Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Hypertext Essay: Our Flag.
Today I want to speak with you about the meaning and impact of the American Flag. May sound a bit dry, I know, but my goal here is to give you a sense of perspective on this matter. Sometimes we Americans take the meaning of that colorful piece of handiwork for granted. The American flag can mean so many different things to different people. No matter who you ask in our country (and out of it), there only seem to be a few points that are agreed upon. It’s the flag of our revered nation, available at most convenience and box stores in cotton, nylon, or silk. It does fairly well for house decoration; red white and blue can fit with a multitude of color schemes. Finally, it is a symbol.
We all know what a symbol is, but what does this particular one mean? That’s where the disagreements start. Let’s get the obvious stuff out of the way first. If you ask your state governor or the local Board of Education that requires their students to say the pledge every morning what the American flag means, you’ll get the same boring answer about how it stands for truth, justice, freedom, sacrifice etc. Now don’t get me wrong, to the majority of Americans this is indeed true. We, who might not have lost loved ones in wars or been affected by acts of terror probably are sick of hearing that. However, even in a generation as clever as ours, if we were interviewed and asked what the American flag stands for we would probably give the exact same boring answer.
But why is that? Is it because that’s what we’ve been brought up believing? Is that what we really believe? Sorry, I know I’m the one supposed to be answering the questions not asking them, but I’m trying to make you think. For starters, I would say that if you gave an answer to that question without mentioning truth and justice, you’d probably be framed as anti-American. That tends to be a good incentive for most people.
What about to someone who isn’t an American? A flag is a symbol of a nation and everything that nation stands for, and if the people of that nation think it stands for the well-being and natural rights of men that’s just wonderful. Sometimes, we have to think outside that confined box. Some people may look at the American flag and think of oppression. Now, don’t gasp too loudly at the idea. America is an empire after all. We annexed territories, fought wars against completely innocent civilizations because we believed it was our “destiny” to take their lands. We even planted the seeds of revolt into nations we were too timid to attack directly. America is a nation born and raised in the blood of her own and others (as are all great nations), and her flag stands as a tribute to that.
To some people, the American flag could stand for treachery and deceit. How could that possibly be? Think back to a little earlier in American history. Take World War 1 for example. America had officially proclaimed its neutrality, saying we wouldn’t enter the war on either side. However, we were secretly providing the French and the British with supplies by sea with camouflaged ships. So, Germany began sinking our boats and provoked war with us. Why? Not because they were an evil empire, not because they wanted to control the world and we stood in their way. It was because we lied to them saying we were “neutral” in the war. To them, truth and justice were the last thing the American flag embodied. It’s always a matter of perspective.
So, just what is that thing, that symbol? It’s a piece of finely woven fabric, possibly mass produced in a factory. But it’s also truth, justice, oppression, lies, freedom, glory, sadness, pain, hatred, or even ketchup. A symbol is whatever you see it to be, and no matter how often you are told what a symbol such as the American flag is supposed to mean, it will only take on the meaning you yourself assign to it. No one can dictate what a symbol must stand for.
We all know what a symbol is, but what does this particular one mean? That’s where the disagreements start. Let’s get the obvious stuff out of the way first. If you ask your state governor or the local Board of Education that requires their students to say the pledge every morning what the American flag means, you’ll get the same boring answer about how it stands for truth, justice, freedom, sacrifice etc. Now don’t get me wrong, to the majority of Americans this is indeed true. We, who might not have lost loved ones in wars or been affected by acts of terror probably are sick of hearing that. However, even in a generation as clever as ours, if we were interviewed and asked what the American flag stands for we would probably give the exact same boring answer.
But why is that? Is it because that’s what we’ve been brought up believing? Is that what we really believe? Sorry, I know I’m the one supposed to be answering the questions not asking them, but I’m trying to make you think. For starters, I would say that if you gave an answer to that question without mentioning truth and justice, you’d probably be framed as anti-American. That tends to be a good incentive for most people.
What about to someone who isn’t an American? A flag is a symbol of a nation and everything that nation stands for, and if the people of that nation think it stands for the well-being and natural rights of men that’s just wonderful. Sometimes, we have to think outside that confined box. Some people may look at the American flag and think of oppression. Now, don’t gasp too loudly at the idea. America is an empire after all. We annexed territories, fought wars against completely innocent civilizations because we believed it was our “destiny” to take their lands. We even planted the seeds of revolt into nations we were too timid to attack directly. America is a nation born and raised in the blood of her own and others (as are all great nations), and her flag stands as a tribute to that.
To some people, the American flag could stand for treachery and deceit. How could that possibly be? Think back to a little earlier in American history. Take World War 1 for example. America had officially proclaimed its neutrality, saying we wouldn’t enter the war on either side. However, we were secretly providing the French and the British with supplies by sea with camouflaged ships. So, Germany began sinking our boats and provoked war with us. Why? Not because they were an evil empire, not because they wanted to control the world and we stood in their way. It was because we lied to them saying we were “neutral” in the war. To them, truth and justice were the last thing the American flag embodied. It’s always a matter of perspective.
So, just what is that thing, that symbol? It’s a piece of finely woven fabric, possibly mass produced in a factory. But it’s also truth, justice, oppression, lies, freedom, glory, sadness, pain, hatred, or even ketchup. A symbol is whatever you see it to be, and no matter how often you are told what a symbol such as the American flag is supposed to mean, it will only take on the meaning you yourself assign to it. No one can dictate what a symbol must stand for.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Blogfolio Revision 3: What'd you say about my hometown?
Original Post
Now I know I said that on the right side of your screen I said wouldn't reveal too much about myself. Well, being an avid fan of my blog will give you some benefits. I'll take you all through a little bit of my personal life, should be fun for you.
I want to talk about my hometown. I was born and raised in Kennesaw, Georgia. No, don't bother looking at a map, you won't find it. It's a little bit north of Atlanta, the only reason that people live here is either to retire or because they have jobs in Atlanta but don't want to live in the city. It's a nice, quiet town. Probably won't show up on the news unless there's flooding or hurricanes.
Isn't that pleasant? So, the main reason for this post is because I've heard some flak about my town recently, and I feel as though that needs to be addressed. See, people like to make assumptions about us kids from Kennesaw. For whatever reason (it's beyond me) people seem to think we're one of the most "southern" towns in north Georgia. You know, like the "I mowed my grass and found a Chevy" southern.
From what I've heard, the assumptions associated with Kennesaw are usually humorous. See, we have a law down here that says every household must own a gun. It's never been enforced in any way, but it's still gained popularity in the media for obvious reasons. Whenever I talk to someone about Kennesaw who thinks they're clever, they'll say something along the lines of “Oh you're from Kennesaw? What, do they require guns so you guys can keep the blacks off your property?” That usually makes me chuckle, but also brings me to the next assumption I hear about.
People seem to believe that most residents in Kennesaw are somewhat racist. This is also a general southern assumption of course, but from stories I've heard by the African American friends of mine, it especially holds true for Kennesaw because of our police department. I've known of African Americans who get pulled over for going 3 mph over the speed limit, a friend got a ticket because his “window” tint was too dark, another friend of mine got pulled over for speeding and the first question he got asked was “Is this your vehicle, boy?”
I think this needs to be addressed. Sure, we may have some racist folk, or people who carry around rifles in the streets just to flaunt the fact that they have a gun. Doesn't mean we're all like that. In fact, 99% of people in our fine city are normal as can be. If you knock on someone's door trying to sell sweaters, you don't need a bulletproof vest. They'll just open the door and tell you to get lost. If your a black man and you go to a public library, don't think you'll have to use a separate bathroom. We're not a backward town, we just have a few strange people. However, I do strongly recommend not to trespass. Be warned, most people will have guns, and will not hesitate to use them if need be.
To my readers, where is your hometown? Is there anything interesting you want to say about it? I'm always up for feedback and input, let me know your thoughts!
Now I know I said that on the right side of your screen I said wouldn't reveal too much about myself. Well, being an avid fan of my blog will give you some benefits. I'll take you all through a little bit of my personal life, should be fun for you.
I want to talk about my hometown. I was born and raised in Kennesaw, Georgia. No, don't bother looking at a map, you won't find it. It's a little bit north of Atlanta, the only reason that people live here is either to retire or because they have jobs in Atlanta but don't want to live in the city. It's a nice, quiet town. Probably won't show up on the news unless there's flooding or hurricanes.
Isn't that pleasant? So, the main reason for this post is because I've heard some flak about my town recently, and I feel as though that needs to be addressed. See, people like to make assumptions about us kids from Kennesaw. For whatever reason (it's beyond me) people seem to think we're one of the most "southern" towns in north Georgia. You know, like the "I mowed my grass and found a Chevy" southern.
From what I've heard, the assumptions associated with Kennesaw are usually humorous. See, we have a law down here that says every household must own a gun. It's never been enforced in any way, but it's still gained popularity in the media for obvious reasons. Whenever I talk to someone about Kennesaw who thinks they're clever, they'll say something along the lines of “Oh you're from Kennesaw? What, do they require guns so you guys can keep the blacks off your property?” That usually makes me chuckle, but also brings me to the next assumption I hear about.
People seem to believe that most residents in Kennesaw are somewhat racist. This is also a general southern assumption of course, but from stories I've heard by the African American friends of mine, it especially holds true for Kennesaw because of our police department. I've known of African Americans who get pulled over for going 3 mph over the speed limit, a friend got a ticket because his “window” tint was too dark, another friend of mine got pulled over for speeding and the first question he got asked was “Is this your vehicle, boy?”
I think this needs to be addressed. Sure, we may have some racist folk, or people who carry around rifles in the streets just to flaunt the fact that they have a gun. Doesn't mean we're all like that. In fact, 99% of people in our fine city are normal as can be. If you knock on someone's door trying to sell sweaters, you don't need a bulletproof vest. They'll just open the door and tell you to get lost. If your a black man and you go to a public library, don't think you'll have to use a separate bathroom. We're not a backward town, we just have a few strange people. However, I do strongly recommend not to trespass. Be warned, most people will have guns, and will not hesitate to use them if need be.
To my readers, where is your hometown? Is there anything interesting you want to say about it? I'm always up for feedback and input, let me know your thoughts!
Blogfolio Revision 2: A History Lesson
Original Post
So, I actually do have other hobbies aside from ranting and raving in case you were curious. As much as school itself bores me, learning itself is great fun when it's interesting. It's a pity some people can't appreciate it, but don't get me started.
I really do enjoy talking, writing, and reading about history. I've read numerous history textbooks cover to cover and I've spent lord knows how many hours on Wikipedia reading about the fall of empires and wars throughout the ages. I can recall so many obscure facts about European history and our own history that some of my friends call me a walking encyclopedia. Even my brother will leave the shelter of his room when he needs a question answered. I don't think any of you can understand the magnitude of that like I do.
I've never understood why, but fellow students will always complain to me about how history is that class for them. You know what I'm referring to: the class where as soon as you enter the room, you feel instantly exhausted despite how many Monster you drank that morning or how many hours of sleep you got. Is it coming back to you now? That's good. See, I always found history fascinating. I think it's the connections it has back to the present day that makes it so intriguing. There is an infinite number of connections to be made, but let me give you an example. Hope you're feeling up for a history lesson today.
Ever wonder why all of South America speaks Spanish, but for some obscure reason in Brazil they speak Portuguese? Well, I doubt you may have wondered about that, but I know that you knew about it. Now you are wondering. Here is some history for you. Back when the New World had just been discovered, and the Pope was still the de facto ruler of all Europe, the Spanish and Portuguese were the leaders in exploration. They both started trying to claim the same lands in the Americas, and something had to be done to prevent war from breaking out. Other European nations probably could've cared less, but the Pope couldn't have Catholic nations spilling each others blood. So, he drew an imaginary line on a map, splitting the New World in half. Mind you, they had no clue back then just how large America was, so they gave Spain everything west of this imaginary line, and Portugal everything east of it. They both went about their colonizing, and Spain was quite pleased with the amount of land they soon discovered. At this point, most of North America and 97 percent of South America was controlled by the Spanish, but as it turns out, the imaginary line had been unknowingly drawn directly on the tip of today's Brazil. The Portuguese claimed it as quickly as they could, and established their colony there. Due to the large amount of rainforest in the Brazil area, the Spanish never did find out about this small Portuguese settlement. It wasn't until the Spanish got involved in numerous wars and financial troubles that the Portuguese decided to expand, and turned their colony into the largest in South America. The rest, as they say, is history.
That's why Brazil speaks Portuguese amid the multitude of Spanish speaking countries! I sincerely hope you learned something today. Now just because this entry wasn't about anything too thought provoking doesn't mean you can't comment! I'd love to hear some unique history facts from my devoted audience if there are any to be had.
See you.
So, I actually do have other hobbies aside from ranting and raving in case you were curious. As much as school itself bores me, learning itself is great fun when it's interesting. It's a pity some people can't appreciate it, but don't get me started.
I really do enjoy talking, writing, and reading about history. I've read numerous history textbooks cover to cover and I've spent lord knows how many hours on Wikipedia reading about the fall of empires and wars throughout the ages. I can recall so many obscure facts about European history and our own history that some of my friends call me a walking encyclopedia. Even my brother will leave the shelter of his room when he needs a question answered. I don't think any of you can understand the magnitude of that like I do.
I've never understood why, but fellow students will always complain to me about how history is that class for them. You know what I'm referring to: the class where as soon as you enter the room, you feel instantly exhausted despite how many Monster you drank that morning or how many hours of sleep you got. Is it coming back to you now? That's good. See, I always found history fascinating. I think it's the connections it has back to the present day that makes it so intriguing. There is an infinite number of connections to be made, but let me give you an example. Hope you're feeling up for a history lesson today.
Ever wonder why all of South America speaks Spanish, but for some obscure reason in Brazil they speak Portuguese? Well, I doubt you may have wondered about that, but I know that you knew about it. Now you are wondering. Here is some history for you. Back when the New World had just been discovered, and the Pope was still the de facto ruler of all Europe, the Spanish and Portuguese were the leaders in exploration. They both started trying to claim the same lands in the Americas, and something had to be done to prevent war from breaking out. Other European nations probably could've cared less, but the Pope couldn't have Catholic nations spilling each others blood. So, he drew an imaginary line on a map, splitting the New World in half. Mind you, they had no clue back then just how large America was, so they gave Spain everything west of this imaginary line, and Portugal everything east of it. They both went about their colonizing, and Spain was quite pleased with the amount of land they soon discovered. At this point, most of North America and 97 percent of South America was controlled by the Spanish, but as it turns out, the imaginary line had been unknowingly drawn directly on the tip of today's Brazil. The Portuguese claimed it as quickly as they could, and established their colony there. Due to the large amount of rainforest in the Brazil area, the Spanish never did find out about this small Portuguese settlement. It wasn't until the Spanish got involved in numerous wars and financial troubles that the Portuguese decided to expand, and turned their colony into the largest in South America. The rest, as they say, is history.
That's why Brazil speaks Portuguese amid the multitude of Spanish speaking countries! I sincerely hope you learned something today. Now just because this entry wasn't about anything too thought provoking doesn't mean you can't comment! I'd love to hear some unique history facts from my devoted audience if there are any to be had.
See you.
Blogfolio Revision 1: Texting
Original Post
So I'm here to speak with you all again. Today's subject is a most grave one unfortunately. Something the masses find difficult to agree with, but simply cant bring themselves not to use. Texting. (Inspired by my friend Lauren, I was sitting here thinking of what to write, when i got a message saying "May the 4th be with you!" Quite clever indeed, if i do say so myself)
Just about everyone has a differing opinion on this topic. Myself and several acquaintances of mine text constantly. But why? Well, I can't say for sure about them, but I text just for the sake of texting 95% of the time. Honestly, if you have something pressing or important to discuss, just call the person. Texting is mainly an instrument of entertainment, where you have a conversation with someone only for the sake of having a conversation. That's the way I've always seen it. Why text someone about which Wal-Mart you're going to meet at in five minutes? Why text someone about if they wanted to see the 8:30 or 9:00 showing of Iron Man 2 when its already 8:00? Some things are just so much easier discussed over the phone, but some people text about them regardless. It gets rather aggravating at times.
On the other hand, some of the people I know glare at me every time I even bring my phone out of my pocket without answering a call. They ask me questions like "What do you think your doing? Something that will take you two hours to text about could be discussed over the phone in five minutes!" Which is quite true, as I just mentioned above. So I tell them I'm just exchanging words with friends solely for entertainment value. The majority of the time I'll just get a response similar to "Whats the fun in having a conversation just to have a conversation? That's a lot of typing and effort just to talk to someone." Thus why this controversy still exists. I suppose it's far too much to ask for people to accept different points of view sometimes.
You may enjoy using texting as a utility to discuss plans with friends or school/work projects. Just make sure that you know I completely accept that. I'll think your crazy, or wasting your time, but what does my opinion matter? I just want to give you a new perspective. So, how do you use texting? I always enjoy comments on my thoughts and feelings. If you agree with my sentiments, let me know below! If you think I'm completely stupid, I'm happy to hear that too!
See you.
So I'm here to speak with you all again. Today's subject is a most grave one unfortunately. Something the masses find difficult to agree with, but simply cant bring themselves not to use. Texting. (Inspired by my friend Lauren, I was sitting here thinking of what to write, when i got a message saying "May the 4th be with you!" Quite clever indeed, if i do say so myself)
Just about everyone has a differing opinion on this topic. Myself and several acquaintances of mine text constantly. But why? Well, I can't say for sure about them, but I text just for the sake of texting 95% of the time. Honestly, if you have something pressing or important to discuss, just call the person. Texting is mainly an instrument of entertainment, where you have a conversation with someone only for the sake of having a conversation. That's the way I've always seen it. Why text someone about which Wal-Mart you're going to meet at in five minutes? Why text someone about if they wanted to see the 8:30 or 9:00 showing of Iron Man 2 when its already 8:00? Some things are just so much easier discussed over the phone, but some people text about them regardless. It gets rather aggravating at times.
On the other hand, some of the people I know glare at me every time I even bring my phone out of my pocket without answering a call. They ask me questions like "What do you think your doing? Something that will take you two hours to text about could be discussed over the phone in five minutes!" Which is quite true, as I just mentioned above. So I tell them I'm just exchanging words with friends solely for entertainment value. The majority of the time I'll just get a response similar to "Whats the fun in having a conversation just to have a conversation? That's a lot of typing and effort just to talk to someone." Thus why this controversy still exists. I suppose it's far too much to ask for people to accept different points of view sometimes.
You may enjoy using texting as a utility to discuss plans with friends or school/work projects. Just make sure that you know I completely accept that. I'll think your crazy, or wasting your time, but what does my opinion matter? I just want to give you a new perspective. So, how do you use texting? I always enjoy comments on my thoughts and feelings. If you agree with my sentiments, let me know below! If you think I'm completely stupid, I'm happy to hear that too!
See you.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
