Response to the Breaking Wagon

My question is this... 

Have we all become so selfish that we are not happy to see others be helped, 

or better yet, help and influence others within our own ability?    

A lot of times, I don't like getting involved with politics - especially when it comes to discussing it online.  I know that it can get really messy really fast.  However, I had to put my foot down when I saw this image and it's message.  I am literally disturbed by the message that is being portrayed here.

Original Facebook Post with Associated Comments and Other Feedback 

It has been a while since I have so passionate written about a socio-political topic, let alone blogged about it - so I hope you get something out of this one!

A friend posted this on his facebook wall and I am not going to assume if he agrees or disagrees with the message - I just stared at it - dumbfounded.  I looked at the page from where it originated (at least as far as I could tell, and it comes from the "Conservative Patriots of America's" facebook page ( http://www.facebook.com/ConservativePatriotsofAmerica ).  I don't really think there is a ton of validity to the page overall - the overall vibe of the page is more opinion than fact.  And who's to say that the manager of the page is the one that created this image with the text - we can't immediately know that - so instead of continuing to share my opinion about the page from where I think it originated, I want to give my response to the image and the text alone.

My first thought is that he is not sharing a clear message or accounting for other variables.  The people who were not on disability income in the past probably didn't have a job, or if they did, it was probably minimal income or short hours.

Or, this could be a sad commentary on employers who wrongfully disqualify prospective employees from working because of their disability which then pushes people to apply for government funding.  

It's important to understand the impacts of social movements, laws, culture, and the economy, among other things - you cannot draw conclusions as Maher (supposedly) has based upon numbers alone.

I'm not saying that there isn't SOME validity to his statement.  I know there are those people who take advantage of the system.  I also think it's wrong to apply for government income if you won't apply yourself first.  (Get my drift?)  

I am just saying that this cannot be generalized to the entire population of people who are dependent upon disability income.  Plenty of good people utilize disability income and they make their lives better, they contribute to society - sometimes they grow so much that they do more than we ever think they can.

~*~

If you want to continue just reading my opinion, scroll down to the next section divider

Some of the comments & opinions  made on the original post are important to understand too.  A few of theses I agree with and there are a few that I don't agree with, but I can't make this be entirely about my view - we have to consider other viewpoints, such as these.  There are, currently, over 400 comments on the photo alone - I have chosen a select few to represent the greater part of the perspectives being shared.



Cathy Cleary Disability is part of Social Security and it is paid into. Welfare a different thing. I would love to see some of these people that don't know the difference have to apply for disability  while not being ABLE to work or pay bills, that does NOT mean not willing. Even some who are disabled have to apply for welfare due to some rule or another, they did not get the SSD or SSI.

Barry Perkins Maybe the wagon will break, more likely the people will. We're already seeing this. It's demoralizing to work when you see friends, neighbors, and family living off your dime while doing nothing. How long before you decide they were right all along, and just climb onto the gravy train with them?

Karen Dunn This Dip-S**t is part of the problem! He supported the POS getting re-elected, heck, he campaigned for it! Now "Opie" is finally getting a clue?

Kirk Matthew Spencer I'll just keep pulling the wagon.......no real complaints.

Violet Hanson What he don't get is that the funds put away (paid by us) for Scoial Security have been raided for every little government program that the left has decided they absolutely have to have and they see that- 'Wow look at that we can borrow some of that money to make up for the lack here, they won't even notice it is missing. Besides how else can we get the money we want?' This has been the attitude of both houses and the previous administrations and everyone having a seat at the spending table except for us, the one's who paid into this fund. By the time I retire I will receive maybe, maybe 50% of what I have been promised, and that only if a miracle happens. Bill you can take your attitude towards those of us who work and you can kiss my curvy white woman's a**.

Bill Wanner "... there are some of us who would love to be able to go back to work, but due to the fact that there has been a war going on for the last 10+ years, some of us, cant ever go back to work. First time in my life I haven't worked 14-18 hrs a day. I would love to be back out there, but I'll gladly trade you places any freakin' day! You take one of mine and I'll take one of yours, and lets see then. Did you forget there is a reason why the number has gone up some! I'm not saying there are not lazy bastards out there who don't want to work and are plenty capable of doing it. That's why we send all the illegals back and tell all those who are capable of working here's a job take it, because your not living off the people anymore!!"

Michael Withrow Leaving the military 13 years ago, I had 2 knee's that needed replacements due to injuries, both my hands were in casts, and I couldn't bear to be around people i didn't know. i could easily have joined that list of unemployeed. Instead, I found a job I could do. Answering phones. Today... after a car accident, I can add a bad back that shoots pain through my legs at various times, and super sharp pain's into my lower back. I'm still working, a reduced schedule, and I know i'll eventually have to quit, but only when and IF I can't find some other way to work. I was taught not to depend on anyone, and to make my own way in the world. This is what is missing from people. they are all to willing to sponge off someone else. I say, call up a draft of those who won't find work, send them Alaska to learn to fish, or build roads.

Kenneth Damborg The other side of coin is that back then the ways and ability of society to identify and understand (even treat) disabilities were (literally) decades behind where modern medicine and psychology are today. It is an important point to remember when looking at those stats, though that isn't to say that it isn't something to view with concern.

Steven Sloane i served my country, and worked for over 30 years before being injured on the job, which forced me to be placed on s.s. disability. if you think i like making less than a third of what i took home before you are crazy! somtimes people on disability really are there legitimetly.

Betsey Jung Owens Too many children are getting SSI for being hyper or having autism or other problems that wasn't even considered back in 1971  when I started in mental health. This is a shame so that people who are getting TANF and their 60 months are running out, apply for each child, one at a time for disability so that the family continues getting TANF until their application is either accepted or the appeals are denied. They can count on about a year for each child for extra TANF benefits. They get housing, medical, food stamps. No wonder the government is broke.

RE: Mental Health
Betsey's comment in particular really bothers me... if she is working in mental health then she should have a better understanding of the bigger picture.  And if she is in the field and considering things like Autism to not be an issue... wow... What she isn't saying is that some of these "newer" problems are things that have possibly been caused due to the lifestyle that the majority of the American population is living.  Some of the other problems that weren't addressed in the past were not addressed because no one wanted to cope or deal with it - they would rather not talk about it, and sweep the problem under the rug and pretend it isn't there - yeah, that's helpful... I suppose I feel more passionate in my response to her comment because there are problems that have existed since the beginning of time that STILL are not being fully addressed today.  Problem?  Yes.  Will it affect things like government funding for disabled persons. Definitely.  Is the answer to the issue pointing the finger at a minority group - that taking their support away will solve all of the deficit?
No?  People are just playing the blame game here - and it isn't ok.  We all need to take responsibility for our own lives, decisions, money, lifestyle etc - and when we can all be responsible we can also be there to support each other as compassionate human beings with heart and soul - not just greed and lust.

Lisa D Wetherbee-Todd where do these stats come from? why does the right eat this garbage up without any thought? there are how many mills of american workers? there are even people on disability working legally, this is just to feed the hate...and it works quite well

Stephanie Kelly I found nothing to support his statement anywhere. Is he including recent veterans ? Does anyone no where he got these statistics or do you just take him at his word?

Stephanie Kelly 1 out of 3 people on disability are over the age of 65 . This is mainly reflecting our aging population nothing more.

Travis Walton You can thank technology for part of that. Medicine has come a long way where people who would have been dead 50 years ago because we lacked the knowledge, the skill and technology to save them are now alive. One of many topics where there is no easy answer that Political jockeys like to throw out massive numbers without looking at the people behind them.

Jacki Dunham Tice "... 'Why does the right eat this up..?' It's called researching statistics  Your statement that there are millions of working people in this country is irrelevant to your point bc this is a ratio stat, so out of those millions it's still a 13 to 1 ratio genius  You talk about the right eating this up to fuel hate but what about the sheep on the left that take Obama at his word when he reads his teleprompter and says he wants to take care of you, he wants to do all this stuff but the right won't let him bc they're a bunch a greedy rich people... how about that for fueling hate?? The left believe any and all lies that come from this mans mouth w/out ever actually researching his statements bc if you did you will see that 90% of the time he's either lying or contradicting himself from a statement he had made in the past.

Stephanie Kelly The more I read the more of a lie this statement becomes. I wonder what the slacker numbers actually are. If you have given birth you have been on disability. This statement includes temporary claims of people who got hurt at work and our veterans . 1 out of 3 are claims are people over the age of 65. It always amazes me how very few of you want to know the whole truth.

Lori Skees We also had a baby boom in the 40s, 50s, and 60s. Then we started aborting babies legally in the 70s. Do you think there is a connection?

Barbara Rosel Clingan Taken out of context. Search the reasons that so many are not working... Simply search the reasons... 

Vladimir Lojko What constitutes "Disablity"? It takes years of effort with specialized Disability lawyers to be granted a "Disability" status.... if your lucky....

RE: Comments - original comments
Wow... it's really interesting to read these thoughts, opinions, and otherwise various perspectives.  Everybody has their own experiences and they have their own thoughts... but sometimes people make me wonder.  What has happened to logical thought and common sense?  Here is the continuation and short conclusion of my perspective.

~*~   

Do we all understand that for many people government funding actually results in putting citizens in an terrible cycle of near-poverty?  That is really hard to get out of, once you are in it, I don't know why someone would WANT to live an impoverished life if they truly are not disabled and are taking advantage of the system.

So, the overall response I have to this is while the numbers may be factual, the statement created around the numbers is not valid - more context and understanding of other variables involved is necessary before drawing such a conclusion.

My question is this... have we all become so selfish that we are not happy to see others be helped, or better yet, help and influence others within our own ability?  Really?




 

I Wish I Hadn't ...

So, this morning was a little frustrating.

Ok, so the entire morning wasn't frustrating, but part of it was. I woke up early so I could get to work on time, since I was opening and covering for another co-worker. I began to set up shop and go through the process of preparing the store for the day and the employee I was working with shows up, which was fabulous because at that point there was the two of us who were working.

So then another employee shows up, but I didn't know if he was working because he wasn't wearing his work shirt... yet. So, I find out that he's working. Awesome! I thought. Three of us in the store would make time pass by fast. Then I heard the third-arriving-employee comment about covering for another co-worker. I asked for clarification. He and I were both covering for the same guy!  This meant that one of us would have to clock out.

I began to feel selfish.

I began thinking all of these different thoughts, all of which were "I" statements, like, "I woke up extra early," or, "I commuted 50 miles," or even better, "I was here first!" Then it got worse. I started to take my frustration out on my fellow employee.

I began criticizing him.

I started naming all of the reasons, in my head, as to why he should leave.  "He isn't dressed appropriately," or "he was late."  The list went on.  Then, I had to try to decide how to professionally address the matter to one of our superiors, and I had hoped that one of them could make the decision as to who would go home, because I didn't really want to have that awkward conversation.  I knew it would be awkward because we had discussed in previous conversations, the importance of needed hours for income.  And really, who doesn't need income - especially in this economy?  So, I decided to go talk to one of our superiors and present the situation in a diplomatic manner, so as to address the issue that both of us faced and not just me.

 I didn't want to...

I was reluctant to explain what had happened and I was reluctant to go back to my station and have the "who is going home" discussion.  But I did, because I knew it was the right thing to do and the professional thing to do.  We talked it over and came to a common conclusion that it was he who would stay today.

I tried to look on the bright side.

I started to consider the positives of the situation.  It wasn't my fault.  And, more importantly for the sake of my criticisms, it wasn't his fault.  The responsibility for this mix up fell on the person who called us both and agreed to have us both work during that shift.  I thought about what I could do during the time that I had off.  I could go get breakfast.  I could do some social networking for the E.A.U., and finally, I could get an actual post published to my blog.  (Hooray!)  I could see a friend on campus.  I could actually read my e-mail and not just glean from the subject lines as to whether or not I should even look at them.  Then, BAM!  I was back into the mind-set of criticizing my fellow employee again, and the worst part was, it was something that I feared another person, friend, family, or stranger, doing to me.

I judged him.

I won't get into the details about why exactly I judged him, but what I will say is that in Utah, where the dominant religion is "mormonism" it is ironically far too easy to not be so "saint"-like.  In the multicultural class that I took during the first block of summer semester we discussed the influences different aspects of culture, ideology, and society have on us as human beings trying to figure out who we are exactly.  I realized that at this moment, I was taking stereotypical thoughts about people who are LDS in Utah's society, like me, and I was applying those thoughts to him and faulting him for what he had, or didn't have.  As soon as I had said the words I said, I felt my the color rush up into my cheeks.

I wish I hadn't said it at all, let alone thought it.

Who was I to know about what his life is like?

I thought about the things that I would hope that no one judged me for and realized that there was no reason why I should be judging him.

Anyway, I think that while this was an unfortunate even to occur, it was an important time to recognize that I can see what I did wrong and that I want to make my life be a better one and live it in a better way, so that I don't have these issues come up again in work or with my family and friends.  

Are there any little social issues that you regret?  Those little miss-communications that occur because of your mind being too set in your own gain?  Tell me what you think. 

Understanding the Importance of Language & Culture, The Humanity of Respecting Diverse Populations, and the Deaf Community.

Why should deaf people exist?  Why should we care?

(For a preview to this paper, please see my previous post)

This is a query that is morally and ethically disturbing but necessary to address. First and foremost, the question should not be, “why should deaf people exist?” but rather, “why should deaf people not exist.” Furthermore, why should any human being not exist or be appreciated for their cultural heritage, for their language, for their having a life on earth? This is the short answer to the query at hand, which leaves one with ponderings of all of the above questions. But it would be imprudent to leave one to musings alone without any other answer. The above questions will be answered by focusing on four main elements: first, the various definitions of a human within humanity; second, basic monotheistic religious beliefs; third, the societal perspective of disability; and fourth, the existence and richness of the language and culture of the deaf. So I will now ask a question once more, its focus being that of the definition of what deaf person is first and foremost – a human.

Starting with the simplest, yet most complicated of questions, what is a human? The Oxford American Dictionaries1 defines a human as being “a person as distinguished from an animal or (in science fiction) an alien.” Even with this definition, full understanding of what it means to be human is not gained. In turning to the thesaurus, which also comes from the Oxford American Dictionaries, there are many synonyms given to suggest further meaning of the word human. All synonyms are used as adjectives, words describing imperfection, compassion, as well as the form of a human. Let us look to the first two sets of synonyms, first being imperfection.

Humans are not perfect. This we can all agree upon. We, as humans, are “imperfect, vulnerable, susceptible, erring, [and/or] error-prone.”1 In recognition of this fact, we can then realize why we do not always give every other human being on earth, in America, in our own state, even leading to giving humans in our own community, the respect they deserve for their history, culture, language and for being a fellow human being. However, this fact describing human in imperfect forms is not justification for disrespect, belittlement, or pity upon another group of humans. Acknowledging this fact, for one-self, allows us as humans the opportunity to change what can about how we choose to live our lives and how our lives affect others. Taking advantage of this opportunity, upon self-acknowledgment, allows us to do the humane thing and treat each other with the respect deserved. In reference to acts of humanity, we can now look to the next set of synonyms, which is initialized with the word, compassion.

Humans have the capability of being compassionate. This too we can all agree upon, because compassion is a characteristic that can be learned and chosen to be utilized. Compassionate is at the front of the second set of adjectives; adjectives which are synonymous for the word human, and focus on words that are humane in nature. Words such as, “compassionate, humane, kind, considerate, understanding, sympathetic, tolerant; approachable, accessible.”1 Interesting, is it not, that a word originating from the word human is used as an adjective for “…showing compassion or benevolence?”1 Let us delve further into our thesaurus and see what some other words are for humane. Synonyms for the word are,

“compassionate, kind, considerate, understanding, sympathetic, tolerant; lenient, forbearing, forgiving, merciful, mild, gentle, tender, clement, benign, humanitarian, benevolent, charitable; caring, solicitous; warmhearted, tenderhearted, [and] softhearted.” 1

Listed also in the thesaurus are antonyms as well; humane has a solitary antonymous word: “cruel,” remember this antonym.1 One could then imply from the given differing verbiage that humans would be humane since they are connected via verbal origin. Yet it seems that if that truly were the case, we wouldn’t even be wondering why we, as people whom are a part of a community, society and population, are asking a question about a group of people who are oppressed by audism.

If humans are as humane as we’d like to be in understanding the value of another person and who they are, then we would not be questioning the importance of their language, culture, heritage and even their living existence. Do not misunderstand the meaning here, please, question another’s heritage, learn of their history and language; but question why it is important that another group of people exist and especially exist peaceably? The thought, in and of itself, is inhumane. Thoughts lead to actions, and therefore we can account for the cruel and inhumane actions that arose from these types of thought. What then, can assist us in the prevention of everyday cruelness to our fellow human beings? The answer then lies in the un-solidified and ever-changing nature of morals, ethics and philosophy.

It seems the most obvious standard of morals and ethics, taught to a vast number of the worldwide population, would be the basics of religion. A few of those basic principles will be addressed in order to describe the equality of all human beings. The majority of religious people believe that there is one divine creator. Call the creator what you will, however, for this purpose the creator will be referred to as God.

God created the world and all things in it, the first chapter of the first book of the Bible, Genesis, accounts for this.2 There are multiple notations in the Bible, and other religious books, of the past and present populations being sons and daughters of God. For example, in the book of Psalms, chapter 82, verse six reads, “…all of you are children of the most High,” in this context, the most High2 Here we recognize that we, as humans, have more in common with each other than just being of the same species. We recognize that the same divine being created us all, God created us all. refers to God.

In recent years, modern-day spiritual leaders reiterate this basic principle as we view ourselves as the offspring, or creation of God, “Man is the child of God, formed in the divine image and endowed with divine attributes.”3 In this quote, man is used to refer to all human beings, male and female. Aside from that, however, note the last phrase of the sentence and how we, as children of God are endowed with divine attributes. Many interpretations can be made from this, but no matter how it is interpreted, it literally means to be given qualities or characteristics that are set apart for each individual. So, while we were all created by God and share that as a universal similarity, He created us to all be different, to be unique people. Do the differences God created us with, give us justification to not “…love one another?”4 What is it, exactly, that causes look down upon others who are different from ourselves? How different, really, are deaf people from hearing people? Why are the Deaf so oppressed? In a blunt word, commonly associated with medicine and law, they are disabled.

Disability is the highlighted topic in Joseph P. Shapiro’s book, No Pity, which presents many points of view concerning ideas about disability and the experiences of people who live with it. People with disabilities make up a large part of what is considered to be diversity among the population. In specific reference to the disability movement, which didn’t even emerge until the 1970s, diversity is a central characteristic.5 Shapiro presents the common treatment of those who have disabilities, “[they] have been a hidden, misunderstood minority, often routinely deprived of the basic life choices that even the most disadvantaged among us take for granted… [and] … the struggle is far from over.”5 It has been over 40 years since the conscious emergence of new civil rights disability movement. Has significant progress been made? Do we really understand where our framework, for what disability It is a psycho-social effect which takes place as we are raised in society, influenced by the media, and by those people immediately around us. means, is coming from?

Shapiro goes into further detail about the psycho-social effect in chapter two, “The Social Construction of Disability.” Critical for understanding here is the point of influence, as we develop into contributing, adult, human beings, – society and culture. They are the two largest influences on how we, as a population, see what disability is and how we treat people with disabilities. We have to deconstruct what society and culture have influentially constructed and re-learn how to respectfully and ethically treat disabled people. We have to realize that every person, no matter their race, sex, physical or mental abilities, deserves to lead a life that is accessible to them, in every way, shape, and form; especially, the Deaf community. They deserve that as well, in maintaining the value of the existence and the richness of their language and culture.

The Deaf community exits in a system of biocultural diversity. According to Luisa Maffi, biocultural diversity is “…life in all its manifestations – biological, cultural, and linguistic ...”6 As language and culture are directly related, it is imperative to understand – one cannot communicate fluently in another language without the knowledge of their culture. Furthermore, it is also imperative to understand – one cannot interact fully with the people of a culture without the knowledge of their language. The concept of language, and culture is not universal. It doesn’t matter where a person is, the language and culture are going to be different from what they consider to be “home”. This type of diversity, like most, is to be appreciated. There is “…a ‘moral imperative’ to preserve diversity and to strive not for uniformity but for unity in diversity.”7 Not only is there a moral imperative to preserve that language and culture of the Deaf Community, but there is an imperative in a historical sense as well so that future generations can learn from our social and societal wrong-doings as well as rejoice in the justice we are working towards in appreciating various cultures, especially the culture (and language) of the Deaf. Comprehending diversity, especially biocultural diversity, “…should contribute to our understanding that diversity in nature and culture makes us human.” Having the understanding of diversity in nature and even in our and other cultures gives us the ability to recognize that all people are human and should be treated equally. The Deaf community are humans and deserve to have a life that is of equal opportunity and should be allowed to live up to their fullest expectations. We have shown the various perspectives for equal opportunities of the Deaf, using these four main elements: first, the various definitions of a human within humanity; second, basic monotheistic religious beliefs; third, the societal perspective of disability; and fourth, the existence and richness of the language and culture of the deaf. All of these elements, individually, show that the Deaf are important members of society and are crucial to not only their own culture but ours as well.

References:

Top, edited, photograph: http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v448/n7157/images/448998a-i1.0.jpg

1. Oxford University Press, Initials. (2011). Oxford american dictionaries, Retrieved from http://www.oxfordreference.com/pub/views/home.html
2. Bible – King James Version
3. First Presidency, "The Origin of Man", Ensign, Feb. 2002, 26
4. John 13:34
5. No Pity Introduction, pg 11
6. Linguistic, Cultural, and Biological Diversity journal, pg 602
7. Linguistic, Cultural, and Biological Diversity journal, pg 603


~Written by Holly E. Ferrin, Deaf Studies Senior~



© 2011 Holly E. Ferrin

Understanding Disability - Part 1

(Look back at my initial thought of "My Thought on the Societal Perspective of Abnormality Among Normality)

This whole thought process started with a homework assignment from my professor in my Disability Theory class. The questions, on the outside, seemed like they would be simple enough to answer. I was grossly mistaken. I thought, thought and thought. I researched, read, and studied. I even resorted to asking friends on Facebook what they thought so I could get more opinions and ideas. Little did I know that it would be quite the controversial topic. The official question was this... "Why should deaf people exist? Why should we care?" The first response happened within the hour and I sighed upon reading it, virtually smacking my hand against my face.

Andrew had blatantly replied with, "Sounds like someone is looking for an excuse to commit genocide." Great, just great, was the first phrase to come to mind. We now have the idea in mind that this question leaves the questioner looking for an excuse to commit genocide. That was the last thing I ever wanted coming up, but Andrew did make a great point, which then stemmed my next thought and honestly lead me to the basis of my response. I said, "Well, [my professor's] thought is that if we are going to be advocates for the Deaf, then we have to start by advocating their life. [I do agree with him about this] ... I personally believe we are all God's children and that we should treat one another as we would want to be treated. That is my short answer..." The comments from that point varied, and I appreciated all of them.

The next great comment made was written by Jillian, she said, "[Deaf people exist] Because differences exist - to make us realize that we have to tolerate others. We should care because if deaf people ran the world, then we would be the minority and we'd want them to care." She made a brilliant point with this, especially in recognizing that deaf people exist in a minority. The next comment made was from the mouth of a teenager. Teens are stigmatized into a social category of not really caring about anything else other than themselves.

Kevin, who is also my relative, made the following comment, "A deaf person can accomplish anything a person who isn't deaf. ...we should care for them because they are still human beings." If Kevin had been there in person, I swear I would have kissed him on the cheek for his youthful honesty.

I save the meanest, but best, for last. I must note the acting antagonist in the thread of comments. Peter, who can also be found on blogger, gave us a taste of reality with his comment - because sadly, this is how many people see it.

"I could argue in defense of the beautiful language that is attached to deafness that would disappear, but our society already frowns upon the language, encouraging Cochlear Implants and Oralism. I hope you understand what I mean with that statement. If not, let me know and I will explain further.

I could also argue in defense of the incredible culture of the Deaf, but our society is ignorant to its existence anyway. Its preservation would only be for the "burdensome" minority and its "sympathy" followers like you and I.

Lastly, maybe one could argue that God made them that way, and they are perfect just the way they are. But we all know that God wouldn't do that to someone... put them through the pain and struggle of being deaf. It is clearly the best choice to allow science and technology to "cure" them of their ailment."

I didn't feel terrible about this comment because I know Peter is a good guy and he was only re- opening my eyes and the eyes of my peers to the reality of society's views. It was good to think about. It was good to have dignified view in opposition of my own. Peter later suggested that I view this video on YouTube. I urge you to view it as well.


There were many other great comments and I wish I could quote them all, but if you are one of my "friends" on Facebook, then you've probably already read it. Until then, click on the link below to read my paper for further information. 

Enjoy!

Please Comment!

Thanks!

~Aud Fariy

Bueno Y Malo

Hey There Collegiate Readers!

So, I have had some interesting experiences these past few days...

~*~

Last Friday was really a pretty good day. The devotional that I attended was very good. The speaker was Jack Christiansen, he is a alumni of the staff at the Orem Institute of Religion. I really enjoyed his talk. It was on kindness and doing the right thing because it is right. Let's not forget the munch and mingle that occurs after each devotional - they always serve something good!

I played a few rounds of pool to end up the school-week and then just hung out with the people in the game room. By the time closing time came, I hadn't returned the pool equipment to the main office yet, so one of the secretaries came to get it. At that point, I remembered that I needed to pick up my UVU Plus card from the office since you have to trade your ID for the equipment. Well, to my dismay, my ID was no where to be found and the thought that it might be in the hands of someone dishonest and irresponsible was shocking and horrifying. So that in and of itself really sort of ruined the weekend for me and my family just with the worry of it all.

So, instead of risking the loss of money to someone who may have picked up my card I called up the 24 hour line to the bank that is linked with the card and I froze my account.

Thankfully, and luckily, I checked my e-mail and found that a young lady named Amy had sent me a message on Facebook that said that she had my ID card and to call her at the number she gave me. I checked out what I could see of Amy's profile and she was in the Provo network and that she was married so I guessed that she either attended institute on campus or at least went to the young married socials at the institute that happen in the evening. She said that she found it late on Friday night.

So, obviously, excited with anticipation I called her up once it was 8:00 am, today, and asked for details on where and when I could get my card back. We set up a time and place and I met here there and she had it! I was so thankful to her for that! At least some kind and honest people still exist in this world.

~*~

Saturday was a pretty good day, I got up early and went to work at the Fabric Center. I usually don't work there very often; I was just subbing for another clerk. It was so good to be back at the place I love to be and to help people with their sewing projects. Best of all, I was able to work with Marilyn and Allyson, I think I have had some of my best times working with them. It was really good to see Allyson again. I love that girl, she is probably the sweetest girl that I know and a lot of times I just want to hug her!

~*~

Sunday was a pretty good day, there weren't very many kids in nursery and there seemed to be more adults than kids. I think it was a hard day for a few of them. I went to YSA, which was good and interesting. I like to go to YSA because it gives me an opportunity to go to Sunday School since I am in nursery during the time that the adults go to Sunday School. I am not complaining about that, don't get me wrong, but it is also nice to be able to see people my age who I don't see very often anymore.

~*~

Today was a pretty good day. ASL seems to be going pretty well, my professor seems to see that I am trying very hard in class. The same goes for my Ethics and Values professor. Both classes are small and I don't mind speaking up in those classes.

However, I must say that I found my Sociology professor to be very annoying today. He talked about many things, about how society shapes the expectations of what comes with differing roles and status' that are established just with living within society.

The thing that bothered me though was the fact that he was justifying that society sees it as OK to not pay women the same wage as men. His reasoning behind it was that women are not as commited to their jobs because they have to work in the home as well, be mothers and homemakers and housewives and are more likely to quit their jobs and work as a mom. While I understand the reasoning behind it, I still think it is wrong. Even if the majority of women in Utah Valley do want to be housewives, that is no reason to pay them less than the men. Women are doing the exact things that men do in the workplace. Most working women that I know are very commited to their jobs and it seems like the only way for women to get ahead romancing their way to it. I think that too many times, women who are committed and work hard don't recieve the merit that they deserve. I honestly think it's a bunch of B.S. that women still get paid less than men ! My professor stated the fact that 33% or one third of all women in America are the bread-winners of the family. With that being said, how are women supposed to support their family and keep up a household when she has to work more hours to compensate for the lack of pay?

My professor went on to say that men that are in positions of power and management are respected when they are assertive and authoritative. However, he went on to say that women who are in positions of power and management are not as respected, he went as far to say that they are bit**es. That made me so mad! He made it seem like it was OK to see women of power that way. It is not OK! I don't appreciate what he said. However, I do realize that he may have been saying that to just get us thinking and to get a rise out of us. Even so, I still don't appreciate it!

~*~

Anyway, thanks for reading the vent about my Sociology professor. Please comment! Let me know what you think about my past few days that have been "bueno y malo."

Gracias!
_l^^l

Blogging later,
~Holly Elizabeth
AKA
~~Holls