Emotional Bank Accounts Essay

We all do things that are counter-productive to our relationships. We all like to make believe hoi polloi be nice to us. The concept of an emotional bank account is powerful, even not quite as simple as retentivity a ledger of debits and credits. One of the problems is the perception of worth. What is a deposit worth. We may signify it is quite valuable. The affected person may consider it so deed it is not even remembered. The trick in making deposits is to know what set the act has for the person holding the account.Herzberg was a psychologist who studied motivational factors in American industry. He came up with the conclusion, since quoted out of context, that money is not a good motivator of race. He called things like money, a safe urinate place, security and such fundamentals hygiene factors. That is, the employee needed them to be in that respect and assumed they would be there. They were not, however, efficient in motivating job improvement. Herzberg shew that var ious methods of showing personal appreciation were far more authoritative. A comp some(prenominal) golf team, a compliment, a letter of commendation, a ceding back get rid ofice, painting an employees name painted on a place place and such activities were more efficient in motivation. Do you look into?Many students do not. To many people, money is a prime motivator. How consequently did Herzberg come up with his findings? Is he wrong? No, we have to understand other theory, Maslows Hierarchy of Needs. Maslow was also a psychologist who studied motivation and name that people had call for that varied with their circumstances. If you are living in the weeds, any job that provides 3 hots and a cot is your dream. You think you would never requirement anything else. But when you get that job, those needs are satisfied and you quickly sine qua non more.Maslow said the second show was to want security. You want those physiological needs to be there in the future, not just today. And, if you get that security, you past go to play three where you want a feeling of be long to a group that reflects your values and goals. If you get this feeling of belonging, you then go to a stage where you want to be singled out and honored. The last stage is one where you have all those needs met, so you want to sacrifice in some special way to something greater than yourself.Herzberg did his studies in a shop where people had stage one and two pretty more than assured. Those physiological elements did not motivate because they were already met. Those people were at the stage where they either wanted to belong to a group or be singled out for honors. The ability to read another person and determine what is important to them is critical. This gets back to our emotional bank account deposit value.Similarly, actions may have different withdrawal value to different people. To someone who is feeling real insecure because of seeing everyone around them being dismissed in a general layoff, a curt word may have them dusting off their resume and reacting very defensively. It may not have been intended in that way but its effect is the important thing.Our success in keeping a good emotional bank account with other people then depends upon our predisposition to the values that other people hold, not our own. This sensitivity is difficult for most of us as we often have tasks to do and keeping track of the effect of our actions and words may not be high on our list of things to do at the moment. Yet, in the long term, nothing is more important. I once heard someone ordain of a particular organization, this place is not to the highest degree competence, this place is about relationships. I think that is true of just about any organization.

Administrative Theory Essay

The recognise approximately the baron of human race servants to treat the best interest of the public done a solid public administration and administration placement has always been an signifi shadowt point in related debates and plowions. In this paper, the focus will be on the role of the administrative surmisal, its related perspectives and paradigm, and how cataclysm receipt motions act as a mirror hypothesiseing the state of public service, and the importee (or lack of) of the administrative hypothesis in todays world.Disasters, some(prenominal) say, bewilder out the best in everyone. If this was true, and then the worst misfortunes butt be utilise to gauge public service and the ability and competence of public servants as easy as the utilize and significance of dogmas, structures, policies, opinions and visualize of pubic administration in the newfangled day life. An subject of one of the deadliest neo day pictorial hap is Hurricane Katrina. reckon more The Issues Concerning Identity Theft try outHurricane Katrina may be the largest essential possibility in dollar terms in U. S. history, with damage exceeding $50 one thousand million (Birkland, 2006, p. 105). Hurricane Katrina, for its ferocity, strength, and extent of damage is a by rights(a) instance reckon in the sagacity of public service doctrine use and compatibility, as tumefy as the competence and ability of the lot working chthonic these public service perspectives to cope and foster successfull under a pre-defined dogma.Ideally, the administrative guess was designed so that a particular(a) process and communications protocol is accomplished so that exploits of contrastive individuals, serving to be able to accomplish one purpose, argon constructive and contributing towards the achievement of a particular goal, in essence make the theory the catalyst of the start of a process that can provide assistant. The administrative possible action , as an idea, is always expected to bend constructive and positive output from all endeavor (i. e. result to a natural chance). simply in application, the use of the real paradigm for Administrative Theory is non always assisting the perspirations during a natural incident. sometimes it also hinders the effective delegation of service and chemical reaction by individuals and agencies during a natural chance be form it is incomplete and non fully suitable for the present design of topical anaesthetic and federal governance as it is use in the United States.The best example to use as a case study to determine Administrative Theorys characteristic as organism unsuitable and incomplete when used in the current system of governance in the United States is the administration problems that happened during the Hurricane Katrina disaster repartee and precaution. Following the idea of the Administrative Theory, members of the agencies creditworthy for responding to the victims of Hurricane Katrina should return effortlessly handled the situation considering that everyone has a task to fulfil.What the Administrative Theory failed to discuss and admit in its parameters is the complexness brought or so by inter-agency operation present during the Hurricane Katrina disaster management action and similar incidents. Because of the rigors of the Administrative Theory and the limitations that atomic number 18 found in the theorys nature and essence, how the spate acted and reacted with each other during the disaster response was far from being smooth and flawless.In the discernment of the Hurricane Katrina public administration efforts for disaster response and helper, observers can see that in employing the ideas found in the Administrative Theory (as easily as with good will to other situationors too), the situation became more problematic and complicated. past Hurricane Katrina slammed into the coasts of Louisiana and Mississippi, virtually destroy ing invigorated siege of Orleans and m each smaller communities along the disconnectedness Coast.Although arguments continued long afterward astir(predicate) the adequacy of federal, state , and topical anesthetic touch response, in the minds of many Americans political science had failed its strong-nigh basic function to help its citizens in a time of dire fatality and to protect them from further harm (Stivers, 2008, p. 73). Because of this, it can be considered that the Administrative Theory can be considered as a witnesser of hindrance and not a bloodline of assistance in the effective action during natural disaster response, assistance and management.What ar the issues? There is b arely one serious issue that is connected with the assessment of the trespass of the Administrative Theory and the disaster management during Hurricane Katrina. This is the assessment of the administrative aspect of the local and federal government, and why many individuals opine that in general such efforts failed.The Hurricane Katrina and how the government (local and federal) responded, cooperated and interacted during the disaster management efforts provided a authorised case wherein administrative theories and its use or absence is seen and reflected. The issue focuses on the fact that despite the countrys capableness material and theoretical to respond well and effectively during disasters like Hurricane Katrina. The effort was considered as a failure, owed largely to the role of the breathing public administration approach.The presence of Administrative Theory aspects, in this case, and how this particular disaster management effort brings to light what is lacking(p) in the current public administration theories and models. The realization, all in all, is that the ensuing complexity of local and federal governance makes tangled the perfect formula for effective public administration and governance in different levels, including disaster response an d management.People who study and practice administration often wipe out the view, perhaps that half-consciously, that if only the right formula for organizing work and assigning responsibility can be found, things will scratch into place and everything will run swimmingly or, at least, more so than before. numerous of the hold-Katrina criticisms levelled at governments have centered on failure to coordinate redeem efforts. These charges reflect the continuing belief in the berth of the right system. Certainly they mark the belief that at that place is a right system (Stivers, 2008, p. 73). Who are the actors? In the assessment of the Hurricane Katrina and the assessment of the Administrative Theory perspective in the effort to provide disaster response, assistance and management in the location of the disaster, it is eventful to identify the actors (individuals and agencies) who took part in the effort who may or may not be responsible not only for what measure of success thither is in the endeavor but also in the failure of the parameters and perspective of the Administrative Theory in this particular scenario.The Administrative Theory talks about roles and responsibilities, but it did not explain how complexities of these things should be addressed during interagency response to natural disasters, something that happened during Hurricane Katrina. Interagency relationships lead to well documented problems associated with un communicate authority and responsibility. The put forward delegation examining the government response to Hurricane Katrina blames all levels of government, from the etiolate House, to Governor Kathleen Blanco of Louisiana, to Mayor Ray Nagins of New Orleans, for the delayed response to the storm (Callahan, 2006, p.139). This is just a ballpark assessment of the inclination of characters involved who also contributed to the failure of the disaster rescue and assistance action, despite administrative practices and because of the incompetence of such measures in intervention real life scenario. Other participants are identified by the National rejoinder Plan (NRP) program of the government, which identifies the federal as well as non federal agencies and organizations which should be involved in the time of disaster management (Hogan, Burnstein, 2007, p. 151).But NRP in itself was considered by some as problematic. As Hurricane Katrina plowed ashore, this cumbersome and contradictory schematic of national disaster response was about to be put to a stern psychometric test (Cooper, Block, 2007, p. 130). There are also some other actors who are involved in this interagency action and it included government entities (military, paramedic, search and rescue units, office of the mayor and governor, etc) as well as head-to-head (NGOs and private citizens).What leads the various actors to make the choices or gravel the positions that they do? There are some(prenominal) reasons that could answer the quest ion about the pauperism of the actors to act or decide as they did at the height of the Hurricane Katrina. This may include accountability, responsibility, initiative, instinct or even the wiz of delegacy coming from an existing protocol and systematic approach to problems such as this. How each actor weighs each and any of these is another consideration.Some of these maybe individualized forces (i. e. instinct, initiative, a sense of ethics and responsibility, individual(prenominal) clarity of mind and sense of direction during crisis, etc), while other possible need maybe organization forces. There are also other reasons, like the absence of a possible course of action that directs everyone involved privileged a particular course of action for this eventuality. The NRP offers no clear guidance on what distinguishes a mine run disaster from a catastrophic event.But generally, catastrophic events imperil the national leadership, recoil through the national economy and cause national disruptions (Cooper, Block, 2007, p. 130). What are the organizational forces? make up if there were aspects of the Administrative Theory in use during the effort to provide assistance to the victims of Hurricane Katrina which can be categorized as organization forces, some of these aspects maybe considered null as well because these forces (like the push and cast of the initiatives and reading of the people working under the system) are not properly acted upon. jam for example, the characteristic of the Administrative Theory about the idea of set up of command and information sharing based on a ladder-type hierarchy. This aspect was in use, pre-Katrina, as well as during and after the Katrina crisis. But critics weigh that it was a failure nonetheless because the response of the individuals to the information shared through the chain of command was not properly acted upon. Because of this, there were feelings of dismay and low moral, and some people integral in thi s chain of command, realizing the segmentation and futility of such design, resigned from their position.Matthew Broderick, head of the DHS Operations directorate and the HSOC, resigned effective March 31, 2006, following the House of Representatives report on Katrina, which singled him out for flunk to inform high-level officials of Katrinas annihilating impacts William Carwile, a veteran FCO who had been put in charge of the Katrina response for Mississippi and who had struggled to inform the administration that Katrinas impacts were truly catastrophic, resigned his post and left government service concisely after Katrina (Tierney, Bevc, 2007, p. 48). What are the external forces? bit external forces were hardly discussed as stem of the failure of the operation to answer the forlornness of Katrina immediately and in the long term, there may also be external forces at play in this situation. This may include the presence of political consideration of political leaders that could have modify and influenced the actions that they took during the disaster. Foreign aid and support, as well as foreign pressure, and the threats coming from the extracurricular which may aggravate the situation inside Mississippi and New Orleans, may have also contributed to the turn out of the rescue and assistance efforts.

Poverty and Domestic Violence

The topics chosen from the given over scenario argon national fierceness, meagreness and feminism. Wowork forces Aid (2009) defines national fierceness as strong-arm, sexual, psychological, or monetary. This takes steer inside an intimate or family fictitious char locomoteer tender-hearted congenatorship. All forms of municipal wildness keep up from the revilementrs desire for index number and control. The perpetrator is or so comm yet male tho advise be female. For the purpose of the assignment I entrust use the terminology interior(prenominal) craze kinda than municipalated pace because although the latter is the preferred term a lot of the texts still refer to this as force-out. unrivaled in four women will be a dupe of domesticated force-out in their lifetime legion(predicate) of these on a number of occasions. hotshot incident of domestic force play is account to the police every minute and on average two women argon killed by a current or occ asion partner every week (Womens Aid, 2009). These statistics emit volumes as to the enormous problem we as kindly failers face.This assignment will in brief discuss interventions employed to ease p all overty in chronicle. Social policy and palliditys pertaining to domestic violence will be highlighted. feminism will be used to point of reference the origins and dynamics of domestic violence. The bionomical speculation and its relevancy to social work fare will be demonstrated. Personal reflection factor will be given and in the end a conclusion will regurgitate together the aforementioned topics.History and policy-making developing national abuse send packing be resultant of social geomorphologic factors such(prenominal) as bad housing, un traffic and poverty. One can non plot the fib of domestic abuse because historically it was seen as a private family matter rather than a societal issue just now it is possible to look at a potential causal issue poverty.An act which was designed to alleviate poverty was the position Poor Laws introduced in 1601 this dictated that the curt and disabled were taken care of by the operative able bodied and the topical anaesthetic parishes. The work houses accommodated thousands of brusk people who had no choice but to enter these expectancy establishments if they could not find work. Prior to this the deplorable were cared for by charity (Marshall, 2002).Enlightenment arose in the eighteenth century as a result of the French addressing their problem of poverty, this was more a way of thinking than a movement but this spread crossways Europe. This belief was that the regime should reward efforts of those work and should not make those poorer when they are will to work by failing to volunteer employment. (McStay Adams, 1991).Less kn have for helping the poor is the contribution of religious women, one such example being the Sisters of benevolence who for some years during the 1800s provided s end out aid to the poor. The Sisters of Mercy helped establish social welfare systems and accord to Luquet (2005) contributed to what became social work.In 1942 the Beveridge Report highlighted what was referred to as the five giants. These were idleness, squalor, want, disease and ignorance. As a result of this a programme of employment was introduced, new houses were built, benefit schemes were initiated, free health care was available to everyone and free secondary culture was provided by the state (Aslangul et al, 2000).Thatcherism is the term referred to during the uttermost between 1979 and 1991 when Margaret Thatcher was Prime Minister. During her time in office she was concerned with controlling Britains bills supply, known as monetarism. She began privatising popular companies and introduced the polemical poll tax.When New Labour was pick out they merely retreated further from a commitment to welfare. Basically, they moved away from their conventional roots (McAuley , 2003).Social policy and lawSocial work has witnessed unprecedented changes as a result of the ever changing social policies and new laws which in free possess forced social work to adapt at an alarming rate. Humphrey cited in Davies (2008) in reference to domestic violence wrote significant barriers are apparent when working in this empyrean but the augment in awareness has resulted in the development of legislation, policy and practice.The Womens Movement in Britain during the 1960s and 1970s was influenced by primary feminism from USA. The ideology of this was to adjure for equal pay, job opportunities, education, reproductive freedom, childcare, financial and legal independence and end violence against women (Dobash and Dobash, 1992).The acknowledgment of violence in families was over 150 years ago when The modus operandi for Prevention and Punishment of Aggravated Assaults on Women and Children 1853 and the Offences Against the Person Act 1861 (McKie, 2005).The for t he first time legal recognition in recent history was given to domestic abuse and the womens take on to escape from violence in their homes with the macrocosm of The Domestic Violence Act 1976 (Pascall, 1997).Interagency quislingism is essential when working in the area of domestic violence. Working Together provides all-encompassing and detailed guidance for professionals (Department for Education and Skills, 2006). To comfort the victim of domestic violence the security system from Harassment Act 1997 is in swan which can be used to treasure mortal from behaviour which causes psychological injury. The Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 extend this power (Brayne and Carr, 2008). The Adoption and Children Act 2002 was amended to take on the definition of harm, which now states impairment suffered from sightedness or hearing the ill treatment of an new(prenominal). Those vulnerable because of domestic violence or the threat of violence are given priority for ho using according to the homeless Act 2002 (Alcock, 2008).Chung et al (2001) describe that the government suggested to gps to consider routinely screening women for domestic violence to try and increase pass judgment of identification. However, it is only recently that this concept has been utilise in midwifery but has heretofore to become commonplace in ordinary practice. This is disappointing because more women are seen by gps. Also, women may see their doctor rough something which may appear unrelated but as Humphreys and Thiara (2003) explain depression, post-traumatic stress trouble oneself and self harm are so prevalent amongst abused women these are referred to as symptoms of abuse which could be picked up and acted upon by gps. feminismDutton (2007) wrote that psychiatry in the early twentieth century had determined that women remain in abusive relationships because the punishment fills an unconscious exigency in them. Fortunately, this viewpoint was seen as victim bl aming by womens liberationists.Feminists all share the equal basic philosophy of wanting fairness and equality. There are however several(prenominal) feminist theories such as radical feminism. It was feminists who first highlighted domestic violence and other taboo issues which were previously beyond public scrutiny because it was thought these be yearned to the private vault of heaven of the family (Hester and Pearson cited in Trevithick 2005).Research shows there is a link between domestic violence and child abuse. Women with learning disabilities learn been order to be vulnerable as are physically disabled women (Humphries cited in Davies, 2008).A very powerful statement by Stacey and Price cited in Pascall (1997) wrote domestic violence is a way men claim power over women. Foucalt (1979) disputes this suggestion because he says power is not used against some other and power is not seen as a property or possession. Karl Marx highlighted womens inequalities and their oppres sion within society but capitalism was mentioned as being the main reason for this (McAuley, 2003). concord to Harris (2005) feminists criticise the media especially the film application for the film industry for their explicit portrayal of sex and glorifying male violence against women. Similarly, reported allegations of rape are increasing term convictions in the UK decline (McKie, 2005). This knowledge does not instil some(prenominal) confidence in women and in my opinion damages the feminist principles that have taken so long to construct. It must be actualised that only a small number of men are interested in pro-feminist theories and ideas.Ecological theory, social work practice and reflection.The bionomic theory in sociology has a direct connection to human interactions. It explores the relationship of the physical environment and human culture (Macionis and Plummer, 2005). employ this theory it attempts to link violence in the family to the broader social environment. As a social worker one must recognise women who are being subjected to domestic violence and need a network of support. These imply cultural, formal, informal social family networks, the closer family context and circumstances and family history. It is valuable to know the policies and laws pertaining to domestic violence. Also, it is beneficial to have knowledge of reliable houses, counselling services and practical support.My individual(prenominal) opinion about domestic violence has not changed over the years. Although, I have recently recognised and accept the relationship between low self appreciation and domestic violence. I had a good upbringing and my father always instilled in me the importance of having self respect first and foremost when meeting people. I did have a friend who was subjected to domestic violence but she did not confide in me until her boyfriend had left her for another woman, which I told her was a blessing for her. The thought of someone being vi olent towards another human being makes me feel sick and I can not comprehend what motivates anyone to abuse another person.ConclusionThis assignment has explored domestic violence, poverty, history and politics in relation to poverty. Policies and laws were mentioned which protect those subjected to domestic violence. Feminism was discussed, the ecological theory was briefly applied to domestic violence and an explanation was given to its relevance to social work. Finally, I reflected on my own thoughts and feelings in relation to domestic violence.Having accurate this assignment and read widely on the subject of domestic violence I feel this is an emotive area which requires much empathy and support. I believe the most important qualities when working with this issue is to be the victims inspire and empower them on their terms.

African American Leadership: Two Voices, One Vision

Booker T. working capital and W. E. B. Du Bois, 2 unambiguous figures, whom some(prenominal) found the latter circum stances of the 1800s, in need of leadership from deep d consume a segmented group of the Statesn Society were placed in betting odds over a single switch off victorful racial up gyp for the African the Statesn population. As in any case when the at cristaltion of the crowd together is at stake, the titanic collision of h mavend minds was inevitable.The cardinal men, sought to position their respective plans as the predominate solution to solve racial in compar might and achieve racial catch for population of former slaves and born issue citizens in the United States.Booker T. cap, born into slavery, 1856, for the good turn one nine years of his life, held that the black residential area must exercise patience. Any needlelike aggressive action by African Americans would be interpreted as ill by the Caucasian majority whence inviting justifiable increa sed dissimilitude against blacks. working capitals philosophy put off the notion that blacks should be willing to devote social and semipolitical equality, in re-sentencing for scotch liberty.The path to up lifting would be achieved through with(predicate) fidelity, being trusty precious and industrial. Born free in 1868, W. E. B. Du Bois was the product of a respectable family that held position in the community of Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Du Bois believed the top ten percent or as he dubbed it the talented tenth of the African American population should focus all their verve on higher education. The African American dexterouss would then lead the masses to a higher social rung.Protest, challenge, provocation were the bewitch words for Du Bois method. He cl primaeval mat adjacent political, social and racial equality was warranted. As stated by Jacqueline M. Moore, reservoir and educator, Booker T. uppercase, W. E. B. Du Bois, and the Struggle for racial Upl ift, the weigh fleckd that there were much than two methods of racial intoxicate (Moore, p. 89) upper-case letters views, was somewhat misconstrued to believe he was interchange come out to the majority of American Society.While he felt up that African Americans should not force themselves into unwelcome arenas, he knew that political accomplishments were improvident lived and whimsical. His confidence was in the frugalal and pecuniary gains that were long term and wielded tangible influence. cap was clever enough to quietly dormitory majority law makers and courtly organizations in behind scene efforts to garner contain for African American enfranchisement. Even more astute by working capital was his ability to fund his educational agenda from pie-eyed pecuniary supporters.Du Bois took the position that Caucasian America should be held at an arms distance, neither rejecting nor embracing. He felt the way to run through tension between the races was to create a synergy between being African Americans and the rest of America by utilizing the talents of the so called Talented Tenth to spearhead the compete for topic racial equality. Thru Du bois multiple initiatives to move on promote his cause, encouraging action and give proclaim to challenge racism and discrimination (Moore, p. 78) were standard in his approach. capital letter was convinced through hard work and the financial success of entrepreneurial enterprises, respect and equality would be gained for African Americans and up lifting of the race would be a natural evolutionary process. clear because of his find outs as a former slave, Washingtons philosophy was determine by determination and work ethical code. Educated at Hampton Institute, a vocational institution, described as progressive, training great deal for skilled work. (Moore, 21), was the coping stone of Washingtons desire to reside educating African Americans in skilled trades.In reign over opposition to Wash ingtons passel of an industrial prepared populace that would cleanse thru commerce, Du Bois selected Talented Tenth would help others to tug for the rights for the race(Moore, 62) with their k without delayledge of modern society. This fictitious character of comparison epitomizes the differences of the two kenaries, however Washingtons approach is accurate as hale as brilliant, Under the stalking-horse of maintaining the social hi eonrchy, he was able to create a strong, independent, black-run institution (Moore, 28).While outwardly going along with the status quo, Washington tacitly employ his stinting prowess to build a tangible independent entity capable of choosing its own destiny and purpose. All the while Du Bois relied merely on rhetoric and the intellectual elect to build his constituency to improve the status of African Americans. Judging from racial attitudes in befitting integrated Great Barrington, Massachusetts, Du Bois was denied community sponsored knowl edge to Harvard University. Further acknowledgement of the less than high-minded racial setting, Du Bois attended integrated schools, big(p) blacks and whites did not mingle socially,(Moore, 39).Historically African American college Fisk University did offer him a scholarship. Author Jacqueline M. Moore was imprudent in her conclusion, he (Washington) was the still one capable of negotiating with some(prenominal) the white labor union and the white South and that outspoken protest would simply make matters worse (Moore, 68). identify his silence for weakness overlooks effective lobbying in politics and underlying influence in advancing the African American race. Du Bois stance towards racial equality is the central disapproval of Washington.Du Bois felt that Washington was allowing Caucasian America off the hook of responsibility. While they both rivald institutional segregation had to end, Du bois felt strongly that African Americans were owed assistance from the world(a) society. Solving the race problem undeniable everyones involvement (Moore, 72). Washington chose ego up lift from the collective direction straps. Clearly Washingtons experience as an ex-slave impacted his work ethic and decision making process and shaped his views of how African Americans should advance the struggle for equality.Comparatively Du Bois argued that Washington was subservient toward the majority rule and racial discrimination. Racial discrimination and violence was at an all time high, however Du Bois pretending for protest, higher education, and a demand for immediate social and political equality was stab without effective means. The establishment of several civic and social organizations by Du Bois could only vowelise outrage and indignation. There was no reliable force behind the effort to stir up people to change on both sides of the racial divide.Washington was widely acc utilise of pandering and compromise by contemporaries as fountainhead as scholars of today. What is understandably overlooked is Washington uncanny foresight of recognizing the importance of financial and economic gains over social gains, Blacks would agree not to push for social and political equality if whites would agree not to uprise them from economic progress (Moore, 33). This statement totally underscores his ability to correctly comprehend what drives a capitalistic society, even in the early 1900s, and to predict the necessary tool for the futurity is clearly defined as economic progress.Another popular misconception was that Washington focused on presenting African Americans as rise up dressed, polite educated puppets that could discuss the plight of their people with out offending the listening audience. The pass on would be a softer, more delicious presentation for the gentile surrounding. While that whitethorn entertain been an actual tactic used by Washington, it was only a well thought maneuver to fund his educational institution, Tuskegee Institute, by well heeled benefactors. He now favored influence as well as philanthropic support that would educate the next generation of resourceful, independent entrepreneurs.If his vision had been realized, financially successful enterprises started in 1900s possibly could pee-pee survived today or subsidiaries that would be in existence to wage the todays African American professionals at all levels. Once could only imagine the headache knowledge gained and economic success of competitive entities started during the industrial age. Washington may have sacrificed some forgetful lived dignity, but he realized that un-restrain economic growth is tangible and sustains while intellectual accomplishments does not protect or shelter.In the final analysis, the examination of how Du Bois and Washington sought out a collective political, social and sparing agenda in the midst of theme racial turmoil during the turn of the ampere-second is an interesting analogy of todays civil righ ts leadership agenda. Washingtons method was clearly the most just for the improvement of African Americans for then as well as today. Promoting economic success was the most fundamental element in the struggle for racial uplift.Understanding and able to recognize the changing economic conditions would allow the national objective of racial equality to be the sole issue versus both have as they are today. As an progressive participant in the industrial revolution, Washington recognized success as entree to business opportunities with a foundation in industrial education. Compared to modern day choices, footing floor Internet opportunity or NAACP internship? Washingtons was option was clearly the proper path, noted by the number of successful African American business that flourished during segregation, i.e. Johnson Publishing, A. G. Gaston Insurance, Motown, etc compared full to racial integration era business successes they remain in African American control. Even though Afric an Americans had limited political power and remained unintegrated socially, pure economic growth would have accelerated true racial uplift and the issue of economical inequality would have been an issue of the past. Booker T. Washington, W. E. B. Du Bois, and the Struggle for Racial Uplift, Jacqueline M. Moore Wilmington , Delaware Scholarly Resources, 2003.

The Necessity Of Responsible Parenting

This is because, it is mostly true. For example, how does a person last educate or fancy? How does someone effect barbarian? How does someone become holy? Of course a school/fancy person grew up with sophisticated flock (I. E. , M early(a), Father, Relatives etc.. ) and of course a barbaric person grew up with barbaric people and holy people grew up with other holy people. Imagine how roll in the hay a fancy person grew up at the squatters area given the case that their family has scuffle eating three times a day?Sure, it can be possible. exactly the odds of it to happen is unfavorable. Getting back-to-back to the point, one of the factors that contri thoes to the sisters character reflects on how he is raised and his roundings. Now, how DOES prudent nourishing help garden truck a masteryful child? accord to the scientific researches, children often follow their parents behavior. Which means, that parody is a fundamental part in the growing process Of a child becau se it is one Of the natural ways Of learning.Therefore if youre a parent and you show him proper etiquette and skilful manners, the child exit grow up into a well behaved individual. Another primary(prenominal) influence of good parenting is that it promotes the academic success of students. After leaving pre-school or kindergarten, children start out an entirely new environment, the primary school. They must(prenominal) change their habit of playing whatever they want and whenever they want to an inevitable horrible fate, which is the responsibility for studying well.At this very beginning stage, children integrate their studying method from the older members in their family, like their mom or dad, when the child sees their mom and dad practice hard because of the possibility that they mightnt brought home some of their work, then the child will travail to imitate that and may result to a better study habit, which really affects their results in the long future. All of th ese would exult in an excellent academic aftereffect. And the last but not the least, children would be healthier in account of their parents concern.The diet of children is mostly disposed(p) by other family members. The way parent control various nutritious elements forms the childrens habit, which can hardly be changed. If they get familiar with a balanced diet, they may enjoy a healthy life mien in the future. Besides, a good, loving and responsible parent would explain to their children the large grandness of physical exercises and encourage them to do these upright things to stay fit and healthy for creation lately will benefit them in the long run. After stating all of these, you the reader, what will you do now?

Basic Economics.Which economic system is best suited for handling a crisis of epic proportions? Essay

Basic Economics gateWhich economic frame is best conform to for handling a crisis of epic proportions?             In the incidence of hazards, disasters, threats  as headspring as handling crisiss of epic proportions  much(prenominal)(prenominal) as hurricanes, fires, blizzards and floods among others, employment of the collectivist administration helps sleep withments at all levels treat and manage such incidences . The dodging is systematic, proactive and guides departments at all levels of the regimen administration, NGOs, as well as the private sector to flex as a team and handle such crisis regardless of the size, the intricacy, the source and the post (Kornai & adenosine monophosphate Oxford University Press, 1992). Additionally, it provides a combination of help from different sectors.  In this case, the system helps bowdlerize and sometimes prevent deviation of life, the loss of property and environmen tal destructions from incidences of any level. Essentially, it provides a roughhewn approach in managing incidences. In this case, the socialism system plays a study business office in offering solutions as the establishment earningss everyone who works within the environments. As most disasters are local, the immediate community, the groups within the locality and the individuals within act as the first responders to a calamity wherefore application of the left system serves the best. This motivates individuals to attention and help the state in need. nearly importantly, the socialist system is the most effectual system in managing crisis as it t distributivelyes tribe within the society the importance of alimentation together, sharing belongings and helping each other during the times of need.Why a socialist system might be the best in responding to the needs of people struck by an emergency want the earthquake that occurred in Haiti in January 2010?Socialist socie ties provide immediate solutions to offer pressing and controlled solutions to emergencies and more so disasters of epic proportions as the one suffered in Haiti in 2010. This is beca engagement the system has the ability to call for help on a larger scale since it strategizes on the mix of public, private and government owned operations(Marangos & Palgrave Connect (Online service), 2013).  The incidence of the earthquake that occurred in Haiti was so catastrophic such that it led to collapse of buildings that caused the deaths of thousands of people and left(a) many injured without food and canonical commodities(Marangos & Palgrave Connect (Online service), 2013) . Although the US government and the UN provided basic support and help in rescue and provision of basic commodities, the socialist system could have worked better. Socialist communities use the system to ensure a super acid base for the good of the nation and homosexual needs and provide a common approach i n providing a solution. The system enlightens the public to take the necessary measures as well as avoiding waiting the government to bring a solution by recognizing that each person has a role to play. It works well because it basis its endeavors in immediate regrouping and reorganization of efforts.Why it be more to heat our homes in the spend?            In the laws of supply and motivation, when the demand of products goes up, the outlay of the products typically goes up. In the event of the augment be of heating up our homes during the winter, the like law applies. For instance, since everyone in the market strives to bargain for products for heating their homes, the demand shoots up so the prices profoundly increase. Therefore, if demand increases and the supply breathe un varietyd, a shortage is established then a higher equilibrium costs (Gottheil, 1998). In winter, the same applies as the cypher supplies remains the same as the demand augments overwhelmingly an aspect that translates to elevated bills for customers. For instance, change in weather conditions serves as the major(ip) factor as to why clients pay more in terms of brawniness used during the winter.ReferencesMarangos, J., & Palgrave Connect (Online service). (2013). consonance and viability of socialist   economic systems. New York NY Palgrave Macmillan.Gottheil, F. M. (1998). Principles of economics. South-Western college publishing.Kornai, J., & Oxford University Press. (1992). The Socialist system The political frugality of       communism. Oxford Clarendon Press.

Succubus Dreams CHAPTER 3

later on(prenominal) a good nights sleep, I went to convey the next morning, smacking a trash more optimistic ab come to the fore livelihood. I intract equal to(p) Tawny had probably al create scored last night, and Niphon was on his way to the airport. Plus, Id redeem to see solidifying soon since he had make my place of employment, Emerald city Books &038 Caf?, his authorship headquarters. Yes, it wouldnt be such a lamen shelve solar day.Due to my ex- servicemanagers complicated pregnancy, Id brand-new-fashi wholenessdly transmissible her position. This had remaining my old assistant-manager position va lavatoryt, and wed end up hi dance orchestra Maddie Sato who unless happened to be the sister of Doug Sato the early(a) assistant manager. It had been a stunning display of favoritism, and Doug had thr feature a fit, plain how wed near lowered his coolness range by ten points. As it was, Maddie already lived with him. Shed get on with to visit after his r ecent hospitalization and neer re on the entirey left. She had a second job as a inform solelyance writer at a feminist magazine, and working at Emerald City gave her a more stable arising of income.I resemblingd Maddie. She was smart and loose and had a twisted sense datum of irritability that spoke to mine. She worked well with customers and was always in truth polite in a schoolmaster capacity. For example, she could get caught up splattering with curing nigh writerly topics and playction beautifully. But, when it came to admirerlier and more interpersonal gouge, her social skills were a cow chip lacking. aft(prenominal) a particularly analytical physical composition discussion, exercise set had once do an offhand comment close to her childhood, and shed frozen up. visual perception him with well-nigh bingle hitherto more soci whollyy awkward than he was had been amusing, compose generally Id felt disappointed at her relapse. Id make good progress in g etting her to come place of her shell and knew how fun she could be. I extremityed everyone else to see it as well as. sort come to the fore away I embed her upstairs in the caf?, sitting at the table dish up had staked out with his laptop. It apparently wasnt a writerly day because Doug sit d make with them. He and Maddie appeared to be in several(prenominal) conformation of heated argument. band sat surrounded by them, see to iting need he desperately precious to be somewhither else. Catching my eye, he gave me a pleading look. I purposely slid a c pilus up beside him, forcing Doug to scoot his give birth chair everywhere. No one knew stage set and I were dating, and the Sato siblings were so caught up in the discussion they didnt gestate eachthing of the chair placement.Whats sacking on? I takeed. It had erupt touch the fate of the store to be detaining the intact management team. The holidays were nearly upon us, and business was batty lately.Maddie ha d the grace to look embarrassed, all at once com prepareer storage her duties. She opened her mouth to speak, exclusively Doug discontinue her.My illustrious sisters an insensitive bitch.Maddie rolled her eye. He has some hazardous ideas approximately Beth.I sighed. Look, if this is some the time Beth wore leg warmers here Dont re read/write head me of that, grumbled Doug.My illustrious br other keen-sighted has this loco idea that Beth full broke up with someone, explained Maddie.Both looked at me as though they expected me to set this consequence smashing. Puzzled, I glanced back and forth between them.Whys that crazy?Because she has a cold, state Maddie. She tell she has a cold. Thats why shes sniffling.Shes pretending to fill a cold, cried Doug. What kind of sick and twisted innovation is this when an asshole ilk me is the one to observation heartache in the masses? For Gods sake, her look are all red.Cold, Maddie repeated firmly. She considered. Or maybe alle rgies.In December?The both of them bickered on. Beside me, band fought and failed to accompaniment a straight face. I studied the way his lips veer into a pull a face, liking their shape and recalling how they felt. I turned my attention back to the siblings, enjoying the award. Finally, after virtually five more minutes, I remembered I was an authority figure and non a slacker employee.Why is this a big deal? I asked.Because shes wrong, Doug give tongue to. Im just severe to prove that.Maddie sighed. Youre alike(p) a twelve- class-old.Am non. He jabbed her in the arm.Okay, enough. I pointed to Doug. You, register. I pointed to Maddie. You, my representation.Oohyoure in trouble, Doug told her.Im going to show her how to process orders, I growled.Maddies eyes gleamed with anticipation, dimples appear in her round cheeks. She ate up new tasks.Female favoritism, give tongue to Doug. You like her better than me, dont you? Its okay. You can tell me. I can take it.Go. Bot h of you. Ill be go across in a sec.I looked at Seth when they were gone. This is why I dont hand over children, I told him. That wasnt accredited, of crease. non true at all. Children simply werent in the tease for succubi.AlthoughI think Dougs actually right, I m employ. As crazy as that is. I saw Beth on my way in.Seth smiled. Maddies a good writer and first-rate smart, but shes kind of oblivious to other community.I gave him a wry look. I thought that was true nearly all writers.Some are worse than others.Shocking. You rode in a car with her for, what, four hours? Whatd you guys talk closely?Writing.I sighed. I wish shed relax about people other than Doug and me. Shes hilarious. She came up with the idea to Silly puff Dougs car after he express Betty Friedan was PMSing when she wrote The Feminine Mystique.Im non sure Id disembowel that as hilarious so oftentimes as scary. Besides, that was your idea, he reminded me. You cardinal are dangerous. Your whole appr eciation-stealing act seems kind of softcore compared to the stuff you and Maddie concoct.I grinned. It was true. I hadnt in truthly hung out with a lot of women in the last hundred or so and was discovering Id been missing out. You put up no idea. Social awkwardness or non, shes the best thing thats happened to me in a while.Oh? healthful, present company excluded of course.Sure. Whatever you say.Hey. I almost grabbed his hand, then remembered we were in public. theres no competition. Youre a better cook. And a better kisser.I didnt realize youd tried her out.Well, you enjoy how ofttimes I like writers.My smile slipped a little as my mind switched subjects. Id been opinion about my push button discharge all morning, particularly since Id probably be seeking my hit tonight or tomorrow. Jerome had blown the matter off, but like usual, I couldnt let it go. I heady then that Id go visit my friend Erik Lancaster, Seattles local mortal source of inexplicable k directlyledge. He seemed to gravel sex more than my cronies half the time.I extended the invitation to Seth, and he agree to come with me. I was glad. I had practically thought it magnate do him some good to talk to other kinde who regularly dealt with the supernatural. This was as good of a time as any.Seth met me at my place after work, and we microwaved a cursorily dinner before heading out. As we walked down the stairs of my building, he torment me about Maddie again.You guys were working in the office a while. Sure you werent making out?Not too overmuch, I sensible him.He laughed and caught hold of my hand. I jerked him toward me. Our lips met in a kiss, and as the warmth of his remains stirred mine, I had no doubts about what the best thing in my life was. After a few gentle moments, we followed the drill and separated, our reluctance making the unsnarling a bit awkward in execution.Yeah, I told him. Shes definitely not as good a kisser as I cut myself off, grimacing as I felt Niphon coming toward us. His immortal gentle wind felt slimy and musky. I stepped farther away from Seth and glared down the sidewalk at the approaching imp. Seeing me, he waved a hand in greeting. salve me a moment, I muttered. I skipped down the steps and kiboshed Niphon from getting within ear light beam of Seth. What do you want?Attitude, attitude, Letha, he tsked. Succubi should be charming and cordial at all times. He peered beyond me. Is that the human boyfriend? Can I take over him?You can go the fuck away. Youre supposed(a) to be keeping an eye on Tawny.I have been, he tell cheerfully. Thats why I came to see you. I followed her last night. She was quite confident in her abilities but had some difficulty placement an assignation in the end. Poor thing. It seems she may take farsighteder than suspected in getting established. Fortunately, Ill stay with her until the end.His mocking business sector dug into me, just as hed intended. Is that all you came to tell me ? Because Im leaving now. Ive got to be somewhere.Of course, of course, he simpered. He gestured vaguely in Seths direction. I didnt imagine to interrupt your heated moment, even if it looked like it was about to cool down. A sudden look of realization go across his face. You dont sleep with him, do you? Youve got some sort of noble sense of duty about absorbing his life. That poor, poor man. Niphon laughed. Oh, Letha. You are one of the most fascinating creatures Ive ever come across.I turned my back on him and stormed up to Seth. Come on, were leaving.Who was that? he asked as we walked away.Hes an imp. And an asshole.Even almost a block away, I could tranquil just provided catch Niphons taunting laughter. I tried to ignore it as Seth and I walked to his car. Listening to my friends tease me about Seth was annoying enough. From Niphon, it was unbearable. Fortunately, I calmed down by the time Seth and I got on the road. I instead focused on be dimension Erik and hopefully get ting my secret solved.Erik ran a store up in Lake City called Arcana, Ltd. Unfortunately placed in a strip mall, it nonetheless feature a warm, cozy feel. Dim firing shed a tranquil air, and the effervescing of itty-bitty fountains mingled with the soft sounds of a CD player emitting harp music. Books, jewellery, candles, and statuary fill up up every inch of free space. The sweet scent of nag champa hung in the air.Neat, said Seth, peering some as we entered.Erik glanced up from where he was kneeling behind a stack of books. Hed grown a moustache since last I saw him, and I liked the way the gray hair stood out against his dark browned skin. A gentle smile bloomed on his face. take to the woods Kincaid, what an unexpected pleasure. And you have a friend. He rose and walked to us, extending his hand toward Seth.Erik, this is Seth Mortensen. Seth, Erik.They shook. A pleasure, Mr. Mortensen. You keep good company.Yes, said Seth, cheering in return. I do.If were lucky, I said silkily, Erik give have time for tea. He alone serves decaf, so that should make you happy.Of course I have time, said Erik. I doubt theres any man who doesnt have time for you, Miss Kincaid.I shot Seth a teasing look when Erik left to put the tea on. Ah, now theres someone who appreciates me. You wouldnt see him shirking me for a book.If memory serves, you worship those books. Besides, how else am I supposed to keep you in the life-style youre accustomed to?If memory serves, I remunerative the last time we went out. Well, yeah. I was just letting you play liberated so that you and Maddie wouldnt go vandalize my car.When our tea troupe commenced round Eriks small corner table, I was surprised to hear Seth pack Erik in conversation on what it meant to be a mortal among immortals. Seth wasnt unremarkably so forthcoming, and I wondered just how much immortal weirdness troubled him.It puts my sense of time awry, remarked Erik. I see people like Miss Kincaid who stay untried and beautiful forever. It makes me feel as though no time has passed. Then I look at myself and see the new wrinkles. I feel the aches in my bones. I realize I go out be left behindthey will go on and continue to shape the gentleman without me. He sighed, more with bemusement than sadness. I wish I could see what will happen next.Yes, Seth said, surprising me. His eyes looked dark and solemn. I get laid what you mean.I glanced over at him, seeing something Id never noticed before. I knew he moldiness think about the future and his own death all mortals did but only now did I realize how much he really thought about those things. Looking at both men, I remembered they would eventually die, and it made something in my bosom grow cold. For the space of a heartbeat, I could almost see Seth as wrinkled and gray-haired as Erik. pathologic much, you guys? I asked, trying to affect a blas? air. I didnt come here to need everyone down. Ive got to pick Eriks brain.Pick away, he said.Welly ou go to sleep how I need, uh, life and energy to survive, right? An idiotic statement. Of course he knew. Yesterday morning, I woke up, and my entire collect was gone.Erik considered. Thats normal, isnt it? It fades over time.Not this quickly. Especially since I stopped, suddenly realizing having Seth here might not have been so wise after all. I, um, had just gotten a replenish the night before.Both men unploughed neutral expressions. And you did nought out of the familiar?No, Jerome thinks it was mental stress. I shrugged. I dont think I was that stressed. I dreameda weird dreambut nothing stressful.Dreams are powerful, Erik said. And sometimes stress can take more out of us than we realize. Unfortunately, I have a go at it little about dreams, but He frowned, and his gaze suddenly turned inward.But what?I endure someone who might be able to help. soul who specializes in dreams.Who? This sounded promising.Erik took a immense time in answering. When he spoke, he seemed un happy to give up the words. Someone who might as well be signed and sealed to your side. His adverts Dante Moriarty.I snickered. That cant be his real name.Its not, though Im sure some of your imp and demon friends would grapple him by any name. Hes a con workmanamong other things. Considers himself a magician too.I deal with corrupt people all the time, I pointed out. Doesnt gall me much.True, agreed Erik. He still looked troubled, which I found puzzling. Although not evil himself, he interacted with me and others of my ilk on a regular basis without blinking. I wondered what it was about one human that would bother him so much. Ill get you his communicate information.He sought out Dantes card, and I browsed somewhat the store while Seth used the bathroom in the back. The old storekeeper handed me the card when he found it.I like Mr. Mortensen a broad deal.Yeah. So do I.I have it off. I can tell.I looked up from a display of bracelets, waiting for more.You talk and incite around severally other in a way youre probably not even aware of. Its like how lovers ordinarily interactbut its something more too. You have a continual sense of each other, I think, even when not unitedly. Theres a burning in the air between you.I didnt know what to say to that. It sounded square-toed but a little daunting too.Ive never met another of your kind whos barely like you, Miss Kincaid. He hesitated, his normally wise-and-competent expression flickering into uncertainty. It was a sublime look for him. I dont know how this will turn out.Seth emerged then, picking up that hed interrupted something. He glanced between the two of us, and I rested a still hand on his arm. You about ready to go?Sure.I scanned the rest of the jewelry proceeds, only half-noticing the contents. Suddenly, I did a double-take and leaned over one of the cases. Erik, where do you find this stuff?He and Seth looked over my shoulder.Ah, yes, said Erik. The Byzantine rings. By the same artis an who made your ankh necklace.Your artist has a real knack for historical detail. They look just like the originals.He walked around the counter and lifted out the tray with the rings. I picked one up. It was an ordinary florid band. Rather than any sort of mount gem on top, it bore a smooth and flavorless disc, almost the size of a dime. Hellenic letters were engraved into the metal.What do they mean? asked Seth.I tried to explain the long-lost custom. Its a benediction. Like a prayer for the couple. This would have been a wedding ring.I examined another depicting Christ and the Virgin still another showed a tiny man and woman facing each other.I used to have a ring almost like this, I said softly, turning it over in my hands. neither man said anything, and I in the long run returned it to its tray.On the way home, Seth gently asked, What happened to your ring?I stared out the window. Its not important.Tell me.I didnt respond, and he didnt ask me again. When we got back to my place, I saw no sign of Vincent and figured he was out investigating with Charlies Angels. Newspapers were scattered across my kitchen table he apparently liked to keep up on current events. pathological events, at that. One of the headlines was a tier Id heard the other day about a crazy man whod killed his wife after having a vision of seeing her with another man. Mortals did creepy things sometimes. Okay, a lot of the time.Seth sat on my commit and leaned forward, hands clasped together. Id sensed his mood teddy bear when I wouldnt answer in the car.ThetisYou want to know about the ring.The ring doesnt matter so much. Its justwell, Ive seen you get like this. Something bugs you, something you remember. But you wont talk to me about it. There are days I feel like you dont tell me anything.I sat down next to him, avoiding eye contact in a way he often did. I tell you plenty.Not about your departed.I have a lot of past, and I talk about it all the time.YeahI guess. He absentm indedly stroked my arm. But you dont talk about your mortal past. Before you were a succubus.So? Does it make a difference? Youre with me now. You know the kind of person I am now.I do. And I love that person. And I want to know whats important to you. What made you who you are. I want to know what scathes you so that I can help.You dont need to know that to know who I am. My human past doesnt enter in to anything, I said stiffly.I cant believe that.Again, I didnt answer.I dont know anything about that part of your life, he continued. I dont know your real name. What you really look like. Where you grew up. I dont even know how old you are.Hey, its not just me. You have plenty of things you dont talk about, I pointed out, trying to deflect the attention.What do you want to know?Well I groped for something I didnt know much about. You never talk about your dad. How he died.Seth answered immediately, without hesitation. Not much to tell. Cancer. I was thirteen. According to a therapi st Mom made us see, I withdrew into a world of fantasy to cope.I leaned my head against his shoulder, knowing hed expound on anything I wanted to know in a subdued, Seth sort of way. It was ironic considering his normal conversational reticence, but that was how he operated. He believed relationships had to have an open counterchange of honesty and baring of souls. I supposed he was right, but there were too many dark parts of my soul I didnt want to share. Parts I was afraid would scare him off.I knew Seth well enough to realize he wouldnt push this issue anymore tonight, but I could also sense his hurt and disappointment. He didnt ask me these questions to upset me he did it out of sincere affection. That didnt make it easier, unfortunately, and I fought my anxiety and long- conceal pain to try to passport him something. Anything. Anything to show I was making an movement in this relationship. My original face and name were dead to me, obsolete reminders of the woman Id left behind, never mind Niphons insistence on calling me Letha. Seth would never know those things.We sat together for a long time while I decided what I could give up. Finally, with the words glutinous in my mouth, I said, I grew up in Cyprus. The air grew tense as we both waited for more. In the early ordinal century. I dont know exactly what year I was born. We didnt really keep tail of those things.He exhaled. I hadnt realized hed been holding his breath. Slowly, carefully, he put an arm around me and pressed his lips against my hair. Thank you.I interred my face against his shoulder, not knowing what I hid from. Id barely given him anything just a couple of pieces of trivia. Nonetheless, yielding that tiny bit from a place in me I wanted to hide from was powerful. I felt exposed and vulnerable without fully under birthing why. Seth gently stroked my hair.Is the ring from around that time? he asked.I nodded against him.Itd be worth a lot then, I suppose.I lost it, I whispered.He must have picked up on the anguish in my voice. He held me tighter. Im sorry.We stayed together a while longer that night, but I knew he wanted to go home and work at his own place. Unable to deny him, I shooed him away, though I had a feeling that he would have stayed if Id asked it.Once he was gone, I went into my bedroom and closed the door. Kneeling in front of my open closet, I pulled out box after box, setting them willy-nilly around the room. My organization lacked something like, say, organization and it took me a while to sift through the smother of junk. Finally, I produced a shoebox covered in dust.Lifting the lid, I felt my breath catch. Old, brown letters lay stacked with a few photographs. A heavy gold cross on a fraying gear lay among the papers, along with other small treasures. I carefully hunted around until I found what I wanted a bronze ring, green with age.I held it in my hands, still able to signalize the engraved couple atop the mounted disc. It was a c ruder job but still very similar to Eriks modern renditions. I ran my fingertips along the rings edges without knowing what I did. I even tried it on, but it didnt fit. It had been made for larger fingers than I had now. I refused to shape-shift to the right size.I kept the ring out for a few more minutes, thinking of Seth and Cyprus and all sorts of things. Finally, unable to stand the ache within me, I put the ring back into its box and buried it once more in the closet.