English
241 has taught me so much about Early American Literature that I did
not know. In English 241, we studied authors such as Emerson, Franklin,
and Thoreau to name a few. While studying several pieces of Literature, I
was able to understand the impact the American Literature had on
America. I have learned a lot about Early America, American Literature,
numerous of authors during that time, and even myself.
America
was a new world where very little about it was known. The Europeans
thought that the Americas was a narrow strip of land east of Europe.
America was a new world that came out of no where and changed Europe
tremendously. From the mini-lectures about Early America, I learned that
when the frontier was closed in 1870, Americans were still discovering
what it meant to live on this land because there was still so much
unknown about America. Although most of the discovering was done back in
the 17th and 18th century, we are still discovering new things about
America today.
In
this class, I learned that Early American Literature had a big role in
forming the United States, modern social and political life, and the
character of the American people. Most of the literature written during
those times were journals, letter, diaries,
and sermons which were all personal literature that had a major impact
on the lives of Americans. In this course we studied several pieces of
literatures that had a role in forming the United States. The
Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, Incidents in the Life of a Slave
Girl, and Self-Reliance are three of the pieces of Early American
Literature that had an impact on the forming of America. The
Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin not only tells us about his own life
but it also gives us an insight on how to live better lives. Just like
Franklin, I made a list of virtues that
I can attempt to master for my moral being. The Incidents in the Life
of a Slave Girl tells us about Jacob’s life as a slave. The Incidents in
the Life of a Slave Girl was written to help in end slavery. As an
assignment, I wrote about an unsolved social problem
that must be resolved in order to maintain a society based on equality
and shared rights which is the point that Jacob’s was trying to get
across by writing The Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl.
Self-Reliance by Emerson which is basically about trusting yourself. “To
believe your own thought, to believe that what is true for you in your
private heart is true for all men” (Emerson). In this quote, I think
Emerson is simply saying we should think for ourselves. In order to
discover America we must discover who we are first and that is what
Self-Reliance tell us. Self-Reliance falls in that group with building
character of the American people. After reading this essay by Emerson, I
was able to write an essay on “Who my best self is” which made me realize who I am at my best.
Through
readings from authors such as Crevecoeur, my writings, and writings
from my peers my thoughts on what it means to be an American changed .
In de Crevecoeur’s letter “What is an American?”, he explains his love
for America and what it means to be an American. Before reading this
letter by Crevecoeur, I use to think that being American meant just
being a citizen of the United States. I learned that being American is
so much more than just being a citizen. Just like de Crevecoeur, I got
the chance to explain “What is an American?” by
writing to a modern day immigrant. I thought that by me being a native
of America it would have been easier for me to explain to someone else
what it means to be American but I learned that it is harder to explain
to someone who has never been here what it means to be an American.
"They are a mixture of English, Scotch, Irish, French, Dutch, Germans,
and Swedes (Crevecoeur)”. In this quote from Crevecoeur essay, I
understand that Americans are very diverse. You can’t use a person’s
culture or race to identify them as an American. In Belen and Tyler
essays, they both talk about how they came from other countries to be
an American. Tyler Workman and Belen Selassie essays helped me to
realize that Americans aren’t just individuals from America as they came
from other countries to be an American and live the American dream.
Although
this class was meant to gain an understanding on America and the impact
that American Literature had on America, I learned so much more. I have
never been in a class where I was able to learn something about myself.
In this class, I learned so much about myself. In this class, I had to
chance to write an essay about “Who is my best self?”. I got the chance to find how who I am at my best. I also write about “What I live for”?.
I got to tell what living a full life to means to me and the things I
need. I also came to the conclusion that I spend too much time with
worldly things that I do not enough time to spend with Nature. I got the
chance to go on a walk on a trail and
engage with nature. It made me realize that everyday we take the small
things for granted. I was able to walk around that trail and just block
out thoughts. It was like I was in my own zone. Now I have started to do
it at least once a week as I found out it is a way to clear my mind and
has been very helpful in helping me to slow down my pace.
Overall
this course has been really helpful in gaining an understanding of
Early American Literature. The mini-lectures and the detailed
information given for assignments were very beneficial in making sure
that I knew what was being taught. I have never taken a class where a
teacher would teach me online which is something new for me but it
really helped. Something else that stunned me was how Professor Brandon
made English 241 very interesting. I was able to take something from the
literature to learn something about myself. I hope that I earn a “B”
for my grade in this class. I must admit that I slipped off sometimes
but I always tried to make sure that my assignments were completed and I
was active with discussions. This class has definitely had a positive
impact on my life as it made me more interested in Early American
Literature and left me with a desire to learn more. I am excited and
eager to move on to Early American Literature Part II and I hope that I
will be able to take this journey with Professor Brandon.
***THANKS PROFESSOR BRANDON FOR EVERYTHING! EVERY CLASS THAT I TAKE WITH YOU I CONTINUE TO LEARN MORE AND MORE!
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Week 12: Draft
America
was a new world where very little about it was known. The Europeans
thought that the Americas was a narrow strip of land east of Europe.
America was a new world that came out of no where and changed Europe
tremendously. From the mini-lectures about Early America, I learned that
when the frontier was closed in 1870, Americans were still discovering
what it meant to live on this land because there was still so much
unknown about America. Although most of the discovering was done back in
the 17th and 18th century, we are still discovering new things about
America.
Through readings from authors such as Crevecoeur, my writings, and writings from my peers my thoughts on what it means to be an American changed . In de Crevecoeur’s letter “What is an American?”, he explains his love for America and what it means to be an American. Before reading this letter by Crevecoeur, I use to think that being American meant just being a citizen of the United States. I learned that being American is so much more than just being a citizen. Just like de Crevecoeur, I got the chance to explain “What is an American?” by writing to a modern day immigrant. I thought that by me being a native of America it would have been easier for me to explain to someone else what it means to be American but I learned that it is harder to explain to someone who has never been here what it means to be an American. "They are a mixture of English, Scotch, Irish, French, Dutch, Germans, and Swedes (Crevecoeur)”. In this quote from Crevecoeur essay, I understand that Americans are very diverse. You can’t use a person’s culture or race to identify them as an American. In Belen and Tyler essays, they both talk about how they came from other countries to be an American. Tyler Workman and Belen Selassie essays helped me to realize that Americans aren’t just individuals from America as they came from other countries to be an American and live the American dream.
Through readings from authors such as Crevecoeur, my writings, and writings from my peers my thoughts on what it means to be an American changed . In de Crevecoeur’s letter “What is an American?”, he explains his love for America and what it means to be an American. Before reading this letter by Crevecoeur, I use to think that being American meant just being a citizen of the United States. I learned that being American is so much more than just being a citizen. Just like de Crevecoeur, I got the chance to explain “What is an American?” by writing to a modern day immigrant. I thought that by me being a native of America it would have been easier for me to explain to someone else what it means to be American but I learned that it is harder to explain to someone who has never been here what it means to be an American. "They are a mixture of English, Scotch, Irish, French, Dutch, Germans, and Swedes (Crevecoeur)”. In this quote from Crevecoeur essay, I understand that Americans are very diverse. You can’t use a person’s culture or race to identify them as an American. In Belen and Tyler essays, they both talk about how they came from other countries to be an American. Tyler Workman and Belen Selassie essays helped me to realize that Americans aren’t just individuals from America as they came from other countries to be an American and live the American dream.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Week 11- Pre-writing and collection of notes for final learning reflection
INTRO:
English 241 has helped me to grow in so many ways. Throughout the
course the readings, writings, and lectures are what got me through each
week. I took this course because I studied American Literature in high
school and really enjoyed it. I did not know that there was so much more
to American Literature. In this course, I was able to go in depth and
learn about Early America, Early American Literature, America, more
about myself, and authors during that time.
Notes
*Early America:
-Lecture: Those who settled in America had a whole continent, theirselves, and 500 native nations to discover. In 1870, Americans were still discovering what it meant to live on this continent. America was a new world that came out of no where and changed Europe.
-Reading: “What is an American?” -St.John De Creveceour’s Letter III (published in 1781)
-Writing: “What is an American essay?”Wrote an essay to a modern day immigrant about what is an american and what being an American means to me. It’s one thing to know this from personal experience but hard to put in an essay. This writing was given so that I could determine what my definition of “American” mean and hopefully as the course develop it would change as I study more through Early American Literature.
*Early American Literature
-Lecture: Because America started late, American Romanticism tended to take on a more optimistic character than its European counterpart. Politically, the idea was that Romantics would change society one individual at a time, and they would made these changes by helping their readers feel more intensely. Most American Romantics tended to be optimistic, to seek beauty, and to try and help Americans feel and act for others. By learning to feel with and for others, those influenced by Romantic art would come to be more caring citizens, and America could begin to temper the developing strain of "I am in this only for my own benefit." Many Romantics also hoped that by helping people to appreciate Nature more, they would influence others to create beauty. It is no accident that the great progressive movements in America began in the Romantic era. Over the next few weeks, we'll begin to explore how Romanticism influenced the political and social aspects of Antebellum America.
-Reading: Mention readings...
-Writing: Mention Essay
*Authors:
Lecture: Poe was late in life before his particular means of helping his readers find the sublime--horror, madness, killings, the loss of beautiful lovers--began to catch on and had sufficient, consistent outlets. In fact, Poe made a much better living as a critique and an editor than he ever did as a writer. So far, you've seen the American search for the sublime take on the form of horror (Poe), the search for one's best self (Emerson), an intense focus on the unique in each individual (Emerson), and trying to figure out how to cultivate the full engagement of the individual with the spiritual and social world (Thoreau). Few people represent their time and place as well as Franklin. He carefully constructs and projects an image of himself as a typical American. He starts from humble beginnings. Through hard work and careful frugality, he acquires a fortune, and he then "retires" to devote himself to public projects and a life dedicated to civic projects.
Readings: Mention readings about authors
*Myself
*Writings: Mention writings that involved self such “Who is your best self?”
*America
America has definitely improved since Early America.
Lecture: This mix of people worried about the pace of change with some wanting to
speed it up and others wanting to slow it down was volatile. Once it
was accepted that it was alright for people to read, converse and think
for their self, a new tradition began. People shared reason and
followed reasonable “Common Sense.” Each needed to be convinced that
radical social change was good idea, and the literature of late colonial
period is one of arguments from visions of how to restore the social
order of the mother country to proposing ever greater change based on
reason. The key insight here is that in late colonial America there was constant
demand for workers. The economy was constantly expanding, so almost any
individual could gain relative wealth, that is, if he or she had
industry, a certain degree of luck, and was willing to save and work.
Here, you might hear echos of Franklin’s essay, “The Way to Wealth” and
from the Autobiography. Quite literally, Franklin used writing for others and writing about
himself to share a new vision of the life of the individual--what we
speak about as the American Dream, and this vision was radically
different from that practiced for centuries in Europe. These changes
would make many very nervous, and they would look to the stability
offered by religion to help them deal with the stress of social change
the new world represented. Others, like Franklin, embraced changes
wholeheartedly, and argued even more radical changes were needed to
almost every aspect of life, including religion. Hence, Franklin will
argue that the individual could use reason to form a plan to cultivate
their own virtue, just as they could cultivate other paths to wealth and
happiness.
Notes
*Early America:
-Lecture: Those who settled in America had a whole continent, theirselves, and 500 native nations to discover. In 1870, Americans were still discovering what it meant to live on this continent. America was a new world that came out of no where and changed Europe.
-Reading: “What is an American?” -St.John De Creveceour’s Letter III (published in 1781)
-Writing: “What is an American essay?”Wrote an essay to a modern day immigrant about what is an american and what being an American means to me. It’s one thing to know this from personal experience but hard to put in an essay. This writing was given so that I could determine what my definition of “American” mean and hopefully as the course develop it would change as I study more through Early American Literature.
*Early American Literature
-Lecture: Because America started late, American Romanticism tended to take on a more optimistic character than its European counterpart. Politically, the idea was that Romantics would change society one individual at a time, and they would made these changes by helping their readers feel more intensely. Most American Romantics tended to be optimistic, to seek beauty, and to try and help Americans feel and act for others. By learning to feel with and for others, those influenced by Romantic art would come to be more caring citizens, and America could begin to temper the developing strain of "I am in this only for my own benefit." Many Romantics also hoped that by helping people to appreciate Nature more, they would influence others to create beauty. It is no accident that the great progressive movements in America began in the Romantic era. Over the next few weeks, we'll begin to explore how Romanticism influenced the political and social aspects of Antebellum America.
-Reading: Mention readings...
-Writing: Mention Essay
*Authors:
Lecture: Poe was late in life before his particular means of helping his readers find the sublime--horror, madness, killings, the loss of beautiful lovers--began to catch on and had sufficient, consistent outlets. In fact, Poe made a much better living as a critique and an editor than he ever did as a writer. So far, you've seen the American search for the sublime take on the form of horror (Poe), the search for one's best self (Emerson), an intense focus on the unique in each individual (Emerson), and trying to figure out how to cultivate the full engagement of the individual with the spiritual and social world (Thoreau). Few people represent their time and place as well as Franklin. He carefully constructs and projects an image of himself as a typical American. He starts from humble beginnings. Through hard work and careful frugality, he acquires a fortune, and he then "retires" to devote himself to public projects and a life dedicated to civic projects.
Readings: Mention readings about authors
*Myself
*Writings: Mention writings that involved self such “Who is your best self?”
*America
America has definitely improved since Early America.
Lecture: This mix of people worried about the pace of change with some wanting to
speed it up and others wanting to slow it down was volatile. Once it
was accepted that it was alright for people to read, converse and think
for their self, a new tradition began. People shared reason and
followed reasonable “Common Sense.” Each needed to be convinced that
radical social change was good idea, and the literature of late colonial
period is one of arguments from visions of how to restore the social
order of the mother country to proposing ever greater change based on
reason. The key insight here is that in late colonial America there was constant
demand for workers. The economy was constantly expanding, so almost any
individual could gain relative wealth, that is, if he or she had
industry, a certain degree of luck, and was willing to save and work.
Here, you might hear echos of Franklin’s essay, “The Way to Wealth” and
from the Autobiography. Quite literally, Franklin used writing for others and writing about
himself to share a new vision of the life of the individual--what we
speak about as the American Dream, and this vision was radically
different from that practiced for centuries in Europe. These changes
would make many very nervous, and they would look to the stability
offered by religion to help them deal with the stress of social change
the new world represented. Others, like Franklin, embraced changes
wholeheartedly, and argued even more radical changes were needed to
almost every aspect of life, including religion. Hence, Franklin will
argue that the individual could use reason to form a plan to cultivate
their own virtue, just as they could cultivate other paths to wealth and
happiness.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Week 9 -Circulation of Religion
In
the British colonies, there were several religious beliefs. The five
basic religious beliefs systems during those times were Deism,
Calvinism, Arminianism, Methodism, and the beliefs of the Society of
Friends. As of today we still see some of those beliefs circulating
around us. The two beliefs from the British colonies that I still see in
Modern America are Calvinism and Deism.
Calvinism is a series of beliefs that were taught by John Calvin. The teachings of this religion emphasizes predestination, the sovereignty of God, the supreme authority of the scriptures, and the irresistibility of grace (Wikipedia). According to the Calvinism, the salvation is accomplished by the power of the triune God (Father, son, and spirit). They also believe that the father chose people, the son died for them, and the holy spirit makes death effective. Man does not determine who will receive God’s salvation. The people of who go by the beliefs of Calvinism live according to the five points of Calvinism. The five points of Calvinism are total inability, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints.
Deism is a religion that bases it’s faith off of reasons. Deist are people who are has a belief in God through reason, personal experience, nature. They believe in free thoughts rather than holy texts or divine revelation. Deists are encouraged to use their own reasons and experience to determine their views on God. Deists believe that reasons are not just used for religious views but for other aspects of life as well. They believe that all men are created equal and have inherent freedom based on the laws of nature. Deism believers believe that humans are free thinkers who will develop their own beliefs.
The beliefs of Calvinism and Deism are shared widely among America’s population. It is not just a minority group that share these beliefs. I have seen some of these beliefs shared by people that I go to school with. The most famous one is Deism. I see the beliefs that I discussed helping those who hold them live what they perceive as “the good life” in America. One of the beliefs that the Deism believe which is all men are created equal is actually something that we all live by because it is in the Declaration of Independence. The way I see the people who share the Calvinism beliefs helping them to live what they perceive as the good life is by encouraging good conduct within the people.
The circulation of beliefs that were in the literature of the British colonies still circulate until this day. “I do not mean by this declaration to condemn those who believe otherwise; they have the same right to their belief as I have to mine” (from The Age of Reason; Being an Investigation of True and Fabulous Theology, Part One). In this quote from Paine, is something that we all live by today. It is one of our rights and in the Constitution it is called “Freedom of Religion”. We have the right to believe whatever it is that we want to believe. Although we all have different religions and beliefs I believe they all coincide with each other.
Calvinism is a series of beliefs that were taught by John Calvin. The teachings of this religion emphasizes predestination, the sovereignty of God, the supreme authority of the scriptures, and the irresistibility of grace (Wikipedia). According to the Calvinism, the salvation is accomplished by the power of the triune God (Father, son, and spirit). They also believe that the father chose people, the son died for them, and the holy spirit makes death effective. Man does not determine who will receive God’s salvation. The people of who go by the beliefs of Calvinism live according to the five points of Calvinism. The five points of Calvinism are total inability, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints.
Deism is a religion that bases it’s faith off of reasons. Deist are people who are has a belief in God through reason, personal experience, nature. They believe in free thoughts rather than holy texts or divine revelation. Deists are encouraged to use their own reasons and experience to determine their views on God. Deists believe that reasons are not just used for religious views but for other aspects of life as well. They believe that all men are created equal and have inherent freedom based on the laws of nature. Deism believers believe that humans are free thinkers who will develop their own beliefs.
The beliefs of Calvinism and Deism are shared widely among America’s population. It is not just a minority group that share these beliefs. I have seen some of these beliefs shared by people that I go to school with. The most famous one is Deism. I see the beliefs that I discussed helping those who hold them live what they perceive as “the good life” in America. One of the beliefs that the Deism believe which is all men are created equal is actually something that we all live by because it is in the Declaration of Independence. The way I see the people who share the Calvinism beliefs helping them to live what they perceive as the good life is by encouraging good conduct within the people.
The circulation of beliefs that were in the literature of the British colonies still circulate until this day. “I do not mean by this declaration to condemn those who believe otherwise; they have the same right to their belief as I have to mine” (from The Age of Reason; Being an Investigation of True and Fabulous Theology, Part One). In this quote from Paine, is something that we all live by today. It is one of our rights and in the Constitution it is called “Freedom of Religion”. We have the right to believe whatever it is that we want to believe. Although we all have different religions and beliefs I believe they all coincide with each other.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Week 9- Short Reflection
In
this class through my readings, discussions, and writing I have learned
a lot about American Literature since week six. Beginning with week six
through week nine, I have learned about the drafting of the Declaration
of Independence, the adoption of the Bill of Rights, and so much more.
Through my discussions I had the chance to discuss with my classmates
about civil and public virtues that a democratic republic must implant
in it’s citizens, personal virtues, the carefulness of the separation of
the church and the state, and how the first amendment played roles in
creating a secure union and ensuring freedom of speech. Through my
writings I got the chance to write 20 virtues that could help me live a
better life and beliefs from the literature in the British colonies that
exist in the Modern America. I had the chance to read different
versions of the Bill of Rights and reading about the drafting process of
the Declaration of Independence.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Compare and Contrast- Week 11
Virginia was the most largest and populous colony in within the 13 American colonies. A myriad number of the people living in this colony were farmers, planters, and merchants. A majority of the population were African American who worked in fields for their white masters. In this essay, I am going to compare and contrast the lives of Frethorne, Revel, and Farrer with the selections from William Byrd's diary.
James Revel was a poor unhappy transported felon who wrote about fourteen years of transportation in America. Revel was the only child and his parents were very poor. His parents sent him to school until he was thirteen years old. At the age of thirteen his parents, he was made a tinman. He ran away from his master and got with a bunch of thieves and starting robbing. Revel lacked nothing for he had clothes and food. After getting caught the first time he soon started robbing again and doing things that were very wild. Revel had started drinking with his robbing crew but soon they got caught again. Five of them were impeached and three of them were hung. Revel was one of the five that were tried but instead of being impeached or hung, he was given transported. Revel was quickly sent aboard a ship and out to shore he went. After sailing for seven weeks they were all put ashore in Virginia. They were all refreshed and clean so that they could appear decent to buyers. In Revel story of his life, he talks about how his master bought him and he was forced to wear chains night and day so that he could not escape. He was forced to wear a canvas shirt and trowsers. He could not wear shoes or stockings. He worked in the field from day break until the sun setted in the evening. They had to work for their masters six days a week and produce food on the seventh day. Revel did soon meet another master that was willing to put him on a ship to send him back home if he behaved and the master did just that.
In Frethorne's experiences of an indentured servent, he gives us first hand accounts of his life. Frethorne tells us that he got off a ship and had never ate anything but peas and loblollie. They had to work hard in order to eat. They came in packs of twenty and half of them were dead. The treatment they received was horrible. Within every hour they at least two more of them had died. They lived their life in fear was in a constant battle with their masters. The only clothes he had was a poor suit, two rags, one pair of shoes, one stocking, one cap and two collars. In this letter to this father, Frethorne mentions how there talks about when they go to Jamestown and how they are unloading and loading ships until midnight sometimes. In this letter, you can feel the cry of Frethorne as he misses his family and wants to come back home.
Farrer gives us first hand accounts of the way they lived in the middle colonial period. They had all kinds of fruits, meats, and vegetables. The passengers would be shipped home in 20 to 30 days. There are ships that bring commodities such as clothes, stockings, and linens. They have several churches. In the middle colonial period, the passengers of the ships are more healthier, live longer, and are provided with the necessities that they need to live a healthy life.
In the Diary of William Byrd II, his life was pretty much the same everyday. He ate nothing but beef and danced. It seems as if they have more leisure time because on some days they play billards and have dinner with other people. The life that he lives is more luxurious than the lives of Frethorne, Revel, and Farrer. His schedule was consistent every morning he prayed at got up between 4 and 6 o'clock and thanked God. It seems like he is a very Godly person but he still treated his slaves like the others treated them. He beated them and punished them for things like going to bed early and shutting him out. The Diary of William Byrd shows the life of the Masters and how they treated their slaves.
The lives of Revel, Frethorne's, and Fareer were very different from the lives of William Byrd II. According to his Diary it seem like he lived the life that Revel and Frethorne wanted. There really wasn't a difference in the lives of Farrer and Byrd to me as they both lived great lives. Revel and Frethorne's lives were more horrible and traumatizing. Byrd was actually a master so therefore he got the other end of the stick. He didn't know how it felt to be a slave or work for someone else. Reading each of these selections showed me the view of their lives from their prospective and how as time progressed there was a big difference.
James Revel was a poor unhappy transported felon who wrote about fourteen years of transportation in America. Revel was the only child and his parents were very poor. His parents sent him to school until he was thirteen years old. At the age of thirteen his parents, he was made a tinman. He ran away from his master and got with a bunch of thieves and starting robbing. Revel lacked nothing for he had clothes and food. After getting caught the first time he soon started robbing again and doing things that were very wild. Revel had started drinking with his robbing crew but soon they got caught again. Five of them were impeached and three of them were hung. Revel was one of the five that were tried but instead of being impeached or hung, he was given transported. Revel was quickly sent aboard a ship and out to shore he went. After sailing for seven weeks they were all put ashore in Virginia. They were all refreshed and clean so that they could appear decent to buyers. In Revel story of his life, he talks about how his master bought him and he was forced to wear chains night and day so that he could not escape. He was forced to wear a canvas shirt and trowsers. He could not wear shoes or stockings. He worked in the field from day break until the sun setted in the evening. They had to work for their masters six days a week and produce food on the seventh day. Revel did soon meet another master that was willing to put him on a ship to send him back home if he behaved and the master did just that.
In Frethorne's experiences of an indentured servent, he gives us first hand accounts of his life. Frethorne tells us that he got off a ship and had never ate anything but peas and loblollie. They had to work hard in order to eat. They came in packs of twenty and half of them were dead. The treatment they received was horrible. Within every hour they at least two more of them had died. They lived their life in fear was in a constant battle with their masters. The only clothes he had was a poor suit, two rags, one pair of shoes, one stocking, one cap and two collars. In this letter to this father, Frethorne mentions how there talks about when they go to Jamestown and how they are unloading and loading ships until midnight sometimes. In this letter, you can feel the cry of Frethorne as he misses his family and wants to come back home.
Farrer gives us first hand accounts of the way they lived in the middle colonial period. They had all kinds of fruits, meats, and vegetables. The passengers would be shipped home in 20 to 30 days. There are ships that bring commodities such as clothes, stockings, and linens. They have several churches. In the middle colonial period, the passengers of the ships are more healthier, live longer, and are provided with the necessities that they need to live a healthy life.
In the Diary of William Byrd II, his life was pretty much the same everyday. He ate nothing but beef and danced. It seems as if they have more leisure time because on some days they play billards and have dinner with other people. The life that he lives is more luxurious than the lives of Frethorne, Revel, and Farrer. His schedule was consistent every morning he prayed at got up between 4 and 6 o'clock and thanked God. It seems like he is a very Godly person but he still treated his slaves like the others treated them. He beated them and punished them for things like going to bed early and shutting him out. The Diary of William Byrd shows the life of the Masters and how they treated their slaves.
The lives of Revel, Frethorne's, and Fareer were very different from the lives of William Byrd II. According to his Diary it seem like he lived the life that Revel and Frethorne wanted. There really wasn't a difference in the lives of Farrer and Byrd to me as they both lived great lives. Revel and Frethorne's lives were more horrible and traumatizing. Byrd was actually a master so therefore he got the other end of the stick. He didn't know how it felt to be a slave or work for someone else. Reading each of these selections showed me the view of their lives from their prospective and how as time progressed there was a big difference.
Monday, November 12, 2012
20 Virtues-Week 8
1. Ambition: The desire to be successful
2. Forgiveness: To be able to cease anger or bad feelings against someone
3. Honesty: Telling the truth
4. Focus: Concentration
5. Trust: Having confidence in others
6.Righteousness: Holiness
7. Service: Work done to benefit others
8. Hope: Having the desire that something will be fulfilled
9. Contentment: Being satisfied with certain situations
10. Discipline: Keeping Self-Control
11. Flexibility: Adapting to change
12. Gratitude: Being thankful
13. Industry: Hardworking
14. Generosity: Giving freely
15. Love: Feeling of affection toward someone of something
16. Perseverance: Being persistent
17. Strength: Exerting force
18. Tolerance: Tending to withstand or put up with something
19. Wisdom: Knowledge
20. Trustworthiness: Reliable
2. Forgiveness: To be able to cease anger or bad feelings against someone
3. Honesty: Telling the truth
4. Focus: Concentration
5. Trust: Having confidence in others
6.Righteousness: Holiness
7. Service: Work done to benefit others
8. Hope: Having the desire that something will be fulfilled
9. Contentment: Being satisfied with certain situations
10. Discipline: Keeping Self-Control
11. Flexibility: Adapting to change
12. Gratitude: Being thankful
13. Industry: Hardworking
14. Generosity: Giving freely
15. Love: Feeling of affection toward someone of something
16. Perseverance: Being persistent
17. Strength: Exerting force
18. Tolerance: Tending to withstand or put up with something
19. Wisdom: Knowledge
20. Trustworthiness: Reliable
Monday, October 29, 2012
Learning Reflection 10/29- Week 6
In
English 241, I have learned a lot of about American English in depth. I
have also gained an understanding of the literature through the
mini-lectures that are provided online by Professor Brandon. Some of the
readings that were assigned each week not only prepared me for that
week but it also answered questions that I had from taking studying
American Literature in high school. Before I enrolled in this class I
had flashbacks from high school. I knew that in high school American
Literature was a hard subject for me to understand but I knew I wanted
to learn more about American Literature. I was a little scared to take
this course online because of the hard time I had previously but I have
come to the realization that a teachers technique of teaching can make a
very big difference.
I have completed all of the assigned essays. I was only late once completing the essay due to personal issues. In some of the essays, I have incorporated ideas, quotes, from literature and committee responses. I also sometimes go online and find quotes and quote them in my discussion or essays. To ensure that I continue to complete my essays on time I will make sure that I check the site as often as possible and start working on it early. I have participated in my COC’s forum discussions each week. I often times make an initial post and then try to go back and check for responses. I just found out that there is an option where I can choose to have an notification sent to me when someone responds. Some actions I can take in improving my performance in the COC’s discussion is responding early and taking the time to respond to my committee members. The advice that I would offer to my COC’s members to make discussions more enjoyable would probably be something that I need to work on as well which is to reply early so that we could keep a discussion going.
Every time I go to check the assignments are due I read the class announcement and background articles because they are very helpful in preparing me for the assignments and also serve as a mini-lecture. As far as incorporating the literature, your posts, background material, and committee writings into my work I do not do that often. A matter of fact I rarely do that. For the next half of the class, I will start to incorporate all of those things into my writings. As I have always been told in high school we learn from each other. The grade I hope to earn in this class is an A. The actions I plan to take to make sure that I receive that grade is getting my work in on time, re-reading the syllabus and making sure that I am doing all of the things that I am asked to do.
I have completed all of the assigned essays. I was only late once completing the essay due to personal issues. In some of the essays, I have incorporated ideas, quotes, from literature and committee responses. I also sometimes go online and find quotes and quote them in my discussion or essays. To ensure that I continue to complete my essays on time I will make sure that I check the site as often as possible and start working on it early. I have participated in my COC’s forum discussions each week. I often times make an initial post and then try to go back and check for responses. I just found out that there is an option where I can choose to have an notification sent to me when someone responds. Some actions I can take in improving my performance in the COC’s discussion is responding early and taking the time to respond to my committee members. The advice that I would offer to my COC’s members to make discussions more enjoyable would probably be something that I need to work on as well which is to reply early so that we could keep a discussion going.
Every time I go to check the assignments are due I read the class announcement and background articles because they are very helpful in preparing me for the assignments and also serve as a mini-lecture. As far as incorporating the literature, your posts, background material, and committee writings into my work I do not do that often. A matter of fact I rarely do that. For the next half of the class, I will start to incorporate all of those things into my writings. As I have always been told in high school we learn from each other. The grade I hope to earn in this class is an A. The actions I plan to take to make sure that I receive that grade is getting my work in on time, re-reading the syllabus and making sure that I am doing all of the things that I am asked to do.
Week 5 Assignment
Human Rights has been an issue in this world for a long time. Human Rights are rights that we all have equally. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal...”(Declaration of Independence). With that being said no one should be treated differently because of their gender, race, or any other status. The government must protect and refrain from interfering with human rights. As individuals, we all are entitled to our own rights and we must respect the rights of others. The inequality and treatment that some receive because of their status is incompatible with the belief that all are created equal.
Gender inequality is the unfairness towards a person based on their gender. Gender inequality is becoming a major issue in today’s society. It is not only applying to women but it also applies to men but in most cases it is more common towards women. Many women in so many different countries including the United States suffer from gender inequality. The women that are being affected the most are immigrants, women of color, and women that are poor. In this day and time, that doesn’t mean that all of the other women are exempt. Most women in the United States do not receive the same pay as men or even being promoted to a higher position because of their gender. If all are created equal how come women cannot receive the same pay as men and how come they cannot be promoted to higher positions.
The discrimination against individuals based on their immigration status is a violation of the human rights. The immigration law such as the one in Arizona will tear up families and cause problems within the community. The law in Arizona requires individuals to carry proof of registration with them at all times. I understand that the government is only trying to reduce the amount of illegal immigrants but there has to be another way to do it without interfering with human rights. With the government having the right to deny legal rights to the vulnerable is not fair. In most cases, non-citizens are the first and most often the target when it comes to government abuse.
There are beliefs that this country stand upon but do not live up to. The government is suppose to protect and fight for our rights. The government is responsible for our human rights as well as the rights that are guaranteed to us in the United States Constitution. I was reading an article by a law professor and he talked about how the government is control of our freedom and rights. They can tell us what to wear, what to do and how to do it things. “All men are created equal that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights..” (Declaration of Independence). Everybody is suppose to be treated the same because all men are equal no one should have be judged based on the color of their skin or their gender. Those are the kinds of things that prove that we are not truly living up to the beliefs of this country.
Gender inequality is the unfairness towards a person based on their gender. Gender inequality is becoming a major issue in today’s society. It is not only applying to women but it also applies to men but in most cases it is more common towards women. Many women in so many different countries including the United States suffer from gender inequality. The women that are being affected the most are immigrants, women of color, and women that are poor. In this day and time, that doesn’t mean that all of the other women are exempt. Most women in the United States do not receive the same pay as men or even being promoted to a higher position because of their gender. If all are created equal how come women cannot receive the same pay as men and how come they cannot be promoted to higher positions.
The discrimination against individuals based on their immigration status is a violation of the human rights. The immigration law such as the one in Arizona will tear up families and cause problems within the community. The law in Arizona requires individuals to carry proof of registration with them at all times. I understand that the government is only trying to reduce the amount of illegal immigrants but there has to be another way to do it without interfering with human rights. With the government having the right to deny legal rights to the vulnerable is not fair. In most cases, non-citizens are the first and most often the target when it comes to government abuse.
There are beliefs that this country stand upon but do not live up to. The government is suppose to protect and fight for our rights. The government is responsible for our human rights as well as the rights that are guaranteed to us in the United States Constitution. I was reading an article by a law professor and he talked about how the government is control of our freedom and rights. They can tell us what to wear, what to do and how to do it things. “All men are created equal that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights..” (Declaration of Independence). Everybody is suppose to be treated the same because all men are equal no one should have be judged based on the color of their skin or their gender. Those are the kinds of things that prove that we are not truly living up to the beliefs of this country.
Monday, October 15, 2012
What I live for? - Week 4
In life, I have been constantly told by others that I must live my life to the fullest. No one can live my life for me and if I want the best for myself then I must work hard for it, is something that I remind myself of daily. There are specific things, ideas, and people that I need to make my life complete, engaged, and worthwhile. Living a full life to me means achieving my goals, doing the impossible or things that I have never done, and being successful in all that I do.
Achieving my goals is something that is very important to me. I have so many things that I want to do in life. The first goal I want to achieve is earning my Bachelors Degree in Business Administration. My second goal is to go back to school and get my Masters in Education. I also have plans of obtaining me a job working in the White House. Many people tell me that’s going to be impossible. Nothing is impossible! It’s not going to be easy but nothing in life is easy and things aren’t handed to us on a silver platter. I am willing to work hard and sacrifice in order to achieve all of my goals.
In December of 2011, was really when I woke up and realized that I got to live my life to the fullest because tomorrow isn’t promised. The death of my best friend in December of 2011 was an wake up call. I must get out, get involved, and live my life to the fullest. I must treat each day as if it was my last. Most importantly I have to get my life together.
My mother, sisters, and aunts are some of the people that I need in my life. These are the people who are there for me no matter what the situation may be. I can look to them for anything. They are my supporters, providers, and best friends. I don’t think I could have made it this far without them. These ladies have been my strength when I needed it and they are definitely women that I look up too.
I live to better myself. I make sure that I am the best in everything that I do. I want to be able to achieve my goals and make my family proud of me. I want to show others that it doesn’t matter where you come from, it’s where you’re going that matters. It’s possible to come from the bottom and rise to the top. I live to be on the top. I want nothing but the best for myself. If I want the best, then I must be the best. I must think outside of the box and do the extraordinary. “To whom much is given, much is required” is a quote that helps me along the way when the road ahead is looking weary. Most definitely I know I live to be SUCCESSFUL!
Achieving my goals is something that is very important to me. I have so many things that I want to do in life. The first goal I want to achieve is earning my Bachelors Degree in Business Administration. My second goal is to go back to school and get my Masters in Education. I also have plans of obtaining me a job working in the White House. Many people tell me that’s going to be impossible. Nothing is impossible! It’s not going to be easy but nothing in life is easy and things aren’t handed to us on a silver platter. I am willing to work hard and sacrifice in order to achieve all of my goals.
In December of 2011, was really when I woke up and realized that I got to live my life to the fullest because tomorrow isn’t promised. The death of my best friend in December of 2011 was an wake up call. I must get out, get involved, and live my life to the fullest. I must treat each day as if it was my last. Most importantly I have to get my life together.
My mother, sisters, and aunts are some of the people that I need in my life. These are the people who are there for me no matter what the situation may be. I can look to them for anything. They are my supporters, providers, and best friends. I don’t think I could have made it this far without them. These ladies have been my strength when I needed it and they are definitely women that I look up too.
I live to better myself. I make sure that I am the best in everything that I do. I want to be able to achieve my goals and make my family proud of me. I want to show others that it doesn’t matter where you come from, it’s where you’re going that matters. It’s possible to come from the bottom and rise to the top. I live to be on the top. I want nothing but the best for myself. If I want the best, then I must be the best. I must think outside of the box and do the extraordinary. “To whom much is given, much is required” is a quote that helps me along the way when the road ahead is looking weary. Most definitely I know I live to be SUCCESSFUL!
Learning Reflection - Week 4
I have learned so much in a three weeks time span. The first thing I learned was how to navigate the weebly website. I have never had that used anything besides blackboard. This was something that was new to me. In the second week, we were assigned to read “What is an American by Crevecoeurs. After reading Crevecoeurs, we then had to compose our own essay of What being an American means to us. Something that I learned from Crevecoeurs, my classmates, and I had in common when it came to realizing “What is an American?” is that you do not have to be from America to be considered to be an American. In Week 3, the major reading was “Self-Reliance” by Emerson. For that week, we had to compose an essay about our best self. I got the chance to actually write about what makes me who I am and how to define who my best self is. I also learned about sublime. A sublime is an intense moment of being overwhelmed with feelings. An example of an sublime could be a religious moment or the death of a family member. In the discussion post, I wrote about when I got saved as my sublime moment. Within the last three weeks we have read several readings but the one that stuck with me the most is “Walking” by Thoreau. Reading “Walking” and then going out and actually taking a walk and engaging with nature helped me to appreciate nature so much more. I go walking a lot on that same trail and on that walk I saw things that I had never seen before. It was very peaceful and relaxing. Thoreau “Walking” essay was a guide for me while I was walking on the trail. In his essay, he explained that you should not bring the worries of the world in the woods with you or you want get to enjoy the whole experience.
In this course, there wasn’t a time where I felt distant. I never had a teacher that knew how to lecture online. With every online class that I have taken usually you have to teach yourself but in this case Dr. Brandon makes you feel like you are in class. He gives online lectures. This is definitely by far the best online class that I have had. The in-depth explanations of everything is definitely something that has helped me thus far. And the fact that Dr. Brandon is always available and make sure that we have several ways of contacting him with questions. He is always there to assist his students. Thus far, there really wasn’t an action taken that was confusing or puzzling to me. Something about the reading or discussion that surprised me is how much I am actually learning from reading the essays of Thoreau and Emerson. I had read some of these essays in high school but now I am finding a more profound interest in them. It’s really hard for me to get the reading done but with most of the reading I try to find a way to relate to it to get it done. I know that in order to gain an understanding of what is trying to be taught I must get it done. I can’t wait until Professor Brandon provides ways to be able to get the reading done and connect with it because I know it’s not something that I will be able to use in this class but in all of my classes.
In this course, there wasn’t a time where I felt distant. I never had a teacher that knew how to lecture online. With every online class that I have taken usually you have to teach yourself but in this case Dr. Brandon makes you feel like you are in class. He gives online lectures. This is definitely by far the best online class that I have had. The in-depth explanations of everything is definitely something that has helped me thus far. And the fact that Dr. Brandon is always available and make sure that we have several ways of contacting him with questions. He is always there to assist his students. Thus far, there really wasn’t an action taken that was confusing or puzzling to me. Something about the reading or discussion that surprised me is how much I am actually learning from reading the essays of Thoreau and Emerson. I had read some of these essays in high school but now I am finding a more profound interest in them. It’s really hard for me to get the reading done but with most of the reading I try to find a way to relate to it to get it done. I know that in order to gain an understanding of what is trying to be taught I must get it done. I can’t wait until Professor Brandon provides ways to be able to get the reading done and connect with it because I know it’s not something that I will be able to use in this class but in all of my classes.
Extra Credit-Take A Hike
This walk at Three Lakes Park helped me to realized that when I am walking I am so busy walking in a fast pace, that I don't stop to engage and enjoy nature. It was really beautiful from the leaves falling off the trees, the fish jumping up on top of the water, the squirrels runnning around, the birds chirping, and so much more. It made actually appreciate nature. I really don't like bugs and I had fight off some nets but besides that it was wonderful experience.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Who your best self is?- Week 3
In life, I have experienced many ups and downs. Those are the moments that have helped me in discovering who my best self is. When I think about being my best self, I think about the times that was most challenging to me because that was when I had no other choice but to bring the best out of me. My best self is strong, responsible, and ambitious.
With life comes daily problems. In our lives we have trials and tribulations. Trials and tribulations come with a purpose and a reward. It seems like everyday I am faced with a problem or situation but it’s those times when I have to be strong. About 10 months ago, I lost a very dear and close friend. I felt like a piece of me was missing for a long time. I cried almost everyday for months but I knew that God makes no mistakes. It was rough for a long time dealing with her death but I knew I had to let go and just be strong and know that the hard times that come my way are just a way to test my strength.
I have learned that you must take accountability for your own self. Being responsible is a moral principle that not only I learned but I was taught. I was raised in a household where we all had responsibilities. I am truly glad that my mother gave me responsibilities at an early age because it has helped me in becoming the responsible young lady that I am today. Within my church, I am often called upon to do certain things. When individuals know that they can trust you and that you are responsible they will make you their first contact. In my classes, I try to make sure that all o my work is turned in on time and that my grades are nothing but the best because I know that I am responsible for turning my work in on time and making sure that my grades are where they should be. I am very reliable and take accountability for my own actions. As a young adult, I have came to the conclusion that I am responsible for myself.
Everyday I encourage myself to set goals and achieve them. I have many goals and expectations for my life. I have my short-term goals and my long-term goals. My goals can range from getting homework done for the week to obtaining me a job working for the government. I am very determined to succeed in everything that I do. My mom always encourages me to be the best in all that I do. I never settle for less and my best is what I always give.
I have found my self to be a strong, responsible, and ambitious young lady. I have came to the conclusion that I am stronger than what I thought I was. I am also more responsible and have the desire and determination to be successful in life and in all that I do. The only person that knows who is your best self is you. After all, nobody knows you better than you.
With life comes daily problems. In our lives we have trials and tribulations. Trials and tribulations come with a purpose and a reward. It seems like everyday I am faced with a problem or situation but it’s those times when I have to be strong. About 10 months ago, I lost a very dear and close friend. I felt like a piece of me was missing for a long time. I cried almost everyday for months but I knew that God makes no mistakes. It was rough for a long time dealing with her death but I knew I had to let go and just be strong and know that the hard times that come my way are just a way to test my strength.
I have learned that you must take accountability for your own self. Being responsible is a moral principle that not only I learned but I was taught. I was raised in a household where we all had responsibilities. I am truly glad that my mother gave me responsibilities at an early age because it has helped me in becoming the responsible young lady that I am today. Within my church, I am often called upon to do certain things. When individuals know that they can trust you and that you are responsible they will make you their first contact. In my classes, I try to make sure that all o my work is turned in on time and that my grades are nothing but the best because I know that I am responsible for turning my work in on time and making sure that my grades are where they should be. I am very reliable and take accountability for my own actions. As a young adult, I have came to the conclusion that I am responsible for myself.
Everyday I encourage myself to set goals and achieve them. I have many goals and expectations for my life. I have my short-term goals and my long-term goals. My goals can range from getting homework done for the week to obtaining me a job working for the government. I am very determined to succeed in everything that I do. My mom always encourages me to be the best in all that I do. I never settle for less and my best is what I always give.
I have found my self to be a strong, responsible, and ambitious young lady. I have came to the conclusion that I am stronger than what I thought I was. I am also more responsible and have the desire and determination to be successful in life and in all that I do. The only person that knows who is your best self is you. After all, nobody knows you better than you.
Monday, October 1, 2012
"What is an American?"- Week 2
An
American is an individual that is a native of North or South America.
American is a word derived from America. In the present-day, it refers
to someone who is a citizen of the United States of America. The word
"American" is often used when the President of the United States is
making speeches and on other occasions. In the 16th centuries, the word
stood for the native inhabitants of the new world. An "American" is a
very broad word as the word refers to citizens of the United States but
it describes a large numbers of individuals.
Americans cannot be defined on by the color of their skin, their ethnicities, the language they speak, their culture, or religion. Americans come in different forms, shapes, and sizes. Americans can be Native Americans, Latinos, Caucasians, African Americans, Asians, Middle Eastern, and the list continues. Individuals who are "Americans" also speak several different languages such as English, Spanish, French, Russian, German, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Arabic, Indonesian, Portuguese and the list continues. It is impossible to classify an individual as an American by their religion or culture because not all Americans worship the same leader or have the same beliefs. As Americans we live in a very diverse world.
The most essential thing that Americans possess is freedom. When I think about people that come to America from all of these different countries. I ask myself why do they want to come here. It was not until one day I had a teacher from Africa that explained to me that he wanted to come here because he wanted freedom and he wanted his child to have a better life. As Americans we have political and individual freedom. With political freedom Americans have the right to participate in the government through voting and acting as a representative. Americans also have their individual rights which are guaranteed in the first ten amendments also known as the Bill of Rights. "Here man is free as he ought to be..." (Heath 962). We have the freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of press, freedom of petition, and the right to assemble. Our freedoms play an important role in society.
Although as an American the most essential thing we possess is freedom it's not all about the freedom. To me a genuine American is someone that helps one another. To be American is to be able to unite as one regardless of the culture, religion, or whatever the difference may be.It is about being there for one another in their times of needs. The true test of being an American was tested on 9/11. It was that day that thousands of Americans came together in unity lending a helping hand. An American is not just an individual that lives in America. Americans are individuals that come together to make a difference.
Americans are individuals that knows in order to receive the best in life it requires exertion. That means you must have effort and action. Americans work hard to get the things that they get. Americans are individuals who can fall and get back up. For example, many Americans have suffered from this economy. Many Americans have lost businesses and homes. As Americans we fall but we do not stay down. Americans take the initiative. When Americans can not find work, they create work. Americans are self-starters.
Americans stand up for what they believe in. Not all, but there are some Americans that will speak up about things that they are against. Americans fight for their rights. People think that being an American just means that you are an official citizen of the United States but being an American is more than just being a citizen. “Here individuals of all nations are melted into a new race of men, whose labours and posterity will one day cause great changes in the world” (Heath 963). An American brings change to their community/world.
As an American I can choose my own religion. I do not have to serve the same religious leader that others serve. I can choose my own occupation. I can be different. I can have my own beliefs.I can go to school and receive an education. I do not have to live the way that others live. I am able to vote for the person I want to be the head of my government. I can speak up and change the things I do not like in my community/world. Being an American gives me a voice!
Americans cannot be defined on by the color of their skin, their ethnicities, the language they speak, their culture, or religion. Americans come in different forms, shapes, and sizes. Americans can be Native Americans, Latinos, Caucasians, African Americans, Asians, Middle Eastern, and the list continues. Individuals who are "Americans" also speak several different languages such as English, Spanish, French, Russian, German, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Arabic, Indonesian, Portuguese and the list continues. It is impossible to classify an individual as an American by their religion or culture because not all Americans worship the same leader or have the same beliefs. As Americans we live in a very diverse world.
The most essential thing that Americans possess is freedom. When I think about people that come to America from all of these different countries. I ask myself why do they want to come here. It was not until one day I had a teacher from Africa that explained to me that he wanted to come here because he wanted freedom and he wanted his child to have a better life. As Americans we have political and individual freedom. With political freedom Americans have the right to participate in the government through voting and acting as a representative. Americans also have their individual rights which are guaranteed in the first ten amendments also known as the Bill of Rights. "Here man is free as he ought to be..." (Heath 962). We have the freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of press, freedom of petition, and the right to assemble. Our freedoms play an important role in society.
Although as an American the most essential thing we possess is freedom it's not all about the freedom. To me a genuine American is someone that helps one another. To be American is to be able to unite as one regardless of the culture, religion, or whatever the difference may be.It is about being there for one another in their times of needs. The true test of being an American was tested on 9/11. It was that day that thousands of Americans came together in unity lending a helping hand. An American is not just an individual that lives in America. Americans are individuals that come together to make a difference.
Americans are individuals that knows in order to receive the best in life it requires exertion. That means you must have effort and action. Americans work hard to get the things that they get. Americans are individuals who can fall and get back up. For example, many Americans have suffered from this economy. Many Americans have lost businesses and homes. As Americans we fall but we do not stay down. Americans take the initiative. When Americans can not find work, they create work. Americans are self-starters.
Americans stand up for what they believe in. Not all, but there are some Americans that will speak up about things that they are against. Americans fight for their rights. People think that being an American just means that you are an official citizen of the United States but being an American is more than just being a citizen. “Here individuals of all nations are melted into a new race of men, whose labours and posterity will one day cause great changes in the world” (Heath 963). An American brings change to their community/world.
As an American I can choose my own religion. I do not have to serve the same religious leader that others serve. I can choose my own occupation. I can be different. I can have my own beliefs.I can go to school and receive an education. I do not have to live the way that others live. I am able to vote for the person I want to be the head of my government. I can speak up and change the things I do not like in my community/world. Being an American gives me a voice!
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