Story of the land of peace

There once was a place, a place of peace, that dwelt in the mind's of few.

Days of no struggles, days of no sorrow, yet instead they rejoiced with grace.

All loved, loved with action, not with just words.

Carelessly giving, they gave their all for one another.

With the thought of compassion and understanding, one never killed another.

Instead, all lived and worked for one another, but with love.

Not of blood, they were family.

Brother's and sister's of mother's and father's, all connected to one.

They danced how they wished, sang as they pleased.

Rejoiced in His glory and blessings given to them.

Tears of joy, laughter's like skittles.

All different, yet all their own.

Together they stood, together they would surely fall.

Pushed to the depth but not to death, those with envy eyes, tried.

Stricken now, they began to collide.

Like a storm, sudden and dark, chaos arose.

Those having seen clearly now were blind.

Blinded by the noise, the noise of thunder, now they were confused.

Although confused, due to few, few strong and brave, they survived.

Instead of turning a blind eye, to those envy eyes, they forgave.

So envious from its envy, it turned away.

Now knowing what was present, that was not just before, they knew they would be faced with more.

But because of who they were, no worries where dwelt upon, yet instead thoughts of peace and understanding.

What and why

One must ask at some point, on this journey to knowledge, what is one to do with this knowledge? What do you do with the information presented to you? Information that tells you what was right, is now wrong. Information that tells you, you will consciously be forced to choose. Will you choose your beliefs or the majority's?
They say history repeats itself. That we as humans; consciously or unconsciously, repeat the same mistakes as before, just in a different form. Few men have and continue to say, violence is right and just for freedom. Yet, they fall to no act of that violence themselves, but instead send another to commit the act. Apologies are given years later along with words of regret and some responsibility taken, just to be reiterated decades later. Innocent lives lost to another like themselves, yet lost in this battle of words and power they came face to face; both present with death. Tears fall, voices heighten, yet once again only for a moment. Questions are raised and research is done, yet no solution is found? Once again, decades later we are presented with the same issue just in a different form. As the act takes a mask to cover its true identity. We once again take the same steps, just in different forms with new faces, to try to solve this act of violence with violence. Yet we say it is a means to peace.
The question must be asked and in a firm and mighty voice, What is War?
What is this act of evil we commit to one another yet we justify as peace and freedom? Because we inhabit a different part of land on the same island, we act as though we can not share it all as one. And even to say that is wrong. It is not all of us who choose this thing called war. No, it is few who gain a power of majority of us, and place fear and chaos in our hearts and mind. Who hold a much larger agenda in mind. Yet, than it is our fault. If we our majority, if they are to represent us, why are we not speaking out? Why are we sitting by acting as if this dream they are dangling in our face, is going to satisfy us for the rest of our life. Why?

Our society and Consumerism

As I set and watched a documentary on Netflix, I challenged myself to the very message spoken by the narrator. Many questions are asked throughout the film that makes one question accountability.The documentary was Ethos directed by Pete McGrain.  Outside of the political theories, if one would focus their attention to what I believe is the theme of the film, the current role of the mass in American society, one would question our current state of being and our future as a society. Consumerism can be defined as a society that does nothing but consume things. People spend their hard working money on things that are not a necessity, yet because another has it or is portrayed as feeling good from having the product, ones desires begin to increase in the want of having the item. We constantly take things yet give nothing back. The documentary gives note to Edward Bernays, nephew of famous philosopher, Sigmun Freud, pioneer of Public Relations. Bernays understood the humans drive to want but introduced a new approach to playing on the humans desire for profit or gain. His theory to advertising and getting consumers to make purchase, was to make them feel they would feel good if they had this product. The ability to connect emotionally with ones audience, is a powerful tool in any form of public speaking. Humans have the need to belong and be understood. We want to feel like we matter, like we have a purpose, but when we don't feel like we have a purpose or anyone cares, our state of being is reduced to a state that is susceptible to one who shows they care; even if they truly don't.

Who's more important?

I ask myself as I sit with the children I've devoted  this time to. Children that are not mine of blood, but of spirit. I sit and wonder is there anything I can truly do for them. I send a prayer their way when I close my eyes at night and try to sleep through, what I know is disaster and chaos yet can do nothing to help. I wonder am I the only one who feels this way. Yes, I understand we have our own problems, but is that not the point? We all face issues, we all are experiencing a form of heartache. Yet, there are those who have overcame these triumphs. Once one has experienced something, one gains a perspective of the situation giving them a first hand knowledge or understanding of the matter.If you never experience the situation you have no first hand knowledge or understanding of the matter, the only understanding you have is a second hand knowledge that is subjected to the understanding of another. Therefore, one receiving the second hand knowledge never gets a opportunity of understanding it in ones own perspective, subjecting one to take anothers word or perspective. I myself had no first hand knowledge on the situations and problems in relation to the mental health field until I began working in the field. There are so many problems I could begin to list that would blow your mind; like parents subjecting their kids to the label of a disability yet they are not disabled, but with the right doctor or psychiatrist one can be labeled as so, so they may draw social security. Parents can be found telling their children they cannot work, when they desire to do so and are capable, because it would effect their social security benefits! Is this not a problem? Note, I do not express this information to bring a negative connotation to this industry, but I express this in the hope the focus is placed on the issue starts at Home. The choices we make in regards to what is the best for us, need to be noted they will have a effect on another. So the question than is, Do I care about myself more than another to make a choice I know will have a positive effect for me but a negative effect for another? Who is truly more important myself or another?

Effect of Pro-Alcohol Environments in Small Town Bars and Clubs

INTRODUCTION

Bars and clubs can be found to have a reputation for a place facilitating and/or creating crime. Due to their nature to encourage and accept drunkenness, along with other taboo activities shunned upon by most traditional societies; this lifestyle that has not been accepted for many years around the world is now a norm. A human’s desire to leave the mind has led us to seek ways of doing so that are becoming more and more dangerous. The inability for self-control and natural remedies to clear and free oneself from life and its heart aches is creating devastating effects on society as a whole.

Metropolitan bars and clubs can be found to be different than those in rural areas. The significant difference in population size is a major factor for this. Small towns tend to have a family relationship within its community. The people within a small town tend to have stronger connections with each other and interact more on a regular basis. Unlike, those in larger cities one is unaware of most people because of the lack of regular interaction present to familiarize oneself. People’s awareness and knowing of one another tends to bring a more comfortable, loose/lack environment. These environments can be found in small town businesses and places of entertainment.

This research paper explores how small town bars and clubs facilitate and create the opportunity for alcohol-related crimes such as drinking and driving. Two bars located in Enid, Oklahoma were observed both inside and outside; comparing their environmental surrounding, personal structure, and flow of business. These places provide information, in not only, understanding the problem but providing solutions as well.

The first bar observed was Crappy’s Warehouse located at 302 East Maple Avenue Enid, OK. The second bar observed was Scooter’s located at 3630 N Van Buren Enid, OK. Crappy’s warehouse is a bar/club that sits off of 3^rd street; a small alley giving access between Elm and Maple Street. To the east of the building is an open field covered with trees, to the west can be found an old abandoned warehouse that stretches from Maple to Elm Street. There are no light poles or any other source of light in this area except for the light on the front of the bar above the door. At night this area is pitch dark from about 2 feet from the bottom of the steps, leading to the door, out to the parking lot facing Elm Street. Someone not familiar with this place could find the area quite frightening at night. Upon entering this facility through the front door you are greeted with another door but locked. To your right is a window where an off-duty officer can be found to check your id and take payment for entering the establishment. On special nights such as Friday and Saturday you can pay $8 dollars to drink,as much as you like, select domestic beers from 8pm-12pm. Within this particular establishment, outside of the off-duty officer located at the front, there are no other sources of security present. The exit to this establishment is the same door used as the entrance; one way in, one way out.

The second bar/club observed, Scooters, is located directly on a service road of a highway. It is in a more open area than that of Crappy’s and is surrounded by an open field. Scooter’s is considered more of a club than bar, due to its accompanying, a large dance floor. Scooter’s seems to target a younger adult audience. The design of this club is created where the parking lot surrounds the entire structure except the back.

There are light poles located on the outer perimeter of the parking lot providing slightly adequate lighting. Due to the parking lot being so big and spacious the light does not project to the middle of the perimeter where the building is located. Before entering the establishment you can observe security present outside the front door to greet you along with a van labeled “Scooter Wagon.” This van provides free-of-charge rides home to customers who have drank too much. Upon, entering the facility to your left you are greeted with security personnel and an employee of the club who checks your id and takes the payment for entry. Directly in front of you several feet away is another door where you can exit. Within this hallway, between the entrance and exit doors in the middle is the opening into the club where the large dance floor can be noticed, accompanied by two bars on opposite ends. Within that room more security can be found wearing a brownish t-shirt that has the name of the club on front and “security” on the back. This establishment also has specials on Wednesday and Saturday where you pay $10 dollars and can drink select domestic beers from 8pm-12pm.

Looking at the bar and club in Enid we can see how, if any, the effect of a pro-alcohol environment and acceptance of over indulging, can have on one facility without proper preventions set in place.

CRIME PROBLEM

Bars and other drinking facilities have been known to be places associated with aggressive, disorderly conduct from its consumers (Green and Plant, 2006). They can also be recognized as the major starting points where drinking and driving occur. Drinking and driving is a problem faced in American society. Alcohol and its availability, legally, create a contradictory social issue amongst its citizens. You can find advertisements that promote drinking from a range of different companies; along with small written notes to drink responsibly while doing so. Alcohol can be found in numerous types of businesses, like those that serve both the community and families. Many of these businesses such as restaurants, sporting facilities, bars and clubs, convenient stores, and liquor stores all provide access to alcohol but provide no monitoring on what the consumer does with it or how they use it. Furthermore, these businesses force consumers to figure out a means of transportation to leave the business because the closing time. This creates a risk for the customer and other bystanders, but it also produces an opportunity to commit a crime. For example, if consumers have participated in the club/bar’s alcohol specials, as intended, the result is a consumer that has alcohol in their system which majority of the time is over the legal limit for public intoxication. Intoxication over the legal limit can result in criminal penalties like DUI or DWI.

BAC, blood alcohol content, is the measure of alcohol in a person’s bloodstream. This is the way law enforcement measure individual’s alcohol intake and determine if he/she is over the legal limit. According to the State of Oklahoma, the BAC for driver’s driving intoxicated is anything .08% and higher but one is considered impaired at the .05% level and can be charged with DUI penalties if found between .05 and .08%. To reach this level one only needs to intake one 12 ounce beer or one 4 oz glass of wine. It is said, it takes one hour for either amounts to leave the system and the individual be capable of functioning appropriately. This information provides us with insight on the reality that most people consume beyond the impaired limit. Most specials, such as happy hour, prompt the consumer to indulge in certain spirits within an allotted time for a special price; a usually significant discount from the original price, motivating consumers to participate in this what seems to be “to good of a deal to pass up.”Also, if one notices at an establishment that serves alcohol, the waiters or bartenders tend to consistently ask if you want another drink when they notice your first glass is almost empty. Some personnel will actually take the initiative to bring you another round without consent. Pro-alcohol messages are a concern since, alcohol advertising is positively associated with drinking and related problems, point-of-purchase advertising appears to be used to aggressively market alcohol and contribute to a pro-alcohol environment (Howard, Flora, Schleicher and Gonzalez, 2004). Every industry related to alcohol; marketing, political, and more, must begin to understand this contradictory means of enjoyment and how it has become a problem. This also shows us that whether consciously or unconsciously, the care for one reaching the impaired limit does not exist from the establishment that is the cause for the impairment. According to the International Center of Alcohol Policies, “Heavy alcohol use is correlated with problem behavior in some bars, at sporting events, and in other public places, because individuals interested in heavy drinking are also often interested in other risky behaviors and congregate in places where both are acceptable and expected.”

If the scale of awareness is as great as it is on the problems caused from these establishments and alcohol, why are major actions not being taken? We are so quick to try to do away with other things said to be harmful, yet they show no significant fatal documentation, unlike those of tobacco and alcohol reports. What we have seen to cause significant amounts of death and heartache over decades of time, we still allow to be freely available.

LITERATURE OF REVIEW

“The bar is firmly established as an important leisure activity in many societies. It has long been apparent that heavy drinking in bars is associated with aggression, violence, public disorder and injuries” (Green and Plant, 2006). Although, these establishments are areas of leisure and pleasure, they come with a price not worth the cost. Each year more than 100,000 Americans die from alcohol related deaths, annual costs of health care and lost productivity from alcohol-related deaths, injuries, and illness are estimated at more than $148 billion (Howard et al., 2004). The question must be asked and the line drawn between money and well-being: Which is more important, the well-being of the business or the consumer? Most know the answer to this question from observing our current society, money is more important than values, safety, time, and even family now. Therefore, the attention must be focused to a more reasonable question and solution. Why do these forms of crime exist amongst these facilities? What is the explanation for the continuing of these crimes even when steps have been taken to reduce or eliminate the problem? Looking at several theories, such as routine activity and rational choice perspective, can help us answer these questions and better understand this problem.

Looking at the rational choice perspective theory it tells us that people have desires, beliefs, and needs. One will take the steps needed to fulfill these things. Therefore, criminal behavior is purposive and rational. Individuals will take the best steps available to them, to obtain their needs and wants. “Because crimes differ from one another, the factors weighed by offenders, and the variables influencing their decision-making, will also differ greatly with the nature of the offence.” (Wortley and Mazerolle, 2008) Looking at the everyday want and need to please oneself, this theory shows us how the choice to drive even though impaired is a rational choice. Consumers know the moment they decide to indulge in the consumption of alcohol, one’s intentions of only having one drink every hour is not present, but instead, to enjoy oneself by indulging to the point that is comfortable or desired for them. The density of alcohol outlets has also been found to be related to other alcohol problems such as drinking and driving (Stewart). Persons in groups that travel to an establishment for the consumption of alcohol can be found to designate a person that will be responsible by not drinking, and to return everyone to their designated location. Unfortunately, this does not happen all the time. There are also individuals who attend establishments like this on their own leaving them responsible for getting themselves home. Looking at couples that attend these establishments, both usually partake together in consumption, therefore, leaving both parties impaired and forcing one, depending on whose more intoxicated than the other to drive. People will decide not to commit crimes when the risks are too high or rewards are not adequate. In this case the reward is greater than the risk. For most people who drink, going over the .05% does not fully impair them to where they cannot drive functionally, so they will do so if necessary. One way that has been shown to help steer this mindset and create a zero tolerance, is the alert of sobriety check points in place, this is a method of situational crime prevention. The focus of prevention is targeted to the situation; people getting into their car and choosing to drive even though they are impaired and over the legal limit. Increasing the risks and removing excuses are techniques used to prevent crimes like these. By letting consumers know there will be stops increases the risk of getting caught, therefore reducing the reward.

Looking at routine activity theory it can help explain the aggressive behaviors, violence, and drug exchanges committed within these establishments. Routine activity approach tells us that in order for crime to occur a motivated offender and suitable target must be present with the lack of a capable guardian (Wortley and Mazerolle, 2008). Looking at Eck’s crime triangle, which consist of an inside and outside triangle shows us if the handle of the offender, guardian of the target/victim, and the manager of the place are absent, crime is feasible (Wortley and Mazerolle, 2008). In reference to drug exchanges at bars and clubs, one can understand and see the lack of capable guardian present to oversee and watch this problem. Due to the nature of security personnel focused on keeping orderly conduct, a window of opportunity is available for those who wish to do a quick exchange in the bathroom or exchange outside in the parking lot.

Fights that begin in clubs and other similar facilities usually begin where a large crowd of people are clustered together. All personal space cease to exist and one is forced usually into an uncomfortable state. What can start from non-verbal communication; can soon turn into the exchange of aggressive verbal communication and behavior. These clusters of people are the result of either the involvement of people from dancing on the dance floor, or the result of individuals who had enough time to exchange aggressive behavior and attract friends to form a cluster of individuals to meet in the same place at the same time. Therefore, the results of these actions create a crime problem. With the absence of security in this area at the appropriate time, both, the capable guardian of potential victims and the managers of the place are absent making the crime now feasible.

METHOD OF OBSERVATION

The researcher arrived about 12am on a Saturday at Crappy’s Warehouse to catch the late crowd. The researcher spent several minutes observing the outside structure and environment upon entering the bar. Upon noticing the dark field and ally the researcher observed one taxi car sitting to the west. No consumers were in site outside of the facility. To blend into the environment the researcher ordered a drink from the bar. After receiving the alcoholic beverage the researcher proceeded to sit at a table facing the west end. This choice of selection for sitting arrangements allowed the researcher to see the whole bar in front of her. To the left were the restrooms, one male and one female; to the right the bar, and behind the researcher, the wall.

After about an hour of observation and no crime noticed, the researcher observed an African American man walking suspiciously to the bathroom; next to were the researcher was sitting. After he entered the one stall bathroom, two white males ranging from ages 30-40 entered the stall as well. After several minutes passed, all men exited the small restroom area single file. Curious of the actions that had just taken place inside the restroom, the researchers hypothesis of what took place developed into a drug exchange between the African American male and the two Caucasian males. The reason for this conclusion is, first, the restrooms for both males and females only accommodate for one person being in there at a time. Therefore, if there is more than one person in the restroom at a time this tells us the other individuals must know the person already occupying the stall and has permission to be present. Due to the male’s ego, amongst other natural sources, the males need for company in a restroom facility outside of help is obsolete. Women of today’s society can be found doing this, but it is rare amongst the males. Therefore, bringing to light an understanding something else outside of the norm is occurring within this confined area. Second, the suspicious behaviors observed upon entering the restroom is of importance. When human-beings feel they are being watched or the opportunity of getting caught is present upon committing an illegal act, one becomes aware and scopes its surroundings; making it noticeable to the trained eye looking for this type of behavior. Therefore, the researcher’s hypothesis developed as is.

The second observation noted by the researcher was a girl observed intoxicated beyond the limit she was able to handle. She was observed being physically carried out by a gentleman because of her inability to walk. About 30 minutes later, the gentlemen and the woman were observed re-entering the bar. Clearly intoxicated beyond the limit of self-control, the woman was observed stumbling to the bar to order yet another alcoholic drink to consume. At no time was the woman rejected or cut off by any bartender.

A third observation, noted only due to full participant observation with other consumers at the bar, did the researcher observe verbal sexual harassment between employee’s and a boss of Little Debbies. The group the researcher joined in conversation, consisted of two younger Caucasian females in their early 20’s if not younger and one older Caucasian male in his older 40’s to early 50’s. The group could be observed as having indulged in a few drinks already; the older man seemingly was more intoxicated than the girls. Upon, engaging in their conversation of Enid and the area, small remarks that were considered jokes were exchanged between the older man; the boss, and the two girls who were the employees. These remarks consisted of statements of the girl’s sexual reputation. These remarks consisted of hearsay from other people and comments that the boss knew about her sexual partners and activities.

The same methods used to observe the first establishment was the same for the second, except for the addition of a camera to document. The researcher arrived at 12pm just like the previous observation on a Saturday. The researcher once again bought one drink at the bar; a Heineken beer, and found a table at the end of the room to sit at and observe. Located in the middle facing the dance floor with one bar to the left and one to the right the researcher had an open view of the complete club. Around 1:30 am when last call was being announced an aggressive fight began to take place. The researcher observed the brawl and noticed it was the same individuals noticed earlier exchanging a few words, but actions portrayed nothing of aggressive behavior. This fight that seemed to begin between two individuals, turned into a fight with more than 6 individuals involved. The researcher was able to capture a few pictures of the fight in action and afterwards, but felt very uncomfortable when doing so. 30 seconds after the fight began security personnel was noticed trying to gain control of the environment and restore order. Interestingly, it was observed that none of the individuals were escorted off the premises by security. Several of the individuals from the fight escorted themselves and others outside the premise, to what seemed to be the continuing of aggressive behavior. Within this time, shortly moments later another fight broke out. Once again security personnel tried to break things up and gain control, but failed to do so. In no time, the police were notified. After trying to move everyone out of the facility as quickly as possible the researcher noticed she was walking outside to no security personnel or police enforcement. While groups of people clustered in front of the parking area, exchanging threats and more, the researcher returned quickly to her car to continue further observation. The researcher did notice when exiting the building individuals where entering the van; courtesy shuttle for those who are too intoxicated, for rides home. Upon continuing her observation from the car the researcher noted several individuals waiting by the van as it left because it was full, these individuals where waiting for the van to come back to provide a ride home. The researcher also noted after about five minutes of people still gathering outside the front of the club and conversing; no police were present. Upon leaving the club, on the side service road two cop cars were observed parked at the end of the intersection about half of a mile from the club.

RESPONSES

From this research we can see how both; environmental crime theories and crime prevention theories not only explain the problem found amongst these small town bars and clubs but also what prevention methods are being used; if any, and their result; if any. The bar in Enid; Crappy’s, was found to host drinking and driving problems along with possible drug related crimes. Looking at, both rational choice and routine activity theory, these crime problems can be explained. Due to Crappy’s lack of security presence one can understand the risk; in what already is a risky facility, are low and the reward is adequate. The management of the bar is also a key in understanding the drinking and driving problem. There should be a enforcement available to cut consumers off from further alcohol purchases when one is clearly intoxicated. Furthermore, with the understanding that one is impaired at the .05% blood alcohol level, bars and clubs should have to monitor this level and the intake and time of each consumer if one wishes to eliminate this drinking and driving problem. Unless, one can provide a means of safe transportation to its consumers who wish to go beyond this limit, this needs to be taken seriously. This means of prevention can be looked at as situational crime prevention and can be effective. Outside of the one taxi car observed this facility provided no safe alternative means of transportation to its consumers after providing a high amount of alcohol to consumers in a short amount of time.

The club, Scooters, was found to have more aggressive, violent behavior problems. Comparing the two establishments to one another, the major difference in drinking and driving is Scooters provided a method of prevention more accessible to its consumers and at no cost. Although, consumers where still observed leaving the facility and entering their car, the researcher found less highly intoxicated consumers getting in their own vehicle to drive. Those of that level seemed to take advantage of the preventative method offered. The researcher did observe consumers having to wait for the van to come back because it was full.

The reason aggressive behavior could be found more so in the club than the bar, is due to space, time, and environment (place). Scooters layout was more spacious than that of Crappy’s. With more space and not enough security personal to watch it all, the space has to be divided up amongst what personal is available. The result of this is some space will be uncovered at times thus leaving the opportunity for something to occur. Routine activity explains this problem. We as humans can be found to have daily patterns. Most of our patterns consist of home, work/school, and places of leisure. Unlike, metropolitan areas rural areas have less population and its inner city is small. Therefore, people’s routines intersect with one another more. Thus, when an offender and potential target/victim are present in the same area and the same time, and the lack of a capable guardian ceases to exist, the opportunity for crime exist.

CONTRIBUTING RESPONSES

Strategies compiled by Janet McAllister of Center for Addiction and Mental Health, suggest the planning should include building the awareness level of the community, including resident, business owners, politicians, and municipal staff. The involvement of the community must be present and aware. Many basic things such as the appearance of the bar, location, and structure have an influence on the prevention of crime. Understanding this, bars and clubs must do their part to keep things clean and un-clustered. Also, the management and the flow of business are crucial. If one does not establish territorial reinforcement amongst its space, its space is susceptible to crime and other issues. Transportation programs from these facilities need to be created and enforced. Both a public and private transportation system's could be created. Private transportation being available from the establishment that chooses to sell alcohol should first be implemented due to their facility being a risky facility that is the cause of the problem. Responsibility must first be assigned and accepted for these problems to have any chance of being fixed or reduced. The means and end of bars and clubs need to be clear and un-contradictory, and if they choose to take the responsibility of being the source of the problem, they can too take responsibility for the problem.

CONCLUSION

It is clear bars and clubs are associated with aggressive violent behavior, drinking and driving, and other, possible drug related, crimes. For these problems to have a chance at actually being eliminated and/or reduce, is for the parties responsible for these issues to stand up and take responsibility for the actions. That includes not only businesses and politicians but the consumers as well. The facts are out there, along with the information needed to prevent half of these issues. What’s missing is, acceptance and responsibility. These problems are the result of our own making; choosing to let alcohol be legal, choosing to condone in the lifestyle, the choices we choose to make along with the justifications given to justify, have an effect.

References

Green,J. and Plant,M. (2006). Bad bars: a review of risk factors. International Journal of Drug Policy. Retrieved on April 3,2012 from, http://alcoholresearchuk.org/downloads/finalReports/AERC_FinalReport_0040.pdf

Howard,K. Flora, J. Schleicher, N. and Gonzalez, E.(2004).Alcohol point of purchase advertising

and promotions: prevalence, content and targeting.

Federal Legal Publications: Contemporary Drug Problems, 31, 561-562.

McAllister,J. Strategies to prevent community alcohol-related problems:bar areas. Center for Addiction and Mental Health. Retreived on April 2,2012 from, http://www.camh.net/About_CAMH/Health_Promotion/Community_Health_Promoti n/strat_prevalcprob_bars04.pdf

Public order and drinking environments. International Center for Alcohol Policies. Retrieved on April 6,2012 from, http://www.icap.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=raVGBcseNRo%3d&tabid=174

State of Oklahoma.What you should know.(Drinking and Driving) Retrieved on April 9,2012 from, http://www.ok.gov/health/documents/CG_Impaired_Driving.pdf

Stewart,K. How alcohol outlets affect neighborhood violence. Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation. Retrieved on April 6,2012 from, http://resources.prev.org/documents/AlcoholViolenceGruenewald.pdf.

Wortley,R. and Mazerolle,L.(2008). Environmental criminology and crime analysis. Cullompton,Devon:WIllian Publishing. 26,75.

The Arab Uprisings: Book Review

The Arab uprising by James Gelvin, is the most current book on the Middle East and its recent revolutions encountered, starting in 2010. This book provides insight in the various events that played a role in the uprisings. Providing you with historical history on the cultures and their political monarchy developments, Gelvin provides great insight into the understanding and development of these; what can be looked at as, unique uprisings. The term unique is used in reference to some of the influences; such as social media, and their unique effect on the uprising in reference to time.

There are many monarchies in the Arab world. Past scholars have stated there are three factors that contribute to the many monarchies. The first, tradition, second, religion, and third, tribalism. Gelvin, disagrees with this because none of the factors holds up under scrutiny. Looking at Morocco in relation to the king, Gelvin explains his reasoning more (121). The reason so many monarchies survived and endured in the Arab world is due their evolution in the shadows of European and American dominance when the acquisition of taking territory by force violated international norms(125). Oil has also been a key in the stability of the monarchies. Many rely on oil as their revenue and it accounts for up to 90% of it in areas like Suadi Arabia, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi. Although, many believe oil helps with stability, some say it actually contributes to the disaffection with governments(127). The distributing of wealth from oil is not fair and has caused demonstrations in areas such Kuwait. Gelvin explains, all these various factors are reasons for the stability of many monarchies in the Arab world.

The author explains the spark of the beginning of the Arab uprisings resulted from the successful suicide attempt by Muhammad Bouazizi, who burned himself in front of the local government building after being humiliated by a policewoman on December 17,2010 in a rural town of Tunisia. The next day fellow venders and others, lined up in front of the local municipal building protesting their anger. Many video taped the demonstration and posted it to Facebook. The government tried to gain control by cutting the Internet connection; technology used in Iran, but failed as citizens directly uploaded images to the satellite TV channel. The author explains “the Tunisian uprising was the first in a series of events that swept through the Arab world.” Over five uprisings occurred in Arab states. Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen,Libya, and Syria where among those states and are discussed in detail. One point in particular the author focuses on is how no one predicted the uprisings, yet no one could have done so due to unforeseen events and social factors not accounted for. Although, social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter are said to be the cause of these uprisings, the author makes it clear they are not. Yet instead, they where forms of instant open communication which allowed people to come together in ways that have not been available before in revolutions. Thus having an effect on the timeline of events taken place.

Gelvin, explains the major factors that caused the uprisings. He explains that the human element is the key variable in the uprisings taken place in the Arab world; not demographic challenges, food crisis, or any other. He explains this by criticizing social scientist theories for revolutions and their causes. Gelvin says, they claim “uprisings take place when a sudden reversal disrupts a period of improving economic conditions, thereby frustrating popular expectations.”(25) His argument to this is, “these theories do not explain the countless times in which conditions for an uprising are met but no uprising occurs.”(25) Gelvin, explains unforeseen factors such as; the departure of the Egypt and Tunisia presidents, troops firing on peaceful protesters in Bahrain, and the arrest and torture of school children in Syria, gave fire to a spark no had anticipated (26).

Gelvin, explains that the Tunisia and Egypt uprising shared common characteristics. These characteristics consisted of Tunisia and Egypt both being homogenous in its society. Both states also faced a divide between the rich and poor from neoliberal policies. This created tension that was seen during the uprisings. They also share a history of a state building that has left a legacy of autocratic rule in both states, fostering identities that hold a sense of solidarity. The regimes created from the Tunisia and Egypt uprisings had a great deal of influence on these social factors. The Tunisian uprising left a powerful lasting mark on others, finding similar forms of revolt such as suicide-by-fire, and the use of social media. Gelvin also points out how the Egyptian uprising closely resembled the Tunisian in its rapid spread from leaderlessness, and its nonreligious and largely nonviolent orientation.

Gelvin notes the importance of earlier protest movement in Egypt on the 2011 uprising. “They made political, not just economic demands; they gave organizers tactical experience, and they generated organizations that participated in the uprising.” Three clusters of protest are important to remember. The first consist of two events that happened outside of Egypt. The first in 2000, when citizens took the street in support of the second Palestinian uprising (intifada) against the Israeli occupation in the West Bank. The second in 2003 when the US invaded and occupied Iraq (48). The second cluster was in 2004, where the group Kefaya was founded. Although, Kefaya faded years before the uprisings, demands of his where still in demand and a youth from the Kefaya's youth movement was a founder of the April 6 Movement; which had a key role in the organization of the January 2011 protest (48). The third cluster in 2005, came from the result of judges refusal to certify the results of the 2005 parliamentary elections(49).

The debate of the importance of social media on the Arab uprisings is of great debate. As expressed earlier, the author believes it was an important factor but not the cause, as some state. The opportunity created from these social media sites; Facebook and Twitter, consisted of the ability to allow individuals; from all across the world, to come together and communicate instantly. It was noted between 2008 and 2010, Facebook membership increased in the broader Middle East 360% to 3.5 million(51). Gelvin explains social media performed two functions in the uprisings: they facilitate communication among the participants and would-be participants who elected to take part in their protest, and they broadened the range of tactical options to those participants(52).

Both Tunisians and Egyptians experienced and will continue to experience change from the uprisings. Some of the changes noted today, that occurred from the Tunisia uprising; was the sentencing of the former president and his wife to terms of thirty-five years for theft and the economy's continuous suffering; which resulted in many fleeing to the Italian island of Lampedusa. Egypt's changes faced from the uprising where the military's stability to reform. The military resulted in violence to attempt to scare other protesters from participating in any activity that was considered “disturbing the peace.(64)” It can be noted that both the Egyptian and Tunisian uprising brought down an autocrat, but it is to early to determine if it will bring down an autocracy. These two uprisings succeed in dislodging autocrats because the army acted as a unit, declared its commitment to nonviolence, and in some cases even kept protestors and the thugs hired to attack them separated(84).

Yemen and Libya's uprisings can be looked at to occur differently. Unlike Tunisia and Egypt, Yemen and Libya are considered weak states due to them lacking a functioning government and bureaucracy that rules over the entirety of the territory, and a national identity (73). This explains why Yemen and Libya's uprisings did not take place as so Tunisia and Egypt's. Gelvin explains the factors, that contributed to Yemen and Libya state weakness, and their importance in understanding the uprisings that occurred there. The four factors that contributed to their weak states where: geography, history, choices made by leaders, and oil. Gelvin express, due to Yemen and Libya not having unified military with a functioning chain of command and its institutions being weak, these uprisings will lead to true revolutionary change.

Two protest movement occurred at the time of the uprisings. “One fostered the uprising, the other had a checkered history of it. (78)” The first leaving a history was at the end of January 2011, when the JMP began protesting in Yemen's capital, Sana. The revolution lasted shortly, resulting on February 11^th, students, youth activist, and others gathering outside Sana University. They marched to the city's main square where they were forced out by officials. After being forced, the University protesters set up camp in the square outside, later called Tahrir Square becoming the epicenter of rebellion in Sana. By the end of March, through series of violent attacks from both military and protestors, Sana was a city divided between military units and armed supporters of the regime and military units and armed supporters opposed to it.

Libya's uprising occurred with the help of social media. The National Conference for the Libyan Opposition, called for the participation in their own “Day of Rage,” like Egypt and Tunisia, to protest both political and economic conditions. The date chosen was February 17,2011 a anniversary of a previous demonstration held to protest an Italian minister. Unfortunately, events took place on February 15^th that kept that day from happening. Fathi Terbil, a lawyer representing families of the “disappeared” prisoners of Abu Salim prison. Several hundred family members and supporters gathered at the headquarters of a local Revolutionary Committee in Benghazi to protest their disapproval and overthrow of the regime. As other regimes, violence was used against protesters. Rather than quashing the violence, the military and a variety of other armed groups divided into loyalist and opposition camps (84).This is because the weakness of the two states and the fragmentation of the army, the institution that imposed order in Tunisia and Egypt, defined the tactics protesters had at their disposal.

Due to Libya's interest from Europe and the United States, powers where used to intervene in these uprisings. The United States interest was due to Yemen's vital partnership in the battle against terrorism since 2000. Europe’s interest was due to oil and immigration. Due to these interest Libya faces instability.

Gelvin discusses how authors believed Algeria would be next for a uprising and Syria would not be effected. Algeria was believed to be effected due to its vulnerability in the historical role of trendsetters for the Arab world. Although an uprising was attempted, observers suggest the failure was due to the inseparability of the military from the regime; the reluctance on the part of Algerians to revisit the horrors of the civil war; Algeria's two decade long hemorrhaging of young professionals; divisions within the protest movement, lack of support from labor, and roles of slum dwellers(99).

As mentioned early, Syria was not expected to be effected by its partners uprisings, let alone experience one. Gelvin explains, that the beginning of the uprising in Syria resembled that of Libya(103). Both, Syria and Libya uprisings broke out in province areas, and were spontaneous unlike Egypt the uprisings began in the capital city with preparation. The effect of the military on the beginning of the Syria uprising was more devastating than any other experienced, which is why no one could have predicated this uprising. After a demonstration march on March 15^th, three days later, ten schoolchildren aged fifteen or younger from the provincial city of Daraa. The boys where arrested for writing “Down with the regime (nizam)” on a wall. While imprisoned these boys experienced brutal treatment; torture. This author does not make it clear if these boy survived the torture or not. Protestors were found taking the street of Damascus for over two weeks, demanding their releases. After two weeks the government had enough and open fired on protesters, killing several. The next day, after the death of several protesters over twenty thousand demonstrators rallied at their funeral procession and chanted anti-government slogans and attacked government buildings. The same day, protest broke out in the north of Syria. In Banias, protesters were considered about the regime crack down on female school teachers who whore the niqab; Syrian veil, and national issues like the brutality and corruption of the regime. Soon the protests spread through-out other cities like Latakia, Homs, Hasaka, and Qamishli, reaching areas outside Damascus as well. Gelvin explains two features that marked the uprising in Syria. The first, has been the extraordinary bravery of those Syrians who chose to join it in the face of a government that has shown them no mercy. The second, has been the resilience of a regime that always seemed one or two steps behind the protestors(109). The regime believes it can manipulate sectarianism along with kinship, to lock minorities and the regime in a mutually supportive embrace(110). Gelvin also notes, due to the effective coup-proofing in Syria, analysts were blindsided by the outbreak of the uprising (111). Due to Syria's interest from outside states and countries, there have been attempts to bring peace between the opposition faced in Syria between the regime and citizens. Gelvin notes, no internal actor really wants to face the risk of an unstable or fragmented Syria such as might follow the collapse of the regime by the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood (115). Regional states also have a stake in a stable, if autocratic, Syria. From this uprising Syria faces a stability issue, but as expressed by the author, isn’t necessarily bad.

Looking back at previous revolutions the author notes the time needed in telling the full outcomes from these uprisings in the Arab world. It has taken decades for others who have faced revolutions, to recover and settle. Although, for some not even a year has passed and others several years have went by, there are traces of problems these states face. Once again it is to early to tell, but one thing that is clear, is change. Something that has been needed desperately in this area.

Pressures

It should be called pressure not depression. The pressure of life and reality is a battle many have come to know. The battle between what we desire and the conflict of what we are given, brings dark clouds of mourning. Mourning over what we feel is real and right, and what we are supposedly subjected to. Suppose, due to the matter we are subjected to nothing and there is a true fix to it all; what we all know yet struggle to accept and give FULL heartedly. Therefore, you will feel despair, emptiness, and a sense of longing. Voids you will spend your whole life trying to fill and never will due to you hiding from the truth. We think choosing this life of "freedom" will set us free. Strive to be the best, by becoming successful, by working hard. Yet, is there not those like I who work hard everyday, by giving their all, by meeting terms of others defined as successful. What are these words we follow and give belief in that it is the truth. What are we striving for and who are we really striving for. Ourself? Do you truly desire to strive to be where you are today and know you will be the same in a month, that month you are not guaranteed! Do you strive to stay contained in this box. You don't think its a box? Can you easily step outside it this very moment? Do we not strive to create for ourself, to live for ourself how we please, to be satisfied, happy, free? Pressure between what we want and what we need. Pressure of the thought of knowing what is right yet it's not because of majority. Pressure from seeing others say ENOUGH, yet silenced for their outburst. Pressure from fear. I These pressures are apart of life that all of face, but experience; and handle,in different ways. The pressure from something can be so much it can cause something thought as strong to break due to its inflated ego of being invincible, but the right amount of pressure on something weak can cause it to find just enough strength to withstand the pressure and overcome.

Labeling effects and Societal Conceptual thought mediating Criminal Embeddedness

LABELING EFFECT: SOCIETY'S CONCEPTUAL THOUGHT

            The labeling theory is constructed from the social scientist perspective to bring an understanding to the titles we create to label people, and the impact it has on persons, groups, and society. Labeling theory centers on the social-psychological consequences of labels for individual offenders, especially with respect to identity formation and maintenance (Hirschfield 2008). It brings awareness to how one perceives another who holds the label. Commonly known as stigma's these labels have been found to have a direct effect on a person’s behavior and involvement in deviant groups. Labeling is the starting point for societal reaction.  “According to labeling theory, formal criminal intervention should affect the individual’s immediate social networks. In many cases, the stigma of the criminal status may increase the probability that the individual becomes involved in deviant social groups. Deviant groups represent a source of social support in which deviant activities are accepted. Moreover, deviant groups often provide social shelter from those who react negatively toward the deviant status” (Bernburg et al. 2006)

            Criminal labels are the strongest of labels, because of the association of crime, evil, and law. Tannenbaum (1938) notes, formal criminal proceedings signify the “dramatization of evil.” One would believe that a person who holds a record has partook in some form of criminal behavior. Unfortunately this is not the case in all situations. There are different types of records within the system. Criminal records, depending on the state, can include records for driving under suspension, possession of marijuana and narcotics, whether for personal use or intent to sell, sex crimes such as prostitution, and more non-violent crimes along with violent crimes. Arrest records, are records of persons who have come into contact with the judicial system, whether or not, it was voluntary or involuntary, or if, they were found not-guilty or guilty. People with exonerated records are people who have been wrongfully convicted by the court and served time for a punishment they did not commit. They are acknowledged by the court for its wrongful conviction and set free; in some cases compensation is awarded but not all the time. In order for ones record to be cleared of the wrongful conviction one must go before the court and ask for the record to be expunged and pay the cost set forth. Once again, in all cases this is not granted. Most of this information is unknown to the general public.

             Suppose you are waiting in a park late at night for a friend to pick you up and the police erroneously charge you on a suspicion of being a prowler in the neighborhood.  The charges were dropped but a criminal record arose out of the incidents… severe disabilities could result from disclosure of this arrest record even though the arrest did not result in conviction (Menard v Saxbe, 498 F.2d 1017 (D.C. Cir. 1974)). The problem is only lip service is given to the presumption that a person is innocent until proven guilty... Furthermore, when a conviction does occur and the individual has served time and paid a fine, then is it not true that the offender has “paid his debt to society?”(Buethe 1979)

            Society’s understanding of people with a record is very vague and uneducated.  One thinks in most cases that someone who has a record committed a crime and went to jail. Unfortunately, someone can go to jail if there is a misunderstanding in child support, taxes, or even a mistake in identity; thus, resulting in a record. The lack of understanding of mistakes made by the justice system seems to go unnoticed due to the idea that the system can never be wrong. The lack of understanding to a variation of different records contributes to the holistic view of any person possessing a record is a “criminal.” Therefore, a person who was arrested, is a criminal, or has an exonerated record can be perceived by society to be a criminal, and thus, be labeled one.

            Simmons (1965/1966) has found stereotyping of social deviants is usually negative; deviants are often thought of as irresponsible and lacking self-control. Goffman (1963) pointed out that social interaction between “normal” people and the stigmatized is often characterized by uneasiness, embarrassment, ambiguity, and intense efforts at impression management and these experiences are felt by those who bear the stigma as well as those who do not. “The very anticipation of such contacts can lead normal and stigmatized to arrange life so as to avoid them” (p.13).  Whether conscious or unconscious, the condoning in stereotyping and judging another person’s actions contributes to pushing people into groups that are deviant. Some also assert that deviant identity maintenance requires weakened attachments to conventional others and activities or strengthened ties to deviant others (Hirschfield 2008). These deviant groups develop from the support of people excluded from “normal groups” consisting of “normal” people. Thus, the question must be asked: Is the action of exclusion from conventional/“normal groups” mediating the role of criminal embeddedness?

CRIMINAL EMBEDDEDNESS

            Criminal embeddedness refers to immersion, or involvement, in ongoing criminal networks. These networks can consist of more than just peers—they can also contain deviant family members or other acquaintances. The important point is that these individuals comprise a distinct network of which an individual is an “active” member and that this particular set of relationships is oriented toward criminal values, acts, and opportunities (Bernburg et al 2006).

The perception of persons who have a record by “normal groups” of society, defines the label that forces people seen as deviant into a supporting network; those who are deviant. Researchers have documented negative effects of official labeling on structured opportunities (Bernburg 2003b; Bernburg and Krohn 2003; Davies and Tanner 2003; De Li 1999; Sampson and Laub 1993) and parental bonding (Stewart et al. 2002) and studied the effects of labeling on the development of a deviant self-concept (Jensen 1972; Matsueda 1992) and on deviant attitudes (Ageton and Elliott 1974). Research conducted by Adams in 1996, shows that subjective labeling, support of the deviant label by friends and family, leads to subsequent association with deviant peers. Adams used longitudinal survey data to study the impact of subjective labeling on subsequent association with delinquent peers and involvement in delinquency. The study asked respondents if they thought that significant others, parents, friends, and teachers, perceived them as a “bad kid”, someone who “breaks rules”, and “gets into trouble.” The study found that subjective labeling had positive effects on ties to delinquent peers and involvement in deviant behaviors.

            Bernburg (2006) longitudinal test of labeling theory examined the effect of juvenile justice intervention on subsequent involvement in serious delinquency and the mediator role of deviant networks. First, their findings support the idea that official labeling triggers processes that increase involvement in deviant groups. Second, their findings indicate that official labeling plays a significant role in the maintenance and stability of delinquency and crime at a crucial period in early and middle adolescence. The study demonstrated how labeling theory can complement established sociological approaches to crime and deviance by providing a broader viewpoint on the causes and consequences of social marginalization (Bernburg et al 2006). Theories of differential association and social learning assume that associating with delinquent and criminal others is an important immediate cause of delinquent behavior, a proposition that has been documented extensively in criminological research (e.g., Elliott et al. 1985; Jessor and Jessor 1977; Kandel and Davies 1991; Thornberry and Krohn 1997; Warr 2002; Warr and Stafford 1991).  Although, in a study of English working men by Farrington in 1977, he examined if criminal convictions affected subsequent contacts with delinquent peers. He compared boys who were convicted of a crime by age 14 and those who have not been convicted of a crime, and found the boys who committed a crime by 14 were no more likely to have delinquent friends by 16 than boys who had not committed a crime (Bernburg et al 2006).  Johnson, Michael, Simons, and Conger in a press conference over their research “Criminal Justice System Involvement and Continuity of Youth Crime: A longitudinal Analysis” explained they examined the long-term effects of official labeling from early through late  adolescence using a small sample of rural, White males. They found official labeling in early adolescence to be associated with deviant peer associations in middle adolescence (three years later). However, the mediation hypothesis received incomplete support because deviant peer associations in middle adolescence did not have any significant effect on post-high-school delinquency (Bernburg et al 2006). According to separate longitudinal studies in Denver, Seattle,

and Pittsburgh, pluralities of black public school students in struggling neighborhoods (and city wide among Pittsburgh’s black males) are arrested as juveniles (Huizinga et al., 1998, 2007). Estimates of juvenile recidivism rates ranging from 50% nationally (Lipsey, 1999) to 80% in New York City (Frederick, 1999) also support labeling theory’s proposition that formal sanctions fail to improve or dim the prospects of delinquent youth (Hirschfield 2008). In contrast, the studies by Bernburg and all (2006),  Adams (1996 also, Adams and Evans 1996), and Matsueda (1992) mentioned earlier found that delinquent peer associations mediated the effects of subjective labeling on subsequent delinquency.

Evidence from this research can help explore the question of what creates and provides the support for these deviant groups.  The question must be asked if these individuals gained support in non-deviant groups that encouraged good behaviors, would deviant groups still flourish as they do now?  In addition to the direct impact of official labeling on associating with deviant others, there is also the probability that the official label will lead indirectly to increased participation in deviant groups through exclusion from conventional peer groups (Bernburg et al 2006). Access to conventional roles makes it easier to maintain positive self-conceptions in the face of negative labeling (Hirschfield 2008).  People labeled as a deviant only seek acceptance of those in similar situations because of the label. If the label is not present there is nothing to be shunned for. The need would no longer be present to seek shelter from stigmas if there was no acceptance of stigmas in the beginning. Thus, the understanding of society's acceptance of labels mediates criminal embeddedness resulting in the continuous engagement of deviant behaviors.

            Delinquent peer association constitutes one component of criminal embeddedness; the casual effect of associating with delinquent peers on delinquent behaviors has been well documented empirically (Bernburng et all 2006). Membership of gangs is a form of criminal embeddedness (Thornberry 2003). All of these components and forms of criminal embeddedness come from a form of exclusion. Excluding people from conventional or “normal” groups/networks is the major component of criminal embeddedness according to the researcher. The researcher believes if studies were projected to examine the effects caused from conventional networks non-acceptance and stigmatizing of groups and individuals who possess a record or who have been a part of the justice system; findings would come about that show because of the initial exclusion of persons who have committed a deviant act these persons are pushed to find acceptance elsewhere. Human-beings long for the need to be wanted, for the need to fill welcomed and loved amongst others. When we begin to look upon others of our species as different, it causes a reaction from that person to prove they are not. The only way to prove this is to find others who share similar interest or the problem that is not accepted by the majority and come together to provide support for one another. According to the symbolic interaction perspective, people behave according to how others define the social order and their role in it (Hirschfield 2008). This has been seen through-out history outside of deviant groups. When African Americans were seen as slaves and nothing more than property, African Americans were slaves and found support and love from other African Americans. When girls are trafficked at a young age into the sex industry, they find support, love, and understanding from others in the same situation. We as humans don’t like to be looked upon as different due to our brain and understanding of this life. We look and understand this life differently than other species. Is how we look upon everything, correct? No! But, we are capable of justifying it to ourselves and others that it is; that is what makes us different. Therefore, we must understand we are in control of how this life operates for us. We create what is right and what is wrong. We find justification for our actions and others. We choose how to handle situations. We choose! Our actions do not just affect us but others as well. When we choose to look upon others mistakes and judge them as if we have never did wrong, we begin the process of exclusion.

Life is full of tragedies

Tragedies that can be turned into joy

Tragedies that can kill the soul

Hardships we face

Crying out for help

Looking for a sign

We close our eyes

Subjected to darkness

Yet promised light

We search for ourselves

Finding money, clothes, jewelry and more

We define ourselves and others

Yet when given love, peace, and hope

We define nothing

Materials worth more than emotions

Money more important than time

No wonder some of us are living dead

One chance at life; thats it

One chance to be great, one chance to do the impossible

Defy all odds

Open eyes to the dry state of minds

close what has been open for so long and than open what is the end

The end to this poor ragged life

Bringing a new life

A life with a light brighter than any other

Powerful enough to out shine any darkness

We've all went black but its time to come back

Step back into the light,

Our purpose

To do the impossible yet is possible

Time to stop repeating history and time to create a new one

we say we want change but we settle for pocket change

Settle for people not worthy of power, to enforce power

To control and dictate your life

YOUR LIFE!!!

Have you stopped to ask yourself whats right and whats wrong?

Have you stopped to ask yourself is this right?

Is this life?

The precious gift of life

A gift we only receive once, yet we give it away so easily

We listen to the foolish instead of the wise, but that’s because we're fools

Yet you think your wise due to the materials and status you hold, but were will that get you when there are no more materials to determine status

We only get one chance but one chance can turn into anthers second chance

Its time to take that chance

A chance to experience life with no limits, no boundaries

No one telling you, you cant

Because you can

Positive thoughts

What happen to giving out of the pure satisfaction of pleasing another. Why now, must we receive in order to give. We feel we must receive something for our hard work, for giving to another selfishly as if “life” is at stake and you must make a good bargain. Free, what has become of that word, what was the purpose of that four letter word. A word that seemingly is loosing the value of its meaning. If you ask in today’s American society for a place to rest your head at night, a cup of water, and piece of bread to fill that parch and hunger you feel, you can expect to receive a look and action that follows most of the time you starring at the back of the person you just asked for help as they walk away. To ask one to fathom the thought of doing something for another;work, with no compensation of money but instead just the things they may need at the time, if anything, would be a thought most couldn’t. But you ask someone to do extravagant stunts, degrade themselves to a role outside the norm, even step on the toes of death for a shoot at TV time with no money compensation; just the chance to partake in a world not of reality but entertainment, most all would do.

What happen to community and the value it had? What happen to family and the value it had? What happen to the barter system? What happen to the mindset of giving and helping others? What happen to living and understanding life for what it is, and accepting what it is?

You know we've never actually been at a moment in time when all positive thoughts where all accepted at the same time. These things and many other thoughts have had its time in American society but never lasted, it was replaced and forgotten with the new better way. What would happen if we actually learned from the past, as we so loudly say we are, because if we've learned from the past than we would see peace. Yet we continue to repeat the same things, just in different ways and different justifications, and so we continue to see the same problems that are prevalent today that where prevalent back than.

Our generation and marriage

  Although the delay in marriage has increased according to stats and social observation, the percent of people who still marry in their lifetime is higher with only 25.2% never married (Corr et al., 2009)...where am I going with all this, this generation seems to want to make single the thing, and really think its going to happen. Our societal norms and acceptance might have changed temporarily but the need for love from another hasn't and never will and when y'all stop fooling yourself thinking your really happy sharing something that's only amazing with the one right person (sex), thinking coming home to only yourself for the rest of your lifetime, is what it is, maybe you'll stop wasting your time running from something most of you all desire and want, but instead choose to live a video lifestyle that gives you a temporary high on life instead of permanent high nothing can match.

War and genocide; is there a difference?

Is war any different than genocide? Both consist of the killing of a certain target group set in order by authoritative figures supported by majority of a group. The major difference that sets them apart is the type of justification given for support. One can argue other simplistic arguments of the difference between the two, but in the end when it comes right down to it, both are the killing of another human being supported by respective societal figures. Yes, killing of another human being will occur outside of war and genocide, but the mortality rate for large groups of people at a single moment in time would decrease. In the United States in 2004, there were 17,357 homicide deaths with an overall death rate of 5.9 per 100,000 (Minineo et al., 2007). Homicide is classified as an act by one human being that is intended to or actually does kill another human being. The homicide rates have been trending upward since the late 1980's (with a sharp spike in 2001 resulting from deaths associated with the September 11 attacks on America)(Corr et al., 2009). Outside of the definition stating the killing of another human being, war and genocide is basically homicide. Sometimes it isn’t just an individual, but a group of individuals that take action to kill other human-beings; in all its human-beings killing other human-beings. To arrange for and bring about large numbers of death requires extensive and systemic organization, involving legal, economic, military, and political structures, sometimes along with educational and scientific research structures(Corr et al., 2009)

What would come of this world, and the death system if people would only concern themselves in matters of violence when it directly effects them personally not indirectly. What would happen if people set down and actually thought about what another person is asking them to do. What would happen if people only feared God and not man.

For someone to gain control of a society they must invoke a fear unlike any other, and than promise a protection that they only can give.

World Peace

Maybe world peace is only a thought the mind can fathom. To see it in reality would be like living in virtual reality. So many simple yet complex excuses to reasons it cannot be. Yet the opposite of the original is accepted; accepted with no excuses to its wrong doings, but instead justifications for its actions. Justifications that say it’s a necessity of life, yet this “necessity” was warned of years before its justification came. So what is true and what is false. We ask questions on a daily, that in reality its answer our not worthy of our knowing. And because we are not granted with the organic truth we substitute for a mere illogical representation of the truth. Eager for wisdom and understanding of a supernatural phenomenon that no one of us made up of it can come to truly understand. Yet because we cannot accept our place in this matter because we know we only have a short time here, we consume ourselves with ways of “improvement” we feel are best, that can lead to a long more satisfying time spent here. Yet the feelings you acquire from these materialistic (man-made) things do not satisfy that emptiness you are longing to feel. If there was no emptiness in none of us, we would not desire to seek satisfaction. Because that desire is longing for something that man cannot fill, most continue to search though-out life and never fill it. Yet there are those, few I am coming to understand more and more compared to the many that seek and find that desire from their Creator. Once discovered; the need for fulfillment by man in this world comes to an end and realization of the need for your Father comes to hand, life presents itself in a more beautiful way. Full of love, hope, forgiveness, and grace it’s a place of beauty and wonder here for you to learn and experience what can and what is to come.