Friday, November 14, 2008

Immigration: The Decisions of a Continent

There are two sides to every situation, and this one is no different. Millions of undocumented workers are living in America right now, and millions more will join them. For most, there are only two sides to choose. There are those who would oppose this type of immigration, and then those who see it as an enrichment of our country as it stands now.

I’m simply going to try to state the two main sides to this issue. To be honest, there seems to be more questions than answers, and to look at any political issue, including this one, and give it in instant opinion would be unwise. So here we go……

First there are those who would oppose this immigration on all fronts. And honestly, they have at least a few legitimate arguments for their case. One of the main reason’s American’s oppose undocumented workers entering their country is due to the terrorism factor that could result from a border that is unsecured and unstable. From the account of a lot of expert’s, the southern border of the US would be fairly easy to penetrate. Another reason among the many that are offered is the drain on America’s recourses by those who pay little taxes, if any at all. The education systems, healthcare systems, even government benefits are all used by those who contribute nothing to it, and pulled from people who work hard everyday.

Then there are those American’s who would say that the benefits brought to the United States by undocumented workers are invaluable are couldn’t be found by looking at themselves alone. One of largest arguments this group would bring to the table is the argument of what America stands for in the first place. Freedom, liberty, and the chance for a new beginning has been the inspiration of the United States for its entire existence. Unlike countries such and England, Russia, or China, the United States entire existence is owed to the formation of many cultures coming together to form a new land. Italians have been around since the beginning of history. But America has been here for a mere 232 years. Without the cultures and blood of many other countries, it wouldn’t even be on the map. So why now, with the debt of its entire existence owed to those of other nations in its history, would discrimination and exclusion be a part of its national fabric? For some, it doesn’t make sense. Undocumented workers from places like Mexico, Cuba, and Guatemala all bring a flavor and benefit that can’t be found by looking inward. It makes America more beautiful, and more wonderful, and more unified.

Like I said before, it’s hard to put a clear stamp of “this is right” on this issue. Maybe the answer is a blend. Maybe it is one or the other. What do you think?

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

The best place on earth

I have lived here in Cincinnati for two semesters now, and there is a notion I have noticed about most of the people who live here. Everyone around has a firm belief that the United States is the best place in the entire world to live, work, and play. It is a conviction that is readily accepted without argument. But if you think about, I believe truth would say differently. I think truth would show you that the best place for anyone......is another place entirely. Let me propose to you a land filled with warmth and sunshine, a place that has bright smiles and friendly faces, and a country with a deep culture of heritage and beauty. I'm talking about a place some might mistake for paradise.

Its name is Mexico.

If you’re moving your mouse toward the exit button now because you think I couldn't possibly be right, just hold on. Take a good look at Mexico's beauty. It won't be hard :). Most people look at the coastline, and rightfully so. Some of the world's most beautiful beaches are found there. I'll talk about that in a minute. But first, you should look at it's mountains. The Rocky Mountains don't stop at the border you know. The chain runs all the way through the country, and gives those who view it one of the most spectacular views in the world. Its magnitude and strength are formidable, and to live there is to a part of earth's greatest beauty. It will match anything United States has to offer in Mountain Living.

If we left it there, there would be no superiority for either nation in beauty. But to move just a little farther down will take a person to the paradise I mentioned earlier. The beaches of Mexico can simply not be argued with. American's spend millions of dollars every year to visit them; tens of millions of dollars more than they spend on their own beaches. Why? Because there is nothing like it anywhere. So is the mountains are equal to what Colorado has to offer, and cannot beaches cannot be rivaled, is the answer to which country is more beautiful not obvious?

While there are so many reasons I could offer you to show why Mexico might be better, I only have time for one more. And really, it is a pretty good one. The most wonderful, beautiful, and warm thing that could ever be a reflection of this country, is it's people. A love for family, a humble spirit, and an overall appreciation for the gift of life are values that have been stamped on the lives of the Mexican people for centuries. They are values that they hold dear, even in a ever-growing global culture of shifting principles and relative morals.

Many reading this might like to point out that they know many people who lead good, decent, and honorable lives. And these people live right here in America! But could it be that most of these same people are those who have accepted the tenets of the Christian life, and are trying to walk close to God? Because if that is true, then you would only be looking at a small segment of your country.

The values I spoke of in relation to my people are values that are held by the masses, not just a select group of Christian adherents. They are engrained into the fabric of out culture and lifestyle. There are exceptions. Sin prevails in several areas. But like I said, to taking a majority of the population would still give you strong representation for a lifestyle of beauty.

Many might look at this article as try to point out inconsistencies in Mexico's past, and a lot of people who harbor a bias will probably try. But if you really think about it, if you really have an open mind toward this, I think you will probably came to the same conclusion-that Mexico, is paradise.

Sunday, October 12, 2008

Death Penalty… is it justifiable? Forgivable?

Just about a year ago, a couple was accused of beating their toddler to death, tucking her body in a plastic box and dumping it in Galveston Bay have been indicted on charges of capital murder. Do they deserve death penalty for taking someone's life, and not just anyone, but their own daughter? Are they ought to have a second chance? But where is justice? Where is forgiveness? What about mercy? Where does God unconditional grace plays in the situation? Who are we to decide who lives and who dies? …remember we all deserved to die, but now because of Jesus love and grace we have the wonderful gift of salvation and eternal life.
Now, let’s imagine you are part of that jury with the obligation to decide this parent’s verdict, what would you do?...

Murder Indictments in 'Baby Grace' Case
Texas Couple Indicted on Capital Murder Counts in 2-Year-Old's Death; Body Was Found in Bay
By LIZ AUSTIN PETERSON Associated Press Writer HOUSTON December 13, 2007 (AP)

Galveston County District Attorney Kurt Sistrunk said Wednesday he had yet to decide whether to seek the death penalty against Kimberly Dawn Trenor and her husband, Royce Clyde Zeigler II, in the death of Trenor's 2-year-old daughter, Riley Ann Sawyers.
The grand jury also charged Trenor and Zeigler with tampering with evidence, a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in prison.
The couple was charged in November with tampering with evidence and injury to a child. DNA tests have since proven the body belonged to Riley, allowing the charges to be upgraded.
Trenor, 19, told authorities that she and her 24-year-old husband beat and tortured Riley to death in July in a discipline session that veered out of control. She said they hid the girl's body in a shed for two months before dumping it in the bay.
The box containing the body washed ashore and was found by a fisherman in October. Authorities dubbed Riley "Baby Grace" as they spent weeks searching for her identity and family.
Tommy Stickler Jr., Trenor's attorney, said he was disappointed with the indictment and believes the facts do not merit a capital charge.
"But considering the amount of public pressure, I'm not surprised," he added.


Zeigler's attorney, Neal Davis III, did not return a telephone call seeking comment. He scheduled a Thursday news conference to discuss the case.
An attorney for the toddler's father, Robert Sawyers, and paternal grandmother, Sheryl Sawyers, told The Galveston County Daily News this week that the family has reservations about Trenor facing the death penalty. If Trenor is convicted of capital murder, the only other sentence she could receive is life in prison without parole.
According to Trenor's attorney, Tommy Stickler Jr., Zeigler wanted Trenor to spank Riley with a belt when she failed to say things like "please" and "yes sir" or "no sir." Zeigler didn't believe Trenor was doing it, however, because the 2-year-old's behavior wasn't changing.

http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory?id=3991548

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

How friends are important

Friends are one of the most important thing in ones life, they are always there to help you or at least trying to do so ... some people think that they can go through life without relying on someone but the thing is that they are afraid to have friends because of the fear of getting hurt... but a wise man said: "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly" the best way to have friends is being friendly. Believe me true friends are essential, they make history in your life, and they turn your world upside down just to show you that they care... with them you can enjoy good and bad times, share tears and laughs.
The most important thing about having friends is that a true friend is always going to be there for you. Not only in the good times but most important in the difficult and hard times of your life. They all are different in someway, they have different personalities, different expectations, dreams, moods, etc. but the good thing is that’s what makes the friendship. Someone once said, “Friends are God's way of taking care of us. Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.”

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Things I only learned from coming to college

When I first came to college there were several things that I had to adjust and still I’m adjusting. Culture, food and people were some of them. Things I had never expected could become a matter of life and death became very important. I was aware of the fact that I didn’t know everything important about life, but I was not prepared for the shock that came upon me once I realize my priorities had changed. And today I will like to share with you some of my new knowledge...
Even thou I always thought they were cool, it wasn’t until I came here that quarters are like gold. I also found out that I began to subdivide my room into sections such as kitchen, library, etc. to make it sound like a house. Flip-flops become as important as soap, shampoo, and that stuff. Another thing I discovered was that it was never this bad when I got sick before. Talking about keys, they have never been so important, yet I seem to lose them more than ever before. I don’t learn last names and even have a hard time with names.
I had never had the best technology history, but now, printers only break down when I desperately need them.
Talking sleeping wise, it became a lot more important, 10 minutes is more than enough time to get ready for my first class when needed it, specially if it at 7 o clock . I have learned to sleep with light, noise, extreme temps, and roommates snoring (I’m not talking about my sister). It amazes me how late I can stay up doing absolutely nothing, yet falling
asleep in class or in the library takes an average of two seconds. Asleep by 12:30 is an early night. Nap becomes a priority and making sure that I have at least one or two alarm clocks and that they are set up to AM not PM.

Now, in matter of food, cereal makes a meal any time of day, and I learned another way to use my creativity is in the dining hall. Pop a vitamin and breakfast is covered, and two meals a day are standard. And last, eating food at 1 am is a common event.
In interaction with other people, I have learn very interesting things, such as I never thought I would share so much about myself with people I have known for such a short time. It hadn’t cross my mind that board games could lasted for hours and they are much more fun if played with friends. I never realize so many people are smarter than me, and how cool I can be. Thinking about home, I never recognize how quiet my house is, and how I get alone better with my family now that I don’t see any of them.
The other day I found myself getting good at rationalizing on whether to do homework or not, and that classes, the later the better. Even thou that’s what my main priority should be and the main reason why I came here in the fist place.
Giving a lot of thought to all these things has brought me to a deep conclusion…MY LIFE WILL NEVER BE THE SAME!



Friday, September 26, 2008

Deep Love

Since I’ve known Him I just can let it go, His Love has captivated me and all day long I’ve been thinking that I’ll be miserable if that love hadn’t come in to my life and awaken my senses to the truth. With out His love, my flesh could dry, and my bones can become pounder, my heart will stop beating and my pulse will disappear.
When I was a little girl I gave my life and dreams to God, but now sometimes is hard to give up my dreams and desires, but this love leaves me without a single doubt; He has won my past, my present, and my future.
He is Love; in John 15:13 the Bible says: Greater love has no one than this that he lay down his life for his friends. He gave his life for me so he is the greatest love.
It just amazes me that He laid down his life for Love. This love that makes my heart beat accelerate, a lot of feelings clashing, there is no emotion to describe it as if thousands of loud voices were screaming in silence, when I think about His Love.
My heart turns violently inside my chest, and my entire being tumbles that’s the feeling of the great love that lives within me, the love that makes my life have sense and changes my entire surrounding, sometimes I am unaware that I can be foolish in the things that I do because I’m in loved and pensioned about this Love, the love of God.
Desire is the top line of my soul for this love; each day grows more and more. Every day as a get to know Him more, I fall more in love with Him. , I’m meant to love Him for the rest of my life,