The best assignment that I chose was the Group Project. It taught me that teamwork is important. It opened my eyes to different communication styles, different backgrounds, different thoughts and different ideas. It was a longer process than just the usual assignment: read or watch: then blog. (Don't get me wrong, I learned a lot from these assignments.) I learned from our group project that we all have something unique to offer, and that our hands on project was something very inspirational that has made me realize my actions. It has changed the way I do things as a consumer and it has taught me to be more aware of my surroundings. This assignment has shown me that all the assignments that I have done through out this semester has important meaning and to incorporate this material throughout my lifestyle in my future.
The link http:www.storyofstuff.com/ was probably the most memorable. It made me think and realize the choices I was making as a consumer was not very good. It showed me that I was teaching my kids and others to be just like me. I buy so many things that I don't need and I realized that I was buying in to all that media and advertisements that are so easy to get wrapped up in. I even talked about it to my mom and explained to her that her actions as a consumer was just like mines and that she needed to watch this short clip of stuff too.
One of the first readings was very interesting when I read Chapter 8 in Environmental Communication and The Public Sphere. It just showed me that I knew very little about this topic that I was about to take a course in. It opened my eyes to different tragedies that were occuring right under my eyes and it opened me up to lingo that I have never heard of too.
All the projects were good. But the project that I enjoyed the most was: Organic Gardening, Farming, and Our Ecosystem. The reason I chose this project is because in the beginning of our class, I wanted to learn further about this topic. I have 6 acres of land and that is exactly what I wanted to do was to begin an organic farm and grow my fruits/vegetables locally. After reading about this through this project, I am glad to know that it is not easy and that it does require a lot of work to have an organic farm. The topic interested me and I learned a lot from reading their paper including different types of fertilizers and the different methods that some of the farmers used.
The most important thing that I learned in this course is that I have a lot to learn. I am more aware now that I have taken this class and it has shown me to get involved more with life, the world and my community. I really enjoyed this class and I am looking forward to learning more about these topics. As I learn, I want to share with others what they can do to become involved with making our world a better place!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
5.5 Sustainability and Education
Sustainability and education is getting farther than I ever heard about before. There are so many opportunities now available for our future leaders, ourselves and through so many different efforts. Education from colleges, workshops on sustainability, different movements are all being put in place to make it easier for us to join and find out what is really going on. If we are aware of the different opportunities available to get involved; we will. I like the fact that one site encouraged taking time off after high school to just work in the land, travel and become one of a culture that grows their own food. We now hurry off to school after we're finish with high school and have no skills regarding working in the fields, or hands on to take care of ourselves and families. We have lost our values at times and joined in with what we find easiest to do. I find myself taking time out to now buy locally, save energy and share information that I have learned through this class alone. I have been educated and what will I do now with it? The fact that being educated is so important and different green opportunities are available through these education systems are great. Charter schools, community living, non-violence, spirituality, working for our food instead of buying it from the store are all examples of what we can tap into. We need to tap into our resources and allow others to tap into our resources and get educated. By helping each other out we will learn in the process that we are really helping ourselves and our future generations.
5.4 Sustainability and Diversity
We currently have a chance to make a difference. We may join others in what efforts have already been started and join the movement of self sustainability, working together and having violent free communities. The only ones who will benefit is the ones who are willing to help out and help themselves. Green jobs are now being available and as this whole idea becomes bigger; maybe things will become better. There are more jobs, opportunities that are becoming available so that we will be educated in that area. The over exploitation that we are doing to ourselves have just become habit and we need to get back and join back into what we were originally taught by our parents, and ancestors. The sustainability movement will get more followers and that will become the right thing to do. We need to follow the systems approach and hopefully in the future we will see some results of the good that we are doing and not only the bad. Again, we need to pull together and get the word out about what is really going on and lift a hand to help with solutions. We need to stop dividing and become a whole. Everyone is human, and we need to put our differences aside.
"5.3 Social and Environmental Justice in Hawaii"
Desperate poverty is faced on our beautiful islands of Hawaii. Although the islands are not portrayed like it really is; it's real. We have so many homeless, jobless and people in need here in Hawaii. What's wrong with homeless and jobless if they are able to survive. That is what they know: catch their own food, take care of their children, grow, trade and help one another. I recently visited Waianae in O'ahu last month and seen with my own eyes what is going on. I was so surprised to see what was really going on in Hawaii. I did not know this was a such a problem and always thought that we did not have this problem as much as the other countries. I had thoughts of what is portrayed too; Hawaii is a great place, a beautiful place and a place that wants to be visited by tourists around the world. Our native people have been affected since 1893 when our land was overthrown by the government. It was done illegally and still the government continues to ruin the land, the people and their values. They have caused destruction and the people are hurting. They are being moved and not being able to remain on their land. It is getting worst and I hope that something gets done really soon that will take back what was given to us. It is a really sad story and the Hawaiian culture will soon be lost if nothing happens. The military have taken over and the families are suffering. Even though I am not involved with sovereignty, I feel that the people have a right to what has been and a right to get back what is legally theirs. Self sufficiency is a principle that is followed by the people and that is being taken away too. This situation is out of control....The Hawaiian culture will soon be gone and it seems that what the government wants they will have because of the power and control that they have possessed. The Hawaiians will not stop fighting ever and they need to keep trying to get what is theirs. This assignment has really made me realize that we've been violated and we need to fight harder than ever. It makes me realize more and more what the government has done.
"5.2 Sustainability, Health & Healing"
After reading in Beyond You and me- The system of taking care of yourself eventually leads into the systems theory. If you are willing to keep yourself happy, healthy and helpful towards others-change for the better may occur. By taking certain steps such as meditation, exercise or volunteering, you become more healthy both mind and body wise. By becoming aware of our needs, others and keeping good relationships; we tend to realize that we are all one and we live better. We become mindful and begin completing steps in order to live a more sustainable life that includes healing.
Sicko- Sicko is a documentary based on facts that people have with medical care and other related issues. I don't have too much knowledge regarding this topic which encourages me to get the DVD. There is a lot of issues that the United States deal with regarding medical. Other countries are better off than us in the area of medical care, regardless of the millions of dollars that we spend each year. We are #37 ranked amongst the rest and that is very sad. We need to get a better system in order to get the correct health care. We need to adopt another type of medical care system so that everyone has equal and fair medical attention. I even read that our life span is shortened due to this fact alone. Additional information is needed for me to form my ultimate opinion. I will be renting the DVD.
Sicko- Sicko is a documentary based on facts that people have with medical care and other related issues. I don't have too much knowledge regarding this topic which encourages me to get the DVD. There is a lot of issues that the United States deal with regarding medical. Other countries are better off than us in the area of medical care, regardless of the millions of dollars that we spend each year. We are #37 ranked amongst the rest and that is very sad. We need to get a better system in order to get the correct health care. We need to adopt another type of medical care system so that everyone has equal and fair medical attention. I even read that our life span is shortened due to this fact alone. Additional information is needed for me to form my ultimate opinion. I will be renting the DVD.
"Systems Theory"
1. Relating the Story of Stuff to Culture:
The clip on "stuff" opened up new thoughts in my head regarding all the stuff that we consume. When you take time out to think about what happens every time a new "stuff" is made, it's pretty scary. All the chemicals, energy, costs that are put into each product made is hazardous for our earth and for us. I enjoy stuff and in our culture we are the same. Buy stuff, buy more stuff, throw them away, and buy more. I don't know how that came about, but we are ruining our planet and depleting the natural resources too. Recycling is good but not good enough. We need to take extra steps and change our mind frame about this important subject. It's become a habit to buy stuff and buy the technology stuff too that make it easier. We also like to have the most "in" thing no matter how old you are. To stop buying so much stuff will be difficult for me, but I will try to be more mindful with my purchases.
2. Three Systems connecting to sustainability from the clip are: Energy, environment and economic development. The Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future offer education in these areas to change the minds or create new ways of making real progress for humanity. Because all of the topics listed above are interchangeable and affect one another; the center and its people are trying to create something broad that will work and encourage others to do the same in our future.
3. The environmental justice clip was very interesting. It was very creative in showing the viewers about sustainability, culture and communication. We have to be aware of all the natural resources that are being depleted and to make sure that we take on new sustaining ways in order to keep our earth going. Our world may run out of certain resources soon and the only one that we have to blame will be ourselves. We need to communicate to one another and get the word out that we can help out and step up in sustainability. We can communicate what we know to others and create new culture and new ways of doing things.
The clip on "stuff" opened up new thoughts in my head regarding all the stuff that we consume. When you take time out to think about what happens every time a new "stuff" is made, it's pretty scary. All the chemicals, energy, costs that are put into each product made is hazardous for our earth and for us. I enjoy stuff and in our culture we are the same. Buy stuff, buy more stuff, throw them away, and buy more. I don't know how that came about, but we are ruining our planet and depleting the natural resources too. Recycling is good but not good enough. We need to take extra steps and change our mind frame about this important subject. It's become a habit to buy stuff and buy the technology stuff too that make it easier. We also like to have the most "in" thing no matter how old you are. To stop buying so much stuff will be difficult for me, but I will try to be more mindful with my purchases.
2. Three Systems connecting to sustainability from the clip are: Energy, environment and economic development. The Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future offer education in these areas to change the minds or create new ways of making real progress for humanity. Because all of the topics listed above are interchangeable and affect one another; the center and its people are trying to create something broad that will work and encourage others to do the same in our future.
3. The environmental justice clip was very interesting. It was very creative in showing the viewers about sustainability, culture and communication. We have to be aware of all the natural resources that are being depleted and to make sure that we take on new sustaining ways in order to keep our earth going. Our world may run out of certain resources soon and the only one that we have to blame will be ourselves. We need to communicate to one another and get the word out that we can help out and step up in sustainability. We can communicate what we know to others and create new culture and new ways of doing things.
Monday, November 8, 2010
"Group Contract"
Team 3: Today not Tomorrow
We have definitely had challenges working through this project. Even though I was assigned with being the leader; the other teammates contribute just as much. We expect each other to be on the same page and complete all tasks equally.
Communication is a big part of team process and we try our best to get in touch with the others. At times, an e-mail does not get to the designated person or not in a timely manner and communication is lost. We have experienced this more than once and with more than one person. At that time, both parties may feel left out or even irritated. It is at that time, that we should take extra measures in order to make sure everyone is still a team.
For our group project we decided to volunteer and help clean up South Point beach on Saturday November 13, 2010. We found this volunteer project through the university and Student Service Corps.
Our group expectations consist of meeting times, information we have to discuss during the meeting, member responsibilities, and communicating about missing or switching meeting times and dates.
For our group meetings we communicate through email, phone calls, and skype. We have all agreed upon being in charge of taking the minutes for when we meet and posting them on the blog. As a group we have all agreed that meeting though skype works best for us because of people's work, class, and personal schedules. If one of the group members are not able to attend the meeting they will let us know via email or phone so we can fill them in or move the date to accommodate everyone.
The jobs assigned to each person have been assigned and are expected to be complete, if they are not one of the other members or the remaining members in the group will complete this but will take note of the absence.
If there is anything else that should be added to this assignment, please let me know. Thanks!
We have definitely had challenges working through this project. Even though I was assigned with being the leader; the other teammates contribute just as much. We expect each other to be on the same page and complete all tasks equally.
Communication is a big part of team process and we try our best to get in touch with the others. At times, an e-mail does not get to the designated person or not in a timely manner and communication is lost. We have experienced this more than once and with more than one person. At that time, both parties may feel left out or even irritated. It is at that time, that we should take extra measures in order to make sure everyone is still a team.
For our group project we decided to volunteer and help clean up South Point beach on Saturday November 13, 2010. We found this volunteer project through the university and Student Service Corps.
Our group expectations consist of meeting times, information we have to discuss during the meeting, member responsibilities, and communicating about missing or switching meeting times and dates.
For our group meetings we communicate through email, phone calls, and skype. We have all agreed upon being in charge of taking the minutes for when we meet and posting them on the blog. As a group we have all agreed that meeting though skype works best for us because of people's work, class, and personal schedules. If one of the group members are not able to attend the meeting they will let us know via email or phone so we can fill them in or move the date to accommodate everyone.
The jobs assigned to each person have been assigned and are expected to be complete, if they are not one of the other members or the remaining members in the group will complete this but will take note of the absence.
If there is anything else that should be added to this assignment, please let me know. Thanks!
"Podcast"
The entire podcast was interesting. Listening to question answer type audio with Dr. Becker was informative and it was interesting listening to what it was like living in Ecovillage Ithaca.
It was great to hear that there are challenges and that it is not easy all the time living in an ecovillage. It takes a lot of hard work and effort in order to live in a new setting such as that. I enjoyed hearing about alternatives to transportation such as electric biking, walking, or carpooling. I have not given up my vehicle either and I'm not sure if I'll be able to. Vehicles are so convenient.
I also agreed and enjoyed listening to having a sense of community. I have recently wanted to get involved with the neighborhood that I already live in; when I started this course. But, I haven't had much time, so I continued to put it off. Unfortunately a crime was committed and my home was burglarized. That forced me to go and see my neighbors, walk down the road hoping to find out information, talk to the leaders and find out how to get involved so that I could feel that sense of community. I was already violated and I wanted to catch this person who had taken my feeling of safety away. Sure enough, there was welcoming people in my neighborhood who I have never met, a neighborhood watch intact and continuous support and requests for me to become involved with our neighborhood functions along with my family. I was overwhelmed by how much support and how good it felt to have that "feeling of community". I will get involved as much as possible and they now have my phone number etc. so that they can contact me for neighborhood meetings regarding crime, family, new projects etc.
Behavior Change:
Earlier in the semester, I wanted to change the fact that I use too much electricity, did not buy locally and ate too much meat. I have definitely cut down on the electric. I take the chargers out of the wall when not in use, as well as turn off excess lights, radios and use less of the dryer. I go to the swap meet on the weekends despite of a negative situation that I ran into: I went to buy vegetables which I thought was locally grown, only to find out that when I mentioned through conversation what I was doing and how I was doing it for a college course, the guy snickered. I asked him what was he snickering about, he said that they did not actually grow it; but instead bought it in bulk from the mainland and sold it for less at the swap meet. I was so deterred to continue "buying local," that I returned the fruits/veggies and moved on to a vendor who said that they at least grew it here on the island. (Who to trust? ) After that though, I'm not sure and the only way that I can be sure is if I grow it myself. I have yet to start a fruit and vegetable garden though.
I will continue to be aware of behavior changes and be mindful in this area.
It was great to hear that there are challenges and that it is not easy all the time living in an ecovillage. It takes a lot of hard work and effort in order to live in a new setting such as that. I enjoyed hearing about alternatives to transportation such as electric biking, walking, or carpooling. I have not given up my vehicle either and I'm not sure if I'll be able to. Vehicles are so convenient.
I also agreed and enjoyed listening to having a sense of community. I have recently wanted to get involved with the neighborhood that I already live in; when I started this course. But, I haven't had much time, so I continued to put it off. Unfortunately a crime was committed and my home was burglarized. That forced me to go and see my neighbors, walk down the road hoping to find out information, talk to the leaders and find out how to get involved so that I could feel that sense of community. I was already violated and I wanted to catch this person who had taken my feeling of safety away. Sure enough, there was welcoming people in my neighborhood who I have never met, a neighborhood watch intact and continuous support and requests for me to become involved with our neighborhood functions along with my family. I was overwhelmed by how much support and how good it felt to have that "feeling of community". I will get involved as much as possible and they now have my phone number etc. so that they can contact me for neighborhood meetings regarding crime, family, new projects etc.
Behavior Change:
Earlier in the semester, I wanted to change the fact that I use too much electricity, did not buy locally and ate too much meat. I have definitely cut down on the electric. I take the chargers out of the wall when not in use, as well as turn off excess lights, radios and use less of the dryer. I go to the swap meet on the weekends despite of a negative situation that I ran into: I went to buy vegetables which I thought was locally grown, only to find out that when I mentioned through conversation what I was doing and how I was doing it for a college course, the guy snickered. I asked him what was he snickering about, he said that they did not actually grow it; but instead bought it in bulk from the mainland and sold it for less at the swap meet. I was so deterred to continue "buying local," that I returned the fruits/veggies and moved on to a vendor who said that they at least grew it here on the island. (Who to trust? ) After that though, I'm not sure and the only way that I can be sure is if I grow it myself. I have yet to start a fruit and vegetable garden though.
I will continue to be aware of behavior changes and be mindful in this area.
"4.1 Leadership"
Leadership is a very important quality and we are all capable of becoming a leader. I've also realized that followers are very important too. Sometimes it may take 1, 2, 3 or more people to join an effort to make others realize that it is important enough to become engaged, so that others follow too. Leaders need followers and vice versa.
After reading different inspiring stories about leadership in both the textbook and seeing a few videos online; this makes me feel like it is possible to take charge and follow through with whatever I want to. This class focuses on sustainability, culture and community and with all the efforts being taken, I should jump on it and join in the efforts too, or maybe I am already and haven't noticed until now.
Becoming a leader in our community is not hard to do, if you are open to new ideas. I think that I already possess leadership skills and that I should use that to pursue topics such as helping the earth, recycling, conserving and increasing social skills within the youth so that they realize that they can be leaders too. I currently work with youth in our community and have created community service projects, gender specific groups, recycling center excursions etc. I have also been recently trained in a money curriculum that shows our youth to buy locally and not spend so foolishly. We need to get back to the basics and help out one another instead of stepping on each other to get ahead. This is also important to teach our youth so that they are aware of what is "really" going on with our earth.
Honestly, this is not a topic that I even discuss. But it is something that I want to start discussing because it is so important. As I begin to talk about it and take the initiative to create more projects for the youth; they will become aware and hopefully take on their own initiative and teach others too. They may even become a leader of a future movement one day.
Communication and culture is definitely barriers that we need to overcome. I recently have come into contact with youth that I am unable to understand due to language and value differences. At first, it was easy to just say I am unable to teach the youth because I was unaware of his culture, but after meeting the youth and realizing that not being understood was the main reason why he was being violent; i know that I had to step out of my comfort zone and help him out.
I recruited a interpreter so that I could teach and understand at the same time. It was not easy, but with time and understanding, it worked! This youth now has completed a violence prevention program through our agency, helped beautify the community with yard work and also becoming a positive role model for others. He is teaching others that comes from his island how to get along with people here in Hawaii and they are learning from him that it is okay to talk about issues without using violence. If I had not gone the extra step to help this youth, I would have never had the chance to teach him to feel accepted even though we are from different cultures. He has also shared with me about his island, his values and also the similarities that we do share. After experiencing this with the specific youth, I have learned that stepping out of our comfort zone works! We need to take additional steps to make our world a better place!
After reading different inspiring stories about leadership in both the textbook and seeing a few videos online; this makes me feel like it is possible to take charge and follow through with whatever I want to. This class focuses on sustainability, culture and community and with all the efforts being taken, I should jump on it and join in the efforts too, or maybe I am already and haven't noticed until now.
Becoming a leader in our community is not hard to do, if you are open to new ideas. I think that I already possess leadership skills and that I should use that to pursue topics such as helping the earth, recycling, conserving and increasing social skills within the youth so that they realize that they can be leaders too. I currently work with youth in our community and have created community service projects, gender specific groups, recycling center excursions etc. I have also been recently trained in a money curriculum that shows our youth to buy locally and not spend so foolishly. We need to get back to the basics and help out one another instead of stepping on each other to get ahead. This is also important to teach our youth so that they are aware of what is "really" going on with our earth.
Honestly, this is not a topic that I even discuss. But it is something that I want to start discussing because it is so important. As I begin to talk about it and take the initiative to create more projects for the youth; they will become aware and hopefully take on their own initiative and teach others too. They may even become a leader of a future movement one day.
Communication and culture is definitely barriers that we need to overcome. I recently have come into contact with youth that I am unable to understand due to language and value differences. At first, it was easy to just say I am unable to teach the youth because I was unaware of his culture, but after meeting the youth and realizing that not being understood was the main reason why he was being violent; i know that I had to step out of my comfort zone and help him out.
I recruited a interpreter so that I could teach and understand at the same time. It was not easy, but with time and understanding, it worked! This youth now has completed a violence prevention program through our agency, helped beautify the community with yard work and also becoming a positive role model for others. He is teaching others that comes from his island how to get along with people here in Hawaii and they are learning from him that it is okay to talk about issues without using violence. If I had not gone the extra step to help this youth, I would have never had the chance to teach him to feel accepted even though we are from different cultures. He has also shared with me about his island, his values and also the similarities that we do share. After experiencing this with the specific youth, I have learned that stepping out of our comfort zone works! We need to take additional steps to make our world a better place!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Module 4, Assignment 5: "Communication, Media and Social Change."
According to Wikipedia, "Culture Jamming is a tactic used by consumer social movements to disrupt mainstream cultural institutions including corporate advertisements."
Culture jamming encourages humans who see the advertisements to step out of their comfort zone and think. For example they use the Nike Swoop sign in order to get the attention of the public to see the negative side of it. They tried to show that Nike uses sweat shops. Another example showed a popular brand but then diverted it to a woman throwing up over a toilet; showing an eating disorder to stay skinny. Advertisements catch our eye and we are used to seeing these everywhere. Only after I read the article, I realized that I do remember seeing such tactics as these.
The idea of culture jamming is still in question. With any other tactic, this too is being judged and looked at for pros and cons. Some say that they lose their power in the end and that it is only temporary. My opinion is that this is a tactic that may get the attention of those who will realize and to those who may not have seen otherwise. So culture jamming is another way of "getting the word out"; power to them! Being aware is the first step to taking action.
Culture jamming encourages humans who see the advertisements to step out of their comfort zone and think. For example they use the Nike Swoop sign in order to get the attention of the public to see the negative side of it. They tried to show that Nike uses sweat shops. Another example showed a popular brand but then diverted it to a woman throwing up over a toilet; showing an eating disorder to stay skinny. Advertisements catch our eye and we are used to seeing these everywhere. Only after I read the article, I realized that I do remember seeing such tactics as these.
The idea of culture jamming is still in question. With any other tactic, this too is being judged and looked at for pros and cons. Some say that they lose their power in the end and that it is only temporary. My opinion is that this is a tactic that may get the attention of those who will realize and to those who may not have seen otherwise. So culture jamming is another way of "getting the word out"; power to them! Being aware is the first step to taking action.
"4.4 Communicating Hope & the Future"
What the World would look like Global Oneness Project: www.mrcse.org/index.php
The Global Oneness Project is determined to show that interconnectedness can be incorporated within our world. It is not easy, but can we get our act together in order to help out? Through our different challenges and the media, it is very difficult to step out and let go of the ways of the world. The people who need to grasp this idea are not willing they say. If they have to step out of their comforts; they will not have it. Everyone seems to want more and more. Even though we need only a little bit to be comfortable; we want all the things shown on the media, through advertisements. We want it all. We want to live like kings and queens and that is the ways that condone aggression and violence. This creates deeper seperation from our world.
We need to create a future that our people/future generations will look at and not want to sit back. We need to see change and transformation. They/We need to buy in to this new ways of sustainability, communication and get to know one another, help out and create additional steps towards saving our earth. Human beings can go either way: create peace or war. If we all work together to solve conflicts instead of creating more; we may get somewhere. People need to experience a world of oneness. We need new beliefs and to get involved with the feeling of justice and respecting everyone regardless of color, religious belief or economic status. We need to come together as one, share our strengths and join in the efforts of sustainability, culture and communication; although easier said than done.
The Global Oneness Project is determined to show that interconnectedness can be incorporated within our world. It is not easy, but can we get our act together in order to help out? Through our different challenges and the media, it is very difficult to step out and let go of the ways of the world. The people who need to grasp this idea are not willing they say. If they have to step out of their comforts; they will not have it. Everyone seems to want more and more. Even though we need only a little bit to be comfortable; we want all the things shown on the media, through advertisements. We want it all. We want to live like kings and queens and that is the ways that condone aggression and violence. This creates deeper seperation from our world.
We need to create a future that our people/future generations will look at and not want to sit back. We need to see change and transformation. They/We need to buy in to this new ways of sustainability, communication and get to know one another, help out and create additional steps towards saving our earth. Human beings can go either way: create peace or war. If we all work together to solve conflicts instead of creating more; we may get somewhere. People need to experience a world of oneness. We need new beliefs and to get involved with the feeling of justice and respecting everyone regardless of color, religious belief or economic status. We need to come together as one, share our strengths and join in the efforts of sustainability, culture and communication; although easier said than done.
Module 4: Assignment 3 "Part A Conflict"
Although conflict is a part of every human's life, we are able to use non violent communication if we try. Non violent communication is based on historical principles of nonviolence. It is a way of communication that does not hurt,shame or guilt ourselves or another individual. By using an assertive style of communicating, being mindful and being able to agree to disagree are all ways that we can try and start engaging with to reduce violence.
I enjoyed finding out about the non violent communication site @ http://www.cnvc.org/. I work with youth and my goal is to give them tools to work with so that they can reduce violence in their lives. When we meet, I listen to the violent incidents that they have been involved with. At first, they feel shame to talk about it, guilt and remorse at times too. I empathize with them and show them that anger is okay and that anger is a feeling. We talk about feelings and how we must share them with others so that they understand what we are going through. I often explain to the youth that the other party is not exactly sure about what is going on with us unless we express ourselves clearly. To grasp this fact is not easy. It takes a lot of practice.
A quote by Dr. Rosenburg stated: "Violence in any form is a tragic expression of our unmet needs. " I honestly believe in this quote 100% and I try to express this when we go through violent scenarios. We always try to stress the positive: What can we do to make the situation better?; instead of What have I done wrong? Obviously if we have acted out violently, we must have learned that from someone, somewhere or something. We need to increase the communication and the more that we are able to show that we can communicate nonviolently; the easier it will be for others to join in and utilize the same communication style. If we are able to listen when someone's need is unmet and try to help, there is a greater chance that the conflict will get resolved in a peaceful way. A lot of times we are used to coming up with rebuttals and trying to win at an argument. When one wins, another loses. Even though the violence act may be over; resentment occurs when the solution is one-sided. Everyone needs to agree that the need is being met and no one is being hurt in the process.
There are additional tools to help with the process of nonviolent communication on the site. There are interactive games, finger puppets, cd's and books on the NVC site too.
I enjoyed finding out about the non violent communication site @ http://www.cnvc.org/. I work with youth and my goal is to give them tools to work with so that they can reduce violence in their lives. When we meet, I listen to the violent incidents that they have been involved with. At first, they feel shame to talk about it, guilt and remorse at times too. I empathize with them and show them that anger is okay and that anger is a feeling. We talk about feelings and how we must share them with others so that they understand what we are going through. I often explain to the youth that the other party is not exactly sure about what is going on with us unless we express ourselves clearly. To grasp this fact is not easy. It takes a lot of practice.
A quote by Dr. Rosenburg stated: "Violence in any form is a tragic expression of our unmet needs. " I honestly believe in this quote 100% and I try to express this when we go through violent scenarios. We always try to stress the positive: What can we do to make the situation better?; instead of What have I done wrong? Obviously if we have acted out violently, we must have learned that from someone, somewhere or something. We need to increase the communication and the more that we are able to show that we can communicate nonviolently; the easier it will be for others to join in and utilize the same communication style. If we are able to listen when someone's need is unmet and try to help, there is a greater chance that the conflict will get resolved in a peaceful way. A lot of times we are used to coming up with rebuttals and trying to win at an argument. When one wins, another loses. Even though the violence act may be over; resentment occurs when the solution is one-sided. Everyone needs to agree that the need is being met and no one is being hurt in the process.
There are additional tools to help with the process of nonviolent communication on the site. There are interactive games, finger puppets, cd's and books on the NVC site too.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
3.8 "Other Emerging Efforts"
The Transition movement has an important role that we all need to participate in. In Hilo, some transition efforts are already happening. Small things such as using recycled bags to shop, switching out the light bulbs to energy efficient ones, traveling less/carpooling and buying locally are all efforts. There's even signs up at Foodland so that you are aware which items are local promoting the purchase of the item. Again it's about education. Being able to recycle not only HI 5, but recycling all different materials are big steps that we are already participating in. After taking this class and being aware about more efforts being done in order to sustain our planet, it makes me notice a lot more efforts and it makes me more aware of what I am doing to help out. By my actions and knowledge, I tell others around me and also speak about it at my job too. Books/Bank Statements/Newspapers are all accessible now online which saves paper and trees. There are incentives such as the Gas Guzzling program where money is being offered so that you can buy a cheaper gas efficient car. Ideas of bike programs in Puna are being talked about, collaborations and eco-friendly festivals are being incorporated in our town and even talks about eco housing beginning are all a part of our transitioning into helping out our island Hawaii. There is even a program that we are talking to currently and wanting to collaborate with because of their efforts. Their efforts are geared to creating jobs for the youth to have sustainability jobs; so that they can remain here on the island instead of shipping them off to the mainland. We need to educate our youth because they are our future leaders. We all need to pull together and educate one another. The transition movement can only get bigger if we try and want it enough. We need to start somewhere.
3.7 "When Cultures Meet"
When cultures meet, one unintended consequence may be the misunderstanding of one's culture. That may lead to disrespect and hatred coming from the native. For example, when a "tourist" enters one's own land and uses too much water. The native may feel like the person has not respect. On the other hand, if the tourist new that the land was in a drought, they may try to conserve and not take a 1/2 hour shower. If someone's culture is to say hello out of respect and the "alien-tourist" does not respond, again that creates hostility. The native than may choose to retaliate in another way because they feel offended but is unable to express their true feelings in a polite way. I feel that open communication between tourists and the place/natives they are visiting may be necessary. When people are educated, they are more willing to respect one's traditions than not to. Communication is something that everyone can benefit from. Again both parties need to have an open mind and willing to give and take. If not, it will not work. People need to mindful wherever they travel to and take into consideration what if the roles were reversed? How would I feel? How would I want the other to act? Again, if one does not know, then someone needs to tell them. A lot of times people assume that the other knows, but it is clearly not the case. Communication will definitely improve the situation of tourism between different cultures.
Blog 3.6: Other Traditional Cultures
I read about different cultures including the Karens, The Amazon Conservation Team(ACT), and Amazon International. I chose to talk about The Amazon Conservation Team @ http://www.amazonteam.org/. and its many efforts. The culture of the Amazon Conservation Team is to conserve and meet the basic needs of the indigenous people. They have efforts going in Suriname, Colombia, and Brazil. The fact that some of their livelihood needs are not met, they are focusing on that first. After livelihood needs are met with the indigenous people, then they are able to move forward with sustainable development. The team is helping them on smaller scale projects and in the long run with education and helping with basic needs, they will flourish sustaining their own lands which helps out the planet.
In Colombia, ACT is enabling the indigenous to do small projects with sustainability such as promoting traditional agriculture enhanced by eco-friendly modern systems. In Suriname, they have helped the indigenous people preserve and use their own medicine practices. They encourage them to sustain their healing methods and help one another. Also they have a land management plan in effect for the Suriname people in order to maintain sustainability on their ancestral lands so that they are not easily taken away. They also have a Shamans and Apprentices program where they teach the indigenous people how to take care their land and increase knowledge on sustainability. The team has also enabled and help indigenous people in Brazil to generate income by shelling and husking Brazilian nuts. They are involved with peppers also. The Amazon Conservation team have been involved with so many sustainability projects within Brazil and areas that they have recently won the Tech Awards Laureate: one of 15 global innovators recognized each year for applying technology to benefit humanity and spark global change. This is a great site to check out. A lot of effort being done around the world to protect it. It's refreshing to visit other cultures and different sites to see what they are involved with.
In Colombia, ACT is enabling the indigenous to do small projects with sustainability such as promoting traditional agriculture enhanced by eco-friendly modern systems. In Suriname, they have helped the indigenous people preserve and use their own medicine practices. They encourage them to sustain their healing methods and help one another. Also they have a land management plan in effect for the Suriname people in order to maintain sustainability on their ancestral lands so that they are not easily taken away. They also have a Shamans and Apprentices program where they teach the indigenous people how to take care their land and increase knowledge on sustainability. The team has also enabled and help indigenous people in Brazil to generate income by shelling and husking Brazilian nuts. They are involved with peppers also. The Amazon Conservation team have been involved with so many sustainability projects within Brazil and areas that they have recently won the Tech Awards Laureate: one of 15 global innovators recognized each year for applying technology to benefit humanity and spark global change. This is a great site to check out. A lot of effort being done around the world to protect it. It's refreshing to visit other cultures and different sites to see what they are involved with.
Module 3: Assignment 4 HAWAIIAN CULTURE AND SUSTAINABILITY
Dr. Burrows says that Hawaiians have a connection to the land and a spiritual ecology.? Have you observed this connection? Describe.
Yes, I feel that the Hawaiians have a close connection to the land and spiritual ecology. Being born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, we were brought up with the same Hawaiian values. My grandma was 100% of pure Hawaiian ancestry and has always showed in her actions the true quality of Hawaiian Values. When you grow up with values instilled and are shown the importance of these values, it becomes a part of life. The connection that a Hawaiian has with the land and with spirituality is deeper than words can express. It's a feeling that only the individual can feel and cannot be fully expressed in words.
Do you feel a connection to the Hawaii? If so, when or where do you feel most connected to the land? Do you have a scared place? If you do not mind sharing, where is this place and how does it make you feel?
I feel a connection to Hawaii and always will. The ocean, the mountain, and my home is my sacred place. Also when I am in, near, or around a religious sacred place such as a heiau or a gravesite of my ancestor, I feel at ease. The ocean and mountain has always provided me with food, peace, and a sense of belonging. These different sacred places make me feel connected to our land and it makes me realize that Hawai'i is my home and I wouldn't want to leave ever.
Why is indigenous ecology not just a new fad?
Indigenous ecology has been around for hundreds of years. We need to take care of what is left.
Dr. Burrows mentioned that Hawaiians evolved from the landscape. In what ways did they do this?
Hawaiians evolved from the landscape through plant and animal forms. We are connected to the land and every plant, animal and human have spirit. We are equal and we should take care of one another.
How could Hawaiian religious and spiritual beliefs connect to sustainability?
By realizing the importance that we are all connected to our land and one another, we will take on a different approach. An approach to take care of our ancestors and give back. We have been given so much and we need to return the appreciation and take care of one another in all needs. In this day of age, people forget including myself what we have been given and blessed with. We take a lot for granted. When we are focused and give up time for our religious and spiritual beliefs, it is then that everything will fall into place including sustainability for our planet.
Do you believe that Hawaii is more sustainable than the western world? Why or why not?
I believe that Hawai'i has always been more sustainable than the western world. The ways of Hawai'i has always been to take care of the land, people and its resources. The western world has taken over in my opinion with larger scale modern equipment, technology and have given up on basic needs. The western world has taken over and processed in bulk. It's more about money and power it seems nowadays. We use more resources than ever before and we are close to depletion. We need to go back to old Hawaiian traditions and work more on the issue of sustainability although easier said than done.
What ethic or value to do most resonate with and why?
Marion Kelly's 4 guiding principles were great and I would like to follow them.
I feel that I resonate the most with "Always Sharing." I feel that if everyone shares with one another regardless of expecting something in return; we will be okay. For example tangible items or services do not need to be exchanged for money all the time. If we go back to basics and use our strengths we can get our needs met. If I am a fisherman and you are a hunter- we can share our meat and fish. If I am a mechanic and you are a plumber- we can share our services. The simple fact of sharing has gone away, I feel. If we are able to grasp that concept we can save on our natural resources too.
Yes, I feel that the Hawaiians have a close connection to the land and spiritual ecology. Being born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, we were brought up with the same Hawaiian values. My grandma was 100% of pure Hawaiian ancestry and has always showed in her actions the true quality of Hawaiian Values. When you grow up with values instilled and are shown the importance of these values, it becomes a part of life. The connection that a Hawaiian has with the land and with spirituality is deeper than words can express. It's a feeling that only the individual can feel and cannot be fully expressed in words.
Do you feel a connection to the Hawaii? If so, when or where do you feel most connected to the land? Do you have a scared place? If you do not mind sharing, where is this place and how does it make you feel?
I feel a connection to Hawaii and always will. The ocean, the mountain, and my home is my sacred place. Also when I am in, near, or around a religious sacred place such as a heiau or a gravesite of my ancestor, I feel at ease. The ocean and mountain has always provided me with food, peace, and a sense of belonging. These different sacred places make me feel connected to our land and it makes me realize that Hawai'i is my home and I wouldn't want to leave ever.
Why is indigenous ecology not just a new fad?
Indigenous ecology has been around for hundreds of years. We need to take care of what is left.
Dr. Burrows mentioned that Hawaiians evolved from the landscape. In what ways did they do this?
Hawaiians evolved from the landscape through plant and animal forms. We are connected to the land and every plant, animal and human have spirit. We are equal and we should take care of one another.
How could Hawaiian religious and spiritual beliefs connect to sustainability?
By realizing the importance that we are all connected to our land and one another, we will take on a different approach. An approach to take care of our ancestors and give back. We have been given so much and we need to return the appreciation and take care of one another in all needs. In this day of age, people forget including myself what we have been given and blessed with. We take a lot for granted. When we are focused and give up time for our religious and spiritual beliefs, it is then that everything will fall into place including sustainability for our planet.
Do you believe that Hawaii is more sustainable than the western world? Why or why not?
I believe that Hawai'i has always been more sustainable than the western world. The ways of Hawai'i has always been to take care of the land, people and its resources. The western world has taken over in my opinion with larger scale modern equipment, technology and have given up on basic needs. The western world has taken over and processed in bulk. It's more about money and power it seems nowadays. We use more resources than ever before and we are close to depletion. We need to go back to old Hawaiian traditions and work more on the issue of sustainability although easier said than done.
What ethic or value to do most resonate with and why?
Marion Kelly's 4 guiding principles were great and I would like to follow them.
I feel that I resonate the most with "Always Sharing." I feel that if everyone shares with one another regardless of expecting something in return; we will be okay. For example tangible items or services do not need to be exchanged for money all the time. If we go back to basics and use our strengths we can get our needs met. If I am a fisherman and you are a hunter- we can share our meat and fish. If I am a mechanic and you are a plumber- we can share our services. The simple fact of sharing has gone away, I feel. If we are able to grasp that concept we can save on our natural resources too.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Module 3: Assignment 3 Broadening the Ecovillage Movement: Reading
Joining politically and gaining power to get what you want so that it can benefit our world; Defining steps for successful local outreach in our communities and International Soliditary were topics that I gained interesting information from.
The concept of bioregionalism described by Capra Carriba is a very inviting way to go about politics and bringing everything together. In Damanhur they call themselves Damanhurians. Damanhurians are people from Damanhur which is an eco society that Capra was writing about. It is based on ethical and spiritual values that was awarded by an agency in the United Nations. My understanding is that they needed to include or find a political party or movement in order to bring their aspects to light in their community. So that is where the damanhurians came about. Even though wanting to share very specific ideas about their eco-society; they needed to join the green party in order to get their ideas out and into a larger population. That is how they are working on getting it from a local level to the national level. We can do that also, one step at a time.
Defining steps for successful local outreach shared a few steps to begin moving forward. I work in the same community that I live in and there are a lot of things that need to be done in order to accomplish this "coming together" goal. First of all, it needs to come from within. We must look at ourselves first. If we don't believe the dream and feel like it is impossible, then it will be just that-impossible. But if we believe in our goals to become sustainable and help out our world, then it will be just that- possible. We then need to find leaders in our areas. We always come into contact with people on a daily basis. We need to ask others also, who is a leader and contact them. After the leaders come together, then we will go out and get the community involved. Listening and patience are very important too. Everyone has something to add.
International Solidarity is real and it is becoming a reality according to Leila Dregger. We need to come together and realize that regardless of our skin color, economic status or Iq; we all have feelings. It does not matter where we come from or what nation we grew up in. "What happens to any human being on earth may happen to me too, and in a way is happening to me. We are all man, animal, plant, victim or aggressor, enemy or friend-part of the same larger whole." (p.263)
Again, it makes us look at ourself. What can we do from within in order to change and make this world a better place. We need to be part of the solution- not the problem.
The concept of bioregionalism described by Capra Carriba is a very inviting way to go about politics and bringing everything together. In Damanhur they call themselves Damanhurians. Damanhurians are people from Damanhur which is an eco society that Capra was writing about. It is based on ethical and spiritual values that was awarded by an agency in the United Nations. My understanding is that they needed to include or find a political party or movement in order to bring their aspects to light in their community. So that is where the damanhurians came about. Even though wanting to share very specific ideas about their eco-society; they needed to join the green party in order to get their ideas out and into a larger population. That is how they are working on getting it from a local level to the national level. We can do that also, one step at a time.
Defining steps for successful local outreach shared a few steps to begin moving forward. I work in the same community that I live in and there are a lot of things that need to be done in order to accomplish this "coming together" goal. First of all, it needs to come from within. We must look at ourselves first. If we don't believe the dream and feel like it is impossible, then it will be just that-impossible. But if we believe in our goals to become sustainable and help out our world, then it will be just that- possible. We then need to find leaders in our areas. We always come into contact with people on a daily basis. We need to ask others also, who is a leader and contact them. After the leaders come together, then we will go out and get the community involved. Listening and patience are very important too. Everyone has something to add.
International Solidarity is real and it is becoming a reality according to Leila Dregger. We need to come together and realize that regardless of our skin color, economic status or Iq; we all have feelings. It does not matter where we come from or what nation we grew up in. "What happens to any human being on earth may happen to me too, and in a way is happening to me. We are all man, animal, plant, victim or aggressor, enemy or friend-part of the same larger whole." (p.263)
Again, it makes us look at ourself. What can we do from within in order to change and make this world a better place. We need to be part of the solution- not the problem.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
"A Virtual Visit to an Eco Village/Green Education"
The Eco Village/Green Education that I chose to visit is in Costa Rica. http://www.livingroutes.org/programs/p_costa_rica.htm
The reason that I chose this site to visit is because it is in Costa Rica. I always wanted to visit Costa Rica and have always heard of its beauty. After reading about beautiful orchids, quetzals and monkeys; I'm there. I want to learn how to speak Spanish also.
I would like to visit only. Even though I hear of its beauty and all the great sustainability aspects of this beautiful place, I would like to go home. My home and heart is in Hawaii where I was born and raised.
The main part of this eco village that I was intrigued by had to be the experientially based course of study that looks at sustainability in all aspects. Service learning projects and learning to speak Spanish in a new country is pretty intriguing.
A specific aspect that I would like to incorporate in my lifestyle would probably be the farming style of the community where family values and community solidarity are above all else. Even though I live in a farming community, I don't even know my neighbor's first or last name. I also have never attended a community meeting. Although it is highly encouraged, I heard that not more than 5 people attend.
The program (if any) that I would try might be: The Master of Science Post Graduate Diploma(MSc/PgDip) Renewable energy. http://www.reading.ac.uk/Study/courses/taught/mscrenewable.aspx
This program draws in a mix of people from a variety of backgrounds and it encourages lively interaction leading to solutions. It also gives a better understanding of renewable energy problems. It always seems when an idea arises, someone will find problems with it that needs to be analyzed and that is already in effect. It's the way of the world.
The reason that I chose this site to visit is because it is in Costa Rica. I always wanted to visit Costa Rica and have always heard of its beauty. After reading about beautiful orchids, quetzals and monkeys; I'm there. I want to learn how to speak Spanish also.
I would like to visit only. Even though I hear of its beauty and all the great sustainability aspects of this beautiful place, I would like to go home. My home and heart is in Hawaii where I was born and raised.
The main part of this eco village that I was intrigued by had to be the experientially based course of study that looks at sustainability in all aspects. Service learning projects and learning to speak Spanish in a new country is pretty intriguing.
A specific aspect that I would like to incorporate in my lifestyle would probably be the farming style of the community where family values and community solidarity are above all else. Even though I live in a farming community, I don't even know my neighbor's first or last name. I also have never attended a community meeting. Although it is highly encouraged, I heard that not more than 5 people attend.
The program (if any) that I would try might be: The Master of Science Post Graduate Diploma(MSc/PgDip) Renewable energy. http://www.reading.ac.uk/Study/courses/taught/mscrenewable.aspx
This program draws in a mix of people from a variety of backgrounds and it encourages lively interaction leading to solutions. It also gives a better understanding of renewable energy problems. It always seems when an idea arises, someone will find problems with it that needs to be analyzed and that is already in effect. It's the way of the world.
"Beyond You and Me: Reading Response 1"
After reading the first 40 pages of Beyond You and Me, I felt that I may need a Vision Quest. I learned about different inspiring individuals and how they feel and how they have followed their visions/ideas. I learned about eco villages and the outcomes of such projects. People of the community shared of some setbacks and also why it may be difficult to build a new community with old tools. I learned about a vision quest and how we all should take one. I pondered on a specific thought after the readings and such quotes and thoughts stuck in my mind. Here are a few: " We have begun to mistrust the goodness of humans which equals a paradigm that breeds violence instead of peace." When I thought about simple sayings such as these; it made me think about myself and my own actions. Where has all my trust gone? When was it that I/we began judging others and looking at the weaknesses instead of strengths? We all have something special to offer, but we tend to forget about that and just look for flaws.
Our spirituality is important. We need to understand ourselves before we are able to connect with community, ideas or visions. After we understand what is really going on; that is when we are capable of putting our ideas into action.
Our spirituality is important. We need to understand ourselves before we are able to connect with community, ideas or visions. After we understand what is really going on; that is when we are capable of putting our ideas into action.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Test Questions 1-10
10 Questions
Comm 344. Due October 4, 2010
1. What Symposium did the Pachamama Alliance create and when did they begin their efforts?
A. Awakening the Dreamer, Changing the Dream-- 1995
B. Teaching Your Children to Dream,--1992
C. Wake Up and Live-- 1991
D. Get Up, Stand Up—1981
( A, Sustainable World Sourcebook, Pg. 1)
2. T/F If we continue on our current trajectory of rapid fossil fuel growth over the next century, the “perfect storm” of population growth, resource depletion and climate change will have catastrophic results.
(True, Sustainable World Sourcebook, Pg. 7)
3. T/F By Late 20th Century, citizens in low income communities had begun to feel themselves surrounded by what environmental historian Samuel Hayes has termed” the toxic sea” around us.
(True, 2.1: The Environmental Communication Book, Pg. 171)
4. What are some highlights listed from the guide sheets for citizens through the Everyday Green Practices?
A. Choose better body care products
B. Pick Plastics Carefully
C. Filter your tap water, do not use bottled water
D. Do not heat plastics in microwave
E. All of the Above
(E, Sustainable World Sourcebook, Pg. 67-68)
5. Which one of these below can help you to lower your consumption and save the earth?
A. Power Down!
B. Pass up the Fast Food Joint.
C. Recycle Your Trash.
D. All of the Above
(D, Sustainable Sourcebook, Pg. 71)
6. According to the World Clock 2010: Our National U.S. Debt was between:
A. 11-12 Trillion Dollars
B. 12-13 Trillion Dollars
C. 13-14 Trillion Dollars
D. 14-15 Trillion Dollars
7. According to the World Clock 2010: The Extinctions to Date are:
A. More than 5,000
B. More than 10,000
C. More than 15,000
D. More than 20,000
8. What does the 3 E’s stand for in the Crash Course written by Chris Martenson?
A. Energy, Ecosystem, Entertainment
B. Economy, Environment, Energy
C. Electricity, Energy, Environment
D. Ecovillage, Environment, Ecosystem
9. T/F “Spirituality is the core essence, the sustaining life force infusing and giving direction, meaning and purpose to a cultural system.”
10. T/F The Prefix ‘eco’ originally meant ‘home’—not in the limited sense of ‘house, ‘but rather referring to the surrounding and supporting local environment.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Module 2, Assignment 4 "After the Crash"
After the Crash increased my knowledge on the three different topics: Economy, Environment and Energy. Per capita, debt has never been higher, savings has never been lower. Pretty scary....I am right in the middle of this chaos and have taken on the adolescent view as Chris Martenson said of not being aware and thinking that these issues will not affect me in my lifetime, so oh well!?
But I am honestly trying, and I will do my part and stick to my intended behavior change from the last blog. I will continue using less energy and continue planting vegetables/fruits in my own yard. I will continue eating less animal based foods and continue to be aware of these important issues and share my knowledge with others. Every step counts, and everyone needs to continue to pull together and be aware that our world is in big trouble.
But I am honestly trying, and I will do my part and stick to my intended behavior change from the last blog. I will continue using less energy and continue planting vegetables/fruits in my own yard. I will continue eating less animal based foods and continue to be aware of these important issues and share my knowledge with others. Every step counts, and everyone needs to continue to pull together and be aware that our world is in big trouble.
Monday, September 20, 2010
2.5 Global Kuleana= "BEHAVIOR CHANGE"
After becoming a part of this class and reading through different websites/books; I want to commit to many different behavior changes. The first thing that I know I can do is to grow my own vegetables, or at least buy local from farmer's markets. I'll even walk to our farmer's market on Sunday. It's on my road. Another behavior that I could change is to eat less animal based foods, because when I think about it, I eat like 2-3 meals a day with some type of meat included. Another way that I could help our world out with is by conserving electricity. After participating with the footprint calculator activity, I realized that I use way too much non renewable energy by: leaving on the computer 24 hours a day; leaving all the phone chargers plugged in all day and night even when not in use; all lights are on; I also dry every size load in the dryer because I don't even own a clothesline, and neither does my mother at her home.
I asked my other half to get on that specific task of the clothesline immediately. It's amazing to say just by doing this activity; all the lights are off, the chargers are unplugged and I am going to shut down the computer right after I'm done with this blog.
Also after completing and watching Dr. Jeffrey Hiapo Yin in Global Kuleana, it made me realize that "Our actions do matter!"
I asked my other half to get on that specific task of the clothesline immediately. It's amazing to say just by doing this activity; all the lights are off, the chargers are unplugged and I am going to shut down the computer right after I'm done with this blog.
Also after completing and watching Dr. Jeffrey Hiapo Yin in Global Kuleana, it made me realize that "Our actions do matter!"
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Comm 344: Scavenger Hunt
Unsure about how much in a group; but these three people carry similar interests about sustainability, community and culture as I do.
Vicky: She loves Life and mentioned to me about some of her ideas regarding our class.
Tawny: She wants to continue to be engaged with the environment and it's concerns after this course is over.
Kenny: He mentioned that he would like to live in a solar powered home one day. I would like that for my
home too. It's free and it would help me out on my electric bill big time!
Vicky: She loves Life and mentioned to me about some of her ideas regarding our class.
Tawny: She wants to continue to be engaged with the environment and it's concerns after this course is over.
Kenny: He mentioned that he would like to live in a solar powered home one day. I would like that for my
home too. It's free and it would help me out on my electric bill big time!
Module 2: Assignment 2 - Gaia Experiential Learning Activity
From reading all the different activities in the Gaia Education for Sustainability, I realized that I already participated in some of the activities on a weekly basis. Aerobic exercises, and facilitating groups are things I do on my Monday-Friday schedule. I facilitatie a violence prevention program and I really believe that our negative actions occur when our mind is not set right. Teaching to meditate, stretch, relax, cool down and use positive self talk are all a part of the program that I facilitate. Aerobics in the morning helps me to be energized and feel better about myself too. If I do participate in Aerobics, (not every day:), I do notice that I am much calmer and am more positive throughout the whole day.
Anyway, so I thought I'd choose something simple; a mindful walk through nature. I put all my stresses behind me for the day, and waited until the kids went to sleep. I thought, Do you really have time for this? I told myself yes, it's part of the assignment. As I walked down my driveway, I stopped and listened for atleast a whole minute. I heard a lot of coqui frogs, and an ambulance speeding by on the highway. As I walked further down the path, I thought to step off the path and walk in the wet grass. Although out of the ordinary; it was better than just doing the same thing all the time- following the path. It reminded me to take challenges, do different things once in awhile. As I'm thinking to myself and enjoying my slow walk, believe it or not- a white owl swooped past and continued it's flight. I suddenly thought about my dad and how he had passed on, and wondering if it was him- or maybe another loved one. For some reason, even when I'm driving, I always see a white owl when I get closer to my home from town. I started thinking about spirituality after that and how I remember reading somewhere about everything having life. Everything is connected and how we all should take care of one another, whether it be each other, the plants, the animals, or our community. Then, I thought bigger, what about our world? I suddenly heard a noise in the bushes, and decided that my walk should end about now. I did see a huge boar as I was driving down my street last week sometime, and that noise just might be that pig. We live in Maku'u on 6 acres, and it wasn't uncommon to hear such noises. I started my walk back up to the house a little faster than the walk I had coming down the path.
Overall, the walk was nice, something out of the ordinary, something that I should consider doing more often. Next time though, I will try this walk through nature in the day or at my mom's home. Mom lives in an oceanfront house in Keaukaha. :)
Anyway, so I thought I'd choose something simple; a mindful walk through nature. I put all my stresses behind me for the day, and waited until the kids went to sleep. I thought, Do you really have time for this? I told myself yes, it's part of the assignment. As I walked down my driveway, I stopped and listened for atleast a whole minute. I heard a lot of coqui frogs, and an ambulance speeding by on the highway. As I walked further down the path, I thought to step off the path and walk in the wet grass. Although out of the ordinary; it was better than just doing the same thing all the time- following the path. It reminded me to take challenges, do different things once in awhile. As I'm thinking to myself and enjoying my slow walk, believe it or not- a white owl swooped past and continued it's flight. I suddenly thought about my dad and how he had passed on, and wondering if it was him- or maybe another loved one. For some reason, even when I'm driving, I always see a white owl when I get closer to my home from town. I started thinking about spirituality after that and how I remember reading somewhere about everything having life. Everything is connected and how we all should take care of one another, whether it be each other, the plants, the animals, or our community. Then, I thought bigger, what about our world? I suddenly heard a noise in the bushes, and decided that my walk should end about now. I did see a huge boar as I was driving down my street last week sometime, and that noise just might be that pig. We live in Maku'u on 6 acres, and it wasn't uncommon to hear such noises. I started my walk back up to the house a little faster than the walk I had coming down the path.
Overall, the walk was nice, something out of the ordinary, something that I should consider doing more often. Next time though, I will try this walk through nature in the day or at my mom's home. Mom lives in an oceanfront house in Keaukaha. :)
Sunday, September 12, 2010
?Revised Behavior Change"
After watching the three different Trailers and some related resources, I felt really threatened, disgusted and very worried about our future. I heard some information here and there about the 11th hour, organizations that were trying to help, and predictions being made about the world ending; but never really paid too much attention. The more assignments that I complete, the more involved I wanna get, and I realize this is a real serious matter. What were we thinking? What were our previous leaders doing? What can we do now?
I was saddened to see that when I clicked on an Awakening the dreamer related link, that there were no organizations or the word: symposiums set up in Hilo, Hi. There were none in any of the Hawaiian Islands either. The closest was California.
The tragedies, natural disasters, diseases and crimes that are shown on the world clock is horrifying! The debt is outrageous and natural resources are continuing to be depleted as I type this blog.
By reviewing these resources, and thinking about the different connections between culture and the earth; it all makes perfect sense. If we take on the correct definition of culture as shared in the assignments and thrive to change our behaviors, we will succeed. Everyone needs to realize that it is not about color, economic status, or power. It's about change. We need to pull together, everyone and realize what is going on. Do what we can, get involved and take responsibility. If others see, they will follow. We need to change our patterns of living and pass it on. Our efforts and even relationships will change for the better,our culture will increase awareness and our earth will smile.
I was saddened to see that when I clicked on an Awakening the dreamer related link, that there were no organizations or the word: symposiums set up in Hilo, Hi. There were none in any of the Hawaiian Islands either. The closest was California.
The tragedies, natural disasters, diseases and crimes that are shown on the world clock is horrifying! The debt is outrageous and natural resources are continuing to be depleted as I type this blog.
By reviewing these resources, and thinking about the different connections between culture and the earth; it all makes perfect sense. If we take on the correct definition of culture as shared in the assignments and thrive to change our behaviors, we will succeed. Everyone needs to realize that it is not about color, economic status, or power. It's about change. We need to pull together, everyone and realize what is going on. Do what we can, get involved and take responsibility. If others see, they will follow. We need to change our patterns of living and pass it on. Our efforts and even relationships will change for the better,our culture will increase awareness and our earth will smile.
About Me
http://comm344blog1.blogspot.com/
Hi, I'm Trisha. I'm open minded, a hard worker and excited to be graduating soon! My major is Administration of Justice, and my future goals include graduating with my BA next year, getting a higher paying job, and to continue working with youth in the community. I attend school part time and have been doing so for a few years now. I work full time at a non-profit organization, and have been there for about 8 years.
My relationship with sustainability is not as good as I would like it to be. I recycle cans and bottles, try to conserve energy(turn off the lights when not needed, unplug electronics when not in use) but honestly that's about it. I definitely need to work harder regarding this topic and I will. It just requires change and I am trying. The first step is gaining awareness, and that I have begun.
My connection to Hawaii is real. I was born and raised here and I am probably going to remain here. When I was growing up, I lived in Hilo. In 2007, I was happy to have my first home completed in Lower Puna, where I currently reside. It's about 20 minutes from Hilo. Although I enjoy the mainland, I choose to stay here in Hilo where my family is.
From this class, I want to increase my knowledge about sustainability and all the different areas that are surrounded by this important topic. I understand that what we do today will effect our kid's lives and others' future. It is important and I need to take the time out to really address this in my life. I have not done so in the past.
I've taken classes in sociology, psychology, criminology and have enjoyed them all. I currently work with youth and their families in the Lower Puna area, and have been trained to work in different types of settings. I am a hands on person and I enjoy working "out of the box." I understand that reading and writing is important also, but I like to be out doing field work rather than in an office. I do presentations on life skills such as respect, decision making, drug awareness, teenage pregnancy prevention etc. I also do a one on one violence prevention class in Pahoa with youth who have engaged with 2 or more violent incidents in school. I link families and youth to appropriate community resources and I am involved with putting on events for the community that include family strengthening activities. Creating community service projects for the youth to partake in is also another job that I am responsible for. I am definitely thinking about a sustainability project that I can do and get the youth involved with also. I want to teach the youth what I learn from this class, so that they will be aware of what is going on for their future as well.
Please feel free to e-mail me if you have additional questions. I look forward to being in this class and learning new things from everyone.
Hi, I'm Trisha. I'm open minded, a hard worker and excited to be graduating soon! My major is Administration of Justice, and my future goals include graduating with my BA next year, getting a higher paying job, and to continue working with youth in the community. I attend school part time and have been doing so for a few years now. I work full time at a non-profit organization, and have been there for about 8 years.
My relationship with sustainability is not as good as I would like it to be. I recycle cans and bottles, try to conserve energy(turn off the lights when not needed, unplug electronics when not in use) but honestly that's about it. I definitely need to work harder regarding this topic and I will. It just requires change and I am trying. The first step is gaining awareness, and that I have begun.
My connection to Hawaii is real. I was born and raised here and I am probably going to remain here. When I was growing up, I lived in Hilo. In 2007, I was happy to have my first home completed in Lower Puna, where I currently reside. It's about 20 minutes from Hilo. Although I enjoy the mainland, I choose to stay here in Hilo where my family is.
From this class, I want to increase my knowledge about sustainability and all the different areas that are surrounded by this important topic. I understand that what we do today will effect our kid's lives and others' future. It is important and I need to take the time out to really address this in my life. I have not done so in the past.
I've taken classes in sociology, psychology, criminology and have enjoyed them all. I currently work with youth and their families in the Lower Puna area, and have been trained to work in different types of settings. I am a hands on person and I enjoy working "out of the box." I understand that reading and writing is important also, but I like to be out doing field work rather than in an office. I do presentations on life skills such as respect, decision making, drug awareness, teenage pregnancy prevention etc. I also do a one on one violence prevention class in Pahoa with youth who have engaged with 2 or more violent incidents in school. I link families and youth to appropriate community resources and I am involved with putting on events for the community that include family strengthening activities. Creating community service projects for the youth to partake in is also another job that I am responsible for. I am definitely thinking about a sustainability project that I can do and get the youth involved with also. I want to teach the youth what I learn from this class, so that they will be aware of what is going on for their future as well.
Please feel free to e-mail me if you have additional questions. I look forward to being in this class and learning new things from everyone.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Rachel Carson Response: "Becker, Carson & Me"
Subject: Rachel Carson Response: "Becker, Carson & Me"
(I Cut and Pasted this entry from Laulima)
Rachel Carson was a very inspiring woman. She was a private, but very effective woman. She brought up issues about the environment that no one else had before. In her famous book, Silent Spring, she informed the public about pesticides and other toxins that was poisoning our earth. She talked about such things as 'man trying to get ahead' and also the subject about the toxins killing our natural resources.
The way that Ms. Carson brought attention to the public was in an informative way, a way that did not point fingers at a specific individual. She brought the information out with honesty and in ways that made the people think and understand what was really going on.
Because Carson was such a good writer, she got the information out in the public about her concerns through different radio scripts, different articles, and many different books. She was smart, and she was powerful. After Carson completed her own research, she came up with the book: Silent Spring. The information in the book was alarming enough to get the president's attention and also other very important companies.
Her book caused much controversy and important people wanted her to be quiet. She remained active in despite of wishes for her to stop and continued to take her stand against new technologies coming with destructive side effects.
If I had made a discovery such as Carson did, I would definitely use the internet to get the word out. The internet is fast and it reaches billions of people.
After her passing in 1964, her books and information lives on and continues to educate the uneducated.
(I Cut and Pasted this entry from Laulima)
Rachel Carson was a very inspiring woman. She was a private, but very effective woman. She brought up issues about the environment that no one else had before. In her famous book, Silent Spring, she informed the public about pesticides and other toxins that was poisoning our earth. She talked about such things as 'man trying to get ahead' and also the subject about the toxins killing our natural resources.
The way that Ms. Carson brought attention to the public was in an informative way, a way that did not point fingers at a specific individual. She brought the information out with honesty and in ways that made the people think and understand what was really going on.
Because Carson was such a good writer, she got the information out in the public about her concerns through different radio scripts, different articles, and many different books. She was smart, and she was powerful. After Carson completed her own research, she came up with the book: Silent Spring. The information in the book was alarming enough to get the president's attention and also other very important companies.
Her book caused much controversy and important people wanted her to be quiet. She remained active in despite of wishes for her to stop and continued to take her stand against new technologies coming with destructive side effects.
If I had made a discovery such as Carson did, I would definitely use the internet to get the word out. The internet is fast and it reaches billions of people.
After her passing in 1964, her books and information lives on and continues to educate the uneducated.
2.2 Blog Assignment: Carson, Becker and Me
2.2 Blog Assignment: Carson, Becker and Me
The two links that I have made connections with from Dr. Becker's Blog Post 3 were: New Roots and Local Organic Food.
I was born and raised here in Hilo, Hawaii. The new roots public high school in Ithaca, NY link, reminded me of some of the charter schools here on our island as well. I currently work with youth aged 7-19 in public/private and some charter schools. When I think about it, I realize that I have always enjoyed the outside atmosphere of a specific charter school in the Pohoiki Area of the Big Island. The outside cool breeze and the welcoming sound of the ocean have always given me a new outlook on learning.
From attending a public school all my life with assigned seating and bells that rung when you were off to your next class- the charter school system seems so much more inviting; offering so much to learn from our land, the ocean and the people right here in our community. Community service projects, and learning skills that would actually be used seems like that's the way to go. Community gardens, surfing and building your own structure with natural materials sounds great to me! I have children and I've always known that my children had different styles of learning, as we all do. My middle son would be so happy if I would introduce him to a new type of school such as this. It seems to me that not all of us are made to sit and keep our mouths shut, raise our hand and read books all day. I'm not bucking the DOE system at all, because that's where I've been blessed to receive my education. But thinking out of the box, thinking about our environment and being aware of sustainability and environmental issues; the New Roots Charter School seems ideal and would definitely pave the way for tomorrow's leaders.
The link on Local Organic Food caught my attention too. A simple topic that I need to learn more about. Some of my friends all grow their own vegetables and they're always telling me to just grow my own. But I admit that I'm lazy and I always feel like what difference is that going to make; I'm only one. After looking further into the topic and spending a little time thinking, I got somewhat scared. I have no idea where my food came from, and why is it that I can't pronounce half of the ingredients that I'm consuming. I really wanna start somewhere, and I feel like it can start here. I have almost 6 acres of land
The two links that I have made connections with from Dr. Becker's Blog Post 3 were: New Roots and Local Organic Food.
I was born and raised here in Hilo, Hawaii. The new roots public high school in Ithaca, NY link, reminded me of some of the charter schools here on our island as well. I currently work with youth aged 7-19 in public/private and some charter schools. When I think about it, I realize that I have always enjoyed the outside atmosphere of a specific charter school in the Pohoiki Area of the Big Island. The outside cool breeze and the welcoming sound of the ocean have always given me a new outlook on learning.
From attending a public school all my life with assigned seating and bells that rung when you were off to your next class- the charter school system seems so much more inviting; offering so much to learn from our land, the ocean and the people right here in our community. Community service projects, and learning skills that would actually be used seems like that's the way to go. Community gardens, surfing and building your own structure with natural materials sounds great to me! I have children and I've always known that my children had different styles of learning, as we all do. My middle son would be so happy if I would introduce him to a new type of school such as this. It seems to me that not all of us are made to sit and keep our mouths shut, raise our hand and read books all day. I'm not bucking the DOE system at all, because that's where I've been blessed to receive my education. But thinking out of the box, thinking about our environment and being aware of sustainability and environmental issues; the New Roots Charter School seems ideal and would definitely pave the way for tomorrow's leaders.
The link on Local Organic Food caught my attention too. A simple topic that I need to learn more about. Some of my friends all grow their own vegetables and they're always telling me to just grow my own. But I admit that I'm lazy and I always feel like what difference is that going to make; I'm only one. After looking further into the topic and spending a little time thinking, I got somewhat scared. I have no idea where my food came from, and why is it that I can't pronounce half of the ingredients that I'm consuming. I really wanna start somewhere, and I feel like it can start here. I have almost 6 acres of land
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