Sunday, December 5, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
Is there power in positive thinking?
Yes, I believe there is power in positive thinking! Nothing constructive can be accomplished in life without the assistance of positive thoughts. The world we live in would be dark without happy thoughts. People, in general, would not be able to set achievable goals without a firm belief that they are indeed capable of pursuing higher educational and economic security or, for that matter, life-long companionship. Through positive thinking, we obtain better control of ourselves and the lives we wish to secure.
We need positive thinking in our lives in order to further progress in our educational studies and careers goals. Thinking negatively only prevents us from moving on to bigger and better things in life. The great doctors, lawyers, teachers or computer experts we have today would not have been able to reach their professional goals if they permitted negative thoughts to override their desire to succeed. Without positive thinking the world as we know it would be dull, dark and very depressing. Total chaos would break out if no one cared about the damage and destruction to people’s lives and property that can ensue by thinking unhappy thoughts all the time.
No one could find romance in their lives without positive thinking. The woman or man of our dreams would never materialize without first thinking about the qualities we unconsciously seek. There would be very few babies being born because no one would want to create a family. Our very existence would probably cease to exist, and civilization would come to a standstill. There is a song by John Lennon entitled “Imagine all the people.” Well that song would probably be sung differently if there was no such thing as positive thinking. Imagine a world without people living in it! That is what would happen if we thought negatively all the time.
In summary, our lives solely depend on positive thinking. There is great power in positive thinking. We need positive thinking in order to pursue our goals in education and the career paths we want to master in the future. In essence, mankind would be a lost cause and ultimately couldn't exist in a world without the contemplation of a happy thought.
We need positive thinking in our lives in order to further progress in our educational studies and careers goals. Thinking negatively only prevents us from moving on to bigger and better things in life. The great doctors, lawyers, teachers or computer experts we have today would not have been able to reach their professional goals if they permitted negative thoughts to override their desire to succeed. Without positive thinking the world as we know it would be dull, dark and very depressing. Total chaos would break out if no one cared about the damage and destruction to people’s lives and property that can ensue by thinking unhappy thoughts all the time.
No one could find romance in their lives without positive thinking. The woman or man of our dreams would never materialize without first thinking about the qualities we unconsciously seek. There would be very few babies being born because no one would want to create a family. Our very existence would probably cease to exist, and civilization would come to a standstill. There is a song by John Lennon entitled “Imagine all the people.” Well that song would probably be sung differently if there was no such thing as positive thinking. Imagine a world without people living in it! That is what would happen if we thought negatively all the time.
In summary, our lives solely depend on positive thinking. There is great power in positive thinking. We need positive thinking in order to pursue our goals in education and the career paths we want to master in the future. In essence, mankind would be a lost cause and ultimately couldn't exist in a world without the contemplation of a happy thought.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Pharmaceutical drugs and happiness
Depression and anxiety attacks are common problems facing the world today. The history of pharmaceutical drugs shows that they have come a long way in bringing about a measure of happiness in a world filled with economic and social dysfunction. Before administering any type of pharmaceutical product, one should consult with a doctor in order to be made aware of any dangerous side effects associated with the medication. Ultimately, persons who decide to use pharmaceutical drugs in an attempt to make life livable, must ask themselves if the drugs are actually creating a desirable state of happiness, or are they just using the drugs as a crutch in order to avoid dealing with the underlying causes of their unhappiness.
Anti-depressants have been available for many years in a variety of formulations. As such, they have tried to create a golden bridge towards happiness. Elizabeth Wurtzel states that “In the United States alone, more than 300 million prescriptions are filled every year for Prozac and other anti-depressants. Symptoms of depression and anxiety attack are a growing problem in the country today. For some, problems develop at an early age. For example, when parents aren’t getting along and find themselves on the brink of divorce. Many children feel guilty about the situation and blame themselves for their parents’ breakup. It could also come from the death of a family member as well. Violent pasts have also been known to create situations which lend themselves to the onset of psychological problems. The symptoms include voluntary isolation from peer groups, loss of appetite and/or sleep, feelings of depression, manifested by an inability to focus on daily routines inside a classroom or work environment. An individual exhibiting any of these issues should clearly seek professional guidance.
Scientists have been trying to perfect a cure for depression through the use of pharmaceutical drugs for many years now. They believe that through the use of these types of drugs alone a person can gain happiness and thus an improved quality of life. Greg Critser is of the opinion that “For decades medical science had suspected that one cause of depression involved low levels in the brain of a chemical known as serotonin.” (34) Since 1974, scientists had been doing extensive experimentation on animals in the hopes of coming up with a cure for the problem at hand. In 1984, after years of testing, the end result was the creation of a drug named Prozac. Also, in 1984, the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act was passed by Congress. That Act made it easier to bring affordable drugs to the market place. Some people praised the drug, others were totally against it.
All drugs have side effects, and should be stopped immediately if they are found to cause more problems than they cure. Over time, the medication should deliver a sense of calmness, an inner happiness, rather than any negative side effects such as delusional or overly aggressive behavior. Greg Critser queries. “Who knows where all this innovation will lead? “Certainly not the FDA, which is too busy approving new drugs to properly patrol the trenches.” (39) Many pharmaceutical drugs produce side effects and should be used with caution. They are not a cure-all. One should be aware of the down side of any medication, such as paranoia or suicidal thoughts, increased irritability or an inability to function properly on the job. Most importantly, not sensing any improvement in your condition after using the medication for a reasonable length of time, is grounds for questioning its continued use.
Pharmaceutical drugs are here to stay in the 21st century. The original goal hasn’t changed since it was established many years ago. That goal was to create a cure and bring about happier lives through the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Greg Critser writes, “But the ultimate goal of the new pharmo-capitalism involves the consumer, once known as “the patient.” (36) The pharmaceutical companies who foot the bill for research, development and manufacture of the drugs are there to help lessen the affects of depression, but the essential goal--as with any corporation--is to bring a profitable product into the market place. Nowadays, it’s not very difficult to get a prescription from your physician for Prozac. In essence, a discussion with your physician concerning the issues and problems you face, can facilitate your access to the medication.
Before taking the medicine, ask yourself: what do you hope to gain by administering the drug, and why do you feel depressed? Greg, Critser says, “He gave me a patient lecture on how some depressed people are what he called “long term chronic.” (37) You may think you were born with this problem, telling yourself that it’s just an ingrained part of your psychological make-up, that you have a need for that drug in order to function “normally.” But are you using that line of reasoning as an excuse to justify your use of the drug, or do you really need this “crutch” to make it through the day? Is the drug ultimately going to change your life for the better by bringing about true happiness? Then again, what is true “happiness?” And do you really need a pill to achieve it? Many people can get along without taking medication and can fulfill their emotional needs by establishing friendships that foster positive, motivational guidelines to follow in order to resolve negative issues that every human being, at some time or other in their lives will encounter and which must be met, and conquered.
Medication isn’t always the enemy and can sometimes assist you on the road towards a desirable path. It can help you focus, organize, and even prioritize your life a whole lot better if you truly need it. That, for many people, is all the happiness they seek. Human beings aren’t perfect, and even those fortunate enough to be rich or famous are not immune from life’s everyday problems. As Elizabeth Wurtzel states “The pills weren't a cure but they gave me breathing space, which allowed me to start writing again.” So medication is an option, if you honestly feel the need is there.
In summary, depression is faced by millions of people in America, if not the world. The causes of depression are multifaceted but, for many sufferers, drugs such as Prozac, are a god-send. Unfortunately, the amount of scientific testing on animals and the suffering that those poor creatures had to endure in order to help create relief-giving drugs for humanity, is also considered by many to be an inhumane and unforgivable act. Scientists believe they have the answer, the cure for depression and the key to true happiness, but that conclusion is not as yet written in stone. Only time will tell. Ultimately, the person who takes the drug has to ask why he or she needs the medication in order to determine if it’s actually for better--or worse.
Anti-depressants have been available for many years in a variety of formulations. As such, they have tried to create a golden bridge towards happiness. Elizabeth Wurtzel states that “In the United States alone, more than 300 million prescriptions are filled every year for Prozac and other anti-depressants. Symptoms of depression and anxiety attack are a growing problem in the country today. For some, problems develop at an early age. For example, when parents aren’t getting along and find themselves on the brink of divorce. Many children feel guilty about the situation and blame themselves for their parents’ breakup. It could also come from the death of a family member as well. Violent pasts have also been known to create situations which lend themselves to the onset of psychological problems. The symptoms include voluntary isolation from peer groups, loss of appetite and/or sleep, feelings of depression, manifested by an inability to focus on daily routines inside a classroom or work environment. An individual exhibiting any of these issues should clearly seek professional guidance.
Scientists have been trying to perfect a cure for depression through the use of pharmaceutical drugs for many years now. They believe that through the use of these types of drugs alone a person can gain happiness and thus an improved quality of life. Greg Critser is of the opinion that “For decades medical science had suspected that one cause of depression involved low levels in the brain of a chemical known as serotonin.” (34) Since 1974, scientists had been doing extensive experimentation on animals in the hopes of coming up with a cure for the problem at hand. In 1984, after years of testing, the end result was the creation of a drug named Prozac. Also, in 1984, the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act was passed by Congress. That Act made it easier to bring affordable drugs to the market place. Some people praised the drug, others were totally against it.
All drugs have side effects, and should be stopped immediately if they are found to cause more problems than they cure. Over time, the medication should deliver a sense of calmness, an inner happiness, rather than any negative side effects such as delusional or overly aggressive behavior. Greg Critser queries. “Who knows where all this innovation will lead? “Certainly not the FDA, which is too busy approving new drugs to properly patrol the trenches.” (39) Many pharmaceutical drugs produce side effects and should be used with caution. They are not a cure-all. One should be aware of the down side of any medication, such as paranoia or suicidal thoughts, increased irritability or an inability to function properly on the job. Most importantly, not sensing any improvement in your condition after using the medication for a reasonable length of time, is grounds for questioning its continued use.
Pharmaceutical drugs are here to stay in the 21st century. The original goal hasn’t changed since it was established many years ago. That goal was to create a cure and bring about happier lives through the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Greg Critser writes, “But the ultimate goal of the new pharmo-capitalism involves the consumer, once known as “the patient.” (36) The pharmaceutical companies who foot the bill for research, development and manufacture of the drugs are there to help lessen the affects of depression, but the essential goal--as with any corporation--is to bring a profitable product into the market place. Nowadays, it’s not very difficult to get a prescription from your physician for Prozac. In essence, a discussion with your physician concerning the issues and problems you face, can facilitate your access to the medication.
Before taking the medicine, ask yourself: what do you hope to gain by administering the drug, and why do you feel depressed? Greg, Critser says, “He gave me a patient lecture on how some depressed people are what he called “long term chronic.” (37) You may think you were born with this problem, telling yourself that it’s just an ingrained part of your psychological make-up, that you have a need for that drug in order to function “normally.” But are you using that line of reasoning as an excuse to justify your use of the drug, or do you really need this “crutch” to make it through the day? Is the drug ultimately going to change your life for the better by bringing about true happiness? Then again, what is true “happiness?” And do you really need a pill to achieve it? Many people can get along without taking medication and can fulfill their emotional needs by establishing friendships that foster positive, motivational guidelines to follow in order to resolve negative issues that every human being, at some time or other in their lives will encounter and which must be met, and conquered.
Medication isn’t always the enemy and can sometimes assist you on the road towards a desirable path. It can help you focus, organize, and even prioritize your life a whole lot better if you truly need it. That, for many people, is all the happiness they seek. Human beings aren’t perfect, and even those fortunate enough to be rich or famous are not immune from life’s everyday problems. As Elizabeth Wurtzel states “The pills weren't a cure but they gave me breathing space, which allowed me to start writing again.” So medication is an option, if you honestly feel the need is there.
In summary, depression is faced by millions of people in America, if not the world. The causes of depression are multifaceted but, for many sufferers, drugs such as Prozac, are a god-send. Unfortunately, the amount of scientific testing on animals and the suffering that those poor creatures had to endure in order to help create relief-giving drugs for humanity, is also considered by many to be an inhumane and unforgivable act. Scientists believe they have the answer, the cure for depression and the key to true happiness, but that conclusion is not as yet written in stone. Only time will tell. Ultimately, the person who takes the drug has to ask why he or she needs the medication in order to determine if it’s actually for better--or worse.
Friday, November 12, 2010
What I'm grateful for!
The first thing I'm most grateful for is having a full extended caring loving supporting family. A mom, dad, sister, step father, step brother and step sisters, etc. After that comes a place to live in New York City, having clothes on my back, and a nice size refrigerator full of delicious tasty food. I'm also happy to have a job in this bad economy and money to spend. Having friends I can talk to when I'm feeling happy or sad is something I’m glad to have.
I'm very grateful to be alive and healthy in this world, which probably should be on the top of my list. Being able to get a higher education, have free medical and tuition pay by the government for my four years of honorable enlisted service is also something I’m very proud of. On top of being educated I'm grateful for having my computer skills to help build up my career for the future.
I'm very grateful to be alive and healthy in this world, which probably should be on the top of my list. Being able to get a higher education, have free medical and tuition pay by the government for my four years of honorable enlisted service is also something I’m very proud of. On top of being educated I'm grateful for having my computer skills to help build up my career for the future.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Happiness and Relationships
Through the use of advanced, powerful and ever-creative technology, we are able to maintain happier relationships in the world.
Internet and social networking tools weren’t available until quite recently. The internet gained in popularity around the 1990’s when desktop computer and laptop prices began to tumble, thus becoming more in line with what the average buyer might be willing and able to pay. In due course, the social networking era was introduced around 2003. First, came Myspace.com and then Facebook.com. After that, dating websites and interest-based communities quickly appeared, helping us to rekindle friendships with acquaintances who had drifted away due to changes in addresses and job situations.
Tal Ben-Shahar “In fact, however, the most important and challenging component of a happy relationship is not finding one right person –I do not believe that there is just one right person for each of us—but rather cultivating the one chosen relationship.”(120) That means that there are many different types of relationships, including friendships, work partnerships and loving relationships. You shouldn’t work on just one, but all of them. Doing so will make you a more well-rounded individual and put a certain balance in your life. The new technology we have today and the way we connect with our loved ones and business associates has totally been altered. We no longer rely solely on regular mail or land-line phones to stay in touch. E-mail and texting are all the rage nowadays. For some, it’s an addiction--as well as a distraction--from the real world. People who constantly check e-mail a hundred times daily may need to seek help in defining why they feel more comfortable with technology, rather than actual human contact.
Tal Ben-Shahar quotes Lord Byron to the affect that “All who would win joy must share it; happiness was born a twin.”(111) Thus, happiness should always be shared--and expressed with others--especially family and friends, in order to be truly realized. People, who were born in countries other than where they now reside, love to communicate with relatives and friends in their country of origin. We almost never lose interest in maintaining relationships with others who still reside in places where we first saw the light of day. Using Skype and Skype mobile video sharing software opens up that part of the world again, enabling us to maintain contact with loved ones for only a few cents a day. Having the ability to connect to a friend anywhere there is a Wi-Fi internet connection is nothing short of amazing! On top of that, the sound quality and picture are great! The interface is user friendly and easy to manipulate, even for those with limited computer knowledge. All you need is a computer or laptop, a web camera and Skype software in order to connect. Seeing old friends smiling back at you--and talking about the good times had in the past--can only help to maintain happy relationships.
Mobile phones have been around since the early 1970’s. The first versions were huge and awkward to carry around. Not only were they costly to own, but reception was not always satisfactory. Thus, they were unappreciated and unpopular. No one could have conceived that, by 2007, the appearance of the Smartphone would revolutionize the very nature of communication as much as it has. After the Smartphone, the Tablet was introduced in 2010, turning the telephone into a device capable of many different applications, such as computing, downloading of books, e-mailing, researching on websites such as Google, as well as the downloading of newspaper and magazine articles. Even GPS functionality has been built into an easily transported device.
As technology changed, so did the world we live in, thus enhancing our ability to communicate with others. David Myers states that “There are few stronger predictions of happiness than a close, nurturing, equitable, intimate, lifelong companionship with one’s best friend.”(112) It is not always easy to stay in touch with all of our friends and loved ones at any given time, but as human beings, it’s in our nature to do so. Without our friends or loved ones, we would be lost in this world.
In summary, the internet and social networking systems have helped to keep us connected with each other around the globe. Times have certainly changed--but so has technology. Fortunately technology has become more affordable, and thus more of a necessity than the unattainable luxury it was once considered. As human beings, we need to express our ideas and thoughts. Technology enhances those aspects by increasing our ability to learn and communicate. That is what keeps us moving as well as motivated. All things considered, technology is a powerful tool for attaining that knowledge, but it should not consume the bulk of our time and take us away from dealing with people in the real world.
What other fascinating technology awaits us down the road? I can hardly wait!
Internet and social networking tools weren’t available until quite recently. The internet gained in popularity around the 1990’s when desktop computer and laptop prices began to tumble, thus becoming more in line with what the average buyer might be willing and able to pay. In due course, the social networking era was introduced around 2003. First, came Myspace.com and then Facebook.com. After that, dating websites and interest-based communities quickly appeared, helping us to rekindle friendships with acquaintances who had drifted away due to changes in addresses and job situations.
Tal Ben-Shahar “In fact, however, the most important and challenging component of a happy relationship is not finding one right person –I do not believe that there is just one right person for each of us—but rather cultivating the one chosen relationship.”(120) That means that there are many different types of relationships, including friendships, work partnerships and loving relationships. You shouldn’t work on just one, but all of them. Doing so will make you a more well-rounded individual and put a certain balance in your life. The new technology we have today and the way we connect with our loved ones and business associates has totally been altered. We no longer rely solely on regular mail or land-line phones to stay in touch. E-mail and texting are all the rage nowadays. For some, it’s an addiction--as well as a distraction--from the real world. People who constantly check e-mail a hundred times daily may need to seek help in defining why they feel more comfortable with technology, rather than actual human contact.
Tal Ben-Shahar quotes Lord Byron to the affect that “All who would win joy must share it; happiness was born a twin.”(111) Thus, happiness should always be shared--and expressed with others--especially family and friends, in order to be truly realized. People, who were born in countries other than where they now reside, love to communicate with relatives and friends in their country of origin. We almost never lose interest in maintaining relationships with others who still reside in places where we first saw the light of day. Using Skype and Skype mobile video sharing software opens up that part of the world again, enabling us to maintain contact with loved ones for only a few cents a day. Having the ability to connect to a friend anywhere there is a Wi-Fi internet connection is nothing short of amazing! On top of that, the sound quality and picture are great! The interface is user friendly and easy to manipulate, even for those with limited computer knowledge. All you need is a computer or laptop, a web camera and Skype software in order to connect. Seeing old friends smiling back at you--and talking about the good times had in the past--can only help to maintain happy relationships.
Mobile phones have been around since the early 1970’s. The first versions were huge and awkward to carry around. Not only were they costly to own, but reception was not always satisfactory. Thus, they were unappreciated and unpopular. No one could have conceived that, by 2007, the appearance of the Smartphone would revolutionize the very nature of communication as much as it has. After the Smartphone, the Tablet was introduced in 2010, turning the telephone into a device capable of many different applications, such as computing, downloading of books, e-mailing, researching on websites such as Google, as well as the downloading of newspaper and magazine articles. Even GPS functionality has been built into an easily transported device.
As technology changed, so did the world we live in, thus enhancing our ability to communicate with others. David Myers states that “There are few stronger predictions of happiness than a close, nurturing, equitable, intimate, lifelong companionship with one’s best friend.”(112) It is not always easy to stay in touch with all of our friends and loved ones at any given time, but as human beings, it’s in our nature to do so. Without our friends or loved ones, we would be lost in this world.
In summary, the internet and social networking systems have helped to keep us connected with each other around the globe. Times have certainly changed--but so has technology. Fortunately technology has become more affordable, and thus more of a necessity than the unattainable luxury it was once considered. As human beings, we need to express our ideas and thoughts. Technology enhances those aspects by increasing our ability to learn and communicate. That is what keeps us moving as well as motivated. All things considered, technology is a powerful tool for attaining that knowledge, but it should not consume the bulk of our time and take us away from dealing with people in the real world.
What other fascinating technology awaits us down the road? I can hardly wait!
Monday, October 18, 2010
My-self 10/18/2010
My name is Andrew Cymes. The following blog will be about my-self. I always knew that I was good at both art and computers. Even as a child I enjoyed all the new techonlogy. My Current major is New Media Technology, which combines both art and computers. I love it! Writing the three lists in class which included Good at, Pleasure, and meaning helped me reinforce what I already knew about my-self. I'm a moderate socializer, and a good listener. I also enjoy helping other people with everyday technological problems. My favorite pleasures enclude watching movies, reading about technology, and internet surfing. What gives me meaning is just living life, and following good morals and values. My dream job is to have a career in Graphics Desiging.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Happiness at work
My name is Andrew Cymes. The following blog will be about my happiness at work. I will also relate it to a video I saw by Robbins, Tony entitled “Why we do what we do, and how we can do it better.” TED conference January 16, 2007. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cpc-t-Uwv1I&feature=player_embedded
I have had some really interesting jobs in my life, such as working in construction, armed security and steering large vessels. Most of those jobs I liked because they were hands-on. They weren't easy but they weren't boring either. As Mr. Robbins’ video discusses, "We all have the ability and capacity to make the right decisions in our lives.” He goes on to say that decision-making is the ultimate power! I believe this is true. Wrong choices can make a person hate his/her job and never strive to do better. Sometimes we are forced to accept what we do for a living, and never choose to do anything else. We accept it because it's all we know. Change feels as if we are walking into a dark jungle. That can be very scary. But if you never accept the risk, then surely you will have denied yourself the opportunity to realize just how much further you might have gone in life.
Mr. Robbins feature goes on to state in his video that contributing time to help other people with their problems is another form of happiness, as that not only helps build up our own self-esteem, but the self-esteem of others as well. I can relate to what he says. I contributed four years of my life to helping my country in the armed forces. I wasn't sure what I was getting into at first but, by the end of my tour, it made me a better person. Before I joined the service I didn't know what I was going to do as far as a job/career, but serving in the U. S. Navy gave me the determination to pursue what I believe to be the right path.
In summary, I enjoyed watching Mr. Robbins video. It helped me to reinforce my own experience about happiness at work. We all have the ability and capacity to make the right decisions in our lives, but when we make bad choices, we have to find it within ourselves to correct the mistakes. Otherwise, we'll never change or progress as human beings. Hopefully, by doing so, we may discover a new path or career on the road to happiness.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Happiness In Education ( Revision 1 )
My name is Andrew Cymes. I’m 29 years of age. I will be discussing the article entitled “Happiness in Education,” which will include some personal thoughts of my own, referencing the TED video by Sir Ken Robinson, entitled “Do Schools Kill Creativity?” As a college student majoring in Art and Computers, I will also be talking about my own “happiness” derived from my educational pursuits to date.
Sir Robinson’s video discusses his belief that human beings, in general, have the potential for great creativity. He goes on to say that he thinks that the educational system, as it exists today, is destroying that inborn ability. He states that every educational system in the world has the same hierarchy of subjects: Mathematics, Languages, Humanities and, at the bottom, the Arts. The system makes you think that you’ll never be good at what you might like to do, such as “art, or dance” he states. There isn’t any real way to teach Art in public education he goes on to says, but there is for Mathematics. There was a quote by the great artist, Picasso, in the TED video which states: “All children are born artists. The problem is to remain an artist as we grow up.” In other words, the system downplays the urge for self-expression to the extent that the love for that type of creativity is either lost or forced on the back burner, hopefully to be restored when the “essentials” of education are put to rest.
Now, I remember growing up as a child loving Computers and the Arts. Drawing use to be one of my all-time favorite hobbies. As soon as I started high school I slowly stop pursuing it though. The interest just wasn’t there any more. I believe it was because of all the other subjects I had to complete in High School. It made me feel like I was part of the drowning model as stated in the article “Happiness in Education.” The work was just too overpowering, and made me feel like I was drowning. It was drilled into me that Math, English and other subjects were more important in my educational life than the love for art. Math was never my strong subject. I can relate to what Sir Robinson says in the video in general. I wanted Computer Information Systems as a major, but I was reminded constantly that it required too much math so I choose a alternative route. I decided that New Media Technology suited me better, as it basically combines both art and computers into one, which I loved! Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi states in the article “Happiness in Education” that “flow” is a state in which one is immersed in an experience that is rewarding in and of itself, so that we are living in the experience in which “action and awareness are merged” I believe that Computers and the Arts are my “flow.” It’s what keeps me moving forward in life and makes me happy.
The article Happiness and Education asks: Am I happy at my job? And how can I become happier? In Hebrew, the word “work” (avoda) stems from the same root as the word for “slave” (eved). Most of us don’t have any choice but to work for a living. Now, I can actually say I have had both good and bad jobs in my life. As soon as I finished high school I started looking for part time jobs. I’ve worked at local pharmacies, restaurants, and even grocery stores. Those types of jobs were never more than entry level ways to earn my keep. They helped pay the bills but didn’t offer any other incentives, unless I became a manager. I knew I couldn’t economically survive on minimum wage jobs for long. I realized I would need to go back to school to pursue a college degree in order to increase my marketable skills but, at the time, I didn‘t have the funds. In August of 2003, I enlisted in the U.S. Navy and put in four years of active service. It was a very good choice, even though the jobs I was assigned to do were hard at times, because they demanded more than the usual civilian “nine to five” obligation, such as mandatory armed security watch on the ship while in port 24/7. At sea, the weather was sometimes so bad that it would literally rock the whole ship, making the crew nauseous. But, on the positive side, the ability to travel and see parts of the world and cultures I would not otherwise have been exposed to more than made up for the somewhat treacherous journeys in order to reach ports in countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, England and Africa.
At the end of my tour, the benefits provided by the government made up for the long days and tedious job assignments because, as a veteran, I qualify for free medical coverage and tuition for college--and can finally get on with my life! Sometimes I believe people feel that there being forced to work makes them feel like slaves. But, in general, working hard at jobs not really enjoyed ultimately provides one with the discipline to become a better and stronger person down the road. If dreams are further pursued through education, then that in itself will make one happier.
In summary, I really enjoyed watching the TED video by Sir Ken Robinson, and reading the article entitled “Happiness in Education.” It reinforced my love of art and computers, as well as my passion and willingness to pursue the dreams of my youth. It is my flow and my happiness! In life, most people have no choice but to slave away for a living. But it’s what you make of the job that makes one feel better, especially if you enjoy what you are doing. In the final analysis, in order to see the light at the end of the tunnel, working hard is necessary in order to acquire the educational benefits which will hopefully lead to economic security and the happiness that everyone should aspire to.
Sir Robinson’s video discusses his belief that human beings, in general, have the potential for great creativity. He goes on to say that he thinks that the educational system, as it exists today, is destroying that inborn ability. He states that every educational system in the world has the same hierarchy of subjects: Mathematics, Languages, Humanities and, at the bottom, the Arts. The system makes you think that you’ll never be good at what you might like to do, such as “art, or dance” he states. There isn’t any real way to teach Art in public education he goes on to says, but there is for Mathematics. There was a quote by the great artist, Picasso, in the TED video which states: “All children are born artists. The problem is to remain an artist as we grow up.” In other words, the system downplays the urge for self-expression to the extent that the love for that type of creativity is either lost or forced on the back burner, hopefully to be restored when the “essentials” of education are put to rest.
Now, I remember growing up as a child loving Computers and the Arts. Drawing use to be one of my all-time favorite hobbies. As soon as I started high school I slowly stop pursuing it though. The interest just wasn’t there any more. I believe it was because of all the other subjects I had to complete in High School. It made me feel like I was part of the drowning model as stated in the article “Happiness in Education.” The work was just too overpowering, and made me feel like I was drowning. It was drilled into me that Math, English and other subjects were more important in my educational life than the love for art. Math was never my strong subject. I can relate to what Sir Robinson says in the video in general. I wanted Computer Information Systems as a major, but I was reminded constantly that it required too much math so I choose a alternative route. I decided that New Media Technology suited me better, as it basically combines both art and computers into one, which I loved! Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi states in the article “Happiness in Education” that “flow” is a state in which one is immersed in an experience that is rewarding in and of itself, so that we are living in the experience in which “action and awareness are merged” I believe that Computers and the Arts are my “flow.” It’s what keeps me moving forward in life and makes me happy.
The article Happiness and Education asks: Am I happy at my job? And how can I become happier? In Hebrew, the word “work” (avoda) stems from the same root as the word for “slave” (eved). Most of us don’t have any choice but to work for a living. Now, I can actually say I have had both good and bad jobs in my life. As soon as I finished high school I started looking for part time jobs. I’ve worked at local pharmacies, restaurants, and even grocery stores. Those types of jobs were never more than entry level ways to earn my keep. They helped pay the bills but didn’t offer any other incentives, unless I became a manager. I knew I couldn’t economically survive on minimum wage jobs for long. I realized I would need to go back to school to pursue a college degree in order to increase my marketable skills but, at the time, I didn‘t have the funds. In August of 2003, I enlisted in the U.S. Navy and put in four years of active service. It was a very good choice, even though the jobs I was assigned to do were hard at times, because they demanded more than the usual civilian “nine to five” obligation, such as mandatory armed security watch on the ship while in port 24/7. At sea, the weather was sometimes so bad that it would literally rock the whole ship, making the crew nauseous. But, on the positive side, the ability to travel and see parts of the world and cultures I would not otherwise have been exposed to more than made up for the somewhat treacherous journeys in order to reach ports in countries such as Italy, Spain, Greece, England and Africa.
At the end of my tour, the benefits provided by the government made up for the long days and tedious job assignments because, as a veteran, I qualify for free medical coverage and tuition for college--and can finally get on with my life! Sometimes I believe people feel that there being forced to work makes them feel like slaves. But, in general, working hard at jobs not really enjoyed ultimately provides one with the discipline to become a better and stronger person down the road. If dreams are further pursued through education, then that in itself will make one happier.
In summary, I really enjoyed watching the TED video by Sir Ken Robinson, and reading the article entitled “Happiness in Education.” It reinforced my love of art and computers, as well as my passion and willingness to pursue the dreams of my youth. It is my flow and my happiness! In life, most people have no choice but to slave away for a living. But it’s what you make of the job that makes one feel better, especially if you enjoy what you are doing. In the final analysis, in order to see the light at the end of the tunnel, working hard is necessary in order to acquire the educational benefits which will hopefully lead to economic security and the happiness that everyone should aspire to.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Happiness in Education
I will be discussing the article entitled “Happiness in Education.” It will include some personal feedback of my own from the TED video by Sir Ken Robinson, entitled “Do Schools Kill Creativity?” Sir Robinson’s video discusses his belief that human beings, in general, have the potential for great creativity. He goes on to say that he thinks that the educational system, as it exists today, is destroying that inborn ability. He states that every educational system in the world has the same hierarchy of subjects: Mathematics, Languages, Humanities and, at the bottom, the Arts. The system makes you think that you’ll never be good at what you might like to do, such as “art, or dance” he states. There isn’t any real way to teach Art in public education he goes on to says, but there is for Mathematics. There was a quote by the great artist, Picasso, in the TED video which states: “All children are born artists. The problem is to remain an artist as we grow up.” In other words, the system downplays the urge for self-expression to the extent that the love for that type of creativity is either lost or forced on the back burner, hopefully to be restored when the “essentials” of education are put to rest.
Now, I remember growing up as a child loving Computers and the Arts. Drawing use to be one of my all-time favorite hobbies. As soon as I started high school I slowly stop pursuing it though. The interest just wasn’t there anymore. I believe it was because of all the other subjects I had to complete in High School. It made me feel like I was part of the drowning model as stated in the article “Happiness in Education.” The work was just too overpowering, and made me feel like I was drowning. It was drilled into me that Math, English and other subjects were more important in my educational life than the love for art. Math was never my strong subject. I can relate to what Sir Robinson says in the video in general. I wanted Computer Information Systems as a major, but I was reminded constantly that it required too much math so I choose a alternative route. I decided that New Media Technology suited me better, as it basically combines both art and computers into one, which I loved! Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi states in the article “Happiness in Education” that “flow” is a state in which one is immersed in an experience that is rewarding in and of itself, so that we are living in the experience in which “action and awareness are merged” I believe that Computers and the Arts are my “flow.” It’s what keeps me moving forward in life and makes me happy.
The article Happiness and Education asks: Am I happy at my job? And how can I become happier? In Hebrew, the word “work” (avoda) stems from the same root as the word for “slave” (eved). Most of us don’t have any choice but to work for a living. Now, I can actually say I have had both good and bad jobs in my life. Doing four years in the U.S. Navy was good, even though at times it felt like it was bad. The ability to travel and see parts of the world and culture I would not otherwise have been exposed to was great. I was fortunate to visit many places, such as Italy, Spain, Greece, England and Africa. The work wasn’t easy though, and many times it demanded more time and effort then the usually nine to five job at the office. The benefits at the end of my tour were worth it though. The government provides me with free medical coverage and tuition for college. Sometimes I believe people feel that their being forced to work makes them feel like slaves. But, in general, working hard at jobs not really enjoyed, ultimately provides one with the discipline to become a better and stronger person down the road--if dreams are further pursued through education along the lines that will make one happier.
In summary, I really enjoyed watching the TED video by Sir Ken Robinson, and reading the article entitled “Happiness in Education.” It reinforced my love of art and computers, as well as my passion and willingness to pursue the dreams of my youth. It is my flow and my happiness! Most people have no choice but to slave away for a living, but it’s what you make of the job that makes one feel better, especially if you enjoy what you are doing. In the final analysis, in order to see the light at the end of the tunnel, working hard is necessary to acquire the benefits, riches--and happiness--that you desire down the road.
Now, I remember growing up as a child loving Computers and the Arts. Drawing use to be one of my all-time favorite hobbies. As soon as I started high school I slowly stop pursuing it though. The interest just wasn’t there anymore. I believe it was because of all the other subjects I had to complete in High School. It made me feel like I was part of the drowning model as stated in the article “Happiness in Education.” The work was just too overpowering, and made me feel like I was drowning. It was drilled into me that Math, English and other subjects were more important in my educational life than the love for art. Math was never my strong subject. I can relate to what Sir Robinson says in the video in general. I wanted Computer Information Systems as a major, but I was reminded constantly that it required too much math so I choose a alternative route. I decided that New Media Technology suited me better, as it basically combines both art and computers into one, which I loved! Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi states in the article “Happiness in Education” that “flow” is a state in which one is immersed in an experience that is rewarding in and of itself, so that we are living in the experience in which “action and awareness are merged” I believe that Computers and the Arts are my “flow.” It’s what keeps me moving forward in life and makes me happy.
The article Happiness and Education asks: Am I happy at my job? And how can I become happier? In Hebrew, the word “work” (avoda) stems from the same root as the word for “slave” (eved). Most of us don’t have any choice but to work for a living. Now, I can actually say I have had both good and bad jobs in my life. Doing four years in the U.S. Navy was good, even though at times it felt like it was bad. The ability to travel and see parts of the world and culture I would not otherwise have been exposed to was great. I was fortunate to visit many places, such as Italy, Spain, Greece, England and Africa. The work wasn’t easy though, and many times it demanded more time and effort then the usually nine to five job at the office. The benefits at the end of my tour were worth it though. The government provides me with free medical coverage and tuition for college. Sometimes I believe people feel that their being forced to work makes them feel like slaves. But, in general, working hard at jobs not really enjoyed, ultimately provides one with the discipline to become a better and stronger person down the road--if dreams are further pursued through education along the lines that will make one happier.
In summary, I really enjoyed watching the TED video by Sir Ken Robinson, and reading the article entitled “Happiness in Education.” It reinforced my love of art and computers, as well as my passion and willingness to pursue the dreams of my youth. It is my flow and my happiness! Most people have no choice but to slave away for a living, but it’s what you make of the job that makes one feel better, especially if you enjoy what you are doing. In the final analysis, in order to see the light at the end of the tunnel, working hard is necessary to acquire the benefits, riches--and happiness--that you desire down the road.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Blog 1
I will explain two of my own personal experiences, based on an idea from Gertner’s article entitled: The Futile Pursuit of Happiness. In that article, Daniel Gilbert talks about how ownership of a BMW might seem like it would make life perfect, but he goes on to say it will almost certainly be less exciting than we anticipate. And how about new plasma TV? One may have high hopes, he suggests, but the impact will almost always be less amazing than anticipated.
In my youth, I liked staying entertained with action, adventure and role-playing types of video games. I always wanted to have the latest and greatest game out at the time. Playing them made me feel like I was in a whole new world. It just felt right at the time. As time went on though, and as I got a lot older, I realized video gaming wasn’t always the best way to pass the time. I felt the need to socialize more, and get better educated. Gaming is fun sometimes with friends online, but after a while it takes a lot out of you. It makes you feel empty inside, and short on cash. The older I got the smarter I got both in mind and spirit. My whole attitude changed for the better, and I applied to a community college.
Now on page twelve of Gertner’s article, Lowenstein talks about hot and cold states in which emotions pit against one’s intellect. He goes on to talk about how climbers have a poor memory for pain and usually ignore it at great peril, discounting what Lowenstein refers to as “turn-back time“. I had a similar experience this summer climbing up Mt. Taurus, situated in the East Hudson Highlands. At the time, I was hiking with my sister and a friend. Mt. Taurus is 1,300 feet above sea level, and I wasn’t used to climbing mountains. I was doing fine until I got about half way up. Eventually, I reached the peak, but by that point, I was very low on energy. Going back downhill, I had to stop a few times. It was now getting dark and we were anxious to get back down before sunset. Greatly relieved, we made it back to the car park while it was still light. We had accomplished our goal. I was happy, but quite frankly, not sure if I’d ever want do it again! Only time will tell.
In conclusion, I really enjoyed watching Daniel Gilbert’s video, and reading the article entitled: The Futile Pursuit of Happiness. It made me understand my own personal experience even more then I did before. Sometimes things that we think might excite us at first often turn out to be disappointing down the road. That’s just human nature, I suppose. Many times we think that the things that momentarily peak our interest will change our lives. In actuality, that doesn’t always happen, as Gilbert states in the video. Lowenstein also talks about people experiencing hot and cold states in life. We just have to learn to deal with those situations and accept the limitations dictated by our bodies.
Welcome everyone to my blogspot!
in October so I'm a Libra. My major is New Media Technology. I
had a fun time making my blogspot. I like how there is so much
you can put into it. The opportunities are almost endless. I hope
you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed making it. Feel free to post on
my blog. My favorite food as you can see is Speghetti and Meatballs.
Now It's time to eat! :-)
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