"All right, then. No. I'm not sleeping with him.† His face stayed the same, but I saw visible relief flash in his eyes. It was petty, I realized, but knowing he'd been jealous made something warm flutter up inside of me. Grabbing a chair, he turned it around and sat down so that his chin rested on its back. â€Å"Then what's up with the stories?† I told him. When I'd finished, he closed his eyes and exhaled. A moment later, he opened them. â€Å"I don't know what bothers me more. You turning to magic or you turning to Dorian.† I beckoned behind me. â€Å"Have you seen my living room? I am not going to be responsible for inflicting Hurricane Eugenie on Tucson.† That made him smile. â€Å"Tucson already deals with Hurricane Eugenie on a regular basis. But yeah, I get your point. What worries me†¦I don't know. I don't really use magic, but I've spent half my life around people who do. I've seen how it affects them. How it can control them.† â€Å"Are you questioning my self-control? Or my strength?† â€Å"No,† he replied in all seriousness. â€Å"You're one of the strongest people I know. But Storm King†¦I saw him once when I was little. He was†¦well, let's put it this way. Dorian and Aeson and Maiwenn are strong. Compared to other gentry, they're like torches beside candles. But your father†¦he was more like a bonfire. You can't use that kind of power and walk away unscathed.† â€Å"I appreciate the warning, Gandalf, but I don't know that I have a choice.† â€Å"I guess not. I just don't want to see you changed, that's all. I like you the way you are.† A smile flickered across his lips and then faded. â€Å"And as for working with Dorian†¦well, that just makes the situation worse.† â€Å"You sound jealous.† â€Å"Of course.† He answered without hesitation, not really ashamed to fess up to his feelings. â€Å"But he's power-hungry too. And he wants to see the Storm King conquest happen. Somehow I doubt he'll be content to have you be his pretend-lover for long.† â€Å"Well, hey, remember I've got a choice in there too. Besides, contraceptive technology is a wonderful thing, right?† â€Å"Absolutely. But Maiwenn says – â€Å" â€Å"I know, I know. All sorts of wise and compelling things.† Kiyo eyed me warily. â€Å"What's that supposed to mean?† â€Å"Nothing. Just that I think it's funny for you to talk to me about Dorian when – â€Å" â€Å"When what?† I set down my cup of coffee and looked him in the eye. â€Å"Honesty again?† He returned my stare unblinkingly. â€Å"Always.† â€Å"You two seemed†¦more than chummy. Is there anything going on between you? Romantically, I mean?† â€Å"No.† The answer came swift and certain. I reconsidered. â€Å"Was there anything going on?† This got a hesitation. â€Å"Not anymore,† he said after a moment. â€Å"I see.† I looked away and felt my own wave of jealousy run through me as my cruel mind pictured him and that beautiful woman together. â€Å"It's over, Eugenie. Has been for a while. We're just friends now, that's it.† I glanced up. â€Å"Like you and I are friends?† His lips turned up wickedly, and I saw the temperature in his eyes dial up a few degrees. â€Å"You can call it whatever you want, but I think we both know we aren't ‘just friends.'† No, I supposed not. And suddenly, after so much time with him and the fact that I'd made out with a full-fledged gentry, Kiyo being a kitsune wasn't really a problem anymore. The lines that organized my life had all blurred. That scared me because I wanted Kiyo, and suddenly I had no excuses standing in my way. And honestly, I realized, it was a lot easier having excuses. Excuses meant you didn't have to work or open yourself to someone else and be vulnerable. If I really wanted to be near and with Kiyo now, I was going to have to look beyond sex. Sex was easy – especially with him. What was going to be hard was remembering how to get close to someone and trust him. I looked away, not wanting him to see the fear on my face, but he already had. I don't know what it was about him, but sometimes he seemed to know me better than I knew myself. He stood up and moved behind me, his hands kneading the kinks in my neck and shoulders. â€Å"Eugenie,† was all he said, voice warm. I relaxed into him and closed my eyes. â€Å"I don't know how to do this.† I referred to him and me, but considering the rest of my life, that statement could have applied to any number of things. â€Å"Well, we stop fighting, for one. Let's drop this other stuff and go out.† â€Å"Now? Like on a date?† â€Å"Sure.† â€Å"Just like that? Is it that easy?† â€Å"For now. And really, it's only as easy or hard as we choose to make it.† We took Kiyo's car, a pretty sweet 1969 Spider, to one of my favorite restaurants: Indian Cuisine of India. The name sounded redundant, but the latter part of it had been a necessary addition. Considering all the local restaurants that served Southwest and American Indian cuisine, a lot of tourists had come in expecting to find Navajo fry bread, not curry and naan. The tension melted between us – the hostile kind, at least – though he did have one pensive moment in which he asked, â€Å"All right, I have to know. Is it true you kissed him?† I smiled enigmatically. â€Å"This is as easy or hard as we choose to make it.† He sighed. After dinner, he drove us out of town but wouldn't say where we were going. Almost forty minutes later, we were driving up and around a large hill. Kiyo found an area with other cars but saw there were no spots left, forcing him to drive back down and park a considerable distance away. Twilight was giving way to full night, and it was hard to find the path up the hill with no lighting. He slipped his hand in mine, guiding me. His fingers were warm, his grip tight and secure. It took us almost a half hour, walking until the path finally crested to a small clearing. I hid my astonishment. It was filled with people, most of whom were setting up telescopes and peering up at the clear, star-thickened sky. â€Å"I saw this advertised in the paper,† Kiyo explained. â€Å"It's the amateur astronomy group. They let the public come out and hang with them.† Sure enough, everyone there was more than happy to let us come and look through their telescopes. They pointed out sights of particular interest and told stories about constellations. I'd heard a lot of them before but enjoyed hearing them again. The weather was perfect for this kind of thing. Warm enough to not need jackets (though I still wore one to hide weapons) and so perfectly clear that you could forget pollution existed. The Flandrau Observatory, over at the university, had fantastic shows, but I loved the casual nature of this one. While listening to an older man talk about the Andromeda galaxy, I thought about just how vast our existence really was. There was so much of it we didn't know about. The outer world, the universe, spread on forever. For all I knew, the inner world of spirits continued on just as far. I only knew about three worlds: the world we lived in, the world the dead lived in, and the Otherworld, which caught everything in between. A lot of shamans believed the divine world was beyond all of this, a world of God or gods we couldn't even imagine. Looking up at that snowstorm of stars, I suddenly felt very small in the greater scheme of things, prophecy or no. Kiyo shifted beside me, and I felt his arm brush mine. My body kept an exact record of where we touched, like some sort of military tracking system. He caught my eye, and we smiled at each other. I felt at peace, almost deliriously happy. For this moment, all was right in the world between us. Maybe I'd never fully understand what pulled two people together. Maybe it was like trying to comprehend the universe. You couldn't measure any of it. It just was, and you made your way through it as best you could. â€Å"Thank you,† I told him later, as we walked back down the hill toward the car. â€Å"That was really great.† â€Å"I saw the telescope at your house – er, what was left of it anyway.† â€Å"Oh. Yeah.† Being up here had sort of taken me away from reality. I'd forgotten that my home was in a state of disaster. â€Å"Mine couldn't really compare to any of these. Maybe I'll have to upgrade now.† We passed the other cars and finally finished the long trek back out to his car. The temperature had cooled down a little, but it was still nice out. Kiyo wrinkled his nose as we walked. â€Å"Smells like†¦dead fish out here.† I inhaled deeply. â€Å"I don't smell anything.† â€Å"Consider yourself lucky. You probably couldn't smell how many people hadn't showered back there either.† I laughed. â€Å"I remember how you smelled my perfume back in the bar that night. I thought it was crazy. So super-smell is another kitsune perk?† He shook his head. â€Å"Depends on what you're smelling.† We got into the car. He started to put the keys in the ignition, then decided he wanted his coat. â€Å"Can you reach it? It's behind my seat.† I unfastened my belt and shifted around, practically hanging through the seats to reach his coat. It was crumpled and lying on the floor. â€Å"Jesus,† I heard him say. â€Å"Are you staring at my ass?† â€Å"It's practically in my face.† I snagged the troublesome coat and leaned back, but his arm caught me and pulled me onto his lap. It twisted me in an awkward position, and I squirmed to straighten out my legs. I finally ended up sort of straddling him. â€Å"I can't believe you lectured me earlier about the dangers of losing control,† I chastised. His hands had slid down to the ass he so admired. â€Å"What was I supposed to do?† â€Å"Hey, I'm not complaining. Just surprised, that's all.† â€Å"I think it's the fox in me.† â€Å"Never heard that excuse before.† â€Å"No, it's true. You'd be amazed how simple the instincts are – and how strong. Sometimes I have to fight to not jump every woman I see. And then I always want to eat. Like I have this paranoid fear if I don't stock up now, I could be starving later when winter comes. It's really weird.† It was compelling too, but wrapped up against him, I realized this conversation was wasting perfectly good make-out time. I unfastened his seat belt and then put my hands palm down on his chest. Leaning forward, I kissed him, pushing myself harder into his lap. His grip on me tightened. â€Å"I thought you didn't want to get involved with a kitsune.† â€Å"Well†¦I happen to think foxes are cute.† I wriggled out of my coat and then pulled off the tank top underneath, neither of which was easy to do with the steering wheel behind me. I rose up on my knees a little, putting my breasts near his face. His mouth showered my cleavage with kisses while his hands tried to undo the bra. Meanwhile, my own hands unfastened the button on his pants. I reached down and slid my hand into his boxers. â€Å"Eugenie†¦Ã¢â‚¬  he breathed. He managed to combine a cautionary tone with an utterly turned-on one. â€Å"We don't have condoms.† I moved my hand farther, suddenly very turned on myself by the thought of having nothing between us. â€Å"The pill, remember? Besides, contraceptive technology is a – â€Å" The car suddenly lurched dangerously onto the side we weren't sitting on. My back jammed into the steering wheel, and we half-tumbled onto the other side. Kiyo's arms went around me, pulling me toward him in an effort to shelter me with his body and keep me from falling. Guess I shouldn't have undone his seat belt earlier. Fortunately, the car didn't flip all the way over, and a moment later, it slammed back down on the side we were sitting on with a jaw-rattling crash. â€Å"What the – † I began. In the dark, I could just barely discern Kiyo's wide eyes staring beyond me, through the windshield. â€Å"I think we should get out of the car,† he said quietly, just as something heavy and solid slammed down on the hood behind me. I heard headlights smash. The entire car shook. I didn't need to be told twice. We kicked open the driver's side door, and I scrambled out. A smell like rotting fish slammed into me. Kiyo started to follow me out, and then the car was lifted up from its front end and slammed back down to the ground. Glass and metal crunched as the motion tossed Kiyo back in the car. The windshield cracked like a spider's web. Fear for him shot through me, but then I finally saw the culprit, and fear for me shot through me. It looked like one of the fuaths, I thought. A fachan, possibly. If so, he was far from home since they were native to Ireland and Scotland. Still, the Otherworld had become as global as the human world, and you never really knew what could pop up where. He looked like something you might get if Bigfoot had sex with a cyclops and then their offspring moved to the Deep South and interbred for another century or so. He was almost eight feet tall and every part of his grossly muscled body was covered with hair – matted and smelly hair that needed a thorough washing. One giant eye, its color indeterminable in the starlight, peered out at me. One extra hand extended weirdly from the right side of its chest, and an extra leg hung off of its hip. The leg didn't seem to help him walk; I wondered if it and the extra arm did anything at all or were just used for effect. Seeing me, he left the car alone and started lumbering forward. Hopefully Kiyo would be able to get out now. I reached for my gun and discovered it was gone. Son of a bitch. It had slipped its holster either from grappling with Kiyo or when the car had tipped. â€Å"Get my gun out!† I yelled back toward the car. Meanwhile, I took a few cautious steps back, assessing how to handle the fachan. Fachans, despite inhabiting the earth, originated in the Otherworld. They could therefore be banished back there. They also crossed to this world in a physical form, which meant they could be killed. I had both athames in my belt. Silver would be more effective, but iron would probably do some damage too. Okay. I just had to manage one of those while keeping it from getting too fresh with me. No problem. He swung one of his long, almost awkward-looking arms at me, and I intercepted it, stabbing him in the hand with the silver athame. I pushed as hard as I could, shoving through tendons and bones. The creature shrieked and jerked his hand back. My hand was on the hilt, but he moved too quickly, too strongly. He took the athame with him. Shit. â€Å"Kiyo!† I yelled. I took out the iron athame and darted over to his right side, opposite the car. The fachan was bigger, but I was smaller and therefore faster†¦right? My blade snaked out, digging deep into the soft flesh of his stomach. This time I made sure to bring the athame back with me before he moved and took this one too. Blood, looking black in the dim lighting, gleamed where I'd cut. I put some distance between us. I just needed to slow him so I could snag a few moments for the banishing. But he wasn't slowing. He hadn't seemed happy about the injuries, but he still kept coming for me. I kept the distance between us, wanting to injure him without getting within his range. It was kind of hard when it felt like his arms were as long as my body. He swung out his uninjured fist, and I ducked it, using the opportunity to draw blood again. As I did, something occurred to me. His blow, had it landed, would have done some serious damage. Very serious. It had had no purpose, save to inflict as much brute pain as possible. I could understand the tactical advantage of rendering me unconscious before sex, but being in a coma – or dead – might complicate the prophecy a bit. My blade bit into him again, and I followed with a sharp kick to his side, dodging at the last minute. We soon developed a little dance. His large, muscled arms would swing out at me, and I would sidestep and get in my slash or kick. Considering my fight with the mud elemental had been two days ago and I wasn't entirely in peak condition yet, I felt my performance here wasn't too shabby. At least until I moved too slowly, and he caught me with the edge of his hand – his extra hand. Apparently it wasn't useless after all. It was a glancing blow, but I flew backward, into the car, up onto the roof, and into the windshield. The glass – already cracked and fractured – shattered upon impact, and sharp, excruciating pain burned through the side of my stomach as I hit. The skin there was still bare and uncovered from where I'd stripped in the car. My head felt like a cartoon character had just dropped an anvil on it, and for a few seconds, I couldn't get my body to do the things I wanted it to do. The fachan lurched toward me, his limbs and their bulging muscles swinging, and I didn't have anywhere to go. He grabbed me by my shoulders and lifted me up high. I knew in those slow-motion seconds that he was going to slam me down and that I would be dead. As it was, the jerking, lifting motion alone made my addled brain scream. Suddenly, the fachan's head tipped back, and a look of agony crossed his face. His hold on me released, and I dropped back to the hood. It was much less painful than what he'd been about to do, but it still hurt. I frantically tried to sit up and see what had happened, but everything spun. Some wolf was attacking the fachan. No, no wolf. The colors and shape weren't quite right. The ears were more defined, the tail haughty and white-tipped. It was a fox. It was Kiyo. But he was bigger than I'd ever seen him, which was why I'd mistaken him for a wolf. He was huge, muscled and powerful, and his teeth were tearing into the fachan's back. The fachan turned and swatted him away. Kiyo took it with grace: hitting, rolling, and then getting right back up. I wished I could do that. I still felt like crap, but my vision had righted itself. Peering into the car, I could see where my gun had rolled across the passenger seat and lodged between it and the door. Beyond me, I heard blows and yips as Kiyo and the fachan continued their fight. Gingerly, I started crawling back into the car on all fours, careful to avoid the shards of glass ringing the gaping remains of the windshield. I didn't do a very good job and brushed sharp points in a few places. They stung my skin. Worse, I could do little to protect my hands when forced to creep over the broken shards covering the dashboard. At last I made it inside and retrieved the gun. Grabbing it, I worked my way back to the driver's side seat and took aim at the fachan still grappling with Kiyo. Only, my hand could barely hold the gun up. That was no good. I shifted and held the Glock two-handed. My arms still shook, but I was steadier now. I watched them pace and attack each other, moving fast. Too fast, I worried. I was likely to shoot Kiyo in the process. But I had to try. Nothing was hurting this thing. It was unstoppable. I didn't want to try to banish it at full strength, particularly since I'd never get close enough to put the death symbol on him and speed his passage. I therefore needed him wounded and easy to send over. Taking aim, I waited for a window of opportunity, for a broad target on the fachan. There. The bullet bit into his back, and he jerked in surprise. It slowed him just enough. I fired again. I kept firing until I'd unloaded the entire clip into him. He made horrible noises and staggered slightly. I half-expected him to keep coming, but then Kiyo the Giant Fox leaped at his chest and knocked him to the ground, teeth tearing into what appeared to be the fachan's throat. Ew. My wand was in the car. I swapped it with the gun, and called upon Hecate, focusing on the snake wound around my arm. My mind slipped this world, opening the gates, and I aimed for the fachan's spirit. My will, pouring through the wand, seized him and ripped a hole between the Otherworld and my world. It was harder than usual. â€Å"Mind over matter† might be the adage, but the mind was reluctant to obey when the body was so weakened and had had its head slammed into a windshield. My path to the Otherworld was clear. But then, seeing him start to get up, despite Kiyo's mauling, I decided I didn't want him potentially coming back. So I pushed my mind past the Otherworld, brushing the gates of the world of death instead. I felt Persephone's butterfly flare on my arm as I connected with her domain. The fachan roared as it recognized the tug. He resisted me, his body and spirit presenting a formidable match for my own. I focused harder, pushing every ounce of me into forcing him through the black gates. I called on – no, I begged – Persephone to take him. At last he went through, his physical body disintegrating as the Underworld sucked his spirit through. Only it was pulling more than him through. I'd pushed so hard that my spirit had touched more of the world of death than I normally allowed. In my weakened state, my focus wasn't as sharp about keeping me out. My mind felt like it was being sucked in by a whirlwind, and I had the impression of ghostly, skeletal hands pulling at me. â€Å"No, no, no, no!† Whether the words were in my head or on my lips, I didn't know. I struggled against the hands, trying to gain a grip on the human world. I would have even settled for the Otherworld. There I could survive, but from the world of death, there was no return. Half of me prayed to Hecate to pull me back through the gates while the other half of me prayed to Persephone to block me out. At last I fell back with a snap, my spirit returning firmly to my physical body. My physical and mental senses burned. Almost immediately, I slumped forward, unable to support myself. Only my hand on the edge of the steering wheel caught me from falling out of the car. I felt nauseated and dizzy, with too many parts of me hurting to count. Kiyo, still as that giant fox, stood by me, gleaming eyes watching me with all seriousness. â€Å"Hey,† I said, reaching out a tentative hand. His fur was as soft as silk. I stroked it carefully, my motor control still not all it could be. Those fine hairs touched my skin like the lightest of kisses. â€Å"That was some trick. How'd you do it?† He neither answered nor changed shape, merely nuzzling my hand with his nose. I smiled but then felt too tired to keep holding my arm up. I dropped the hand to my side, feeling something wet and sticky. Pulling my arm up, I saw blood covering my fingers, dark and glistening. â€Å"Oh, man,† I muttered. The world had started spinning again; black spots danced in front of me. â€Å"We need to†¦go†¦somewhere. Do something. Change back; I can't drive.† He kept watching me, eyes solemn and intent. â€Å"I mean it. Why aren't you changing? Are you hurt?† He rested his chin on my knees, and I petted him again, even though I got blood on that gleaming fur. I didn't get why he wasn't changing. Could he not hear me in this form? No, he'd always understood before. Well, if he wasn't going to help, I needed someone who could. I had a cell phone in the car somewhere. I could call Roland or Tim. But where was the phone? I couldn't climb in the backseat, not in this shape. Could foxes fetch? Maybe I could summon a spirit for help. Not Volusian, not like this. But maybe Finn? What were the words? How did I call him? It was suddenly too hard to think. â€Å"Help me†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I whispered to Kiyo. â€Å"Why won't you help me?† White spots now danced with the black ones. I closed my eyes, and it felt better. â€Å"I'm going to lie down,† I told him, stretching back. â€Å"Just for a minute, okay?† I rested my head on the passenger seat, lying perpendicular to the seats. I heard a soft, almost doglike whine. He must have stood on his hind legs, because I next felt paws and a head resting near my knee. â€Å"Why won't you help me?† I asked again, feeling tears spill out of my eyes. â€Å"I need you.† I heard the whine again, mournful and contrite. My hand reached out, grasping for soft fur. I clutched the strands as though they alone could keep me alive. Then, my fingers lost their grip and slipped away as my hand dropped.

Abortion According to Aristotle Essay

Do you believe that abortion is morally correct? That taking away someone else’s life is an option? That abortion is following the Golden Mean according to Aristotle? Currently, many people believe that it can be an option, because the baby hasn’t been born yet. But others, including Aristotle will disagree. First of all, who is Aristotle? Aristotle was a philosopher who thought that an act is morally correct if it follows the Golden Mean. This is an action or a feeling responding to a particular situation at the right time, the right way, the right amount or/and the right reason. See more: Ethnic groups and racism essay Not too much and not too little. The key to the Golden Mean is in moderation. I picked Aristotle because I believe that he has the best ethical philosophy. I agree with Aristotle’s ideas about the Golden Mean because I believe that if you are a moderate person, you will not take anything to an extreme and you’ll make good decisions. He also believes in the Sofia Virtue which is that you have to think straight, learn well and act accordingly. This idea mostly settles in the consequences of actions and how you may respond on them. The Golden Mean also tell us that you need to require virtue because it shows how moral a person is, but what I don’t agree that if a person is virtues, they will know exactly when to stop on their own. I don’t agree with that idea because sometimes virtuous people are forced to do something they don’t like to do so they try to stop it, but they are unable. Currently, abortion is a major issue facing the world, especially for teens. Abortion is when there is a conscious or intentional termination in human pregnancy. There are two types of it: therapeutic and elective. Therapeutic is when the mother needs to abort because of health issues while elective, is when the mother wants to abort because she doesn’t want the baby. The two ways to abort are: medical and surgical. Medical is when the doctor gives the patient some drugs to terminate the pregnancy. The only problem with medical abortion is that it can only function for the first nine weeks after conception and the patient will receive strong cramps. The other way, the surgical is when the doctor removes the fetus by manual vacuum aspiration/dilatation/evacuation. These three different ways are by absorbing the organs or pulling the fetus part by part. This can only be practice for 15 to 24 weeks after conception. According to Aristotle’s thought, abortion is not following the Golden Mean because it is an action that doesn’t respond at the right time by making a decision at a wrong time, in the right way and the right amount of reason, by choosing an excess. Also, abortion is not following the Sofia Virtue because when you are making the decision to abort, you are not thinking straight, acting accordingly, and learning well because you are choosing an option that is an excess. Another idea that abortion is not following Aristotle’s beliefs is that people who are choosing to abort are choosing an excess instead the mean. In this case, the deficit will be keeping the baby and the mean will be giving the baby for adoption. Adoption will actually be a mean because it is what is morally correct and is the best for the baby because he/she will be with a family that will love them instead of a place where they won’t be loved. While keeping the baby will be a deficit because they might know that they weren’t wanted and that will harm the baby. Aristotle also thought that if someone was virtuous, they would know when exactly to stop on their own or begin. When we relate this thought with an example of rape and adoption, many people disagree because many girls want to stop the rape, but they can’t. Later, their consequences are that they are expecting a baby from someone who rapes them. According to Michael Smith, rape is the reason for 13,000 of 1. 3 million annual abortions (Smith, â€Å"Women’s Health†). It may not be too many people but you can ask yourself about how many babies are being aborted. 13,000 have been killed because of it, and I believe that it is morally incorrect, that the safest thing to do is give it to adoption. Instead of going to an excess, these girls should use the Sofia Virtue and think straight and make an appropriate decision that will not affect anybody. Based on the moral reasoning of Aristotle, the correct ethical response to abortion is abstinence. To have sex at the right time, in the right way by protecting yourself, and with the right amount of reason so that if there is an unexpected baby, you will be prepare for it. So when, you are in a situation that you’ll need to choose between an excess, mean, and deficit, you should consider the Golden Mean because it will make you think straight and act accordingly while making the decision and learning the consequences that it may bring. Work Cited 1. Aspiration. †08 Feb. 1009. Web. 05 Apr. 2012 http://www. rhtp. org/abortion/mva/. 2. Hill, Peter. â€Å"Contact Medical News Today. †Medical News Today. MedLexicon International, 27 Feb 2004. Web. 23. May. 2013 http://www. medicalnewstoday. com/contactus. php. 3. â€Å"What is Abortion? † What is Abortion? N. p. , 08 June 2010. Web. 22. May. 2013 http://www. bpas. org/bpasyoungpeople/what-is-abortion 4. Smith, Michael, W. â€Å"Woman’s Health. †Abortion- Reasons Women Choose Abortion. Healthwise 22, Feb. 2011. May 23, 2013 http://women. webmd. com/tc/abortion-reasons-women-choose-abortion.

Week 4 summary and one discussion question Essay

Week 4 summary and one discussion question - Essay Example Actual authority is where there is a legal relationship with consent and the agent and principal are solely involved. Express and implied authorities are the two heads of actual authority. Express authority is construed by words (if contract written) or by evidence (if oral). Implied authority can be found by looking at actions of agent. Apparent authority is where principal represents to other persons that he has delegated authority to the agent. Theoretically the affirmative action is a way through which equal opportunities to minorities and females is provided . It has been seen that there has been a change in attitude towards hiring of the minority and females, it has still been seen that high positions have still been dominated by the majority, this can be seen by looking at the statistics of CEOs of company, Heads of Defence and Judiciary. In today’s world there is a strong need for further affirmative action to be taken so as to allow equal opportunities to minorities and to females, so as to prosper. Finally pre-employment testing has been allowed to the extent of their relevance to the job. Thus any tests which are found to be discriminatory to persons with disabilities or any other sort have been termed unlawful. Thus it has been said that extreme precaution must be taken if such tests are to be carried out, by looking at scientific validity, relevance to job and respect to right of privacy. The trend of allowing employees to leave the company when they desire has been seen in the professional world. The ethics has been that if such employees are not allowed to leave they will possibly convince others to leave the company as well. However, this is not the only reason for allowing the employee to leave. Other reasons include benefits which accrue might come the company’s way if the employee leaves. The next issue which will now be considered is that of the re-hiring of the employee. It has been said that a

Article reviews for Theory and Practice of Mediation

Reviews for Theory and Practice of Mediation - Article Example But in this practice it is impossible to establish a dialogue between the clients. Finally solution focussed in brief in nature so waiting lists can be reduced. The main point of this reading was though a solution focussed model is a good way of solving the conflicts it suffers from a few drawbacks. An important strength of this piece of work is that it is well organised and it appears as if a thorough research has been done about the topic before writing and the writer has a complete knowledge and understanding about the topic he is writing about. A weakness of this article is it has failed in explaining properly the actual concept or the actual theory of solution focussed model. When the focus of the mediator is on ascertaining whether there is an underlying cause that has fueled the parties’ conflicts and the attempt to interest the parties in addressing it than it is called as a strategic style approach. Strategic style is the product of particular mediator characteristics and social circumstances. The characteristics of strategic style are – the attention to the latent causes is extremely pragmatic, the style is enacted in 3 discrete stages. Therefore it shares some similarities with variants of mediation with respect to these points – problem centered, pragmatic focus, emphasis on hidden dimensions of conflict and the notion that the mediator is the strategist who drives the problem solving process. The main point of this reading is that the strategic style focuses on the causes of conflict between the parties. An important strength of this piece of article is that it provides a comparative study between different methods and the va rious similarities and also the differences between them. An important weakness of this piece of article is that it does the ways in which this method will help in finding the causes or reasons of a particular conflict between the two parties. This theory is

Conflicts in family course Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Conflicts in family course - Essay Example Addiction is a state comprising abnormally extended use of something and/or belief in something or in a particular idea (Duncan & Duncan, 1995; Califano, 2000, 15 Jan). Examples are addictions to drugs, particular behavior such as male chauvinism, and excessive passion for work and so on. While every person may have all the rights for the use, belief and passion for a particular phenomenon, in a family, addiction can go an extra mile of affecting relationships and perceptions negatively. It is important to note that all human beings have different tastes and preferences (Werner & Johnson, 2000). Family members are no exceptions here. For example, what a father is addicted to may become a nuisance to the rest of his family. Addiction for a particular phenomenon is a condition one is determined or must live with at all times whether it affects close family members or not. It therefore goes without saying that some of the family members may really feel offended. Rational family members who are thus offended react and respond by way of showing discontent and hatred to the behavior of the addicted member of the family (Califano, 2000, 15 Jan). But this presents a rather confusing scenario: some family members hate behaviors that are dear to other family members (Duncan & Duncan, 1995). At such a juncture, everything goes amiss – there inherently occurs conflicts of interests. The end product is total family conflicts and disconnections. The central issue as regards the presence of addiction cases in families is the basic aspect of a normal family (Werner & Johnson, 2000) – a family should remain a unitary entity with strong bonds and there should be no very wide boundaries between interests of individuals forming a family. Generally, I should think that each member in a particular family has his or her role to play in order to maintain family coherence. In other words, all family members complement each other when it

Organization strategy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Organization strategy - Research Paper Example Facts and Problems: Issues on Leadership, Group Dynamics and Motivation At the moment, the leadership structure of the organization is non-functional. The Objectives and goals of the organization have no enforcing authority. Specifically, the human resource department and training and development department need deeper focus. All the workers are discouraged, without morale and have no clear sense of purpose in the organization. The organization functions in a particularly individualistic and divided manner with no sense of accountability whatsoever. This is seen by the fact that workers do not offer quality service and work in a hurry so that they can attend personal issues. Consequences and Analysis of that problem: The leadership gap has led to recklessness within the organization. Workers have no sense of accountability since people are free to do whatever they wish. Some departments are entirely non functional. The human resource management hires unqualified personnel. This has d estroyed the reputation of the organization. The ill motivated workers have no value for their work. Many keep on resigning because there is no reward management system. Those who are left have no valued for their work. This has resulted in the loss of lives, as reflected in the rise in mortality rates in cardiovascular related cases. The organization has not embraced teamwork. People are individualistic and work for their selfish gain. This has caused the organization to be fragmented and to lack a sense of purpose. No department co-works with another. The organization has no collaborations and its goes and objectives are unclear. The main aims To lift the position of the organization so that it can achieve that goals, missions and objectives that have been set. The leadership structure needs to be functional and productive. This includes being the leading organization in service delivery and high quality treatment. This shall entail a relook into the strategies, establishing a vib rant organizational image and a motivated workforce. These goals are achievable. Change is always met by a few barriers which need to be overcome. Every organization has a culture. This culture helps the organization in achieving its goals and targets. Culture is essentially the accepted ways of doing things in a particular organizational set up. The organization has a culture where people are not used to organize systematic and functional group. Therefore, every worker is a stranger to the colleague in terms of professionalism. Workers have accepted underperforming as part of their lives. This is so because there is not accountability within the hospital. This makes it hard to introduce changes. There are extreme barriers to change because the leadership at departmental level in incompetence. This indicates that they are incapable of dissecting or executing any meaningful changes within the departments of the hospital. Under the departmental leaders are ill trained employees who ar e not motivated. Employees who have no morale cannot spearhead or enact change, (Klubeckne & Padget, 2009). Employees follow the direction of their leaders. The departments have no working policies. Unfairness among the departmental heads leads to resentment and dysfunctional departments within the hospital. Employees go for long without training or refresher courses. The department involved with procurement is ill trained. This has caused

Clinical Trial CONSORT evaluation Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Clinical Trial CONSORT evaluation - Assignment Example The author was also keen in providing a structured brief on the designs used, settings, number of participants, the intervention, measurements, limitations, results and conclusion. In fact the research was structured in a way that is very easy to read with objectives being very precise and prompt. However, it dint indicate in the abstract section the harm caused to anybody, funding and the registration of the research although they were reported in other sections The author did well in reporting the theoretical part of how Low back pain has been a significant condition worldwide due to its overall effect on work disability, absenteeism and the absolute cost on the victims. The statistical evidence in the theoretical review of the condition globally especially to the low month prevalence which was well reported to be 23.2% with a (standard error of the measurement being quoted at 2.9%) and higher in women and in patients aged between 40 and 80 years (Oliveira, Liebano, Costa, Rissato, & Costa, 2013). The scientific part was well reviewed with all implications of the process on the pain and non-biomechanical and biomechanical effects reported appropriately. The researchers did well in reporting the number of people involved in the study as well as the extended systematic review on changes in pain sensitivity following spinal manipulation. The readers from this review, gets to appreciate clearly the importance/need of this study to the said peo ple as well as the society by extension. He clearly reported how the process works basing his arguments on past studies to point to the rationale of the experiment. The author described well the trial design by indicating that they used a randomized controlled trial with a blinded assessor. He also discussed the software they used in the analysis to reduce statistical differences as windows excel and SPSS. Then he described eligibility

Managing Human Capital at Barclays Bank Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Managing Human Capital at Barclays Bank - Essay Example Like any other corporation, Barclays also treat its human resource as the most valuable assets and the only active element to activate other elements such as machinery and equipments, which are otherwise, remain dead. However, unless the costs associated with the people management and maintenance is critically evaluated in the light of its probable benefits, the entire efforts will be a waste. Considering the employee initial cost and annual expenditure for hiring and training, it can be presumed that a huge amount has been incurred every year at Barclays. From all stakeholders’ point of view, it can be said that this is not a good sign of success. Rather, it is an indication that the company unnecessarily invest in hiring and maintaining people in the organization and is likely to incur huge loss unless all the employees are retained in the organization. Today’s employees have the tendency to switch over from job to another within no time. This causes further increase in the employee maintenance cost as the organization is required to fill the gap on account of such movement. The most possible solution for this kind of unnecessary increase in the employee cost is that hire only those people whose services are unavoidable to the organization. Also make sure that newly joined are likely to be maintained in the firm at least for three years. It has been mentioned in the report that the pension cost has been on the increase and this can be reduced, if proper care is taken while fixing the compensation plan.

Social Interactions (for Social Psychology) Essay

Social Interactions (for Social Psychology) - Essay Example On February 22, 2007, groups of people from Rangoon started to stage protests in the local markets. These people were only a minority, though. They started by putting up posters and shouting about the apparent abuse of the military government. The people protested on the oil price hike. They also clamored for continuous supply of electricity in the country. However, a few hours after commencement of the protests, the activists were sent to jail. However short-lived their protests were, they were able to ignite the minds of other Burmese people (Heart, 2007). The Burmese government has been run by their military forces since 1962. The country was then led by a military man named Ne-Win. The said military official enforced a Burmese version of Socialism. The government took control of major industries in the country. He argued that it was the best way to establish a economic stability for the country. The government policy worked on the concept of self-sufficiency. Soon, almost all he key positions in the local industry were occupied by military men. However, after just a few months the Burmese people found their economy falling even further. It was evident that their military men were not doing god in their new-found jobs .By 1988, Burmese people could no longer tolerate the state of their economy vis-Ã  -vis the increasing corruption brought about by monopolies and red tape in the government. The Burmese people staged protest actions in the hope of producing change in the government during those times.. They were not successful, howeve r. Shortly after the period of instability, the Burmese government which as still led by military men started to invite foreign investors to their country. After the era of being almost self-sufficient, the Burmese government decided to approach economic and political matters from the other side of the fence. However, military men still held key

Intelligence Community Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Intelligence Community - Essay Example It can be affirmed in this similar concern that various rules and constraints may decrease the potentiality to adopt and execute sudden decisions (American Military University, n.d.).While determining the causes of the Intelligence failure of 9/11, it was noted that problems within the Agency were growing, as there laid huge figure of priorities, low budget and the persistence of bureaucratic rivalry among others. These factors did not allowed the US Intelligence Agency to address and mitigate the threat concerning national security, which raised due to the occurrence of 9/11 incident (The National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, 2004). Notably, the lack of military option can be duly regarded as one of the prime causes of the Intelligence failure of 9/11 incident. This can be justified with reference to the fact that the military personnel had to follow certain limited   policies based on which they could not make effective decisions for resolving the adver se situation of 9/11 incidence. This particular reason or cause ultimately led towards frustration within the military base, as they could not take the decisions according to the prevailing situation, which imposed negative impact on the nation and its people. Specially mentioning, the nation i.e. the US faced a major threat regarding not interpreting the language of Arabic, which was used by the terrorists involved in 9/11 attack. Thus, the misinterpretation of the same by both the Central Intelligence.

A Beautiful Mind Essay Example for Free

A Beautiful Mind Essay You have to wonder what goes through the mind of a person with schizophrenia. I have often wondered if the people who have this disorder have had experiences similar to those of John Nash, portrayed by Russell Crowe, the Oscar nominated best actor in a leading role. The movie was A Beautiful Mind. This 2001 film received four Oscars in 2002 for Best supporting Actor, Best Director, Best Picture, and Best Writing Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published. I think all too often people are given medication and other intrusive forms of treatment for mental illness when cognitive therapy with motivating factors can help to overcome the crippling illness. This is the drama represented in this film. This film depicts mathematician John Nash and his lifelong struggles with his mental health. Enrolling at Princeton in 1947 as a graduate student, Nash almost immediately stood out as an odd duck (Honeycutt). He devoted himself to finding something unique, a mathematical theorem that would be completely original. He kept to himself for the most part and while he went out for drinks with other students, he spends a lot of time with his roommate, Charles, who eventually becomes his best friend. Five years later John is a professor at MIT where he meets and eventually marries a graduate student, Alicia. The problem that John Nash writes on the blackboard in his lecture is a real one (unlike in other movies, where math on boards is usually either too simple or fake). See more:  Masters of Satire: John Dryden and Jonathan Swift Essay There is an important theorem in mathematical physics that directly says the answer to this is 1. Later, when he discusses the problem with Alicia Nash, he makes additional restrictions for the solution, without which the problem is much harder, so he is pretty confident she didnt solve it. Over time however John begins to lose his grip on reality, he secretly goes to work for the Pentagon and an elusive spy, breaking hidden messages from the coded newspapers sent by Soviets to operatives in the United States, warning of Armageddon (David). As the depths of his imaginary world are revealed, we find out that Charles, along with his niece, is a figment of his imagination; Nash withdraws from society and eventually is institutionalized and diagnosed with schizophrenia. Years of partially successful psychiatric treatment combined with medication follow, and although there was some success with this form of treatment, Nash realizes his thinking is a fog and his marriage is falling apart and to op it off he does not feel like he is a husband. With tremendous effort and much practice he learns to ignore the delusions of his mind and focus on reality, Alicia stands by him and continues to support Nash in his daily struggle. Its not until the 1970’s that John makes his long journey back into the world of academics, gradually returning to research and teaching. In 1994, John Nash was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics (David). Paraphrasing Nash’s acceptance speech, in the movie Russell Crowe sums up his career by saying â€Å"And I have made the most important discovery of my career, the most important discovery of my life: It is only in the mysterious equations of love that any logic or reasons can be found (Crowe). † In conclusion I would like to state that by being compassionate and loving towards a person with mental illness it is possible to help them to cope with life without drugging them. Thank you. Are there any questions?

Marketing Strategy Of Virgin Atlantic Airways Tourism Essay

Marketing Strategy Of Virgin Atlantic Airways Tourism Essay It has won business and customer awards from around the world. Virgin Atlantic stands at the second largest international airline to come under the British Long Haul category. Virgin Atlantic holds a United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority Type A Operating License, which permits it to carry passengers, cargo, and mail on aircraft with 20 or more seats. It is based out of Crawley, England. Virgin Atlantic operates a fleet of 38 aircrafts: 13 Boeing 747s and 25 Airbus A340, with a pending 6 orders of Airbus A380, and 23 orders of Boeing 787 to be delivered in 2013 and 2011 respectively. Over 9000 people are employed by the company. Virgin Atlantic has been known for its dfferent slogans, as shown. in the past: Mines bugger than yours, 4 Engines 4 Long haul, Avoid the Q, Keep Discovering Until You Find The Best, No way BA/AA. Virgin Atlantic not only provides the product and service, but adds its own style, and personality to it, which most corporations lack. Geographical market The airline industry is classified into four categories by the Department of Transportation (DOT): International Plans require 130 or more seats, and usually travel without many limitations destination-wise, and have an annual revenue of one billion or more American Dollars. National Airlines with capacities of about 100 150 people, with an annual revenue between $100 million and $1 billion; Regional Largely only used for short haul flights, these usually constitute of a total revenue less that $100 million; Cargo Airlines that primarily deal with transportation of goods, rather than passengers. PEST Analysis Political Factors State owned airlines are particularly affected by these factors. Parts of their business has to be done with consideration regarding routes, free seating for ministers, etc. Private airlines do this as/when it is convenient, and would not go out on a limb. Archaic laws apply on State owned airlines regarding labour regulations, retirement age, etc. which decreases management options due to the strength of the Union, and the controlling of the government. This affects the quality of the service delivery therefore these airlines have to think of innovative service marketing ideas which overcome their problems, while keeping them in the running against private airlines. Economic Factors Business cycles control a large part of the industry. At peaking phases people indulge themselves in travel and fares can be increased. However at economic recession, air travel is considered a luxury, and use of it is often decreased considerably, which leads to minimising business for the airlines, and lower rates. The terrorist attacks known by their date, September 11, led to a global recession, with the depression of the consumers. The loss of income for airlines led to higher operational costs due to lower demand and higher insurance costs, which increased after the terrorist attacks. This left the industry with little choice but to lay off employees, which increases unemployment, decreases consumer spending, thus decreasing their sales. Even the SARS outbreak in the Far East was a major cause for slump in the airline industry. Social Factors The changing travel habits of people have very wide implications for the airline industry. In UK, there are varied income groups, with varied ethnicities. The airlines have to recognize these individuals and should serve them accordingly. The destination, kind of food etc all has to be chosen carefully in accordance with the tastes of their major clientele, while keeping the variety in mind. Another good example would be the case of South West Airlines which occupies a solid position in the minds of the US air travelers as a reliable and convenient, fun, low fare, and no frills airline. The major element of its success was the augmented marketing mix which it used very effectively. What South West did was it made the environment inside the plane very consumer friendly. The crew neither has any uniform nor does it serve any lavish foods, which indirectly reduces the costs and makes the consumers feel comfortable. Technological Factors Internet alone has drastically changed the airline industry. Air Sahara has introduced a service through the internet, wherein the unoccupied seats are auctioned one week prior to the departure, as an example. Also, most airlines provide many internet based services to its customer such as online ticket booking, updated flight information handling of customer complaints THE COMPETITION As an independent airline, Virgin Atlantic successfully competes on all of its routes with most of the industrys major national carriers. These include British Airways, bmi british midland, American Airlines, Continental, Delta and United on transatlantic routes; BA and SAA to South Africa; BA, ANA, Cathay Pacific and JAL to the Far East; BA to Delhi. THE COMPETITORS SALES AND PROFIT TRENDS The airlines industry is very competitive, although the barriers of entry for new airlines are lower in a market with a lack of government regulation. A deregulated market occurs when a government does not dictate airfares, route networks, and other operational requirements for airlines. Deregulation has produced far greater competition and because of this, average fares tend to drop 20% or more. [4] The competition, combined with the freedom of pricing, limit a new airline from competing at its stage, but also acts as a major constraint on profitability for established carriers, which tend to have a higher cost base. TABLE 1: Top 25 Global Airlines Revenue 2006 Airline Lists 2006 Revenues (Million US) % Air France KLM 28,945.00 10.28 Lufthansa 24,903.70 8.85 AMR Corporation 22,563.00 8.02 Japan Airlines System Corporation 18,905.40 6.72 UAL Corporation 17,882.00 6.35 Delta Air Lines, Inc. 17,171.00 6.10 Continental AG 13,128.00 4.66 Northwest Airlines Corporation 12,568.00 4.47 All Nippon Airways Co., Ltd. 11,765.80 4.18 US Airways Group, Inc. 11,557.00 4.11 British Airways Plc 10,654.60 3.79 Qantas Airways 10,272.20 3.65 Singapore Airlines Limited 9,119.30 3.24 Southwest Airlines Co. 9,086.00 3.23 Air Canada Inc 8,934.40 3.17 Korean Air Lines Co., Ltd. 8,328.60 2.96 SAS Group 8,236.90 2.93 Cathay Pacific Airways Limited 7,823.80 2.78 Emirates Group 7,423.20 2.64 Iberia 6,473.80 2.30 Alitalia-Linee Aeree Italiane S.p.A. 5,927.50 2.11 Virgin Group 3,518.10 1.25 TAM S.A. 2,515.50 0.89 Air India 2,060.80 0.73 ExpressJet Holdings, Inc. 1,679.60 0.60 Total 281,443.20 100.00 Source : Datamonitor (www.computerwire.com) MARKET SHARE: The Companys Market Share: Year Total passengers carried Total cumulative 1984 124,711 124,711 1985 245,404 370,115 1986 289,060 659,175 1987 464,196 1,123,371 1988 626,319 1,749,690 1989 619,506 2,369,196 1990 837,136 3,206,332 1991 1,044,760 4,251,092 1992 1,239,011 5,490,103 1993 1,398,834 6,888,937 1994 1,679,403 8,568,340 1995 2,029,624 10,597,964 1996 2,293,802 12,891,766 1997 2,806,538 15,698,304 1998 3,201,795 18,900,099 1999 3,622,402 22,522,501 2000 4,280,513 26,803,014 2001 4,105,115 30,908,129 2002 3,808,687 34,720,689 2003 3,850,578 38,571,267 Source: http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/en/gb/allaboutus/ourstory/forstudents.jsp Target Markets: Virgin Atlantic offers very individualized services to their customers, due to their belief in the importance of individuals. Virgin Atlantic has targeted upper class customers who are primarily business passengers traveling on transatlantic routes. Virgin Atlantic realized the opportunity to gain a considerable market share through effective marketing of their quality, fun, innovative, honest, and caring airline. Business travels are often those who travel several times through a year, and often tend to purchase upgraded services, which is beneficial for the airline. On the other hand, leisure travelers are less likely to purchase these premium services as they are usually price sensitive. In times of economic uncertainty or sharp decline in consumer confidence it is expected for the amount of leisure travelers to decline. The Companys Sales and Profit Trends: Y/E April 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 TURNOVER  £1401m  £1272m  £1630m  £1912m  £2140m PROFIT  £15.7m  £20.9m  £20.1m  £41.6m  £46.8m SWOT Analysis Strengths Weaknesses -Brand image -Increased traffic -Financial strength -Declining market share in key markets -Lack of scale Opportunities Threats -Expanding passenger traffic in Asia -Increase in trans-pacific cargo -Partnership with ANA -Cargo price-fixing investigation -Rising aviation fuel prices -Terrorist attacks and scares deter passengers from flying Source: Virgin Atlantic Datamonitor Strengths Strong brand image Virgin Atlantic is a part of Richard Bransons Virgin Group, which has strong brand image, and is known across most of the world. Increased passenger and cargo traffic Virgin Atlantic recorded higher passenger and cargo traffic in 2006, as compared to 2005. The number of passengers carried by the company rose by 3.7% to 4.5 million. The quantity of cargo and mail carried increased by 9.1% to 163,165 tons. Strong financial position The company has witnessed strong revenue growth in fiscal 2006. It recorded revenues of  £1,912 million in fiscal 2006, an increase of 17.3% from 2005. The operating profit of the company was  £41.6 million during fiscal year 2006 as compared to  £20.1 million in 2005. Moreover, the operating margin of the company also increased from 1.2% in 2005 to 2.2% in 2006. Privately Owned Virgin Atlantic is privately owned; therefore, decisions can made quickly. Weaknesses Declining market share in key markets Despite strong brand image and improved financial performance, Virgin Atlantics market share has declined in most of its markets in 2006. Its market share in New York, East Coast, Caribbean, India and China has declined from 25%, 21%, 59%, 23% and 22% in 2005 to 24%, 17%, 57%, 18% and 8%, respectively, in 2006. Lack of scale The company operates 27 destinations whereas, its top competitors British Airways and Thai Airways International operates 148 and 600 destinations worldwide. Opportunities Expanding passenger traffic in Asia Pacific Driven by increased economic activity in emerging Asian countries such as China and India, demand for air travel to the Asia Pacific is rising. Virgin Atlantic already has significant presence in this region and is well positioned to benefit from increasing air travel to Asia. Increase in trans-pacific cargo The outlook for trans-pacific cargo market is positive. During 2006-2009, the market is expected to increase by an average of 7%, an increase from a 4.3% average annual growth recorded during 1999-2004. Because Virgin Atlantic operates Virgin Cargo, a worldwide air cargo business, this will allow opportunity for the company to further strengthen its market position in cargo. Partnership with ANA In September 2006, Virgin Atlantic announced that it has teamed up with one of the worlds ten largest airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), which allows Virgin Atlantic passengers to fly to Japan on ANAs domestic services. This new arrangement with ANA would enable the company to offer better service to its customers. Threats Cargo price-fixing investigation The US Justice Department and the executive body of the European Union have launched an investigation into allegations of price-fixing in the air cargo industry in February 2006 and one of the companys investigated was Virgin Atlantic. If the company is found to have participated in price-fixing, it may have to pay a significant fine and investor confidence could also be impacted. Rising aviation fuel prices Due to the rising oil prices globally, the prices of aviation fuel have increased substantially. This could impact Virgin Atlantics margins as it is mostly reliant on air freight business. Terrorist attacks and scares can deter passengers from flying When terrorist attacks occur, it places fear in potential customers, and can deter individuals from flying. SEGMENTATION Virgin Atlantic has two primary segments: Upper Class, and Economy class, with Economy Class segmented further to Premium Class, and Regular Economy, consisting of regular economy fare and coach fares. The premium class includes a separate economy cabin for full fares and option to pay extra for chauffeur driven cars and clubhouse lounges. The Upper Class is generally comprised of males between 35 to 45 years of age and that earn more than $75,000 a year. The Premium Economy is used evenly by business and leisure travelers, usually around 40 years of age. Marketing mix: Product For an airline, a marketing mix must be developed keeping both in-flight services, and ground services in mind, while also considering it as a tangible product, as well as a service. On the ground, transportation to and from the airport, online bookings, and check in services as well as duty free shopping, and parking options. In-flight services are most customers primary focus. Staff training becomes essential here, to allow customers to feel approached as they would appreciate, in order to to form customer loyalty and satisfaction. Price Most airlines use competitive pricing for both economy and business travellers. The ticket fare is divided like so: Basic fares; subject to availability, class and destination. Insurance; standardised. Inland Aviation Travel Tax (IATT); depending on the country intended to travel to. Passenger Service Fee (PSF); standardised. Also airlines use seasonal pricing. Tickets are usually more expensive when purchased during peak seasons such as holidays. Promotion In the UK advertising consists primarily of TV, press, magazines, outdoor posters and taxi sides, all featuring our distinctive logo. Advertising allows awareness to be raised of current products, their improvements, and new products, as well as appeal to consumers personally. Postal service allows more direct advertising to target markets and consumers, while informing known customers of improvements. During traditionally low seasons, tactical promotions and price advertising are also used to maximise aircraft capacity. Virgin Atlantic operates a frequent flyer programme, flying club to encourage loyalty in existing flyers. Virgin also markets to travel agents, who are the primary distributors of their airline seats. Along with the usual advertisements, the sales team offers various trade incentives, familiarization trips, and educational/social event deals. Conclusion: Marketing is, very evidently, the Virgin Antlantics key strength. However, the airlines limitations in destinations, is restraining their growth increase. Richard Branson, himself suggested that Virgin Atlantic will be able to reach market-leader reputation if expand from the trans-Atlantic routes, to across the world, while keeping its service, which acts as its key difference between them, and the rest.

A Leadership Detailed Overview Leadership Essay

A Leadership Detailed Overview Leadership Essay Leadership had been started from many century. There are so many person who are known because of there leadership. I have read many articles on leadership and also had read the life history of many popular leaders so I came to know that leadership is the capability and skill of an individual to make other to do to achieve the common goal. Good leadership always ends with the good result and satisfaction. There are so many leader who didnt have any quality to be the leader in their childhood but slowly and gradually they grew the leadership skill in them so, we also can say that leadership quality are not inborn it comes through experience, training, hard work and above all strong desire and will power. A good leader not only led the team but also influence other to be like him. He must have the vision and the drive to see it through. Leadership is mainly consist of four factors they are briefly discussed below: Leader: There should be good, trustworthy, honest, understanding leader for leadership. He should have knowledge what they are doing, How that should be done, and for whom that is being done. He must have confidence on himself and thrust on the team. Followers: Leader without followers cannot be imagining. Followers follow as per the leaders orders. Communication: If there is no communication is not there than its impossible to tell what leader wants. Communication also helps to build the good relation between him and his follower. Situation: Each situation is different than another. He should be able to decide in which situation require which leadership. Leadership style varies from situation, follower and assigned task. For example, a new follower requires more supervision than the old one. He should also know his follower nature, their needs, emotion etc. All the leadership are based on following principle Be technically proficient   Seek responsibility and take responsibility for your actions   Make sound and timely decisions   Set the example   Know your people and look out for their well-being   Keep your workers informed   Develop a sense of responsibility in your workers   Ensure that tasks are understood, supervised, and accomplished   Train as a team   Use the full capabilities of your organization   The leadership instinct you are born with is the backbone. You develop the funny bone and the wishbone that go with it. Elaine Agather To be the good leader is not easy. Strong determination, hardworking and some of the following keys can help to be the good leader: Humble and positive : A leader must be humble and polite. There is certain way to get job done through the team member. A harsh and strict manner of leader can demotivate his follower and can decrease their interest level of working though they finish their assigned task but they may not want to work with him again. He should also have positive attitude towards everyone. He should think positive be positive and do positive. Effective communication: Leader should be able to communicate his ideas and knowledge among the follower. There should be no misunderstanding and dilemma among the follower regarding the work assigned to them so, he should be able to communicate effectively. Confident and trustworthy: leader should be confident enough to say what he wants and how he want. He should be able to confidently present himself among the team member because the entire employee wants the guidance from the confident leader. He should also be trustworthy. He should be able to win the trust of his follower. Motivation: He should be able to motivate other to their assigned work. Every one are motivated in different way so he should know that which way is best for whom. Some are motivated from negative motivation and some are with positive so he should understand every one and take the right decision. Self-Esteem: Underlying everything, is a high sense of ones own self-worth. Without that, individuals will never undertake tough challenges. If one does not have it, its important to  develop self-esteem. A leader must have self esteem. Goal Orientation: A leader must e goal oriented. Every work what he does should be goal focus. For many, leadership characteristics of being focus on a goal can be difficult but a good leader always focuses on what he wants and how he wants. His every step is towards his goal. Courage: Many professors talk about entrepreneurs as risks takers. But this leadership characteristic is like saying snow is cold-its accurate but missing something. Another way is to say the same thing is that one must have guts. It requires a great deal of courage to build a company from the ground up. Tolerance of uncertain risk: A leader should have tolerant ability of uncertain risk or misshapen. There can occur uncertain risk in the future the leader should not run rather handle the situation and tolerate it. Being the leader is not small task you should have brilliant tolerant ability also. Dont tell people how to do things, tell them what to do and let them surprise you with their results. George S. Patton Everyone is not leader it is the fact everyone should accept it. You must have some leadership skill also to: Lead by leader: One of the best ways to lead is by example pitching in where needed, lending a helping hand and assuring that everything is done. Passion: A leader without passion is not the leader. be organized: A good leader should be well organized. Delegate: A leader cannot do anything alone so he should also delegate his power among the well deserved person. Great Listener.  A huge part of being a great communicator is being a great listener. Know your people: You should be able to now the nature of people because different people have different in nature. Be follower: all the great leaders are follower too so you leader can follow other good leader. The above mention skill and character I found and I am on them highly inspired by the Rob Fyfe and Alan Bollard. I feel that they have all the quality to be the leader and they are inspiring leader of this generation though they face unsuccessful some time. At first I want to talk about Rob Fyfe. Rob Fyfe: He was born on 6 May 1961and now he is a current Chief Executive Officer of New Zealand national airline Air New Zealand. He was born in New Zealand and graduated with Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) honors from the University of Canterbury in 1982. He currently lives in Auckland, New Zealand. He was previously General Manager of the Bank of New Zealand, Chief Operating Officer of ITV Digital (which went into bankruptcy while he was at the helm) and group general manager of Air New Zealand. Fyfe has been with the company since 2003. The best executive is the one who has sense enough to pick good men to do what he wants done, and self-restraint to keep from meddling with them while they do it. Theodore Roosevelt I consider him a good leader because airline is going through the many difficulties like high fuel price, increased competition, global economy crash down etc. Fyfe, now into his fourth year at the top, he took stand in each difficult situation and each situation. He is the quick mover in charge. He was up front and available immediately after the crash of his one airplane, responding with an openness that is characteristic of his dealings with staff and passengers. He has given the high priority to the innovation in the company as a result Air New Zealand recently made the worlds first flight using a sustainable bio fuel. It also attempted sending a rocket into space. He listen to the every ideas of the employee and they has an interesting programme called Test Flight where employees share ideas to the executive team if the idea is chosen the person can work in the project and he also can have share in the profit. While mass layoffs have been a feature of other airlines response to the crises facing aviation, Air New Zealand has avoided this around 200 of 11,000 staff will go early next year. His positive nature an can do attitude was always seen in his leadership. He says We operate this airline in a New Zealand way were not trying to emulate a Singapore Airlines or emulate a McDonalds. Were trying to go out there day in and day out and trying to be authentic Kiwis and give people a real genuine New Zealand experience. He never stop working in his product and improvising it. Due to his leadership and his dedication made Air New Zealand Airline of the Year by the Air Transport World Magazine. My other inspirational leader is Alan Bollard. This year has been really difficult and challenging due to economic crisis but the man tasked with maintaining that structure in these difficult times is the Reserve Bank Governor Alan Bollard. Alan Bollard  born on 1951 in  Auckland is the current governor of the  Reserve Bank of New Zealand, having been appointed on 23 September 2002. He succeeded  Donald Brash  in this role. His earlier public service included four years as Secretary to the  Treasury, and time as head of the  Commerce Commission. He headed the  New Zealand Institute of Economic Research  (1987-1994) and has edited or written at least three books about economic reform in  New Zealand. He gained a PhD in Economics from the  University of Auckland  in 1977 and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws by the same university in 2007. Bollard has had to face with the steepest commodity price rise and then with the global financial crisis since the great depression. But he has not been afraid of recession. He had confident on himself and on what he was doing. He always says that bank are silence army always prepare themselves foe the uncertain future so he was always ready to face what comes on future. He says that we should be worry about what comes in next year though we can learn from the previous year and should never do such mistake again. He was future oriented. He follows the Integrity (being professional and exercising), Innovation (actively improving what we do) and inclusion (working together for a more effective bank. The very essence of leadership is its purpose. And the purpose of leadership is to accomplish a task. That is what leadership does-and what it does is more important than what it is or how it works. Colonel Dandridge M. Malone He always tries toinnovate new for the more effective being professional. His leadership was so good that he got credit from the Westpac chief Brendan ODonovan for not being afraid of engineering a recession when curbing inflation and other excesses requires. he was able to lead the bank successfully so that he won the Heralds 2008 New Zealand Business Man of the Year. Its easy to be the leader but hard to be the good leader. Both business leader have so many similar qualities which made them a good business leader. Both leader believes on their work. They were future oriented and goal oriented thought they are from different field of business, one is of airlines and other is bank. They faced many challenges (recession, commodities price high etc.)but they never back out from the situation. They always thought about the employees and their benefit also. They didnt became leader from less effort they give their heart to it so that they are her tasting the fruit of success. They mainly follow: Be good Know your role Take responsibilities Take risk Decision on right time Innovation of ideas Participation of employees Know your strength and weakness Accept the change Find your unique selling point Dont give up So they can be taken as the good example of leader and can learn many thing from their life. There are less leader who became the leader overnight but you need long hard work and determination to be the good leader. There are many leader in the history who agve their life being leader. Every country have the story of leader who gave their life saving the country. Leader are in every field other than business also. Leadership quality is not in born it shoul be acquire with strong willpower, determination and hard work. You should know that everyone cannot be the leader and leader are Leadership is understanding people and involving them to help you do a job. That takes all of the good characteristics, like integrity, dedication of purpose, selflessness, knowledge, skill, implacability, as well as determination not to accept failure. Admiral Arleigh A. Burke also once the follower of some other leader. Leadership can be inside of you also you just need to find that and work on it. Who knows you can be also the successful leader of the future. There can be success waitng you far away just know your character and skill.

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens :: Great Expectations Essays

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens is the story of Pip, a young orphan who lives with his sister Mrs. Joe and his brother-in-law, Joe. Pip's life changes completely when he meets Miss. Havishman and the girl who lives with her, named Estella. After visiting them, Pip's greatest ambition is transforming himself in a gentleman to gain Estella's love although she acts coldly and contemptuously towards him. Throughout the story violence surrounds the characters and their lives. Violence takes many forms and is understood differently by different cultures. According to Oxford Dictionary violence is "a violent behaviour intended to hurt or kill somebody". This definition is mainly about physical violence, which is the most spread type of violence in western cultures. In Great Expectations, for instance, one night, after an argument with Mrs. Joe, Orlick, Joe's assistant, attacks her so violently that she becomes invalid. Another example of physical violence takes place in Mrs. Havishma n's Satis house when Pip first meets Herbert Pocket and they fight without any reason. Estella also treats Pip violently in physical and verbal ways when she slaps him and uses words like ?You little coarse monster? (page 77, Ch. 11) or ?You little wretch? (page 78, Ch. 11) in addressing to him. Other forms of violence are more difficult to identify but they can be as harmful as physical violence. In Great Expectations, characters mainly use psychological and emotional violence to hurt the others. First, Estella hurts Pip?s emotions and feelings when she rejects him and acts coldly. Estella?s violent behaviour can be explained by the way she was raised by Mrs. Havishman. It is known the idea of Mahatman Gandhi about violence as the fear of other people?s ideals. This definition characterizes the way in which some of the characters in Great Expectations behave. For example, the eccentric Mrs. Havishman was left by her fiancà © just before their wedding and that is why she wants to t ake revenge on men. Estella is Mrs. Havishman?s tool for her revenge. The old woman teaches Estella to feel contempt for men and break their heart. This example shows how violence is used psychologically by Mrs. Havishman who prevents Estella to fully demonstrate her feelings for Pip. Another instance of psychological violence is the way in which Mrs. Joe treats Pip. She blames him for having forced her to change her life since she had to take care of Pip when their parents died and she had to marry Joe. Great Expectations by Charles Dickens :: Great Expectations Essays Great Expectations by Charles Dickens is the story of Pip, a young orphan who lives with his sister Mrs. Joe and his brother-in-law, Joe. Pip's life changes completely when he meets Miss. Havishman and the girl who lives with her, named Estella. After visiting them, Pip's greatest ambition is transforming himself in a gentleman to gain Estella's love although she acts coldly and contemptuously towards him. Throughout the story violence surrounds the characters and their lives. Violence takes many forms and is understood differently by different cultures. According to Oxford Dictionary violence is "a violent behaviour intended to hurt or kill somebody". This definition is mainly about physical violence, which is the most spread type of violence in western cultures. In Great Expectations, for instance, one night, after an argument with Mrs. Joe, Orlick, Joe's assistant, attacks her so violently that she becomes invalid. Another example of physical violence takes place in Mrs. Havishma n's Satis house when Pip first meets Herbert Pocket and they fight without any reason. Estella also treats Pip violently in physical and verbal ways when she slaps him and uses words like ?You little coarse monster? (page 77, Ch. 11) or ?You little wretch? (page 78, Ch. 11) in addressing to him. Other forms of violence are more difficult to identify but they can be as harmful as physical violence. In Great Expectations, characters mainly use psychological and emotional violence to hurt the others. First, Estella hurts Pip?s emotions and feelings when she rejects him and acts coldly. Estella?s violent behaviour can be explained by the way she was raised by Mrs. Havishman. It is known the idea of Mahatman Gandhi about violence as the fear of other people?s ideals. This definition characterizes the way in which some of the characters in Great Expectations behave. For example, the eccentric Mrs. Havishman was left by her fiancà © just before their wedding and that is why she wants to t ake revenge on men. Estella is Mrs. Havishman?s tool for her revenge. The old woman teaches Estella to feel contempt for men and break their heart. This example shows how violence is used psychologically by Mrs. Havishman who prevents Estella to fully demonstrate her feelings for Pip. Another instance of psychological violence is the way in which Mrs. Joe treats Pip. She blames him for having forced her to change her life since she had to take care of Pip when their parents died and she had to marry Joe.