Community Visit - Slab City

Summary of Research Article

According to the Los Angeles Times, in the article Slab City Showdown Artwork May Be Bulldozed as an Environmental Hazard, written by Tony Perry. The author further explains how artist Leonard Knight’s visionary masterpiece known as Salvation Mountain, may poses a threat to the environment due to the high toxic levels of lead found in the soil. Knight who worked countless days and nights painting a mound with Biblical scriptures, such as The Sinner’s Prayer, and his deliberate message to the world by saying “GOD IS LOVE.” Leonard truly believed that his powerful statement would resonate among others, and his faith in God would reflect upon people all over the world by showing more love, and compassion towards one another. According to Perry, Salvation Mountain, yet alone Slab City itself began to gain popularity experiencing a diverse multitude of tourist like religious pilgrims, or a simple coriouse seekers. In fact the mountains rising notability captured the attention of State Lands Commissioner staffer, Don Reese. As an elected official, Reese manages 5 millions acres of state land including the notorious “squatters paradise,” most popularly known as Slab City. On June 30, the commissioner staff held a meeting in Sacramento, and agreed to pass a budget of $225,000 to clean up Salvation Mountain, and the rest of Slab City. He insisted on proving his point by saying, “Expressing yourself is great, but not at the expense of the environment.” That's why test were conducted for Salvation Mountain to check for lead toxins found in the paint. On the other hand, as much as the Imperial County government would like to turn Slab City into a respectable, and profitable attraction. The county does not have a fixed budget, or proper funding to preserve the land. If the Imperial County was to be held liable for the cost; the Valley would suffer from many financial repercussions. Leonard described this stage of his life as a “toxic nightmare,” the negative toll effects it had on him, and his beloved mountain. To alleviate his tension, and nerves, Knight composed a country- western style song at in goes as follows:

“I contaminated California with a four-inch hand paintbrush,

All I ever wanted to do was be an artist.

Lord Jesus I gave them my best.

California is going to hang me tomorrow,

And put my body to rest.”

Despite of all the commotion, Leonard Knight stayed true to himself, and his religious principles. Perry, makes a concluding statement by saying the following “He is not mad at anyone.” He loves even those who would remove Salvation Mountain, although he is mystified at the whole process.

Summary of Research Article

Summary of Research Article

According to the Los Angeles Times, in the article Slab City Showdown Artwork May Be Bulldozed as an Environmental Hazard, written by Tony Perry. The author further explains how artist Leonard Knight’s visionary masterpiece known as Salvation Mountain, may poses a threat to the environment due to the high toxic levels of lead found in the soil. Knight who worked countless days and nights painting a mound with Biblical scriptures, such as The Sinner’s Prayer, and his deliberate message to the world by saying “GOD IS LOVE.” Leonard truly believed that his powerful statement would resonate among others, and his faith in God would reflect upon people all over the world by showing more love, and compassion towards one another. According to Perry, Salvation Mountain, yet alone Slab City itself began to gain popularity experiencing a diverse multitude of tourist like religious pilgrims, or a simple coriouse seekers. In fact the mountains rising notability captured the attention of State Lands Commissioner staffer, Don Reese. As an elected official, Reese manages 5 millions acres of state land including the notorious “squatters paradise,” most popularly known as Slab City. On June 30, the commissioner staff held a meeting in Sacramento, and agreed to pass a budget of $225,000 to clean up Salvation Mountain, and the rest of Slab City. He insisted on proving his point by saying, “Expressing yourself is great, but not at the expense of the environment.” That's why test were conducted for Salvation Mountain to check for lead toxins found in the paint. On the other hand, as much as the Imperial County government would like to turn Slab City into a respectable, and profitable attraction. The county does not have a fixed budget, or proper funding to preserve the land. If the Imperial County was to be held liable for the cost; the Valley would suffer from many financial repercussions. Leonard described this stage of his life as a “toxic nightmare,” the negative toll effects it had on him, and his beloved mountain. To alleviate his tension, and nerves, Knight composed a country- western style song at in goes as follows:

“I contaminated California with a four-inch hand paintbrush,

All I ever wanted to do was be an artist.

Lord Jesus I gave them my best.

California is going to hang me tomorrow,

And put my body to rest.”

Despite of all the commotion, Leonard Knight stayed true to himself, and his religious principles. Perry, makes a concluding statement by saying the following “He is not mad at anyone.” He loves even those who would remove Salvation Mountain, although he is mystified at the whole process.

Faces of Imperial - The Anecdote "Slab City"

Faces of Imperial - The Anecdote

 “Slab City”

At times I like to think of myself as an adventurous, a thrill seeker, a person who is willing to live life in search of a new experience. Ever since I was young child, I can recall being a nature enthusiast. Something about the great outdoors, such as the open air gives me a sense of peace, and tranquility. “Beauty Through Simplicity,” that's my motto in life! Such saying, has changed my perception, of the way I view myself, and many things that surround my life. In other words what I am trying to say, is that we live in a complex world; where we as individuals have become blindsided by many things in life. Nowadays, we live in a common world that is filled with prejudice, and hatred that does not allows us to focus on what is truly important, and necessary. Which is recognizing the simple things you can do in life for others, has become more complicated, and it’s slowly starting to fade away.

I came to this realization the day, I went to “Slab City,” for the first time. It was then when I stood in front of a ton of dirt, and soil; that I was able to appreciate the beauty of such place, for what it was. It was like finding a gem in the middle of the desert. If your able to look past your judgement, and ignore the growing population of modern day hobos trashing the land. You can actually see the beauty of such place, known as the “Slabs.” The Slabs is a place that welcomes all kinds of people such as the homeless, the broken, the unfortunate people who are simply holding on to dear life. People who don’t have many prized possessions, besides the clothes in their back. It is the essence of this place, that keeps giving this individual's a second opportunity, and a chance in life. As I sit here today, writing this phrases, I can’t stop thinking how fortunate most of us we truly are.

"The Love of My Life"

Lemec Torres

English 110

Professor Lewenstein




My Professor, Mr. Lewenstein always comes up with clever ideas in his English class in order, for his students to become inspired and write passionately about their reading assignments. This week, for example, we read a short story titled “The Love of My Life” written by a novelist, T.C. Boyle. The short story is based on true events, and it focuses on the journey of two high school students who go through teen pregnancy at such a young age. Such a sensitive topic opened an insightful discussion among the class, which lead all students to give their opinion. Although the story focused on fictional characters, teen pregnancy is an issue we commonly hear today.

In the story “The Love of My Life,” the author unfolds a horrific scene that unfortunately an innocent child was the victim. The story is based on Jeremy and China who are deeply in “love” and will do anything for one another; for instance, they were so blindsided with “love” that they even committed murder. However, Jeremy and China were not your typical high school students: they both came from an educated family, they were well respected among their fellow students, and even managed to be on the top ten academic G.P.A for the whole school. It seemed that both Jeremy and China had a promising future; moreover, a successful life in front of them.

However, their story came to an end when Jeremy and China decided to have unprotected sex. China feared that her unexpected pregnancy would only ruin her; therefore, when the infant child was born, the child never lived long enough to be referred to as anything other than “it”. They both opted to dispose of the body of the innocent child in a dumpster as if he was a piece of trash. So, the dilemma here is to find the motives of what lead these young teenagers to commit such horrendous act? I mean, think about it, could it possibly be the fact, that both Jeremy and China were just still “children” themselves and as teenagers, they are trying to figure out life. Whatever the reason being the story is very tragic and sad. After reading “The Love of My Life” I learned that unfortunately many teenage pregnancies are common today. I believe, that maybe if we took the time to better educate young adult about the consequences of having unprotected sex, we as a society can help prevent unwanted pregnancies. Inclusively, if we provide the proper resources to teenagers like access to contraception can lead to effective methods to prevent pregnancies. 

Song Lyrics/ Text Passage Comparison

Wiki-Curtain - Discussion Board

Song Lyrics/ Text Passage Comparison

The Tortilla Curtain By T.C. Boyle	“Pal’ Norte” By Calle 13
by T.C. Boyle	“Pal’ Norte” By Calle 13

[ Verse 1: Calle 13]

[ Translation]

[Tortilla Curtain]

Sin brújula, sin tiempo, sin agenda, Inspirado por las leyendas Por historias empaquetadas en lata Por los cuentos que la luna relata Aprendí a caminar sin mapa A irme de caminata sin comodidades, sin lujo Protegido por los Santos y los brujos

Without compass, without time, without schedule, Inspired by the legends, By stories packaged in cans, By the tales I learned to tread without a map, To go for a walk without commodities, without luxuries, Protected by the saints and the witch doctors the moon recounts.

One day Candido ran into sixteen- year- old America. "You're America, and I'm going to take you with me when I go North." (pg.55) Both Candido and America ventured into their future. "He'd taken America from her father, so they could have a better life, so they could live in the North, where it was green [..] and everyone, even the poorest, had a house, a car, and a TV- and now he couldn't even put food in her mouth. Worse: She going to earn his keep."(pg.26)

In Pursuance of the American Dream 

This is a song done by a Puerto Rican group “Calle 13” in honor of all immigrants, in particular, the journey of those who cross into the United States, as "illegal" immigrants. "Pa’l Norte” is a Spanish slang term meaning “going north.” In the Tortilla Curtain novel, we read about Candido and America who sacrifice everything they have in order to live a better life."You're America, and I'm going to take you with me when I go North." (pg.55). This song is about immigrants illegally crossing the borders and the hardships faced by undocumented immigrants as they try to make their way to greater opportunities. Many immigrants from Latin American countries are actually from indigenous populations: they are so oppressed within their own nations and face nearly impossible economic challenges that they often decide to head north, sometimes to America."He'd taken America from her father, so they could have a better life, so they could live in the North, where it was green [..] and everyone, even the poorest, had a house, a car, and a TV- and now he couldn't even put food in her mouth. Worse: She going to earn his keep."(pg.26) Sadly, many undocumented immigrants come to America, with the illusion of living the American Dream; however, the reality of illegal immigration is that it is not as easy as they envisioned it. Once within the US, many undocumented immigrants face "racism" and "discrimination," especially the women."Beaners die." (pg.65) Because of their undocumented status, they are vulnerable to victimization, especially sexualized violence abuse. In the novel, we read about America being sexually abused by Jose Navidad which left her with permanent psychological scars. "What kind of life was it when you felt safe in the bushes, crouching to piss in the dirt like a dog? Was that what she'd left Tepoztlan for? Both the song "Pal' Norte" and the Tortilla Curtain novel, makes us wonder about all the risk factors that all undocumented immigrants face when illegally crossing the border, even if that means sacrificing their lives?

Behind the truth of "The Land Of The Free" Slab City

As a class assignment in my English 110, my professor Mr. Lewenstein encourages his students to part take in a Community Research Topic that currently has a positive or negative  impact our community here in the Imperial Valley. The following is my Cause and Effect Support - Double-Sided Journal that I would like to share with my viewers, analyzing both sides of the story from my perspective.  

(Summery:) In the cover story “Land Of The Free,” the article describes Slab City as a tragic indictment of the modern economy, a scree of human debris washed up by society. The writer suggest that Slab City begins to resemble the post - apocalyptic era by emphasizing that most people living in the Slabs are dirt poor toothless bums, who are either drug addicts, or convicts who are running away from their past. As a result, Slabbers don’t work, and unlawfully occupy the land.	(Reflection:) Although the writer does have a point by suggesting many Slabbers are facing multiple economical hardships. I completely disagree that all residents of the Slabs should be viewed less than, or continue to be judged as individuals based upon their financial status.
(Paraphrase:) According to Bhattacharya, Sanjiv the author of the article, she insinuates that Slabbers are not productive members of society; as a result, they run away from reality into the Slabs. In fear of becoming a burden to society; Slabbers opt on living in rural conditions such as inhabiting, or occupying an abandoned piece of land. Making the environment their primary resource, many Slabbers utilize broken RVs as their shelter making Slab City look as a waist-full piece of land.	(Reflection:) Poverty being on of the main causes that drives many individuals to live in Slab City. Many Slabbers continue to struggle to meet their basic necessities, regardless of living rent free. Most of the Slabbers are retirees who are living off their pensions just trying to make ends meet.
(Quotation:) “On my pension, free camping is all I can afford, It suits me because I’ve got arthritis, and Mexico’s only an hour away, so I can get cheap medicines,” sighs Ian, a 78-year old Slab City Slabber.	(Reflection:) Clearly there is a glitch in our system, for allowing senior citizens to solely rely on Social Security checks to make a living. We live in modern America, yet many American citizens do not have access to proper health care in the United States. Is this the America we like to stand for?

    In the cover story “Land Of The Free,” the article describes Slab City as a tragic indictment of the modern economy, a scree of human debris washed up by society. The writer suggest that Slab City begins to resemble the post - apocalyptic era by emphasizing that most people living in the Slabs are dirt poor toothless bums, who are either drug addicts, or convicts who are running away from their past. As a result, Slabbers don’t work, and unlawfully occupy the land. Although the writer does have a point by suggesting many Slabbers are facing multiple economical hardships. I completely disagree that all residents of the Slabs should be viewed less than, or continue to be judged as individuals based upon their financial status. According to Bhattacharya, Sanjiv the author of the article, she insinuates that Slabbers are not productive members of society; as a result, they run away from reality into the Slabs. In fear of becoming a burden to society; Slabbers opt on living in rural conditions such as inhabiting, or occupying an abandoned piece of land. Making the environment their primary resource, many Slabbers utilize broken RVs as their shelter making Slab City look as a waist-full piece of land. Poverty being on of the main causes that drives many individuals to live in Slab City. Many Slabbers continue to struggle to meet their basic necessities, regardless of living rent free. Most of the Slabbers are retirees who are living off their pensions just trying to make ends meet. “On my pension, free camping is all I can afford, It suits me because I’ve got arthritis, and Mexico’s only an hour away, so I can get cheap medicines,” sighs Ian, a 78-year old Slab City Slabber. Clearly there is a glitch in our system, for allowing senior citizens to solely rely on Social Security checks to make a living. We live in modern America, yet many American citizens do not have access to proper health care in the United States. Is this the America we like to stand for?

The Powerful Message - Salvation Mountain

In Mr. Lewestein's class, English 110, As part of my Community Profile research topic, I've selected to write about the potential hazards that Salvation Mountain, located in Slab City faced at the time, due to its high levels of lead found in the paint. If such beautiful mountain poses a threat t the environment, should it be taken down ? Go ahead and read my summary of research article, and find out!

According to the Los Angeles Times, in the article Slab City Showdown Artwork May Be Bulldozed as an Environmental Hazard, written by Tony Perry. The author further explains how artist Leonard Knight’s visionary masterpiece known as Salvation Mountain, may poses a threat to the environment due to the high toxic levels of lead found in the soil. Knight who worked countless days and nights painting a mound with Biblical scriptures, such as The Sinner’s Prayer, and his deliberate message to the world by saying “GOD IS LOVE.” Leonard truly believed that his powerful statement would resonate among others, and his faith in God would reflect upon people all over the world by showing more love, and compassion towards one another. According to Perry, Salvation Mountain, yet alone Slab City itself began to gain popularity experiencing a diverse multitude of tourist like religious pilgrims, or a simple curious  seekers. In fact the mountains rising notability captured the attention of State Lands Commissioner staffer, Don Reese. As an elected official, Reese manages 5 millions acres of state land including the notorious “squatters paradise,” most popularly known as Slab City. On June 30, the commissioner staff held a meeting in Sacramento, and agreed to pass a budget of $225,000 to clean up Salvation Mountain, and the rest of Slab City. He insisted on proving his point by saying, “Expressing yourself is great, but not at the expense of the environment.” That's why test were conducted for Salvation Mountain to check for lead toxins found in the paint. On the other hand, as much as the Imperial County government would like to turn Slab City into a respectable, and profitable attraction. The county does not have a fixed budget, or proper funding to preserve the land. If the Imperial County was to be held liable for the cost; the Valley would suffer from many financial repercussions. Leonard described this stage of his life as a “toxic nightmare,” the negative toll effects it had on him, and his beloved mountain. To alleviate his tension, and nerves, Knight composed a country- western style song at in goes as follows:

“I contaminated California with a four-inch hand paintbrush,

 All I ever wanted to do was be an artist.

 Lord Jesus I gave them my best.

 California is going to hang me tomorrow,

 And put my body to rest.”

 Despite of all the commotion, Leonard Knight stayed true to himself, and his religious principles. Perry, makes a concluding statement by saying the following “He is not mad at anyone.” He loves even those who would remove Salvation Mountain, although he is mystified at the whole process.

Slab City, A Lawless City In America.

In my English 110 class at Imperial Valley College, my professor Mr. Lewestein encourages his students to be involved in our community, and write an interesting research paper on a topic that has an impact on our community here in the Imperial Valley. I present to you the following :
Community Profile - My Free-write - Who? - What? - Where - Why?  

Slab City, A Lawless City In America.

"One Man's Trash, Is Another Man's Treasure,” and Slab City, is the perfect representation of it. Located in the Sonoran Desert, four miles northeast from a little town called Niland on Highway 111. You stumble across a bizarre growing community of squatters, snowbirds, and nomads. The “Slabbers,” more commonly known as “Squatters” are people who don’t have a permanent home, travel from place to place, and unlawfully occupy uninhibited land. However, such sweet freedom, does come with some controversy. Such site has no running water, sewage system, or official source of electricity. It is said the lack of government assistance, and prejudice of society is what drives these people to the free land of Slab City. With no rules, or laws people are free to do whatever they want, if you ask me that's  pretty wild! So, what’s the big fuss and commotion about this people, are they simply crazies, eccentrics, or plain old weirdos! Being a “Slabber,” is it considered a lifestyle choice, or can they be categorized as victims of today's economy or even worse, poverty? Something I’ve learned over the years is that you should “Never Judge a Book By Its Cover,” meaning you shouldn't prejudge the worth, or value of someone by its outward appearance. Most importantly, there is always two sides to every story, and when it comes to “Slabbers,” I want to get to the bottom of what drives them to live in such rural conditions. “Slab City,” is considered the last free place on earth, and quite frankly as odd, as it may sound, I see the beauty of it! I like to view the slabs as a little gem, out here in the harsh, dry, Sonoran Desert. Perhaps, you may recall the most popular slabber, the one and only Leonard Knight, the creator of Salvation Mountain. Through his artwork, Knight sends out a welcoming message to everyone who enters the Slabs by saying, “Love is Universal.” His work has been is now know as a national treasure, and featured in a mayor movie film named “Into the Wild.”   

The Diary Of a Young Girl - By Anne Frank

Book of My Past - The Hidden Truth 

 

At the time I was a freshman in high school when, I came across the book The Diary Of a Young Girl, by Anne Frank. It was in my history class that we began reading this book as a class assignment. In her diary, Anne writes about her experience growing up as a Jewish girl, during the time of Adolf Hitler's rule in the 1940. What struck me the most from this book, was the sinister actions that all Jewish people had to endure by the German Nazis.

At the time she was only thirteen years old when Anne, and her family had to hide out in a cellar. They lived with the fear of being separated as a family; as a result, they would be placed in a Nazi concentration camp. This book truly has an affect on any one who reads it. The reason why I recall this book from my past, only because this book was based on real facts. Her real thoughts, feelings, and emotions are recorded in her diary on a daily basis during WWII.

The most memorable part of the book it self, can be the fact that Anne had been confined two years in the cellar, only being able to capture the days sunlight through the windows. By doing so, even then they would face great danger, for peeking out through the windows. The book itself made me reflect on myself, and it teached me on how sometimes we can take the smallest things for granted. I would definitely recommend to any one enjoys reading non-fiction, and is willing to learn about the life of a Jewish girl during difficult times. The book is an eye opener, it would change, your perspective in life, and it will make you be more appreciative of all the smaller things in life.  

Movie Review

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  Movie Review - “The Boy in the Stiped Pajamas”

  1. During World War II, The Holocaust.
  2. Bruno a German boy, relocates with his family to a farm land in Germany.
  3. Bruno an eight-year-old son, of a German Nazi Commandant.
  4. Bruno disobeys his parents and wonders off to the woods.
  5. He discovers a barbed wire fence surrounding a camp.
  6. Meets a Jewish boy held captive, in a concentration camp.
  7. Begins a forbidden friendship with Shmuel, a Jewish boy.
  8. Bruno very naïve; believes the Jewish boy is a farmer and wears a uniform, stripped Pajamas.
  9. One day, Bruno digs a whole and decides to join Shmuel, inside the camp. 
  10. Bruno discovers the reality and horror, the camp was never a farm it was a Nazi extermination Camp.

  
  Bruno was an eight-year-old boy, who moved to the outskirts of Germany, with his father who was a Nazi Commandant, during World War II. One day Bruno was out exploring the woods, when he stumbled into a camp, surrounded by a barbed wired fence. Bruno meets a boy with the strip pajamas and develops a secret friendship. The boy with the stripe pajamas was a Jewish boy named Shmuel. Bruno believed the boy with the striped pajamas was a farmer, but in reality he was a prisoner , in a Nazi concentration camp.        

The Pictures We Never See: Disney Star's Struggle with Depression and Eating Disorder - by Lemec Torres - English 09

Music Lyrics That Will Impact You!

Discussion Board #16 - Quote Sandwich - Demi Lovato - "Skyscraper."

While, in the studio, a year before entering rehab; singer, songwriter, Demi Lovato found herself sobbing in tears, as she recorded “Skyscraper.” One of her most powerful, emotional, and influential songs that launched her singing career. Through her lyrics, Demi breaks the silence, of her struggle with depression and her eating disorders, hoping to inspire other young girls to seek help. The song is about “Risinging  above” any difficult circumstance you might be going through. The powerful message, Demi tries to convey behind her lyrics states as follows “Go on and try to tear me down, I will be raising from the Ground like a Skyscraper.” The lesson behind Demi Lovato’s lyrics, is no matter how hard you hit rock-bottom; you can always rise above, and overcome any obstacle that is thrown your way. To my opinion Demi Lovato is truly inspirational, not only for overcoming her eating disorders, but also for using her voice as a platform to raise awareness to others.

"Stay Strong" Each Tattoo Has a Story!

 "Stay Strong"

      Extremely talented singer, songwriter and actress Demi Lovato posed all the qualities needed, on her rise to stardom. Debuting in her own Disney channel series as a child, Demi became an overnight sensation. Demi Lovato a famous pop artist, who became a public advocate, and supporter of all woman and men battling with depression and eating disorders. Demi Lovato used her powerful voice and self-image to set the platform for others to speak up and raise awareness. This tattoo of Demi Lovato’s encouraging words that read “Stay Strong” is a perfect example of what inspired me to write this paragraph. This tattoo has such important significance to her. That truly captivated my attention to find the meaning behind her tattoo. After learning that Demi Lovato was diagnosed with a mental and eating disorder, she was admitted to rehab and treated for deliberately cutting herself. This tattoo of Demi Lovato has really changed my perspective of tattoos and the way I view them. I personally do not have any tattoos myself, however I would probably consider tattoo my body with a tattoo that has a meaning as significant as this one.

       “Stay Strong” never give up is the powerful message behind Demi Lovato’s tattoo. After suffering from an eating disorder and depression, singer Demi Lovato was admitted to rehab for several months. The actress, songwriter, Disney channel star, openly admitted to cutting herself and performing self-harm due to fat-shaming and peer pressure from the media. As an artist and celebrity Demi Lovato has always been in the public eye. With her Tattoo she wanted to send a message, and make a statement for all those individuals suffering from a mental illness like herself to “Stay Strong”. To my opinion tattoos have always been an artistic way of self-expression and illustrate a vivid image of one’s individuality. For example, in Demi Lovato’s tattoo you can admire the powerful message and story behind her tattoo. The words “Stay Strong” are bold, loud and visible placed right on top of her wrist, to serve her a constant reminder to push through the darkest days and never give up and continue living and “Stay Strong”. I find truly inspiring about Demi Lovato’s tattoo is the fact that she took a negative experience, turned it to a positive and raised awareness about her mental illness and used her tattoo as a platform to inspire others to speak up and reach out for help. I always enjoy the meaning and story behind each tattoo, as I find them interesting and fascinating. All tattoos hold such strong sentimental value and characteristics that makes them unique, but by far Demi Lovato’s “Stay Strong” tattoo has changed my perspective and the way I view tattoos. As they teach me that there is more to a tattoo, that our keen-eye cannot see.

      The words “Stay Strong” are bold, loud, and the imprinted letters will impact you as you continue to analyze them and read them. As they are placed in the body, the back of the wrist to be precise where they can clearly be visible and admired. The design of the tattoo displays such beautiful pattern in cursive that draws your attention first time you see them. If you pay close attention you can observe the skin mark of scar tissue that was developed from self- harm in Demi Lovato’s cover up tattoo. Maybe that’s exactly why she chose the position and size of this powerful message to “Stay Strong” and to serve her as a constant reminder. I think the meaning and importance of this tattoo is to captivate an audience, draw attention to the public and send out a message letting others know that they are not alone. To my opinion this artistic tattoo can be viewed as self- expression and also raise attention about something you really care about like creating awareness to help others.  

      Tattoos like Demi Lovato’s “Stay Strong” will forever leave a mark on you and raise attention about something you really care about.  Tattoos in general have their own uniqueness and can be considered a way of self- expression. Some tattoos can be used as tribute; to honor a loved one, or simply serve you as a motivational statement. I believe tattoos now a day are more than just a beautiful image on your skin. Tattoos are a creative and artistic way that tell of story of your past, or an experience that has marked your life forever. In Demi Lovato’s powerful tattoo, you can clearly admire the message she’s trying to convey to others which is to “Stay Strong”. In my opinion all tattoos are considered beautiful, no matter the size, shape or color as they simply express a way of who you truly are. 

Girl, Interrupted by Sussana Kaysen Must Read!

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   Girl, Interrupted – MVP- Tunnels 

  By far one of the most memorable moments from the book “Girl, Interrupted,” making this part my (MVP) Most Valuable Part of the story; I nominate the conversation that took place between Susanna and her therapist, Dr. Melvin during her analysis. In the chapter, “The Shadow of the Real,” Susanna compares her life experience in the ward with famous philosopher Plato’s allegory “The Shadows on the Wall of the Cave.”  In such story Plato talks about a group of people living imprisoned in a cave; they always lived in seclusion, and knew nothing of the outside world. That’s exactly how Susanna felt about her life, at McLean Psychiatric Hospital. Susanna had a realization, towards the end of the chapter when she says, “I’d had it, finally, with all that messing with about in the shadows.” I believe this was her turning point in life; when she realizes that theirs is more to life, than her stay at the hospital. It all began with a walk through the “Tunnels,” that changed her perspective about life. From, Susanna’s Kaysen perspective, the tunnels underneath the ward, represented a connection to the outside world.  Susanna’s obsession with the tunnels, started as soon as she obtained her destination privileges inside the hospital. Each week, with the supervision of a nurse; Susanna was able to roam the hallways freely.   The tunnels aroused Susanna’s curiosity; as a result, she became fascinated how everything was interconnected, underneath the ward. Each tunnel had its own pathway and signs that pointed out to its destination.  Susana couldn’t contain her excitement, and she explained to her analyst how “There are tunnels under this entire hospital. Everything is connected by tunnels. You could get in them and to anywhere. It’s warm and cozy and quite.” Even though the tunnels were not a new discovery to the ward; Susanna was very fond of them. She couldn’t resist the great smell of fresh laundry, that pressed through as they opened the doors. The tunnels texture and lighting, captivated Susanna’s attention. Not only did the tunnels provide a different atmosphere underneath the ward, but also gave Susanna a little piece and quite from her daily routine at the ward. To my opinion the tunnels represented a guideline to her life in the ward. Even though Susanna didn’t know her destination, or her future, she felt a connection with the tunnels. In her interpretation the tunnels pointed to a pathway, towards the right direction in life.  

What Motivates You?

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  Book of Your Past – The Purpose Driven Life

  
  

           I encountered the following book “The Purpose Driven Life,” by Rick Warren during my freshman year in college. In life we all go through disappointments, setbacks, and trials we don’t understand. At that time, I was going through a difficult stage in my life, and I recall asking myself “What is my sole purpose in life, what am I destined for?”. After expressing my feelings to one of my dearest family member I trusted; my Godmother, she insisted we started our reading journey together. “The Purpose Driven Life- What On Earth Am I Here For” this book offers readers a forty day personal spiritual journey and presents God’s purposes for human life. The reason why I remember this book so much; this book saved me from a negative stage I was going through in my life. I had the tendency of holding on to negative experiences, dwelling on negative thoughts; this kind of attitude only opened the doors to bitterness, resentment and self- pity. By reading this book it changed my perspective in life and changed the way I viewed life in general. One of my favorite parts of the book is a quote that states the following “Where you are going is much more important, than where you’ve been. But if you stay focused on the past, you’ll get stuck right where you are”. This reflection inspired me to stop dwelling on the past; move forward and gave me hope for a better tomorrow. I would definitely recommend this book by Rick Warren, “The Purpose Driven Life” to anybody who in interested in reading a spiritual and self-reflection book, that will motivate you to a fresh start. Think of your brain as inventory and be selective of what you read: You are what your read, so why not feed your brain with goodness and topics that are going to help your grow.