Figurative Language versus Literal Language Essay - 5

Figurative Language versus Literal Language - Essay Example Idioms are words, phrases, or expressions that are unable to be taken literally, nor should they ever be. â€Å"A slap on the wrist† is an example of an idiom. Literally, this idiom means to slap someone on the wrist. When taken in its figurative context, as it is intended to be, the idiom means that someone has received a mild punishment. â€Å"A slap on the wrist† is an appropriate phrase when describing someone who was caught doing something bad, yet did not face any real consequences for their actions. It can be misunderstood if the individual does not first make it known that someone had been caught engaging in some form of misconduct. An analogy is when two completely unlike things are compared to make a concept more understandable. An analogy aids someone in understanding something new by comparing it to something that they are familiar with. â€Å"I am as graceful as a refrigerator falling down a flight of stairs (Turner, 1998)† is an analogy. This analogy can be used to help someone visualize how ungraceful another person is. A refrigerator would crash down a flight of stairs, so this analogy can describe a significant lack of grace. This analogy can lead to an understanding if it is believed that an individual will literally crash and tumble down a flight of stairs. A metaphor is when two distinctive things that share a similarity are compared. Metaphors help to intensify the meaning of something. â€Å"Time is a thief† is an example of a metaphor. Time does not literally rob, but this metaphor implies that time takes away from people. An appropriate circumstance in which to use this metaphor is in describing a passage of time as a child grows up. Time, as a thief, stole the childhood of that individual as she entered young adulthood. This metaphor can be misleading if it is used out of context and a passage of time is not being considered. A simile consists of the

War of 1812 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

War of 1812 - Essay Example Similar to the War of Independence (1775-1783), the war of 1812 was a result of conflicts between the Great Britain and the USA over spheres of influence and power on the American continent. During the War of Independence, the Thirteen colonies overthrew the British rules and established a new state governed by the American people. During the revolutionary years, the Declaration of Independence was promulgated (1776). Nations desiring to achieve these beneficial ends will agree, therefore, that no part of the American union ought ever to be subjected again to foreign rule2. The American Revolution and the war of 1812 changed international relations and opened new opportunities for international trade. The American government received a chance to trade with the rest of the world and supply cotton, tea and other goods to the Old world. Spain did not fear the rising power of the independent United States as it had when the colonies were an extension of British imperial power3. Both wars had similar battles and military strategies applied by the US Army leaders. The main military confrontations took place in Quebec, Massachusetts, Great Lacks and New York. The result of the wars was that fforeign trade improved economic conditions of the United states and increased the state budget.

Story of Becoming a Teacher Essay Example for Free

Story of Becoming a Teacher Essay Throughout my short teaching career so far I’ve had the privilege of knowing a few unique students. Let me introduce you to two: John, for example, is rarely on task except if it involves drawing. He is perpetually staring into space or asking me questions that I have literally just answered for the whole class. Poor John is lost more often than not, but if hand unfortunately this is clearly reflected in his grades. Nathan has been another one of my problem children this year. He is extremely bright which makes it even more sad that he wastes all of his energy causing drama in the classroom. I have a hunch that life at home for Nathan is quite theatrical. Between his brothers in a gang and single mother ignoring him for her boyfriend of the week, no one can truly blame the child for wanting to feel normal. Nathan’s way to cope is to bring his sense of â€Å"normalcy† into school. This makes it hard for other students to work with him always pushing his way into their business. My point in introducing you to these beautiful characters is to show how they changed my identity as a teacher. One might think that in these situations I may have to take on the mother role and appeal to these kids on the emotional level in order for them to calmly behave every day. Others may advise me to assume the dictator position and outlaw any sort of distraction or failure. Well I have a word for you people: All-stars. Each and every child in my class is an All-star. We win as a team and lose as a team. Establishing this kind of environment motivates everyone. Kids really do support and encourage each other so we can all reap the benefits. Should a member of the team become off-task, their peers actually have incentive to help him or her focus and do well. If someone becomes benched for whatever reason, the whole team has failed and will most likely walk laps for recess. Now everyone tries extra hard to stay in the game. I’ve noticed an extraordinary amount of respect and helpfulness among my fifth-graders. I can only attribute it to the environment that my cooperating teacher has nurtured from the very first day. Don’t get me wrong, there have been several times when our team lost the game. But the All-star spirit always returns to get everyone focused and back on the field. Before being placed with the All-stars this year, I was nervous and confused with pedagogy, child development theories, and overall horror stories. I was absolutely convinced that teaching is the hardest job in the world and scared that I might not cut it. The first part I still believe to be true, but now I know a lot more about how to lead a classroom to success. Teamwork as a class and school-wide discipline allows everyone to help each other. The weight is off me to keep everybody afloat and responsibility is balanced. Above all, working together is a skill that determines a person’s success for the duration of their lives. John and Nathan still have their days of utter self-destruction, but I have noticed vast amounts of improvement in both of them throughout the year. They know that the whole team feels ramifications from their actions and are inherently motivated to do well. This class has shown me the importance of establishing a loving environment and community of learners in my future classrooms. I am more confident because of them, and that is my story of becoming a teacher.

A Financial Analysis Of 3m Finance Essay

A Financial Analysis Of 3m Finance Essay Currently, 3M operates in more than 65 countries. The company produces a large variety of products, such as: adhesives, abrasives, laminates, passive fire protection, dental products, electronic materials, electronic circuits and optical films. 3M started operating on the North Shore of Lake Superior in Two Harbors, Minnesota in 1902. Five businessmen (Henry S. Bryan, Hermon W. Cable, John Dwan, William A. McGonagle, Dr. J. Danley Budd) came together to mine a mineral deposit used for manufacturing grinding-wheels. As it turned out, the deposit didnt have much of a value, so they opted to concentrate on sandpaper products. In 1914, 3M launched its first exclusive product: Three-M-ite cloth. Few other innovative products followed: waterproof sandpaper, masking tape, and the very well known Scotch brand tape. In 1929, 3M decided to expand its business internationally and started operating in Europe. The same year, the companys stock was first traded over the counter. In 1946 the company went public on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol MMM). The company is a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and of the SP 500.  [1]   1.2 Company Profile 3M Company is an American transnational enterprise based in Maplewood, Minnesota, and represents one of the major players in the conglomerate industry. Below are presented some of the highlights that compose the companys profile: 3M Co.  [2]   3-M Center St Paul, MN  55144-1000 Index Membership: Dow Jones Composite Dow Industrials SP 100 SP 500 SP 1500 Super Comp Sector: Conglomerates Industry: Conglomerates Employees (last reported count): 74,835 1.2.1 Organizational Structure 3Ms general offices and research laboratories are located in St. Paul, Minnesota. Locally, 3M has nine sales offices and operates 74 manufacturing facilities. Outside the United State, 3M has 148 sales offices and 93 manufacturing .3M owns all of its physical properties.  [3]   Key Executive: Bellow, there are presented few of the key people that are currently running this enterprise: Mr. George W. Buckley, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President Mr. Patrick D. Campbell, Chief Financial Officer and Senior VP Mr. Inge G. Thulin, Executive VP of International Operations Mr. Brad T. Sauer, Executive VP of Health Care Business Mr. Jean Lobey, Executive VP of Safety Security Protection Services Business.  [4]   2. Major lines of business  [5]   3M serves its customers through six business segments: 1. Consumer and Office (15% of total sales). 3M is providing its customers with a large variety of products such as house cleaning materials and office supplies. Some of the most popular ones are: Post-it ®, Scotch ®, Scotch-Brite ®, Filtreteà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢, O-Cel-Oà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢, Nexcareà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢, and Commandà ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢ 2. Display and Graphics (13.5%). As a top technological innovator, 3M provides its customers with products such as: display enhancement films; reflective materials, graphics, and projection systems. 3. Electro and Communications (9.8%). Due to its continuous innovative efforts, 3M managed to provide solutions for customers in many fields: electrical, electronics and communications. They contribute to reliable sources of electrical power, high-performance electronic devices, and reliable, high speeds telecommunications network. 4. Health Care (18.6%). 3M is considered a global leader in medical and oral care products, drug delivery and health information systems, providing its customers with innovative and trustful products that help care professionals improve the quality of care services. 5. Industrial and Transportation (30.8%) The company supplies a large variety of innovative products such as tapes, abrasives, adhesives, specialty materials and filtration systems to different markets: from automotive to aerospace to renewable energy to electronics. 6. Safety, Security and Protection Services (13.8%). 3Mproducts-personal protective equipment, safety and security products, substantially contribute to the safety, security and productivity of people, facilities and systems around the world. 1.3 Operating Strategies 1.3.1 Mission Statements and Management Objectives: The main mission statement and management objectives, as presented in the companys annual report are: Demonstrate uncompromised honesty and integrity in all activities and relationships. Promote individual initiative , innovation and leadership, Establish and maintain a culture dominated by fairness and trust, where respect and responsibility, are valued and recognized. Create a safe workplace for 3M employees. Satisfy customers with high quality products and services. Provide investors with an attractive return. Respect the social and physical environment worldwide. 1.3.2 Business model and Strategies 3M business model is based on the ability to not only develop unique products, but also to manufacture them efficiently and consistently around the world (3M).   [6]   3M is a diversified technology enterprise with an international presence in different businesses, such as: industrial and transportation, healthcare, display and graphics, consumer and office, safety, security and protection services, and electro and communications. The industrial and transportation business includes products such as food and beverage, personal care, and automobiles. Industrial products include polyester, foil, and tape. Transportation sector provides the market with different types of insulation components and catalytic converters. The health care segment produces supplies and equipment for medical and dental use. The display and office business supplies stationary products, and home-improvement products. Besides the already mentioned business sections, 3M also manages a safety segment and an electro and communications segment. In order to remain a respected leader in its field, 3M employs a series of strategies. The company is continuously trying to increasing market share and the popularity of their brands. Also they make significant efforts to maintain existing customers and attract new ones. This is a very important issue considering the number of substitute products currently available on the market. Besides the already mentioned strategies that 3M employs in order to run a successful business, they also practice a very interesting hedging strategy .Instead of concentrating on a single industry, 3M operations are spread over a large variety of sectors. So, at any point in time, the effect of a slow growth sector is counteracted by the prosperity of another sector. Due to this hedging strategy, the company stock price manages to maintain relative stability.  [7]   Also, they continue to spend significant amount of funds on RD, which is critical for their image as a leading innovator, pay dividends, buy back stock and raise shareholders equity, the chief aim being the ability to offer a good return to all their investors. This is a solid company, with a very high degree of liquidity in an extremely good financial health. Another strategy that makes 3M well known is there acquisition strategies. On an average, the company performs ten to twenty acquisitions every year. This enables 3M to continuously grow, penetrate new markets and explore new technologies. Other strategies that 3M employs refer to continuous innovation, in order to introduce new products to various markets that company operate in, gaining market share in the existing markets and aiming to become more and more important to the end customers. 1.4 SWOT Analysis SWOT is a strategic planning method used to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats involved in a business.  [8]   3M SWOT analysis:  [9]   Strengths: The company operates in a large variety of business sectors: industrial and transportation, healthcare, display and graphics, consumer and office, safety, security and protection service, electro and communication. Strong research and development capabilities. (According to 3M 2009 Annual Report, the company spent more than a billion dollars in RD). Multinational presence. The company operates more than 65 countries. Solid financial condition. (A complete Income Statement and Balance Sheet are presented in the annexes). Weaknesses: Low inventory turnover, which impacts inventories and margins. Some key segments are registering inferior performance. Strong and aggressive competitors. Opportunities: Acquisitions in key operating areas. 3M performs an average of 20 acquisitions every year. Continued global expansion. Healthcare spending levels in the US are increasing. Security concerns caused by a weak US economy, combined with some unfortunate events that are threatening the safety of American people, (9/11/2001, N1H1 virus infection) brings new opportunities for 3M security business. Threats: The fluctuation of commodity and energy prices (increasing).In order to mitigate this risk, the company is engaging in a multitude of forward physical contracts and price agreements. Exchange rates fluctuations. The company operates worldwide, so the exchange rates and any fluctuations of it may negatively impact the companys results. Environmental regulations. People are becoming more and more aware of the importance of respecting the environment. Any new rules and regulation may require additional funds to be invested in order to work green. 1.5 Core competencies A core competence represents the companys collective knowledge about how to coordinate diverse production skills and technologies (C.K. Prahalad and Gary Hamel).  [10]   3M runs an extremely diversified business, spread over numerous sectors: industrial, transportation, display and graphics, security etc. In order to manage and keep all this different types of businesses together, the company holds competencies in substrate, coating and adhesives. Besides possessing these competencies, the company also created a multitude of ways to share and apply them. The result of such combination of technology, skills and knowledge, allows 3M to participate on a multitude of businesses and markets. The literature points out that the core competencies of any company should benefit the end customer of the product and should be very difficult to copy by the competitors. 3M is aware that the stronger the customer perception in recognizing the superiority of their products, the less likely the threats of substitutes. The company makes continuous efforts to differentiate its products among the multitude of similarities offered by the competitors and their efforts are successful due to the fact that they are supplying high quality, innovative and reliable products at competitive prices. Moreover, it is a companys core competencies that keeps the businesses together. This aspect is crucial for 3M, as the company operates in multiple business sectors, worldwide. It seems that 3M fully understood this concept and its enormous advantages, because they are investing consistently in their core competencies and ability to innovate, the chief aim being to provide the market and the end customers with innovative products that really stand out. 2. Industry analysis 2.1 Industry Definition, Structure and Major Competitors. The Industrial Conglomerate industry consists of large organizations engaged in multiple business lines within the industrial sector, where at least two business lines comprise a substantial portion of the companys total operation (The New York Times, Oct 1, 2010).  [11]  The industrial conglomerate industry contains the following sectors: Basic Materials, Consumer Cyclical, Consumer Non-Cyclical Energy, Health care, Industrials and Transportation, Technology, Telecommunication, Utilities. Exhibit1. Direct Competitor Comparison  [12]   MMM AVY DD JNJ Industry Market Cap: 63.58B 4.02B 42.30B 174.16B 9.47B Employees: 74,835 31,300 58,000 115,500 28.26K Qtrly Rev Growth (yoy): 17.70% 15.40% 21.80% 0.60% 14.50% Revenue (ttm): 25.39B 6.31B 30.43B 62.59B 10.28B Gross Margin (ttm): 48.78% 28.26% 29.94% 69.98% 33.80% EBITDA (ttm): 7.03B 695.10M 5.42B 19.70B 1.63B Operating Margin (ttm): 23.18% 6.96% 13.08% 26.90% 12.29% Net Income (ttm): 3.94B 250.90M 3.13B 13.53B N/A EPS (ttm): 5.48 2.37 3.43 4.84 1.92 P/E (ttm): 16.28 16.04 13.60 13.06 19.15 PEG (5 yr expected): 1.28 1.44 1.61 2.09 1.28 P/S (ttm): 2.50 0.63 1.38 2.78 1.27 AVY = Avery Dennison Corporation produces pressure-sensitive materials, office products, tickets, tags, labels, and other converted products. DD = EI DuPont de Nemours Co. (DuPont) operates as a science and technology company worldwide. JNJ =Johnson Johnson engages in the research and development, manufacture, and sale of various products in the health care field worldwide. The company operates in three segments: Consumer, Pharmaceutical, and Medical Devices and Diagnostics. Industry = Conglomerates Exhibit2. Comparison between 3M, the Conglomerate Industry and the direct competitors, benchmarked against DOW and SP 500. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com 2.2 Industry profitability and growth. In order to get an idea about the main characteristics of the players in this industry, I have selected few key statistics. The financial indicators listed bellow shows the fact that this are large companies, highly leveraged (most of them), providing the investors with a small to average return. Market Capitalization: 366B Price / Earnings: 13.5 Price / Book: 4.1 Net Profit Margin: 7.5% Price to Free Cash Flow: 27.4 Return on Equity: 12.5% Total Debt / Equity: 242.3 Dividend Yield: 2.4% Exhibit 3. Comparison between the evolution of 3M common stock and the industry. Source: http://finance.yahoo.com 2.3 PEST Analysis of the External Factors affecting the Industry PEST analysis stands for Political, Economic, Social, and Technological analysis and describes a framework of macro-environmental factors used in the environmental scanning component of strategic management.  [13]  Performing such an analysis and applying the findings will give any company a significant competitive advantage. The model identifies four factors that have a major impact on the companys macroeconomic environment:  [14]   Political Economical Social Technological Political Factors: Among the most significant political factors that can affect 3Ms business are: tax policies, employment laws, environmental regulations, trade restrictions and tariffs, and political stability. 3M is making all the necessary investments in order to comply with these laws. In 2009, 3M spent around $15 million for projects regarding the protection of the environment. The mentioned funds have provided among other things, pollution control devices at all its properties. Economical Factors: economic growth, interest rates, exchange rates, inflation rate. Due to large geographical presence, and the fact that 63 percent of its revenue is generated from outside the United States, the companys results may be affected by exchange rates and their fluctuation. In order to mitigate this risk, the company engages in a multitude of forward contracts. Also, the Companys business may be negatively affected by other factors, both internal and external that are beyond its control, such as instability and downturns in financial markets or economies in some countries or regions, in which the Company operates. Social Factors: population growth rate, age distribution, health and safety awareness, career attitude. 3M, through its business policies is aiming to create a safe workplace, to encourage individual initiative and innovation in an atmosphere of flexibility, cooperation and trust, promoting a culture where promise keeping, fairness, respect and personal accountability are valued, encouraged and recognized.  [15]   Technological Factors: RD activities, automation, technology incentives, rate of technological change. Research and development activities constitute an important part of 3Ms business and have been a significant contributor to the companys sales growth. Research, development expenses accounted for $1.2 billion in 2009, $1.4 billion in 2008 and $1.3 billion in 2007.  [16]   2.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis of the Industry Competition Porters five forces is a framework for the industry analysis developed by Michael E. Porter of Harvard Business School in 1979 .The model is based on the idea that competitive advantage came from the ability to earn a return on investment that was better than the average for the industry sector(Thurlby,1998). The model identifies five forces which would impact on an organizations behavior in a competitive market: The rivalry between existing sellers in the market. The threat of new entrants on the market. The threat of substitute products available in the market The bargaining power of the suppliers. The power of the customers in the market. Full comprehensions of each of these five forces and the impact they have on the companys business, provide organizations with the necessary information to enable them to choose the right operating strategy in order to be successful in their market.  [17]   2.4.1. The rivalry between existing sellers in the market The conglomerate industry, although very complex, extending over a multitude of business, seems to be dominated by few key players, and 3M Co is one of them. In order to gain competitive advantage, 3M is aiming to stay ahead of the trend by continuously providing the market with new products and technologies. Given its strong balance sheet, the company is able to react fast to any negative changes in the market (lower the price of its products), in order to maintain existing customers and attract new ones. Moreover, in facing competition the company is offering well differentiated products, well known and trustful brands, the chief aim being extra value added products and services for the end customers. 2.4.2. The Threat of new entrants The threat of new entrants is dictated by the market entry barriers. The entry barriers exist whenever it is difficult or not economically feasible for an outsider to replicate the incumbents position (Porter, 1980b; Sanderson, 1998). Such barriers refer to: Cost of entry: In order to enter this industry and compete against the existing firms, the cost of capital required would be extremely high. 3M is a well known company, with an aggressive mergers and acquisition strategy, holding an impressive market share. Distribution channels: 3M products are sold through numerous distribution channels, including wholesalers, retailers, and dealers in many countries around the world. The company has established a large and very well defined distribution network, developed through long association with skilled marketing and sales representatives. Cost advantages not related to the size of the company, like contacts and expertise play a major role in the companys performance. Government legislations: for example, introduction of new laws might weaken companys competitive position; 3M had to improve their environmental performance via new environmental, health and safety policies in order to comply with new government standard and regulations. Many times this requires additional funds, changes into production processes, products, and that some firms may find it difficult to do so without increasing the prices of their products and services. Differentiation: 3M is a well known brand that already gained customer respect and loyalty and the products that represent this company have a high ratio of value to price. 2.4. 3. The Threat of Substitutes Products available on the market Although the threat of substitutes in this sector is high, due to the fact that there is a large number of a substitute product available in the market, 3M products differentiate themselves through superior quality and innovativeness. The firm invests strongly in RD, in order to insure that they deliver extra -added value products, and the existing customers will not be tempted to choose from the many available substitutes. Other aspects that should be considered when trying to mitigate the risk of losing customers to substitute products refer to: relative price performance of substitute, buyer switching costs, ease of substitution, substandard product, and quality depreciation. 2.4.4. The bargaining power of suppliers In the conglomerate industry, the power of supplier is relatively modest, due to the fact that the companies in this industry are very large corporations. This companies act on an international scale, having access to an increase number of suppliers and the buying is done in bulk, immense quantities. There is still some risk regarding the price fluctuation of commodities, like oil, oil derivatives, energy, due to possible shortage. 3M is trying to mitigate this risk engaging in prices agreements and forward physical contracts. 2.4.5. The bargaining power of buyers. When trying to assess the power of buyers, two aspects need to be considered: size and concentration of the customers correlated with the concentration of the competitors. In the conglomerate industry, the bargaining power of the buyers is relatively high due to the fact that all the players in the market are targeting the same customers via similar products. Also, the end customers are more and more informed, and their expectations are continuously growing. Another aspect that should be considered in this case is that the cost of switching between suppliers is relatively low. A buyer has many options; therefore 3M makes a continuous effort to insure that their products are permanently aligned with customer preferences and needs. 2.5 Summary The nature of competition in an industry is strongly affected by the above mentioned forces. As a rule we can state that, whenever buyers and suppliers have high degrees of power, the result translates into a high competitive industry. The industry of conglomerate is moderate to high competitiveness, due to the fact that new entries are difficult (high capital requirements), but this effect is counteracted by the fact that the players in this sector are extremely large and diversified corporations, with solid resources and very aggressive financial strategies. 3. Economic Outlook 3.1 Global Outlook There is no doubt that we are on the path of economical recovery, but the speed of things moving in the right direction is slow, considering the severity of the financial crisis. In advanced economies, such as U.S., small improvements in labor markets, housing markets, and corporate bonds market generated some positive developments in the overall economy. In the emerging and developing economies, (such as China, India, and Brazil) the recovery process seems to be much faster. Even among the advanced economies, the recovery process happens at different speeds, depending of the way that the local government has chosen to deal with the crisis. If we compare The United States with Europe or Japan, we see that the American economy is doing much better than the other two. This phenomenon may have something to do with some of the following: fiscal stimulus was larger in US, the nonfinancial corporate sector is less reliant on bank credit, bond markets have improved which stimulated investments, and many financial and nonfinancial organizations went radical restructuration and improved productivity. In Japan, due to the appreciation of the yen, the countrys exports f eel dramatically, which ultimately impacts the recovery process. Similar situation can be observed in Europe. Some of the economies of this region suffered a major contraction, not only because of the financial crisis, but the real estate too. Overall the economical and financial conditions present themselves as fragile and difficult. There are some signs of recovery, especially in the emerging economies, and is expected that this will help along the recovery process of the advanced economies.  [18]   3.2 Regional outlook Asia is leading the global recovery and the regions contribution to global growth will continue to exceed that of other regions in the next two years, (Source: The International Monetary Fund). China registered 8.4 percent growth last year, and the projections for the next year are similar (9%growth in GDP for 2010). In the region, the GDP has increased 6.8 percent in 2009. The recovery process has been driven by exports combined with low internal demand and ultimately low household consumption. The inflow of capital in the region has increased, stimulating investments and speeding up the recovery process. According to IMF, for the next period of time, Asias main policy challenge will remain to achieve a rebalancing of growth from external to domestic sources. On global level, there is a political and economical issue regarding the Chinese government decision not to appreciate their local currency, and the way this decision is affecting the world trade. Europe, especially the emerging nations, was strongly hit by the financial crisis. In this region the GDP decreased by approximately 4.6 percent in 2009. The projections for 2010 GDP show an increase of 2.3 and 2.2 percent in 2011. The growth rates in most economies in the region will remain slow, due to major contraction in exports and weak capital inflow. Besides the already mentioned factors, other variables such as : high unemployment, real estate crisis, bank restructuring operations, tight credit policies, and high interest rates will also restrain the recovery process. Other regions, such as Latin America and the Caribbean seem to be dealing with the crisis a little bit better than other countries .The last year GDP registered a 2.6 percent drop, and the prognosis for 2010 and 2011 are quite optimistic showing a growth of 3.1 percent and 3.6 percent, respectively. The recovery process is still relatively slow, due to weaker investment and not enough tourism, both important sources of external finances. The lack of tourism may be explained by high unemployment in United States and other high-income countries. The Middle East and North Africa region experienced, an overall GDP growth slowing to 2.9 percent in 2009. The forecasts for 2010 show an increase in GDP of 3.7 percent in 2010 and 4.4 percent by 2011. These projections regarding the recovery process are based on few assumptions such as: the global demand for oil will increase, and oil prices will stabilize. The financial and economical crisis and their effects were not felt as deep in the region of South Asia. In this area, the GDP registered 5.7 percent growth in 2009. This represented a slowing of growth comparing to the boom period, mainly due to a significant decrease in investments, correlated with low domestic demand. The projections for 2010 and 2011 look optimistic: 6.9 and 7.4 percent respectively. 3.4 Local outlook According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the US economy is still growing, but at a slower pace than the first quarter of 2010(2.4% versus 3.7% in the first quarter of 2010). Some of the reasons that will restrain the recovery process are the following: The financial institution will need to recover from losses due to loan defaults. In order to boost the recovery process, the government offered numerous stimulus packages. The housing market registered slight improvements, but failed to meet the expectation. The main disruption in the housing sector was caused by a dramatic drop in house prices, and hou

Deism- The Distant God Essay -- Literary Analysis, The Universe Next D

Deism- The Distant God It all depends on the glasses. Every lens gives a different view of the world, different colors, and different textures. Everything encountered can either be displayed perfectly or distorted. Sometimes things can seem foggy or blurry and other times crystal clear. Worldview can be compared to a pair of glasses. It defines how people see religion, culture, tradition, and life. It is the Father of beliefs, and starter of wars. It is our conscious and our decision maker. A worldview, whether admitted or not, effects and shapes each and every person. James W. Sire gives a precise definition in his book The Universe Next Door, saying, â€Å"A world view is a set of presuppositions (or assumptions) which we hold (consciously or subconsciously) about the basic makeup of our world† (pg.17). To qualify a worldview a livable belief, it must first answer seven basic questions. (1) What is the ultimate reality? (2) What is the nature of external Reality? (3) What is a human being? (4) What happens to a person at death? (5) Why is it possible to know anything at all? (6) How do we know what is right and wrong (morality)? (7) What is the meaning of human history? (8) What are the core commitments that are consistent with this worldview? All major worldviews attempt to provide an answer to these questions of human existence and the reason we are here. Christians need to understand how to apply the questions to not only our own worldview, but also the worldview of others. Only when one begins to understand the basis of another worldview can Christians begin to minister with understanding to the people of that belief. So now let us put on our lenses and explore a worldview that has existed through the pages of history. Let ... ...istianity have core commitments in living out their faith. Because deism does not have set beliefs, commitments vary from deist to deist. Every person is free to use their human reason to draw their own conclusions of life. These goals and commitments will reflect the personal aspects of each person. Warm deists goals may reflect a belief in a creator or God, and what would most make him pleased with him. Cold deists, however, will use only reason to reach their goals. Christianity has one core motive. According the Westminster Shorter Catechism we are to â€Å"glorify God and enjoy him forever.† The Christian’s life does not reflect their goals; rather it reflects God and his holy character. Now that we have been given a new perspective in the worldview of Deism, we can now accurately begin to reach out and witness to this worldview that believes in a faraway God.

Alice Walker Essay -- essays research papers

Alice Walker   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Alice Walker is an African American essayist, novelist and poet. She is described as a â€Å"black feminist.†(Ten on Ten) Alice Walker tries to incorporate the concepts of her heritage that are absent into her essays; such things as how women should be independent and find their special talent or art to make their life better. Throughout Walker’s essay entitled â€Å"In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens,† I determined there were three factors that aided Walker gain the concepts of her heritage which are through artistic ability, her foremothers and artistic models.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens† touches mainly upon family heritage and the way her heritage was created. In Atwan’s Ten on Ten, you will find the essay on the Mothers’ Gardens. On page 83 it states, â€Å"For they were going nowhere immediate, and the future was not yet within their grasp.† This quote signifies how mothers and grandmothers would always be set serving the men in their lives; for their entire lives, however, there was a different future, a plan that they didn’t see yet. This plan was for them to identify their artistic ability, whether if it was through singing, writing or making quilts.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Throughout the essay, â€Å"In Search of Our Mothers’ Gardens,†Alice Walker’s mentions her foremothers. Women like Jean Toomer, Phillis Wheatley and Zora Neale Hurtson, who were all either poets or writers. Mike Fike has also reco...

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Evil Through Imagery It has been said for a long time that the only thing to fear is fear itself. It is easy to see that the boys become subject to their own illogical fears. In Lord of the Flies, by William Gilding, Imagery Is used to describe the Island and the characters themselves In dark and mysterious ways. Imagery Is also used as a way for the boys to create the beast and make it external as well as internal. There are several instances in the novel where people are described using ominous language. When Jack and his choir are seen for the first time they are scribed as a ;creature†¦ Room throat to ankle, hidden by black cloaks† (19). The choir's first Impression suggests that their purpose In the novel Is antagonistic In nature. Gilding's imagery automatically Identifies the characters In story that are associated with the more evil aspects of human nature such as fear and violence. Later in the novel, it seems that the older boys only become worse, with fear growi ng in them like an uncontrollable weed. It is noticeable when Jack starts disguising himself â€Å"[looking] in astonishment, no longer at himself but at an awesome stranger†¦ He face of red and white and black† (63-64).In his slow submission to fear, Jack Is becoming another person entirely from the boy who Initially crashed on the island and It Is shown literally here by him painting his face and changing his identity. The fear created on the island, in the form of the beast, is exposing Jack for what he really is, which is demonic and wicked in nature. Gilding uses imagery often to describe the malicious intent of characters throughout the novel, but he does not only describe characters in this way. The island on which the boys are stranded on Is meticulously described in the kook and most of the words used to Illustrate It are grim at best.When Gilding describes where Piggy and Ralph first find themselves, he describes the ground as â€Å"covered with coarse grass, torn everywhere by upheavals of fallen trees, scattered with decaying coconuts and palm saplings. Behind this was the darkness of the forest proper and the open space of the scar. † (9-10). Already, the island, though it has done no wrong, is becoming a canvas on which Gilding can paint his picture of doom and despair. Small things, such as this, are described assiduously through the inure novel.This Is used to give perspective and show cause to why the boys do what they do, among a variety of other things, the boys are reacting to their environment which is portrayed with no less than a vulgar light. When the boys go on their first expedition, which results in them pushing a boulder over, â€Å"the forest further down shook as with the passage of an enraged monster† (28). Gilding describes the devastation of the forest like this with a purpose, he is alluding to the fear that later controls the boys, or the beast. The disturbance of the peace from the the scar.Simple i tems on the island are portrayed much more villainous than they actually are for the purpose of showing what the boys have done to the island by corrupting it's innocence and peace with their naturally wicked human nature. The author makes use of both the image of characters and the setting of the island to show that humanity can turn anything into something foul, even a beautiful and untouched island. The imagery does not stop with the island and the characters, it also creates the very beast which leads to some of the characters downfall. When the twins first see he horrible beast they describe it as â€Å"furry.There was something moving behind its head-?wings. The beast moved too-? That was awful. It kind of sat up†¦ There were eyes-? Teeth-? Claws-?† (100). At this point in the novel, rational thinking has become scarce and is only really found in Piggy and Simon. Sam and Eric truly believe in what they saw and their grisly description only acts as a catalyst for th e other boys descent into madness from the fear. Since Simon is not effected by the illusion of the beast, he understands that the beast is not real but the Lord of the Flies corrects him â€Å"Fancy hinging that the Beast was something you could hunt and kill!†¦You knew didn't you? † (143-144). Gilding's imagery brought to life a character that is really Just the embodiment of the horror and destructiveness in the boys, revealing what the authors true beliefs about human nature are. Though, he does not seem to think that man kind is entirely uncontrollable. Simon is used as a beacon of hope and good intention. Simony's death is also very unique, using light imagery to state how Simon was the only light in the darkness all along. Towards the end of the novel, the beast comes very real, more than Just a figment of the boys wildest and darkest fears.In conclusion, imagery describes human kind's nature through the characters, the island, and of course the beast or fear in t he boys. The scary images used in the novel make it very easy to see why the boys went against each other in the end, proving that humanity is it's own worst enemy. Overall, the author's opinion about human nature influenced every facet of the novel and how it was written, but of course the most obvious expression of Gilding's opinion is seen in the imagery.