Nick Mari
I know we haven't been together for long,
But i can truly feel a special bond.
So here I am, trying to say how I feel,
Wondering to myself, is this real?
I know I'm not perfect and neither are you,
But when we're together, I know what to do.
What we have is special and I love it,
Because who else could make a better fit?
We're both outgoing and just crazy,
But we can also be very lazy.
We were both born on May 21st,
The day my G-ma said she was cursed.
Right now, I feel like I'm in the high life,
Thinking some day I'll make you my wife.
Because right now, you are my world,
And I would be lost, without my girl.
Because I'm always thinking of you, like my savior,
I'm really trying to be on my best behavior.
I can't afford much and I can't lose you,
I don't know what I'd do without my boo.
Sometimes I just stop and stare,
Thinking about how you could care.
For someone like me,
I wonder what you see?
But I just want to say,
I wouldn't have it any other way.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Love is Freedom
Jarrett Callahan
The trees block the sun-rays from your eyes
as you tell me good-bye.
And because you’re speechless ,
I know it’s over by the frown upon your face.
Suddenly, there’s a bang.
My heart has just been shot out of my chest,
And I stumble to the ground
Without a fathom of what went wrong.
Now, I lie there heartless,
Crying for the world to end,
Wondering why she’s gone.
I pick myself up and walk inside,
Crying with blood shot eyes.
I stumble to my room,
Remembering just two nights before.
You said those three little words
That everyone adores.
Now, I lie in bed.
Feeling so lifeless and dead,
And memories are all I have left
To remind me of you.
But the memory that hurts the most
Is the memory we first had
Walking together to your car,
But before we made it there, I stopped.
I looked you straight in the eyes
And didn’t say a word,
And you knew what I was thinking.
You slowly leaned in, as I did.
And from the moment our lips touched,
You were my addiction.
A drug that I could not escape.
I was hooked,
Hooked like a seven year old kid
Hooked on sweet-tarts.
I realized you broke my heart,
And I tried to efface the memories,
But nothing works
Because everything I do, reminds me of you.
I called you to have just one word,
But when I spoke,
I spoke in an outlandish voice,
And realized I had only one choice.
To give up on her
Because she’s not coming back.
So I lost hope,
But the only thing that matters to me
Is that she’s happy
Because when you love someone,
Eventually you have to set them free.
The Mother That Was Lost
Nick Mari
She brought me into the world and never left my side.
She was there for me when I wanted to run and hide.
I was a problem in school and mess up to everyone,
But in the eyes of my mother, I was just having fun.
She loved our family and did everything to keep it,
But my dad did not care; he would just "smack," give her another hit.
He showed how much he cared, which was him never trying.
Except for when he would drink, then he would be lying.
They would argue and fight throughout the entire night.
I do not know who he is, or why my mom liked him,
Bus she said he helped make me who I am.
She was the most uplifting person I ever knew.
Her attitude would just move you.
It did not matter what you did or hurled,
You could never make her lose it.
I was probably the worst kid in the world,
But she said she would never quit.
No matter what happened through the year
She would still show her cheer.
But as the years went by,
I felt a piece of her die.
Each day I would ask her how she was feeling.
How did I know that her insides were reeling?
She would put on a happy face
And say she was good.
She wanted me to remember my place
And be strong, and know where I stood.
She was like a favorite song I could hear all day long.
I can remember her long black hair
It was so beautiful you could not help but stare.
She was the queen of the house
And her inner flame could not be doused.
But on one faithful day back in December,
A shock went through me, which I remember.
She was very sick, yet she acted fine.
I heard the clock tick, and I saw the sign.
I ignored them all I knew she would keep fighting.
Until one day, I saw the writing.
They pulled me out of class and told me the news.
I could not understand them I was so confused.
But on January fourth she passed on.
A shot in the heart lost without a mom,
But two years I found out why.
God told me the reason she died.
It was as she said she wanted me to grow stronger
And through this realization I was sad no longer.
Blind
Reanne Wolff
Love is blind
To the heart and soul.
I'll never be able to tell
If our love will ever fail,
But I hold on.
Do I really love him?
That is when I realized,
Love is not blind
We just have our eyes closed.
He opened my eyes,
So now I see
The love I have for him
And
The love he has for me.
Though it may not always be
It's worth taking a chance
Of a broken heart
Or
A forever romance
The Impossible
Justin Zuczek
Once there was a toaster, he
Cooked bread so good that he was
Labeled a boaster, he never burned
Anything to a crisp, the owner had a lisp.
He accepted a piece of bread, shot it back out
At the man, as he dropped dead, lying in his own
Blood, the kitchen began to flood.
The cracks began to fill, which sent a chill, down my
Spine, but made the toaster feel fine, no one knew it
Was dangerous, that’s why it was strange to us.
No one believed us; they thought we were crazy, there was
No investigation, they were being lazy, but I saw it with my own
Eyes, I watched him drop with cries that could be heard from the skies.
Now I am being charged with murder, for nothing did I do, I’m just a sheep
Herder. I believe this is unfair, for Jesus has not yet answered my prayers, to let
Me out of this total mess, I promise I did not kill the man, this is just causing me stress.
Now I’m going to prison for years on end, so I fled the scene to a public place, where I Could try to blend, I think this is bull, no one would ever suspect a toaster, I looked to the Right and saw my face on a wanted poster.
Once there was a toaster, he
Cooked bread so good that he was
Labeled a boaster, he never burned
Anything to a crisp, the owner had a lisp.
He accepted a piece of bread, shot it back out
At the man, as he dropped dead, lying in his own
Blood, the kitchen began to flood.
The cracks began to fill, which sent a chill, down my
Spine, but made the toaster feel fine, no one knew it
Was dangerous, that’s why it was strange to us.
No one believed us; they thought we were crazy, there was
No investigation, they were being lazy, but I saw it with my own
Eyes, I watched him drop with cries that could be heard from the skies.
Now I am being charged with murder, for nothing did I do, I’m just a sheep
Herder. I believe this is unfair, for Jesus has not yet answered my prayers, to let
Me out of this total mess, I promise I did not kill the man, this is just causing me stress.
Now I’m going to prison for years on end, so I fled the scene to a public place, where I Could try to blend, I think this is bull, no one would ever suspect a toaster, I looked to the Right and saw my face on a wanted poster.
Why
Christina Edwards
Why can I not get over you?
Why are you still in my dreams?
Why are you all I think about?
After you hurt me so bad, and shattered my heart into a billion little pieces
You did not even look back to see if I would be okay
You could have cared less until you wanted to, and thought you were going to lose me for good
How could you just turn your back on me and push me out of your life?
I miss you so bad that it kills me inside
I sit in my room at night crying and wishing things would turn back to normal
I just want to kill myself because I know things will never be the same again
That I’m just wasting my time wishing and dreaming about you
When I close my eyes you are all I see
I wonder if you will ever get out of my head because I do not want you there.
Just let go of my heart and set me free like the dove we sat off together that one day on the beach.
Why can I not get over you?
Why are you still in my dreams?
Why are you all I think about?
After you hurt me so bad, and shattered my heart into a billion little pieces
You did not even look back to see if I would be okay
You could have cared less until you wanted to, and thought you were going to lose me for good
How could you just turn your back on me and push me out of your life?
I miss you so bad that it kills me inside
I sit in my room at night crying and wishing things would turn back to normal
I just want to kill myself because I know things will never be the same again
That I’m just wasting my time wishing and dreaming about you
When I close my eyes you are all I see
I wonder if you will ever get out of my head because I do not want you there.
Just let go of my heart and set me free like the dove we sat off together that one day on the beach.
This Angel is Mine
Chante Gore
Pushing, blaring, and tugging with all your might.
You finally had me; you said "it was a painful fight!"
The doctor tenderly handed me to you.
From the moment you held me, I knew your love was true.
My eyes finally opened for the first time.
I looked at you; I could not be happier this angel was mine.
We reached home with all three of my brothers,
Quickly turning into my overprotective mothers.
Every night, you patted me to sleep.
Watching me all through the night, I felt so safe I did not make a "peep".
From a youth to an outgoing teenager.
Our relationship became stranger.
Constantly getting agitated at you for foolish reasons,
You still were my superlative angel; you still kept pleasing.
Appreciating you was never on my mind,
Putting all my angel’s emotions behind.
Then finally one day I disdained you.
Everything you told me long ago was true.
My mistake turned into a lesson learned.
Your ire pulverized through our house roof, but of course, my angel was still concerned.
Our disputes became unbearable.
My heartfelt lacerated and terrible.
Even though I felt that way,
I still argued with my angel day after day.
I told myself to change.
It wounded me thought of the being estranged.
We talk about our differences and our relationship had ascended like a steep mountain,
With such cherished memories cascading just as a fountain.
Painting our nails, having late night talks, and watching movies,
We spending time truly moved me.
I realized my angel was my confidant. Every time I was in a battle, my angel would be right behind me like a shadow.
My angel was there for me all along, but I was blind to see it, It took me so long.
My love for my angel continued to bury me with smiles filled bliss.
When I did not feel love you always pecked me with a loving kiss.
My angel you taught me to be thankful for what I comprise.
No materialistic items, you are my prize.
One day you might leave me my angel and I would not bare if you were gone;
Especially, if I treated you this wrong.
Our Father from above gave me to you for Fate will only know,
How he made you for me to help me blossom and grow.
Now. I know I should always appreciate everything you do, even if I want to decline.
As I still look at you, I could not be happier this angel was mine.
Pushing, blaring, and tugging with all your might.
You finally had me; you said "it was a painful fight!"
The doctor tenderly handed me to you.
From the moment you held me, I knew your love was true.
My eyes finally opened for the first time.
I looked at you; I could not be happier this angel was mine.
We reached home with all three of my brothers,
Quickly turning into my overprotective mothers.
Every night, you patted me to sleep.
Watching me all through the night, I felt so safe I did not make a "peep".
From a youth to an outgoing teenager.
Our relationship became stranger.
Constantly getting agitated at you for foolish reasons,
You still were my superlative angel; you still kept pleasing.
Appreciating you was never on my mind,
Putting all my angel’s emotions behind.
Then finally one day I disdained you.
Everything you told me long ago was true.
My mistake turned into a lesson learned.
Your ire pulverized through our house roof, but of course, my angel was still concerned.
Our disputes became unbearable.
My heartfelt lacerated and terrible.
Even though I felt that way,
I still argued with my angel day after day.
I told myself to change.
It wounded me thought of the being estranged.
We talk about our differences and our relationship had ascended like a steep mountain,
With such cherished memories cascading just as a fountain.
Painting our nails, having late night talks, and watching movies,
We spending time truly moved me.
I realized my angel was my confidant. Every time I was in a battle, my angel would be right behind me like a shadow.
My angel was there for me all along, but I was blind to see it, It took me so long.
My love for my angel continued to bury me with smiles filled bliss.
When I did not feel love you always pecked me with a loving kiss.
My angel you taught me to be thankful for what I comprise.
No materialistic items, you are my prize.
One day you might leave me my angel and I would not bare if you were gone;
Especially, if I treated you this wrong.
Our Father from above gave me to you for Fate will only know,
How he made you for me to help me blossom and grow.
Now. I know I should always appreciate everything you do, even if I want to decline.
As I still look at you, I could not be happier this angel was mine.
Letter to Me (Dakota)
Dakota Fields
Dear Dakota,
I know you are probably a pretty good looking dude because I am too. Here is some advice for you when you get older. Since you are a good looking kid, you need to watch out for the ladies. Remember to treat them with respect so you do not get a big scary dad at your door step with a shot gun in your face. Another thing, do not disrespect your dad, because he will ring your neck and whip you with the belt. Make sure you do your work so people will think you are smart. This is a way you can talk to girls because they will ask you for help. Another reason they may talk to you is because you look like a sexy model. Make sure you visit your grandma because she might not be there for you when you need her. Also, make sure you spend a lot of time with your grandpa because he will pass away when you are nine years old. Volunteer to mow the grass to because you will get big bucks. Also, mosquito tag with your grandpa; it is a great game. You probably already have three best friends, and you should hang out with them a lot. Be sure you are nice to your brother and sister, unless you just want to mess with them, either way works. When you start driving you need to get a truck with a five inch lift kit on it with some 36 inch tires. Then ladies will be all over you. Remember to be smart though and do not get caught speeding. If you do, your dad will make you go get a switch so he can teach you a lesson.
Dear Dakota,
I know you are probably a pretty good looking dude because I am too. Here is some advice for you when you get older. Since you are a good looking kid, you need to watch out for the ladies. Remember to treat them with respect so you do not get a big scary dad at your door step with a shot gun in your face. Another thing, do not disrespect your dad, because he will ring your neck and whip you with the belt. Make sure you do your work so people will think you are smart. This is a way you can talk to girls because they will ask you for help. Another reason they may talk to you is because you look like a sexy model. Make sure you visit your grandma because she might not be there for you when you need her. Also, make sure you spend a lot of time with your grandpa because he will pass away when you are nine years old. Volunteer to mow the grass to because you will get big bucks. Also, mosquito tag with your grandpa; it is a great game. You probably already have three best friends, and you should hang out with them a lot. Be sure you are nice to your brother and sister, unless you just want to mess with them, either way works. When you start driving you need to get a truck with a five inch lift kit on it with some 36 inch tires. Then ladies will be all over you. Remember to be smart though and do not get caught speeding. If you do, your dad will make you go get a switch so he can teach you a lesson.
Letter to Me (Cassie)
Dear Cassie,
At age five I would say you do not have a lot to go through. You really do not have to worry about anything because you are only the age of five. You have to take life as it comes and make the wrong things right. Do what you think is right, and don’t ever let anyone tell you something you do is wrong when it’s right. Do not ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do anything. As you grow up things will get harder, and harder and you will get mad and want to give up but don’t quit, keep trying. You’re going to go through deaths in your family, and someone really close may die. Your step brother will be in a tragic accident, but you can’t let that slow you down and don’t hold his mom responsible; although, that may be true. You will move in with your mom during summer break of 2006. You will still see your dad until Memorial Day of 2007, but a tragic gunshot and it will make it seem like you have lost something important. You will learn that they’re is things you don’t know about your dad. You will, of course, be scared on your first day of Loris Middle School because you moved from one state to another, but you will have many friends once you begin talking to them. You will make great friends with this girl, but she will betray you, but you will become friends with someone else. Then, in May of 2009 you will go to your first prom in eighth grade, and you will dance, have fun, and make memories because you know that you may not see some of your great friends next year. Then in ninth grade instead of going to Loris High School, you will go to ECHS (Early College High School). You may feel nervous the first day because you don’t know anyone because only a few Loris people go there in ninth grade. You may think you are going to only be friends with are people from Loris, but all you have to do is talk to people and get to know them. You will make great friends with six people, and they will be your best friends. You will have more friends, but these will be the ones who won’t stab you in the back and tell lies. You will learn that your grandma has been diagnosed with cancer and does not have long to live. You may think “I can’t live without her.” “She’s my inspiration and she’s part of my heart, but you can’t let that crush your dreams. She wouldn’t want you to let go of them just because of that.” You will finally become best friends with Andrew, after hating him for what he did to your friend but forgiving him. I hope you make the right decisions.
Sincerely,
Cassie
At age five I would say you do not have a lot to go through. You really do not have to worry about anything because you are only the age of five. You have to take life as it comes and make the wrong things right. Do what you think is right, and don’t ever let anyone tell you something you do is wrong when it’s right. Do not ever let anyone tell you that you can’t do anything. As you grow up things will get harder, and harder and you will get mad and want to give up but don’t quit, keep trying. You’re going to go through deaths in your family, and someone really close may die. Your step brother will be in a tragic accident, but you can’t let that slow you down and don’t hold his mom responsible; although, that may be true. You will move in with your mom during summer break of 2006. You will still see your dad until Memorial Day of 2007, but a tragic gunshot and it will make it seem like you have lost something important. You will learn that they’re is things you don’t know about your dad. You will, of course, be scared on your first day of Loris Middle School because you moved from one state to another, but you will have many friends once you begin talking to them. You will make great friends with this girl, but she will betray you, but you will become friends with someone else. Then, in May of 2009 you will go to your first prom in eighth grade, and you will dance, have fun, and make memories because you know that you may not see some of your great friends next year. Then in ninth grade instead of going to Loris High School, you will go to ECHS (Early College High School). You may feel nervous the first day because you don’t know anyone because only a few Loris people go there in ninth grade. You may think you are going to only be friends with are people from Loris, but all you have to do is talk to people and get to know them. You will make great friends with six people, and they will be your best friends. You will have more friends, but these will be the ones who won’t stab you in the back and tell lies. You will learn that your grandma has been diagnosed with cancer and does not have long to live. You may think “I can’t live without her.” “She’s my inspiration and she’s part of my heart, but you can’t let that crush your dreams. She wouldn’t want you to let go of them just because of that.” You will finally become best friends with Andrew, after hating him for what he did to your friend but forgiving him. I hope you make the right decisions.
Sincerely,
Cassie
Letter to Me (Justin)
Dear Justin,
Hey bud how is it going? In the future, try to be more outgoing. When you move in 7th grade, you’re going to move to South Carolina. You’re going to have to learn to make new friends, even though it might be scary. It doesn’t matter what people think of you. If you are kind and outgoing then people will like you. Make sure you think before you say things. Saying the wrong thing can really ruin a relationship with someone close. Justin, don’t quit playing guitar. I know the man is mean to you, but if you did what you were supposed to then he wouldn’t be angry. If you are still playing by the time you get to my age, you will be the next guitar hero! Don’t stop playing baseball either. You are going to get good around the age of 11. If you are still playing by 15, you could very well easily get a baseball scholarship. Don’t be shy, just do what you like to do and don’t listen to what anyone else says. I wish you luck in your upcoming years. Follow these reminders!
Sincerely,
Justin Zuczek
Hey bud how is it going? In the future, try to be more outgoing. When you move in 7th grade, you’re going to move to South Carolina. You’re going to have to learn to make new friends, even though it might be scary. It doesn’t matter what people think of you. If you are kind and outgoing then people will like you. Make sure you think before you say things. Saying the wrong thing can really ruin a relationship with someone close. Justin, don’t quit playing guitar. I know the man is mean to you, but if you did what you were supposed to then he wouldn’t be angry. If you are still playing by the time you get to my age, you will be the next guitar hero! Don’t stop playing baseball either. You are going to get good around the age of 11. If you are still playing by 15, you could very well easily get a baseball scholarship. Don’t be shy, just do what you like to do and don’t listen to what anyone else says. I wish you luck in your upcoming years. Follow these reminders!
Sincerely,
Justin Zuczek
Letter to Me (Paula)
Paula Zarate
If I could write a letter to me, I would go to age five. If I had to prove it was me, I would tell myself to our room and on the bed would be our favorite stuff animal. I would tell myself to make sure I clean the stuff animal well because in a couple years it will get dirty. The new bracelet that grandpa got for us, make sure we ask him to take care of it. Stop annoying mom with the question, “Can I get a Puppy?” because trust me, you will not get one; However, she does buy you a robot one, and it is just as cute. Watch out for what tell you’re friends, the truth always is found. Do not be afraid to wear your favorite color PINK! No one cares whether you like it or not, and the mean girls will eventually start wearing your color.
First grade will be your favorite school year; great things happen. You will move a couple of times, and you will fall in love with the cold weather. Appreciate the cold weather for as long as you can because hot weather is not our favorite. Ignore the middle school drama; they do not end up being your friends anyway.
When you get to high school, it is a different world, new people, different personalities, new experiences. There is one friend I would like to warn you about. If she continues to put you down, just stop talking to her. Try to not get caught up with boys a lot, because you will grades and our mom will not like that. Be prepared in 10th grade to live your dreams, and do not be afraid to speak out.
I should warn you though, life is a rollercoaster, and you can make it an exciting ride, or a dull one. You will find yourself living this quote, “When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.” Helen Keller. When the door closes, do not force yourself to go back and try to open it. Let it be; there is still one open. Little me reading this letter, I hope you do not get to intimated or scared. When you feel like the world is going to end, it won’t because I am still here writing this letter to you. Just keep in mind that you can be anything you want to be, no matter what people think. You only have one life, and I would for to confront your future with fears with positivity.
Oh, and little me, call your little cousin more often because not everyone gets a full lifetime.
Love,
Paula
If I could write a letter to me, I would go to age five. If I had to prove it was me, I would tell myself to our room and on the bed would be our favorite stuff animal. I would tell myself to make sure I clean the stuff animal well because in a couple years it will get dirty. The new bracelet that grandpa got for us, make sure we ask him to take care of it. Stop annoying mom with the question, “Can I get a Puppy?” because trust me, you will not get one; However, she does buy you a robot one, and it is just as cute. Watch out for what tell you’re friends, the truth always is found. Do not be afraid to wear your favorite color PINK! No one cares whether you like it or not, and the mean girls will eventually start wearing your color.
First grade will be your favorite school year; great things happen. You will move a couple of times, and you will fall in love with the cold weather. Appreciate the cold weather for as long as you can because hot weather is not our favorite. Ignore the middle school drama; they do not end up being your friends anyway.
When you get to high school, it is a different world, new people, different personalities, new experiences. There is one friend I would like to warn you about. If she continues to put you down, just stop talking to her. Try to not get caught up with boys a lot, because you will grades and our mom will not like that. Be prepared in 10th grade to live your dreams, and do not be afraid to speak out.
I should warn you though, life is a rollercoaster, and you can make it an exciting ride, or a dull one. You will find yourself living this quote, “When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.” Helen Keller. When the door closes, do not force yourself to go back and try to open it. Let it be; there is still one open. Little me reading this letter, I hope you do not get to intimated or scared. When you feel like the world is going to end, it won’t because I am still here writing this letter to you. Just keep in mind that you can be anything you want to be, no matter what people think. You only have one life, and I would for to confront your future with fears with positivity.
Oh, and little me, call your little cousin more often because not everyone gets a full lifetime.
Love,
Paula
Inspired
Stashia Fore
Mrs. Atkinson
English 101
February 10, 2010
Dear Grandma and Grandpa,
Inspired, which is past tense for inspiration, means that someone or something has influenced you and has given you confidence to do something outstanding. When thinking of my life, I am closer and closer to growing up into a beautiful young lady, I would say that out of the many people that inspired me along the way, you, my grandparents have inspired me the most. You are the reason that I wake up everyday, go to school, and try extremely hard at everything that I do. The reason I say this is because you all have worked extremely hard so that your children and grandchildren could have all of their necessities and some of their wants. Also, education is really important to you, and I know that there is no joking when it comes to that subject. Finally, you taught me religion and family time are key to making you a better person; also, treating people the way you want to be treated is another important lesson you taught me.
According to the myriad of stories that I hear from you all each and everyday, I can tell that when you were growing up, both of you worked from sun up to sun down. Both of you would have to do hard man’s labor, whether that was plowing the field with a mule or going into a garden to pick vegetables so that you and your families could eat. When you are talking, and you all tell me “Stash, you don’t know what it is to work. You have it easy, so quit complaining,” and I simply reply, “Ummm, yeah, I know”. My answer may seem as if what you said went into one ear and out of the other, but it has not I think each and everyday how you have inspired me to try hard and at the things I do. You have given me the inspiration to know that if I want something, I have to go out and get what I want. Things are not just going to fall into my lap. From both of you, I have seen the results. When you do your best, I want to do mine.
Not only has your hard work inspired me, but your constructive criticism has also inspired me to get a good education. During the time period when you all were growing up, I know that education for blacks was not as good as whites before the integration of schools. Both of you had to work harder because you were the few out of your family to actually to have the opportunity to go to school and get an education. You went to college and found jobs in the school systems; as a result, you never let me forget that education is key to having success, and the more knowledge you gain, the more successful you can be. This always bounces in my brain as I am in school. Today, you can really see the accomplishments and the success that you all have. Knowing this, I am inspired. Since I was a little girl, you all would tell me “Stash, you need a job that’s going to have a real pay check so you can provide for and help your family.” This has inspired me to be independent as much as possible. I want a good job which pays well so that I can have an outstanding pay check. With an education, I can have my own money an own things.
You all have given me the inspiration to become closer to God and to try to better myself as a whole. At one point in my life, I wasn’t sure if religion was right for me. But being around you all and hearing and seeing the spread of the gospel; This has made me realize that you all have been blessed, and if I can repent my sins I can receive that blessing too. You all have helped me find God; this inspired me to carry myself in a totally different way. I have been inspired to read my Bible everyday and gain messages in each verse. Thanks to you all, I think before I speak. My actions and the way I react to things or people have changed too; this is making me become a better person. To you, my grandparents, you all think that not only is religion a key point in making me a better person but family time is also. Grandma, you make sure that dinner is on the table when I get home. Also, you all wait until my twin and I get in to eat. Grandparents, you never let me forget that you all are there to listen to me. You all are a constant reminder that family comes first and that we should be there for each other. You also make sure I know that you should treat people the way that you want to be treated. You tell me this because I do not know who I will need in this world and that people never forget things that are said or done to them.
Inspired, which is past tent for inspiration, means that someone or something has influenced you and has given you confidence to do something outstanding. You, my grandparents, are the true definition of inspiration. Your inspiration not only will it help me in my good times and bad, but it will also help my kids in the future. I thank you all and love you both.
Sincerely,
Stashia
Mrs. Atkinson
English 101
February 10, 2010
Dear Grandma and Grandpa,
Inspired, which is past tense for inspiration, means that someone or something has influenced you and has given you confidence to do something outstanding. When thinking of my life, I am closer and closer to growing up into a beautiful young lady, I would say that out of the many people that inspired me along the way, you, my grandparents have inspired me the most. You are the reason that I wake up everyday, go to school, and try extremely hard at everything that I do. The reason I say this is because you all have worked extremely hard so that your children and grandchildren could have all of their necessities and some of their wants. Also, education is really important to you, and I know that there is no joking when it comes to that subject. Finally, you taught me religion and family time are key to making you a better person; also, treating people the way you want to be treated is another important lesson you taught me.
According to the myriad of stories that I hear from you all each and everyday, I can tell that when you were growing up, both of you worked from sun up to sun down. Both of you would have to do hard man’s labor, whether that was plowing the field with a mule or going into a garden to pick vegetables so that you and your families could eat. When you are talking, and you all tell me “Stash, you don’t know what it is to work. You have it easy, so quit complaining,” and I simply reply, “Ummm, yeah, I know”. My answer may seem as if what you said went into one ear and out of the other, but it has not I think each and everyday how you have inspired me to try hard and at the things I do. You have given me the inspiration to know that if I want something, I have to go out and get what I want. Things are not just going to fall into my lap. From both of you, I have seen the results. When you do your best, I want to do mine.
Not only has your hard work inspired me, but your constructive criticism has also inspired me to get a good education. During the time period when you all were growing up, I know that education for blacks was not as good as whites before the integration of schools. Both of you had to work harder because you were the few out of your family to actually to have the opportunity to go to school and get an education. You went to college and found jobs in the school systems; as a result, you never let me forget that education is key to having success, and the more knowledge you gain, the more successful you can be. This always bounces in my brain as I am in school. Today, you can really see the accomplishments and the success that you all have. Knowing this, I am inspired. Since I was a little girl, you all would tell me “Stash, you need a job that’s going to have a real pay check so you can provide for and help your family.” This has inspired me to be independent as much as possible. I want a good job which pays well so that I can have an outstanding pay check. With an education, I can have my own money an own things.
You all have given me the inspiration to become closer to God and to try to better myself as a whole. At one point in my life, I wasn’t sure if religion was right for me. But being around you all and hearing and seeing the spread of the gospel; This has made me realize that you all have been blessed, and if I can repent my sins I can receive that blessing too. You all have helped me find God; this inspired me to carry myself in a totally different way. I have been inspired to read my Bible everyday and gain messages in each verse. Thanks to you all, I think before I speak. My actions and the way I react to things or people have changed too; this is making me become a better person. To you, my grandparents, you all think that not only is religion a key point in making me a better person but family time is also. Grandma, you make sure that dinner is on the table when I get home. Also, you all wait until my twin and I get in to eat. Grandparents, you never let me forget that you all are there to listen to me. You all are a constant reminder that family comes first and that we should be there for each other. You also make sure I know that you should treat people the way that you want to be treated. You tell me this because I do not know who I will need in this world and that people never forget things that are said or done to them.
Inspired, which is past tent for inspiration, means that someone or something has influenced you and has given you confidence to do something outstanding. You, my grandparents, are the true definition of inspiration. Your inspiration not only will it help me in my good times and bad, but it will also help my kids in the future. I thank you all and love you both.
Sincerely,
Stashia
1968 and 2008
Shauna Smith
During both 1968 and 2008 there were major changes in the country. Some of the major changes included the struggle for civil rights by African-Americans, presidential elections, and wars. These years are very important to the history of the United States and have gotten us to where Americans are today. Many leaders that will never be forgotten led us through these times of crisis and change, good and bad. There are many differences and similarities in 1968 and 2008 which makes them significant in elections, wars, and the civil rights movement.
The 1968 election was difficult and occurred in the middle of the Vietnam War. The candidates were Richard Nixon, Republican, Hubert Humphrey, Democrat, and George Wallace, American Independent. George Wallace with most of the votes in the south was popular mainly because of his racist beliefs. Humphrey had a couple of the northern states and Texas and Nixon had the rest of the country. After all votes were counted Nixon was elected president in 1968. In 2008 the candidates were John McCain, a Republican, and Barack Obama, a Democrat. This was a very close race but in the end Obama was elected the first African American president with the campaign slogan “Change we can believe in.” Although 1968 and 2008 are similar because both were election years, they are different in the fact that a Republican was elected in 1968 and an African-American Democrat was elected in 2008.
The Iraq and Vietnam Wars were viewed by many as two awful events. What initially started the Iraq War was when the US invaded Iraq in 2003. The United States is now winning the war that two years ago seemed lost. As for the Vietnam War no one is sure as to who actually won. Some say “everyone won…and lost,”- Earl H. Tilford, Jr. Professor of History Grove City College. Both wars were fought for democracy on the soil of other countries. Also, guerrilla warfare, a style of military fighting, was used by soldiers in both Vietnam and Iraq. The Vietnam War was one of the main things that made 1968 such a tumultuous year. In the Iraq War the government is trying not to make the same mistakes as in the Vietnam War by gradually releasing responsibility to create stability.
As the 44th president of the United States, Barack Obama is doing many things to improve civil rights. Some of his changes include sponsoring the bill for special-needs evacuation plans, ending racial profiling as part of fighting for justice, re-introducing the Equal Rights Amendment and many other productive acts. The United States is now a more diverse nation with more equality than in 1968. 2008 is a progressive year in the sense there is much less racism and changes are underway to treat immigrants better. America has come a long way thanks to many civil rights activists. People such as Martin Luther King, Robert Kennedy, Rosa Parks and many others are to whom citizens of the United States owe respect for the way America is today. Because of how they fought and stood up for themselves and others and risked their lives we can now live in a country that is civil.
Overall the years 1968 and 2008 had many ups and downs as well as similarities and differences. Between the wars, elections and the movements for civil rights, these years were critical in making the country what it is today. America will never forget those that led the country through such memorable times, the wars and the tragedies included. Americans hope to continue to learn from our mistakes and help our country grow. The last 40 years have been packed with so much sorrow, happiness, pain, and fulfillment but through it all America has endured.
During both 1968 and 2008 there were major changes in the country. Some of the major changes included the struggle for civil rights by African-Americans, presidential elections, and wars. These years are very important to the history of the United States and have gotten us to where Americans are today. Many leaders that will never be forgotten led us through these times of crisis and change, good and bad. There are many differences and similarities in 1968 and 2008 which makes them significant in elections, wars, and the civil rights movement.
The 1968 election was difficult and occurred in the middle of the Vietnam War. The candidates were Richard Nixon, Republican, Hubert Humphrey, Democrat, and George Wallace, American Independent. George Wallace with most of the votes in the south was popular mainly because of his racist beliefs. Humphrey had a couple of the northern states and Texas and Nixon had the rest of the country. After all votes were counted Nixon was elected president in 1968. In 2008 the candidates were John McCain, a Republican, and Barack Obama, a Democrat. This was a very close race but in the end Obama was elected the first African American president with the campaign slogan “Change we can believe in.” Although 1968 and 2008 are similar because both were election years, they are different in the fact that a Republican was elected in 1968 and an African-American Democrat was elected in 2008.
The Iraq and Vietnam Wars were viewed by many as two awful events. What initially started the Iraq War was when the US invaded Iraq in 2003. The United States is now winning the war that two years ago seemed lost. As for the Vietnam War no one is sure as to who actually won. Some say “everyone won…and lost,”- Earl H. Tilford, Jr. Professor of History Grove City College. Both wars were fought for democracy on the soil of other countries. Also, guerrilla warfare, a style of military fighting, was used by soldiers in both Vietnam and Iraq. The Vietnam War was one of the main things that made 1968 such a tumultuous year. In the Iraq War the government is trying not to make the same mistakes as in the Vietnam War by gradually releasing responsibility to create stability.
As the 44th president of the United States, Barack Obama is doing many things to improve civil rights. Some of his changes include sponsoring the bill for special-needs evacuation plans, ending racial profiling as part of fighting for justice, re-introducing the Equal Rights Amendment and many other productive acts. The United States is now a more diverse nation with more equality than in 1968. 2008 is a progressive year in the sense there is much less racism and changes are underway to treat immigrants better. America has come a long way thanks to many civil rights activists. People such as Martin Luther King, Robert Kennedy, Rosa Parks and many others are to whom citizens of the United States owe respect for the way America is today. Because of how they fought and stood up for themselves and others and risked their lives we can now live in a country that is civil.
Overall the years 1968 and 2008 had many ups and downs as well as similarities and differences. Between the wars, elections and the movements for civil rights, these years were critical in making the country what it is today. America will never forget those that led the country through such memorable times, the wars and the tragedies included. Americans hope to continue to learn from our mistakes and help our country grow. The last 40 years have been packed with so much sorrow, happiness, pain, and fulfillment but through it all America has endured.
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