Mentor: Karina Hirschfield

Click here to view my project. 

For our 4th quarter statistics benchmark we read a book called How to Lie with Statistics by Darrell Huff. After reading the book, we held insightful conversations which with discussed amongst each other and recorded as well. In our podcast you will not only get an overarching idea about what the book is about, but you will also get to hear our views and opinions on different topics that play a key role in the book. By reading this book and recorded the podcasts we learned a lot about how statistics can be misleading which can either hurt or help the point that the statistic is trying to get across. This project also made us view statistics in a different way than we have been viewing it in the past. We hope that you enjoy our podcast and that you learn a little something about the book and about tricks statistics can play on people.

- Sierra Dinvil, Prisilla Nieves, & Marina Pyfrom

Hola, mi nombre es Juana. Soy la madre de Pedro Machuca. Llegué a Santiago para una vida mejor. Sin embargo, hay muchos problemas aquí que no puedo cambiar. Desde mi punto de vista, yo creo que hay una división y tensión entre la gente de la ciudad. La gente rica ha formado un mundo para sólo ellos. No tengo mucho dinero, pero me manejo y sacrificio para mi familia. La clase alta y la clase obrera tiene nada en común. Con la guerra, no me siento segura. Yo creo que todo el mundo debería tener igualdad de derechos. Debemos respetar a todos. El dinero y la clase no debe afectar a la forma de ver a alguien y su personalidad.

Decidí escoger la pintura 'La pasión de la danza' de Richard Young. Esta obra es significativa porque representa las similitudes entre un bailarína y madre soltera. Una bailarina y madre soltera son fuertes, independientes y inteligentes. En la obra hay una bailarína de ballet con un vestido rojo en. Sin embargo, hay muchos detalles en la pose de la bailarina. El artista pone a muchos detalles en la pose porque representa el trabajo duro y la dedicación de un bailarín. Bailarines practican muchos horas corregir a un baile. Esto puede estar relacionado con habilidades parentales. Una mamá se pasan mucho tiempo cuidando a sus hijos. Mamá quiere que su hijo para ser el mejor. También el fondo es rojo para representar a las muchas dificultades que hay para un bailarín. Una madre soltera tiene muchos problemas cada día. Para mí, tengo miedo por Pedro y mi vida porque de las fuerzas armadas. Tratan los gentes igual a basura. Por lo tanto, ellos no se preocupan por nosotros. Ellos quieren que nosotros seamos silencio sobre los problemas del gobierno. Sin embargo, no seré silencio porque tengo el derecho de luchar para lo que es correcto.

El 11 de septiembre de 1973 hubo una guerra entre militaria y el gobierno. Durante este tiempo el gobierno de chile era el comunismo. Hubo mucha tensión entre los ricos y los pobres. Con la guerra, hubo muy poca comida y pocos recursos. Todos los días yo diría una oración a Pedro a estar seguro. En cualquier momento podría haber un ataque en nuestro pueblo por las fuerzas armadas. Yo quiero dejar este lugar horrible, sin embargo no hay más remedio, porque no tengo dinero. Aunque yo no puedo dejar, yo puedo hacer una diferencia. Lo más importante no es rendirse. Como lo veo yo es si nos rendimos que nada se cambia. Sin embargo, debo tener cuidado porque no quiero ser una amenaza mala.El mensaje de la obra de arte representa la determinación de una bailarina. Esto se refiere a mi vida porque una bailarina y un manifestante tienen muchas similitudes. En una manifestación que cantamos nuestras canciones porque queremos ser escuchados. Queremos que la gente a conocer nuestro dolor y nuestras creencias que es la razón protestamos.

Yo escogía esta obra de arte porque es hermosa. Me gusta el detalle de la bailarina. La obra muestra los músculos y el tono de la bailarina. Estoy de acuerdo con el mensaje de la obra porque se relaciona con mi vida.

Hola, me llamo Marina. Yo vivo en el Oeste de Filadelfia. Sin embargo, cuando yo era una bebe yo vivía con mi mama y papa en una casa pequeña. Después mi abuela se murió. Luego, nos mudamos a la casa de mi abuela. En la casa que vivo ahora, es mejor porque es más grande y cómoda. Pero la casa que era de mi abuela no era tan lejos de donde yo vivía. Nos mudamos cerca de la casa donde vivíamos antes. En mi barrio hay muchos americanos africanos. Sin embargo, hay otras razas representadas. Yo diría que mi comunidad tiene muchas personas de clase media. Muchas de las familias trabajan los trabajos normales de 9-5. También, la mayoría de los niños y las niñas van a la escuela pública en el barrio. La calle es muy pequeña, por lo tanto cada uno conoce a cada uno. Me gusta mi calle porque mis vecinos son simpáticos. En mi barrio, muchas familias tienen perros. En mi calle, hay un gran campo de béisbol. Por lo tanto, en el verano, un montón de gente ir al campo a divertirse y a hablar. Mi mural ubicado en la última casa cerca del campo de béisbol. La dirección es 5145 Ogden st, Filadelfia, 19139. Esta ubicación es mejor porque toda la comunidad puede ver el mural. También los coches conduciendo por la calle pueden ver el mural.
El arte puede representar emociones de una persona. Los diferentes colores usados pueden crear una historia. El arte público tiene muchas formas como grafiti, vandalismo y murales. Sin embargo, todos es arte.  Estoy de acuerdo de que todo puede ser el arte porque los gente diferentes tienen opiniones diferentes sobre el arte. Por lo tanto el arte de ellos van a crear arte diferente. Feo arte para mi, sería bonita arte para ti. Mi mural es una forma de arte porque representa mi cultura y emociones. Las piezas en mi mural es detallado y importante para el mensaje. Para mi, el propósito del arte público es permitir que a la gente de la comunidad para crear hermosas obras de arte y contar la historia que es importante para la cultura.
Mi mural tiene la palabra "Poderoso" porque se simboliza cómo las mujeres fuertes están en nuestra sociedad.También , el mural tengo tres mujeres de diferentes culturas. Representan las madres solteras que hay en el mundo. Las rayas de la cebra en el fondo representan la fuerza. He decidido un cebra porque unas cebras son animales grandes pero son muy huraños. Muchas mujeres tengo problemos. Sin embargo, ellos son callados porque ellos quieren guardar sus sentimientos personal.  Los cebras toman sus familia muy serios. Familia es realmente importante a ellos. Una cebra hembra es igual a mi mamá porque ella cuido de mi y es independiente. El tema en el mural es reconocer las dificultades de ser un solo madre.
Cuando la gente ve el mural, quiero entender que las dificultades de la madres solteras y respetan ellos.Yo creo que mi mural representa mi cultura y comunidad. El arte público es para artistas para expresar sus sentimientos y ser creativo. Entonces para este proyecto, quise que mi mural representa mamás solas independientes en el mundo. En general, creo que mi pintura mural es realmente bien. Amo las rayas de la cebra detalladas porque es diferente.

¿Qué harías tú si estuvieras en esta situación? ¿Cómo te sentirías?

Yo enfrentaría Susana. Yo quiero saber Susana's motivo. Sentiría muy enojada. 

¿Le dirías algo a su novia?

Sí, preguntaría a su novia “Por que ”

¿Qué le dirías a Pedro?

Diría Pedro que él no necesito Susana porque ella es mal para su. 

¿Tratarías de ayudar?

Sí, hablaría con Pedro sobre sus problemas.

¿Qué le recomendarías a Pedro?

Recomendaría encontrar una chica nueva. 

Yo, en su lugar, … (If I were in his place…) 

Dejaría Susana y encontra una chica nueva. 

Sería interesante estudiar portugués en Portugal. 

Sería interesante estudiar italiano en Italia. 

Me gustaría mucha idiomas diferentes. 

Yo irá diferentes lugares estudiar la cultura. 

Me gustaría hacer muchos amigos en todo el mundo.

Me casaría alguien de una cultura diferente. 

Me gustaría vivir en otro país.

Me gustaría trabajar en otro país también.

Si pudiera viajar, yo sería.

Mi nombre es Marina. La significancia de mi nombre es “de la mar.” Antes de yo nací, mi madre quiso nombrar me “Lauren” o “Marisol.” Mi padre no le gustó tampoco de los nombres. En la día yo nací, mi padre caminó en el cuarto de hospital y él dijo mi nombre debería “Marina.”  Mi madre encantó el nombre mucho porque es única y original. Eso es la historia de mi nombre.

  Cuando yo era una niña, era gordita. En el pasado mi madre se vestía me igual a un chico. Yo no sabe por que ella hizo este. Creo que mi madre no tiene moda. Cuando tu miras a mi fotos de bebe, Yo todavía miro el mismo. Tengo la cara bonita, frente grande y los orejas grandes. No obstante ahora soy alta y flaca. Yo sabe vestirse. Me gusta ropa de chica. También soy muy fuerte. Tengo buenos músculos del becerro y un estómago plano. Tengo bonitas y pequeños manos. Las gentes según dice yo debería un modelo de manos. También tengo ojos y pelo café. Mis ojos son pequeños. Mi pelo es lacio. Tengo piel medio moreno porque soy mestiza.

Cuando yo era joven,  es difícil caer con los niños porque mi tono de piel. Los niños de mi barrio caen mal con me porque " yo soy demasiado blanca.” También los niños a la escuela dijeron “yo soy demasiado negra.” Porque los niños era muy antipáticos a me, yo no era sociable. Uno día, mi mama dijo no hacerle caso a los niños porque ellos son falsos y los niños tenía celos de me. También aprendí que no todo el mundo va a ser tu amigo. Sin embargo, tu debería tratar a los demás con respeto.

Porque de mis problemas cuando yo era joven, es por eso que tengo problemas de confianza ahora. Cuando estoy deprimida, yo no habla con alguien. Es difícil compartir mis sentimientos. Me gusta escuchar a los problemas de otras. Pero no me gusta hablar sobre mi problemas. Yo disimulo mis sentimientos porque estoy nerviosa sobre lo que los gentes piensan. No tengo relaciones exitosas porque de comunicación. Ser honesta, no me gusta tratar las gentes así, pero para mí es difícil confiar.

Aunque, tengo problemas de confianza. También enamorase de alguien me da miedo. Tengo los mejores amigos. Me caen bien con mis amigos porque entendemos el uno al otro. Cuando estoy disgusta, mi amigos dan mi espacio. Yo sabe ellos quieren ayudar pero necesito ser sola. En el futuro, quiero cambiar mi malas costumbres porque es no bien. Sueño con mi vida en el futuro. Quiero un marido y dos niños. Mi marido necesita ser honesto, seguro, inteligente, y gracioso. Quiero ser un increíble mujer igual a mi mama.

Mi mama es muy importante en mi vida. Cuando mi papa murió, Mi mama tuvo ser fuerte para ella misma y mi. Tenía tres años en el tiempo y aprendí no confiar en nadie. Muchas gentes no saben que mi padre murió. Me gusta mantener mi vida personal en privado. Tengo respeto por las madres solteras porque es difícil cuidar de los niños. Aunque, tuve una infancia dura. Para mi, soy mas fuerte porque de mi infancia. Valgo mucho de mi familia y mis amigos porque sin ellos yo no sería nada

The patriot act is the government's way of enforcing a form of dictatorship. They say this act is only being used for terrorists to prevent attacks similar to 9/11. The government is using this act for other purposes such as spying on innocent Americans. What happen to our civil liberties? Why are they being taking away because of this mediocre act? 

Yes, I believe we need to keep our country safe but do not I think this is the right answer. Our rights to privacy should not be taking away because the government feels threatened by the advanced ways of terrorists.  For the government to be able to check up on you because they feel as though you "could" be a potential threat is absolutely insane. I will not stand for this. Many of my ancestors came to America for freedom. Now years later America is becoming the bad place they had to get out of. The government is becoming an absolute power right under our nose and we're just watching it unfold in front of us. 

Before you know it the government will call all its citizens "prospective terrorists" to gain access to their privacy. Then a simple two way intimate call with your husband will than be a three way with a government official who gets lonely at night. Technology will truly be the death of us Americans. We let advanced scientific findings destroy our lives. We will soon turn into savages because of the government's paranoid ways. Before America turns from the land of free to land of dictatorship we need to get rid of the patriotic act. 

After watching Enemy of the State, I must admit I am a scared of what the government is actually capable of.  In the movie the government had absolutely all the power in regards to its citizens. The people had no privacy in their home, work, and etc. If there was a top secret government issue anything would be done to handle it without a disturbance. When the NSA officials raided actor, Will Smith's home they had no consideration for him or his family. Clearly, they can care less as to who gets hurt in the process of solving the problem. They killed innocent people and along with disturbing the peaceful environment. I believe if Will Smith would have gave them the tape in the beginning they would have still most likely killed him anyway. As innocent as he was, it didn't matter to National Security. They wouldn't have trusted his word anyway. 

Personally, I think how the government invaded the people's privacy was unnecessary. I believe their should be a balance but to an extent. Similar to crime shows, they hack your phone records, cross referencing people, and bank statement. I think that is okay but when you go beyond those boundaries it becomes a problem. I rather the government see who I've been talking to versus them tapping into my phone call. I find that to be so drastic. We as citizens should have the right to live privately. 

Now if someone is seen as threatening its hard to say what the right thing to do is. Do you invade their privacy to get answers or do you respect it?  That is a very difficult question. I have no idea how to answer it. Part of me is saying check them! Then other part is saying but what happen to respecting ones' privacy? I don't exactly now what I would do to even handle that situation because its such a contradiction. We want to catch the bad guys but we also want to respect our people. I learned that you can please everyone so we have to compromise somehow. 

One person can have a huge impact on history. I realized that taking a key player out can also have a drastic change. If one person can gather thousands of people to rally for a change in society of course eliminating them will have a different outcome. So in  my project I mentioned Malcolm X being more of a aggressive leader so by taking him out there will be more positive energy to go around. The positivity would eventually lead to a more peaceful solution. 

If I could do this project I would ask more thoughtful questions in the interview. In my interview I talked more about what has happened after because of Malcolm X's death than what lead up to it. That is something I would definitely change next time. Also in my interview I mentioned several family members to Malcolm X but next time I plan to make it more clear to the audience who are actually the family members. Overall I am very happy of my project's outcome. 

1. Post a copy of your info graphic to SLATE. Link the words to an image that can be viewed by someone visiting the site, do not include a link that requires someone to download your image and please do not post a dropbox link.

2. In the SAME BLOG ENTRY complete a reflection - 
a. What went well? 

The overall layout for our info graphic came out great. We imagined one visual and our info graphic came out even better. It surpassed our brainstormed thoughts and really took its toll with being amazing. We collectively as group put equal work into this project. We each took separate areas of research than came together at the end an ultimately created this great info graphic. We put together all our ideas into one huge in graphic. This was truly collaboration at its best.

b. What did not? 

Some technical issues did occur while creating this info graphic. On Keynote our project fitted the large pages file. Then when upload to slate it only takes a quarter of the page. That was annoying at times and did affect the info graphic's impact. 

c. What would you do differently next time? 

I think more facts written down would be helpful. 

d. Specifically comment on the 10 tips for effective infographics -

Be Concise

Research is a important factor for creating an info graphic. The more research the better outcome. Your audience will take more away with more facts. 

Be Visual

Visually stimulate you audience by your artwork. 

Be Smarter

Have a clear understanding of what your doing and creating. 

Be Transparent

Make your subject easy to understand Focus on making it easy and memorable for your audience.

Be Different

Be different is self explanatory. Don't have the same info graphic as the next group. Be Unique. 

Be Accurate

Make sure all of your work is accurate and credible.

Be Attractive

Attract the eye of the reader. Make the reader want to read your info graphic.

Be Varied

Have a variety of different things going on in your info-graphic.

Be Gracious

Everyone is welcomed to read your work. The more readers the better. 

Be Creative

Make your work standout. 

Which of these areas did you excel in? Which were not so well represented? Why do you think some elements of design were easier or harder to include in the end product?

I think as a group we excelled in all the areas except varied. Together we could have added different sorts information. We targeted the people decrease with mining increasing.  Maybe compare and contrast other issues that occurred. I think that some elements were a bit harder to include in the end of the product because we didn't want to lose the reader's attention with too many words. 

1. Explain your choice of presentation format.

I decided to create a wordle to represent the facts about Teddy Roosevelt. Within the wordle there were words that described him as person and what he did throughout his presidency. I did a mini collage to show how a leader is born. There pictures showing the President growing up and becoming a great leader. I named my presentation "The Evolution of a Born Leader."  

 2. Two sentences about your answer to the essential question.

Change only happens when an individual takes action. I say individual because that individual can influence a group to support the change their trying to attain. Teddy Roosevelt has definitely made a great impact throughout his presidency. Not only did he fight for change, he actually made it happen also. 

3. What questions do you sill have about business in America?

What does current president Barack Obama agree and or disagree with Teddy Roosevelt's business policies?

Mi grupo y yo hicimos un PSA sobre reciclen en la cuidad de Filadelfia. 

Por crear el PSA, la cosa más importante que aprendí fue el reciclaje es fácil para todos los gentes hacer. 

Me gusta el PSA de mi grupo porque nosotros tenemos mucho diversión con grabación. 

Si pudiera hacer el proyecto otra vez, yo cambiaría escenario de PSA grabación. 

"Yes, the chip has just been activated. Everything is in place and working Sir."

"Marvelous, now I just need to take him to the Commander. (Snaps twice) Guards please escort Alex to Commander Mitchell's Space Room. "

Something was different about me. My hair was fine. There was nothing in my teeth. There were no wrinkles in my clothes. I couldn't quite put finger on it but I know something was up. Where am I even at? I had never seen this place ever in my life. The room's walls were covered in outer space wallpaper. The floor carpet was jet black. The weirdest thing in the room was the desk that was shaped and painted yellow like the sun. Whoever room this was must have an extreme obsession with space. Walked in was a tall slim male saying, "I am not obsessed, I just think outer space cool." How did he hear me? I didn't say it out loud. Can he read minds? If so, that is incredibly cool. He laughed saying, "No I do not read minds that would be cool though if I actually could. But let's focus, I will explain everything in a moment. Do you know who I am, Alex?

“I am Commander Mitchell of the Human Fleet Assembly. The reason you are here is because we need your help with destroying the Martians for good. The reason we chose you is because you’re different. You may not know this but you were developed in a lab. Dr. Sylvia, your creator, actually used you to test her new instantaneous thinking chip. You were the only survivor that is why you are so valuable. You are the weapon to defeating the Martians.”

Wow, so that explains how he heard what I was thinking and replied so fast. I not sure on how I feel about everyone relying on me to defeat the Martians. I am just a kid. That is a big responsibility. Wait, if I am capable of thinking instantaneously then Commander Mitchell just heard everything. Way to go Alex. “Sorry, Commander this is all new to me.”

“Alex don’t beat yourself up about it. I understand this a lot to take in. As you said your just a kid, and I making it my mission to get you fully prepared for the Martians. So don’t worry. Just remember what you think the whole planet will know, so watch what you say buddy!” he said with a funny giggle.

Commander Mitchell was serious when he said he wont stop until I was fully prepared to fight. We have been training together for six weeks now. I learned so much since then. He taught me everything from mathematics to army techniques and even literature. We played the game Battleship everyday also. I never quite understood why. He simply answered saying “it will come in handy some day, you’ll see.”

Although I felt mentally powerful, I felt the physical features were not present as much. So it was to the gym I went. After 3 weeks of non-stop exercising I became extremely fit and muscular. Now I was definitely mentally and physically strong and ready to fight. I just needed the thumbs up from the Commander.

“Now Alex if you pass this test, with out a doubt you would have proved to me that you’re ready.” Rumor has it that no one has even been close to passing Commander Mitchell’s special test. I also heard that this is the hardest test known to man. Hearing those rumors did not scare me at all. My confidence was high as ever. I was ready.

There was still unfinished business with the Martians. The fight was still on and serious as ever. They invaded our land and killed many and we did exactly the same to them. It was uncertain to say the winner just yet of the battles. We were similar in so many ways it was hard to understand why we hate each other so much. The last fight was the “Battle of the Seas”, whoever won the fight was in control of everyone and everything. This meant the opposing opponent would have to surrender.

The Martians were absolutely ruthless. They threw cannon after cannon at our naval ships. The smallest boat of ours was hit, killing 1,000. That was it. I was fed up and needed a plan as soon as possible. That’s when it hit me, Battleship! I can use my skills to find the exact latitude and longitude of the Martians ships and eliminated them.  

“G9 Go! Shoot it!” I screamed to the men regulating the ammunition.  A minute later, on of the Martian ship blew up into a million pieces. Commander Mitchell was right about the game battleship being useful. With the biggest grin on my face I began shouting out all the coordinates of their ships. “B7, A1, E3, C2, D4 & F6 Let’s go, fire them up!” After the last missile was launched, each Martian ship was taken down. Every one on the boat screamed with joy. We did it. We won. We defeated the Martians.

Once we sailed back to land we quickly celebrated our victory. Commander Mitchell patted me on the back and said, “Great work Alex. I told you could do it. I am also glad I got to watch you do it. You turned from a fifteen year old kid to a young warrior. I am so proud of you!”

 I was extremely proud of myself also. I was the fifteen year old that was the brains of an operation that defeated the powerful Martians. This was an experience I’ll never forget.

"Don’t let your age prevent your from doing something amazing." – The Great Alex Za 

Trader Joe's se niega a pagar un centavo más a los trabajadores. Un centavo puede hacer la diferencia. 

Trader Joe's refuses to pay a cent more to the workers. One cent can make a different. 

!NECESITAMOS SU AYUDA!

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Vamos a Protesta

Lets Protest!

¡No apoye Trader Joe's! 

Don't support Trader Joe's 

¡No compre en Trader Joe's! 

Don't shop in Trader Joe's!

¡No pense sobre Trader Joe's!

Don't think about Trader Joe's!

¡No camine en Trader Joe's!

Don't walk in Trader Joe's!

¡No coma de Trader Joe's!

Don't eat from Trader Joe's

Por favor Ayuda a los trabajadores de CIW.

Please help the CIW workers. 

• What is it like to work as a tomato picker in Florida?

Los jefes tratan los trabajadores mal. Ellos se pagan poco dinero para trabajo duro. Ellos trabajan horas largas y hace calor. 

The bosses are treating the workers badly. They are paid little money for hard work. They work long hours and its hot. 

• What’s the problem with purchasing tomatoes from Trader Joe’s?

Los personas apoyan Trader Joe's y no importa sobre los trabajadores. 

The people support Trader Joe's and don't care about the workers. 

•  What can we do about it?

Nosotros puedan escribe cartas a compañias grandes sobre problema y protesta. Muchos grupos de personas puede hacer la diferencia. 

We can write letters to big companies about the problem and protest. Many groups of people can make a difference. 

Well we all answered the journal question and as a group we each shared our ideas. Then talked about each idea and then all came to an agreement on which one would our benchmark. Collectively we chose Combining National Popular Vote and Instant Runoff as our focus topic. 

If we all as humans come together, positive change will happen. All age groups can benefit from one an other. In order to create and support change we need to get rid of all the negative energy and replace it with positivity. 

I realized with the electoral college it does not benefit the people from small states which means every voters' voice is not being heard and that is not a democracy. That is exactly why we chose slogan "got democracy? … Be YOUr government" We want voters from all ages to feel as though their vote is valuable. 

Our marketing scheme was to mimic the successful "got milk?" campaign. As a group we all decided a print ad's slogan needs to be one thing and that was universal. A universal slogan is appealing to all age groups. The best thing about using a universal slogan is that it will always be remembered by your audience. Because we wanted to target an older and younger audience we chose to have a slogan that could be used as an entire phrase or broken into two separate ones with the same amount of impact. 

Our Slogans:

"got democracy?"

"got democracy?… Be YOUr government!"

We need a new mayor. I don't like what's going on. 

2. What would you like to see changed in our political system?

Private Jury duty , I want it eliminated.

3. Do you vote in every election? How regularly do you vote?

No I don't. I vote every other election.

4. Do you know why we vote on tuesday?

No I don't.

5. Where have you encountered the highest amount of campaigning?

On Tv.

6. What was the most memorable campaign ad that you have encountered?

Barack Obama for presidency. 

7. Are you always sure of who you are going to vote for when you walk into the booth or are you still deliberating? 

I'm pretty sure when I walk in. 

8. What changes do you hope to see in Philadelphia as a result of this election?

A new mayor!

9. What impact do you feel that your vote will have on the election?Did you learn about voting in school?If yes, did that impact your willingness to vote today.

A very important impact. I think everybody should get out and vote. Our community needs more change.

Yes I did 

An no it didn't. 

De dónde vengo yo 

Vamos! 

Yo escucho sirenas de la policía.

sueños ser una bailarina.

Vivo con Mi mamá .

no drama 

Ella es importante y muy elegante.

Ella me cuida por el bueno y el malo

Te amo

​fiesta de rock! 

De dónde vengo yo 

Vamos! 

Yo vengo de una familia.

Me gusta que mi familia es pequeña.

Tenemos una relacion buena.

Una vez al año hay reunión

Por que es tradición.

The task was to create a song in spanish answering question "Where I am from?"

I learned that If you think in english and try to convert to spanish it way too difficult. When you start in spanish you develop a rhythm and new vocabulary. It is basically just finding words that fit and flow thats how you expand the use of your spanish words. 

In the beginning I was really stressed about my first verse because I wanted it to be great. I struggled with making it flow. For my second verse I decided not to pressure myself and It came out great I really liked and it took less time. So I am proud that I allowed myself to be free and I love my song outcome!

I would practice even more than I already did on my spanish accent. 

At this present moment United States are dealing with the economic crisis. It is unknown where this dilemma will lead to whether its another depression or a positive turn around. With that being said I think the decade 1990-2000 hit its peak the only next step is to decrease in the following years. 

My partner and I both decided we wanted to make our project visually unique. We both talked about different possible ideas. We went back and forth and together we had chosen the monopoly game board. We were very exciting about our idea and could not wait to see its turn out.

In agreement with my partner the most challenge part was graphing our data in a creative way. We tried to present our data in many different ways but none of them worked out in the way we wanted them to. So with limited time we made a bar graph with monopoly hotel pieces to represent the numbers. 

I would change nothing because we took a chance with this project. We did something never done or seen before.  I love our monopoly board game and proud of its outcome!

from the tragic land of Philly 

West Philly raised me

I am from a place where murders, robbers, and thief's are accepted. 

Idolizing these bad characters on the television 

And then becoming them.

I may be from a neighborhood thats not so good

but I do not let that affect my success

I am child of God.

I am a believer

I will not let negativity mold my personality.

From being told never let a man put his hands on you

I am a witness testifying 

I may not have known the victim personally but I still care

I am from a family that preached the idea of helping others. 

From volunteer work to feeling like its still not enough 

I am a person who hides their emotions

From acting like everything is ok to totally breaking down. 

I am a teenage girl with morals

I am not blinded by the lies and dishonor of boys

I am from a place where the pregnancy rate is increasing

From boys putting fantasy lies in their girlfriend's head. 

To soon being left with a baby and broken heart.

I am from a family that believes education comes first

From long stressful nights of homework 

To being incredibly happy to receiving my report card. 

I am a high achiever 

I am a dreamer

I am from a family where I am accepted for being myself and I love it. 

           The tool I will take from this year is to analyze a situation on a deeper level. Exploring a subject in a broad method is not the same as investigating in a more depth way. Often in high school students tend to read the same books from middle school. It is not a mistake. It is simply an opportunity to reread in a more intense style to make new deeper connections.

  I had very little knowledge about the Cortez trial. I knew the basic information such as Cortez and his army took over the Aztec people. I never questioned why. In the trial we put our differences aside and accepted our role. “A story can be told in a million of different ways. Every story has a unique beginning or ending. Many stories can be hearsay.” That was a quote from my Cortez Trial response; I was referring to the testimonies from each of the groups and what really happen with the Aztec people. “We would have to be there at present moment to verify the honest truth.” History consistently repeats itself.  Also in my response paper talked about how Cortez men let Cortez brainwash them into helping him take over the Aztec people. From then on in class we were exposed to different examples that consist the same criteria. That’s when I came to the assumption that the alpha male can influenced and or alter the way people think or believe. My proof of that statement is of course the Cortez Trial, also Colonization, Prisons, Night, and Persepolis. In my history proposal for the museum exhibit "Till Death do Us Part: Story of the Aboriginal People" I explored the story line of the Aboriginal People and how Britain took over all of Australia. Even though our Prison unit was short but it proved my theory. Most prisoners are in prison because they don’t want to “snitch” on there friends. They rather face the consequences than stand up for themselves.

  I enjoyed reading the graphic novel Persepolis it was something different and new. It showed how one person could turn a group of people against another group by labeling them as degrading.  This also tied into the Holocaust with the book Night. That general understanding really helped me with my Quarter 4 Benchmark. In my thesis paper, Beating to the Breaking Point was to prove that certain people could be a torturer. “To be intimidating, one has to act tough, making sure to set the record straight for anyone who once doubted his or her strength and took it for a weakness. Guilt must be replaced by no remorse.” That quote was from Beating to the Breaking Point and it was referring to the certain qualities a torturer needs to have.

  Over the course of the year my writing skills has improved tremendously. No paper is perfect with out revisions. At first I was not at all thrilled at the fact someone else would peer edit my work. The reason for my actions was because of my low confidence and most importantly I did not want anyone to belittle my writing. I put my differences aside and became more open to feedback. At the very point my writing became to progress because of the helpful tips of peer edit sheets. The proofs of success are my Op-ed "Eating Our Way to the End", Lord of the Flies Thesis paper, Language Autobiography, and Beating to the Breaking Point.

 Everything that was taught this year will be forever remembered. This course really prepares my peers and I for a higher education. From reading more than one back at a time to making connections on a deeper level it is all needed to help us succeed. And I am truly thankful to be exposed to such new and different studies.

Marina Pyfrom

Characters: 
Present Nadia, an artist who is outspoken about her past problems and is willing to talk about it.
Young Nadia, young adolescent who is miserable after the death of her father.
Nanda, Nadia’s father and also is the best well-known soldier around.
Sian, Nadia’s mother, she is very quiet and does not have a good relationship with her daughter.
Kamil, Nanda’s best friend and is also a soldier.
Rameesha, Kamil’s wife and has a friendly personality.

    (Present Nadia standing at podium facing the audience)

Hello everyone, it sure feels good to be back in Sri Lanka. I know many of you came to attend the 5th year Memorial for my father, and I thank you graciously. But I do not think of this as a memorial service, its more of a celebration. Many of you probably thought I wouldn’t make it, and I reply saying I am here and I am staying. 5 years ago I was at the darkest part of my life and thought it was no way out. I remember it vividly as if it was yesterday.
    (lights fades to black, then Young Nadia is on stage but its Present Nadia’s voice)

My feet were planted firmly in the damped green grass using the fatal position at which my life depended on it. That was the line my father always used to get my full attention when it was the right time. It was time, time to shoot. Time to shoot the apple that hung from the nail of the tree. My dad and I always went neck and neck at this game. Some times my dad would try to trick me to make me loose my concentration.

 Oops, Nadia don’t mess up... wait is that your mother calling.

He would laugh then make this little girl voice saying

Nadiaaaaaaa

This time I was not going to fall for his tricks. You can only win if you had the best shot. I aimed the black rifle gun at the apple on the tree. Click! Pow! was the sound after I pulled the trigger. That shot unleashed tons of weight lifted off my shoulders. I was stressed about things I had no control of. The restrictions of my dad visits, hurt me deeply. It had cut our bonding time. Moments with him were crucial. He was the person I could open up about anything and the same with him. We relied and trusted one another with each others life. In time he would be due for his combat shift and have to leave immediately. Hearing and seeing that was a stab in my heart, the aching pain. To get my off the negative I stuck with the positive, Any time with him was better than none.  Soon my mind floated back to reality. SPLATT! I felt my body moved back a couple of steps. There, was the exploded apple. My dad gave me a grin and a hug; pulled me closer and said in a cheerful voice

"That’s my pretty girl, Nadia I taught you well aye!"

We played a couple more rounds. That was our bonding time and we loved it. After my shocking gun shot, My dad showed me no mercy. He was the winner at the end. The score was 9-5.

    (Lights back on at Present Nadia at the podium)

Daddy was off to fight. I couldn’t wait for him to come back. He is always scheduled for a break annually to pop in and check on us. The household was boring. I woke up, did my chores, ate, then went back to sleep. Where was the enjoyment? My mom always just sat in the living room and read her book. read, write, clean, and cook! That was all my mom did. And she enjoyed it. To me her life was so uninteresting. I don't have any clue on how her and my dad met. They are so different. My dad was the adventurous type, and he loved fun.  And my mom was like the person who watch fun just pass by her.
    (Light fades out and Young Nadia appears)

Mom come play apple blast with me.

Didn't I tell you about that game, get in the house right now! Its dangerous, Nadia I'm protecting you!
    (Sian grabs Nadia by the shirt.)

Well me and daddy always play apple blast.

She looked me directly into my eyes as if she was looking strait through my brain. It was weird and made me feel awkward.
    (Voice in the background)

Yes I know, but your father is off to the war, so don't touch the gun unless he is here with you.

But that’s not fair.

That’s the end of it, I don't want to hear anything else about it, find something else to do, how about you hang with some of your girl friends instead of the boys all the time!

Its no fun
    (Lights fade at Present Nadia appears)

At that very moment I felt offended. It felt as if my own mom was not accepting the person I was or was becoming. She just tried to take the most important thing to me away, making it vanish from my presence. Not only was just shooting a gun at an apple. It had a deeper meaning. I was in a fight with my self and my feelings. Shooting was the stress reliever. And her taking the only thing that makes me happy was cruel. She was better off taking my soul.

    (Young Nadia and her easel magically appears, she is now in her room.)

    
    (Battlefield setting, and loud noises)

C'mon man say something, I need you right now, Just say something for me, Help! I need a nurse! Nanda c'mon your my best friend, your like a brother to me you cant leave me! Say something, anything!
    (Kamil takes his shirt off his back and tied it around him to keep the blood from pouring out)

Keep her safe.

Brother, I will do anything even put my life on the line to save your family from anything.

Thank you brother you have really been there, tell them I love them and ….

Noooooooooooo
    (Scene fades out with Kamil crying.)

   
    (Morning Lights then appears Rameesha in kitchen on the phone.)

I never saw my husband act like this before. He barley eating anything, moping around. He took off from work. Nandi's death really hit him hard. Being his wife I don't know how to make him feel better. I comfort him but is that enough Yea, mhmm, I know take one day at time. But what if its not enough? Yea true, mhmm ok. uhm hmm I feel especially bad for Nandi's little girl Nadia. Well she's not little anymore but yea she is 15. She loves him to death. Not enough words can explain how much that girl loves him. I wonder she doing. Yea your right I should send Kamil around there to help out just be there for them, Ill bake some pies, Nadia loves my home made apple pies. Well I will talk to you later I need to get Kamil up so can eat something for lunch. Bye and thank you I'll make sure I tell Kamil.
    (She walks into the living room to Kamil lying on the couch.)

RAMEESHA
Honey, Come, and eat, I have lunch for you! I'm not leaving! Here open wide.

Im trying babe, its just…

I know honey. I am just scared for you because I know how Nanda was like a brother to you. Its hard for the rest of us too. But I was thinking maybe you could stop pass Sian house to check on her and Nadia to see how they are doing because it has been a week.

That’s a good idea but I don’t know.

I understand if its too much. But you have to think about how Nadia feels you how closed she was with her father. All I'm saying is just check on them. Everything is going to be okay, and if it makes you feel better I will go right along with you. Because I am your wife, I love you, and I will stand by your side at all times. So your not alone. Ramesha and Kamil together forever.

I will forever and always love you.

    (lights fade out.)

   
    (Rameesha in bedroom & Kamil in living room)

Will you c’mon, how long does it take. I just want to be there first, so I can talk to Nadia and Sian. Mann, I sure miss him. What am I even going to say to Sian. Uhm, ok ready get set go! Sian, you know I love him and you all... Nahh You know he was like my brother. I know ex... Nahh its not about me its about them. Ugh what am I going to do?

You don’t need to rehearse a script. Just simply speak from your heart.

Wow, you look amazing. Youuu readdy?

Thank you and so do you! With you by my side, I am ready for anything!

Good Lets Go!

    (Car noise & music lights flashing)

    (Nadia in her room painting & Sian cleaning living room)

Family members and friends going to be stopping by. The house is a mess, nothing is right. Ugh why me, Nanda why did you have to leave me! I can’t do it without you. I am trying to keep everything together, but its hard. Ugh I still have to get dress, what time is it? Oh ok cool I have time. Naddddiiaaaaaaaaa come clean the kitchen, since you do nothing else, it’s the least you can do. Oh darn, we out of juice. Oh well water will do. Uhm what am I forgetting? Oh never mind I think of it later. Oh my God Nadiaaa! Come here right now! You see this, its bad luck. I know you love your father, we all do. But you know your not allowed to flip the pictures back over. You will let the evil in. Do you want that to happen? Just don’t let happen again. And what are you wearing? Go get change! You look like a raggedy boy, we have guest coming! Did you clean the kitchen like I asked you, I guess not. Ugh, I have to do everything in the house. Out my face get changed now. Don’t worry about Ill do it. Spoil brat.

    (Light on Nadia in her room painting)

    (Light focused on Living room & Doorbell rings)

Ok, just stay cool. Don’t get too emotional. Act as if everything is normal. Smile Sian. Breathe. All right I think Im ready. Oh hey Kamil and Rameesha, thank you so much for stopping by. I didn’t know how long you guys were staying so I roasted some turkey its in the oven. Did I ever tell you guys how you too were a great couple. You guys fit each other well. Oh well Ima check on the turkey be right back love birds ahaha.
 
    (lights follows Sian out then focus back on Rameesha & Kamil)

Its worse than I thought Honey. She is a complete mess. She is not herself at all. I will be right back I’m going to talk to her see what’s really going on & confront her.

Alright cool, I will check on Nadia.

    (Light focus on Kitchen)

Why, why , why me! I didn’t do anything to deserve this, I need Nanda. I thought I was going to be able to handle this, but I cant. Everything not gonna bee okkaayyyyy , how am I suppose to take care of the girl, she doesnt listen to me. Whhyyyy did I deserve this!

Shh shh shh your not alone we are here for you too. I love you Sian, we will get through this I promise. Lets Pray. Oneness of Life and Light, Entrusting in your Great Compassion, May you shed the foolishness in myself, Transforming me into a conduit of Love.

May I be a medicine for the sick and weary, Nursing their afflictions until they are cured;
May I become food and drink, During time of famine, May I protect the helpless and the poor,May I be a lamp, For those who need your Light, May I be a bed for those who need rest, and guide all seekers to the Other Shore. May all find happiness through my actions,
and let no one suffer because of me. Whether they love or hate me, Whether they hurt or wrong me, May they all realize true entrusting, Through Other Power, and realize Supreme Nirvana. Namo Amida Buddha

You have made me believe that there is a light at the end of this dark doomy tunnel. I really appreciate it. I needed this. Rameesha you are truly a phenomenal person. Thank you for everything.

No problem, and so are you. Any time you need to talk just let me know. I am always available. But anyway alright lets eat this delicious pie I made outside on the steps. We both could use some fresh air.

    (lights follows them off stage)

    (Now focused on Nadia in her Room with her easel)

    (Nadia is heated she is sitting at her easel painting)

A spoil brat! Who does she think she is! How dare she? My dad, her husband just died and she don’t even care. That woman has absolutely no feelings. She yelling about flipping the pictures back over. Who cares if that a Sri Lanka tradition. Let the evil sprits come get me, anything is better living with her. She don’t want me her fine, I got something for her.

    (Nadia moves to her closet and pulls out a box. Quick flash the lights on Kamil standing by the door.)

Soldier this solder that! Steal, kill, and destroy. I miss my daddy. I can’t take it no more. I need to get out of here quickly, Whoever killed my dad, I will find them and finish them off myself. Why couldn’t it be someone elses dad, anybody but mine. Taking him away from me is like taking my soul. The Memories, laughs, everything gone! Why should I even carry on with my life. If I leave who will truthfully miss me?

(Interruption: Kamil knocks on the door saying “I will”.)
   

    (Room scene)

Listen, Nadia, its Kamil. I don’t care what you say I am coming in. Nadia I know its been hard on you, it has been on everyone. You dad was loved by all and he loved us all. I know exactly what you feeling. He was my best friend too. We been together since we was five years old. I been having nightmares ever since. I am scared. Not only for me but for you and your mom. Nadia you know you always been part of my family and I encourage you at any time if you need me let me know. You know I will be right on my way. I promised your dad that I will always keep you safe. Now I was listening outside for a couple minutes. You mother is just stressing a lot and its hard for her to bond with you because of the hardcore bond you had with you father. My advice to you is to just let her in a little bit more. Show her that you care and that you love her. And I bet it will make her smile, and you too. Remember Kind words can conquer. Now, wipe those tears. A pretty girl like you should not be crying.

Thank you, Uncle Kamil I really need that.

    (Black out, Present Nadia and podium appears)

Now that talk with Uncle Kamil, literally saved my life. From that day on we build a wall of trust that was never knocked down. When times got rough at home with my mom, him and Rameesha let me live there in the extra room.
   
    (Focus on the half of the stage, Young Nadia is in her room with Sian)

Oh, You hate me! Well guess what I hate you too! What kind of mother treats her daughter like crap. I wished daddy was still here to see the devil you become! I’m tired of listening to an over controlling, low self esteem monster of a woman! I don’t even know why I call you mom, you don’t even act like one. You know what I’m moving with Kamil and Rameesha where everyone loves each other! Move out my way, I need to pack my clothes.

Uhm, I don’t think so little girl. Who bought you those clothes? Oh, let me answer for you, Uhmm Me! So leave my clothes here, oh yeah and that dumb painting easel too. And get out!

Ugh I hate you! Have a nice life Sian

    (Sunrise setting, Rameesha in Nadia’s room)

Nadia, can I talk to you for a minute? Are you awake? Oh good. Breakfast ready. But I just wanted to have a minute to talk. You know have some one on one girl talk. You have been nothing but a joy to be with, and we love having you here living with us. Its just its been 10 months since you been home to your mother. Before you say anything let me just finish saying I know she did some bad things, but that’s your mom. Kamil and I have been stopping past to check on her. And she is not the same. She has been very distant lately, and just not herself. Im not saying go by there but anything, like a phone call or maybe a letter, its better than nothing. Alright so ima let you think about that. And when you ready come downstairs and eat with us. I love you Nadia, I have faith you will make the right decision.
    (Lights black out and Present Nadia pop up at podium)

Rameesha, of course was right. It didn’t even feel like it was 10 months since I seen my mom. I wonder if she missed me, or does she still hate me. I wanted answers, so the next day Rameesha dropped me off and waited outside in the car.

You made the right decision Nadia, and I am proud that you did. I will be just outside, call me if you need me. So go in. You can do it.

Hello? Is anybody here, its me Nadia. Hello? Oh my god Mom what are you doing, are you ok. Give me that bottle, Wake up! Mom please, wake up! Rameesha! Please come quick, Hurry. I don’t know what happen. I came in the kitchen and she just was like this is. She never drinks alcohol and uhm is she going to die? I cant have anybody else die close to me, I wont be able to deal with it. Thank you Rameesha for calling. Can we go meet her at the hospital? Alright let me grab some clothes for her.

    (Siren noises & Present Nadia appeared)

I think day changed all of our lives. I never thought my mom would do that to herself. And dealing with that issue made us both stronger. Later that month after my mom was hospitalized. I moved back in with her to take care of her.

    (Lights faded out Living room setting in place, With Young Nadia & Sian)

Anymore tea Mom?

No thank you, but we need to talk come sit down next to me. Let me start off by just saying I am truly sorry for my past actions, all of them. I was so jealous of you and your father bond. I am so embarrassed to say this but seeing that created a deep dark hatred in my heart. Watching you leave was the hardest thing ever. Although I acted as if I didn’t care, It had hurt me deeply. And those lonely nights led to fun alcohol drinking by myself. And I overdid the drinking way too much. I was drinking Gin with my breakfast meal and twice as much with dinner. Treating you like that is the thing I most regret. Will you accept my apology?

    (Lights fade & Present Nadia pops up at the podium.)

    (Young Nadia& Sian playing apple blast off stage)

The relationship between my mom and I got way better. We laughed, joked around. Everything was great. And the next day was even better.

    (Lights faded and the living room setting appears)

Hey, Sian. You look nice today. I got great news, Where is Nadia? I want to tell you guys together. Oh she is in her room. Nadia! Hurry come here, I need to tell you something important. No, its nothing bad. So I invited my friend over for dinner the other day and he was telling how his wife does art in the U.S. I told him about you and showed him you room and all the paintings on your wall. He was amazed. And called his wife, and she requested a portfolio and an interview from you. It’s a really good job and it pays really well. The only thing is you have to live in the U.S. This is a once and lifetime opportunity. You are beyond a great artist I really think you should do it. Your old enough to take care of yourself, and plus you can always visit. Well I will let you think about it, let me know by Monday. Alright well I have to get to the market before it closes! Ok bye, Nadia let your heart decide for you. Bye, you guys. Let me know!

   (light fades and Present Nadia at the podium appears)

My heart sure did guide me too my choice. I am now a professional artist living in California. I couldn’t even believe it. Buddha saw my struggles and granted me with my dream job. Every morning I think about my past. And it makes me even strive and w harder. I am so proud of myself. My dad is still in my heart and I hope he is watching me achieve my dreams. Thank you all, I truly appreciate you all for coming. Let the celebration begin! Cheers!

   (The Sri Lanka music comes on and every one gets up and hugs Nadia.)

Marina Pyfrom 

Descriptive Essay

My dad passed away when I was about 3 years old. Since then my mom and I haven’t been the same. My dad and his family are originally from the Bahamas. He used to take me there when I was younger. We haven’t visited the Bahamas, or my dad’s family since his death. There are times where I wish my mom and I could visit again. I miss the feeling of running through the smooth gritty sand or watching the turquoise waves hit the shore, with water so crystal- clear that you can see the nail polish designs on your toes. When I visit places such as Atlantic City or Wildwood I am suddenly reminded of home. I miss getting up early to see the admirable, glowing sunrise that would slowly rise across the sky bringing a beautiful radiant light to both land and sea.

            Music, feeds my soul, it helps me in any situation. The soothing sound takes my mind off feeling homesick. To get closer to my Caribbean roots, I listen to reggae. Bob Marley is a well known legend for his life, music, and philosophy. Although he is a Jamaican singer, songwriter, and musician he was important throughout all the islands in the Caribbean area. The rhythm guitarist and the bass drum, make me feel like I'm there, in my home. I remember all the fun moments I had with my mom, when we used to wine to all reggae classics. Now, I rarely see her smile like how she used too. She grins and laughs but I want to see her give me real happy smile!

            “MOM HURRY COME HERE I GOT SOMETHING FOR YOU!!” I screamed to the top of my lungs as if someone was killing me. I stood there patiently waiting for my mom, as she sluggishly came towards me.   She snarled and said, “ What is it?  I’m in the middle of something.”   Quickly, I responded saying, “What are you in the middle of?” She rolled her eyes, similarly to the mean girls in high school and said, “I’m the mom don’t worry what I am doing!”   I just laughed because she says that to me all the time. I could tell she was doing her hair because she still had the skinny orange comb in her hair. With a big cheesy smile I said, “Hurry and open this, and then you can back do your hair.”   She grabbed the box and quickly began to tear it open.  Once the box was completely opened, she smiled and began to sing “And we jamming “ and bops her head.

            I walked over to the television to replace the picture of a woman and her baby that was behind it, and put Bob Marley’s picture up instead. The woman was African. I can tell by her dark skin complexion, and her garb, which is off-white shaded with a little beige. Her garb does not look like the present time African women attire. She quickly said, “No don’t take that picture down.” I began to feel sad because it was almost like she was rejecting my gift. “Why not”, I asked.   She rudely cut me off and said, “Because you can’t, we will find Bob Marley another place.” I rolled my neck in a circle said, “What, my picture isn’t good enough for you!” She said, “ That painting meant a lot to my mom, your grandmother before she passed, so we never moved it.”  I stared at the painting and it brought up memories of grand mom and me. I notice how the artist puts a lot of detail on her face, especially the eyes. She has thin eyebrows, big round eyes, brown pupils, and long eye lashes.The piece of artwork makes me think of the hardships of single moms out there. Then my mom said “ Its cool Bob coming with me in my room, and then she began singing again, “ I shot the sheriff, But I didn't shoot no deputy, ooh, ooh, oo-ooh” I just sat on the couch and laughed thinking, does Bob Marley really want to see mom when she goes too sleep and wakes up?!

            Even though I lost someone close to me, I still find a way to keep a positive attitude. I keep myself engaged in activities that remind of my Bahaman roots. And I try to keep my loved ones close and make them happy. I know one day I will be at my home, The Bahamas.  

Marina Pyfrom

C- Band

12/17/10

Benchmark Rough Draft

            “Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.”- Maya Angelou.  I hate to say it but sometimes people are not giving that opportunity without being judged. I know personally from experiences. Making your voice heard in certain places can often make you the outsider. Pronunciation of words can determine your place like education, learning process, and etc.  Language will always be distinguished, for the wrong things. People need to stop portraying the idea of the “perfect or correct” language. It doesn’t exist.

            As I sat in the reclining chair, looking at the mural of dancing toothbrushes, I waited patiently. My dentist came rushing in to check up on me because he knew I been waiting.

“Ahh , Marina, how have you been” ,said Mr. Solov as he sat in his little rolling stool.

“I’m fine,” I responded, readjusting my head so the dentist can check my teeth.

“Uhm, will can I get braces”, I said sort of mumbling.

“Oh yeah, let me check right now”, said Mr. Solov.

He placed the mirror like object in my mouth. He started making noises of reassurance “uhmm mhmm hmm”

“Marina, can you move your tongue back, and talk, it doesn’t matter what you say”, said the dentist.

I tried to position my mouth, to perform the exercise, as I was instructed to do. I failed the task horribly.

“I know the problem” ,said the dentist but I had cut him off saying, “Wooah, what problem, am I gonna die.”

He said with laughter “Noo silly, it’s not a big problem, just if you want braces, I would have to perform an additional operation because of your tongue condition”.

“What’s wrong with my tongue” I said with a crackling tone.

“Nothing, major. You just have a lisp. Do you notice how sometimes, maybe all the time, you tongue hangs or you always have your mouth open. Or maybe when you say some words the letter “s” slurs. Some say you have some type of speech impediment. Maybe its runs in your family.” Explained Mr. Solov.

            Listening to the dentist, I thought about the past. I never really noticed anything wrong with the way I talk. But now I was piecing the puzzle together. Sometimes while reading I struggled with words. It wasn’t because I never saw the word before and was sounding it out, it was the way I pronounced it, It wasn’t correct to my teachers.

Soon after my mom entered the room with my doctor and he briefly went over with her what he told me.

“Marina, its nothing wrong with it.” Said. Mr. Solow

            Mr. Solow was wrong. My lisp was the reason for everything. The arguments with teachers, they would always correct me as if I had no clue what I was doing.

            United States of America was said to be a free land of change, diversity, and a new start.  Accepting of any kind in any condition. “Don’t judge a book by its cover” was the line all adults taught children. How come it doesn’t go for adults also? I simply stumble on a couple words.             Just because I slur the letter “s”, making the “z” sound, it doesn’t make me any different. But, now living during this time I am labeled and categorized as “having a speech impediment”.

            I don’t understand how people down in the Caribbean have grown accustomed to the lisps for generation and generation. They may not even know what a lisp is.  Their thick accents over power what people from America call “lisps”. They pay no attention to because it is not important. Long as they are communicating, then nothing else matters.  Us, as Americans worry too much about stuff that is irrelevant, well to me it is. Like if you use improper over Standard English, it is a problem and you get penalized.

            You get punished for speaking, looked downed upon when heard. From having a tiny lisp made me the outsider. “the confidence of “belonging” in the public was withheld from them both” ( Aria by Richard Rodriguez , pg. 12)  I know the feeling and isn’t a good one. Hopefully, it will be figured out that everything with Language will forever be judged.  Sooner or later it will be discovered that “correct” language is not obtainable.