Saturday, August 22, 2020
The Effect of the Setting On t essays
The Effect of the Setting On t articles The Effect of the Setting On the Characters A splendid and bright day or a dull, cold cavern; the setting of a story gives the peruser a thought of where the story happens, yet it likewise shows the influences it has on the characters. Ethan Frome, a novel by Edith Wharton, is a prime model in the use of setting to influence the characters. The setting for Ethan Frome represents the enthusiastic and the physical confinement, cold, and demise that encompass Ethan. The chilly, brutality of his environmental factors influences Ethan in a few different ways. One of his environmental factors is a winter no man's land. He connects winter with a significant number of the troubles that are a major part of his life now. For instance in the novel it says that with each passing winter Ethan turned out to be all the more older looking. The severity of winter negatively affects Ethan. The winter is additionally used to portray those that he feels a scorn for, that being Zeena, who is unpleasant, terrible and wiped out cool simply like the winter. He says that on the off chance that it had been spring and not winter he could never had hitched Zeena. Mattie is the direct inverse of Zeena, she is related with spring and summer and another life. Ethan looks for the glow of the late spring (Mattie) and to leave his winter (Zeena) behind. Apparently he can't do this, similarly as he can't get away from winter. Another case of cold is the house. It is in a consi stent condition of chill. Particularly when Zeena was about. The coolness of the house was a steady suggestion to Ethan of the components that snuck simply outside his entryway. The town that the Fromes live by is little and detached and his worn out and ratty house influence Ethan also. The town of Starkfield is only that-fruitless, brutal, dismal, extreme, and hard. It is a supernatural occurrence that anybody endures such a ruthless domain. The ground isn't gainful, the structures are tumbling down, there is scarcely enough lumber to work with not to mention be utilized a ... <!
Friday, August 21, 2020
The Children of Hammerstein Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words
The Children of Hammerstein - Essay Example The three little girls were regularly gathered and called the ââ¬Ëvon Hammerstein Sistersââ¬â¢ however the fact of the matter was that despite the fact that they had a considerable amount of similitudes, they had their own characters and lived various lives. The primary concern they shared for all intents and purpose was their remain against Nazism. Till the 1920s in Berlin â⬠the years when they at last grew up â⬠they mingled extraordinarily be it the exercise room, college, the social and additionally political developments, etc. When the political change rose to incredible statures, every one of them helped the casualties in their own particular manners, not stressed over the hazard they were taking of their lives by contradicting the Weimar Republic and later the Third Reich. Maria Luise was the most seasoned girl of the five kids. She restricted Hitler by joining the German Communist Party in the late 1920s. Actually, at whatever point her dad left from the house, s he would accept the open door to experience this safe in order to find archives with significant data on them. She even enlightened the Soviet Union concerning Hitlerââ¬â¢s political and military plans which he educated to his commanders in his mystery discourse. This made her a deceiver to her nation yet her dad was not against it. It was during this timespan additionally that she had a relationship with Werner Scholem yet later he was shot dead. Maira Luise chose to stay in her country for the term of the war. It was sooner or later during the 1950s that she changed her habitation to the German Democratic Republic. The subsequent girl was Maria Theresa and she was a significant extremist. She was less ideologically in danger than her sisters however she empathized with left wing sees, particularly the informed working class Jewry. She alarmed the Jews on the off chance that they were at risk for being extradited or captured by separating the important data from her dad. She wou ld move the Jews and a few Germans to Prague and helped a considerable lot of the set apart to stow away. She likewise brought materials, for example, papers to the Nazi people group over yonder. Maria Theresa is commended for sparing countless Jews from killing. She got hitched to a Jewish man in 1934. They ventured out to Palestine however needed to return and were questioned a great deal of times by the Gestapo. In this way, they went to oust in 1935 to Japan. Over yonder additionally, she was undependable yet she figured out how to endure and had four kids. After the war was finished, they moved to the United States of America. Helga von Hammerstein, similar to her oldest sister Maria Luise, was a piece of the German Communist Party. She assisted her sister in completing her parts. She had a relationship with one man called Leo Roth who carried on an extremely perilous live and was shot in a jail in 1936. Helga, alongside her mom and most youthful sibling, was held in bondage by the Nazis for the span of the most recent long stretches of the War. They were first detained at Buchenwald, at that point at Dachau, and afterward at South Tyrol. They were cross examined and solicited the concealing spot from her brotherââ¬â¢s yet they didn't break. She stayed in Germany during the length of the war. After the finish of the war, they were given opportunity by the Allied Forces in 1945 when they freed the camps. Franz von Hammerstein was the primary child. He was pardoned from the obligation of working for the military because of clinical reasons. He was the sibling who was detained and addressed by the Gestapo alongside Helga and his mom. Afterward, he was additionally liberated with them by the Allies. After the war
Sunday, June 28, 2020
Required Hardware Components Hardware Requirement Considerations - 1100 Words
Required Hardware Components: Hardware Requirement Considerations (Coursework Sample) Content: Required Hardware ComponentsName:Institution:Hardware components are critical operational aspects considering that there are vast technological advancements that are being made in the current era. As a result, MilleniAds needs to be well equipped with sufficient and adequate hardware components that can enable them to function effectively and deliver their services/products to their customers in an efficient manner. The hardware components that are MilleniAds is to take up should be cost effective as the company is starting up and seeks to operate on a low budget. However, the components that are to be acquired, as recommended below, should be of good quality and have high performance to enhance production of quality products/services by the company. The best hardware, software, networking, and information security options which meet the needs of MilleniAds are the most recent hardware components that are technologically advanced and cost-effective.Hardware requiremen t considerationsTo begin with, one of the needs that have to be met by these hardware components that are to be acquired by the firm is their ability to store and at the same time manipulate digital images. In addition to the above, the hardware components that are to be acquired by the company should have the ability to produce physical copies of the different products that belong to their clients. Moreover, a hardware component that will allow the CEO to keep a digital inventory and at the same time track the inventory of sales and expenses is needed by the company. The current desktop PCs at the company are limiting the performance and the capabilities of the employees. As a result, these employees need to be supplied with desktop PCs that can be able to maximize their capabilities thus leading enhancement of professional and personal responsibilities. Lastly, the employees also require hardware components that can easily access different forms of information from the company whi le they are in different locations other than the office. Looking at the requirements that have been mentioned above, below are the hardware components categories which could meet the needs of the company. One of the hardware components that is required by MilleniAds is high-quality CPU equipped with an efficient motherboard to enhance the performance of professional responsibilities and personal responsibilities. Secondly, the company should also acquire hard drives with a good size which can allow storage of inventory sales, designed flyers, and brochures, among many other materials. Thirdly, bigger RAM is required to support the functionality of the CPU and flexible hardware is also required. Lastly, the employees also require device components that will allow them to access information from the company while at a distant location. Thus, the hardware component that is needed is a server system that will give a central data storage system that can be accessed by different mobile d evices that are portable such as laptops and smartphones.Compare and ContrastHaving outlined the different categories of the hardware components that need to be acquired by the company, it is follows that a comparison of the different options available be considered before the final recommendations are made to the company. First and foremost, the company requires a server system that can effectively enhance task delivery. Moreover, the server system should be able to offer easy access to information from the company storage units. Two main types of servers are the ones that can apply in this case scenario. As much as there are five main types of server systems (i.e. file server, print server system, communications server system, application server system, database server system, and domain server system), two of these server systems are the ones that can operate efficiently for MilleniAds considering that it is an advertisement company (Tate et al., 2018). They are database server a nd communications server. These two are different in that the database server enables management of common database for a network and allowing data storage, as well as the request for data access (Tate et al., 2018). Communications server, on the other hand, handles different communication functions (Tate et al., 2018). On a different note, there are different types of motherboards that the company can consider to help in deciding on the ones that allow high functionality. The different types of motherboards are AT motherboards, ATX motherboards, Pentium 4 motherboards, and motherboards with high end graphics (Astarabadi and Cunningham, 2017). Differentiating these different types of motherboards, AT motherboards are such that they consist of power connectors with advanced technology. ATX motherboards are such that they comprise single connectors. Pentium 4 motherboards are fixed with 12V power connectors (Astarabadi and Cunningham, 2017). Lastly, motherboards with high end graphics are characterized by Z270 chipsets which support Kaby Lake processors. There are also different types of processors which explain why there are different types of CPU from which MilleniAds can choose from. Processors that available in the market are produced either by Intel or Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) (Kirk and Wen-Mei, 2016). Under Intel, there is Pentium, Core, and Celeron. Under AMD there is Phenom, Sempron, and Athlon. The difference between their efficiency and their reliability comes about by considering the date of production and their sizes (Kirk and Wen-Mei, 2016). The more efficient and reliable processors are the ones that have bigger sizes and more recently produced. Four different types of hard disk drives are present in the market (i.e. parallel advanced technology attachment, serial ATA, solid state drives, and small computer system inter...
Tuesday, May 19, 2020
Public Policy Analysis Gun Control Essay - 1246 Words
Public policies are developed in response to the existence of a perceived problem or an opportunity. The analysis delves into a public issue or problem and assesses a set of proposed government action for addressing the issue. The job of the analyst is to describe the background and status of an issue and then, using research and analysis, determine a proper government action to resolve the issue. By comparing options and weighing their expected benefits, the analyst should conclude with a recommended course of action or inaction to addressing the issue. During the problem definition stage, one must realize that ââ¬Å"a condition is not a social problem unless it is seen as violating certain fundamental values and beliefs about how societyâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦The analyst can also find research reports, identification problems, recommendations for new programs or reform to existing programs, and requests for lobbying activities. Agenda setting has raised the following questions: Who recognizes the issue as being a problem and why is it seen as a problem? The Institute for Legislative Action (ILA) is the lobbying force of the NRA. ââ¬Å"The institute works vigorously to defeat restrictive gun control legislation, pass pro-gun reform legislation, and to educate the public about the facts concerning the many facets of firearms ownershipâ⬠(NRA, 2011). Is the issue looked at differently by groups with different values? Are public officials interested in responding to the problem and can a public policy be formed to address the problem? Do public officials have the means necessary to carry out a policy response? Has something recently happened to make this issue a problem? How pressing is this problem? How long will it take to respond to the problem? Policy formulation develops policy proposals and goals to resolve the issue and restructure problems. It determines those barriers that may be incurred and what is needed from other agencies or the private sector. Also developed, are methods in which to evaluate how success will be judged and theShow MoreRelatedGuns Dont Kill People, Criminals Kill People Essay1476 Words à |à 6 Pages In America, gun control has been a source of debate for decades. Recently, an increase in the frequency of mass shootings has caused the country to become extremely polarized in relation to the issue. America is often described as having a gun culture as a result of firearms being engrained in its history and perhaps, consequently, has among the highest rates of gun-related crime as well as gun ownership rates, among developed nations. There exists an abundance of scholarly work done in an effortRead MoreThe Issue Of Gun Control1714 Words à |à 7 PagesInterestingly pro-gun groups identify the reason for increased gun crimes as tightening laws and putting more restrictions on guns. According to Wooster College and a research that they conducted, many individuals who are pro guns believe ââ¬Å"Gun control doesnââ¬â¢t protect people from violent crime, it increases it. Every region where gun control is high, there is a higher instance of gun violence and crime in general. In regi ons where there are less restrictive gun laws, youââ¬â¢ll see lower instances ofRead MorePolicy, Then It Is Not Likely To Pass In Either Chamber1611 Words à |à 7 Pagespolicy, then it is not likely to pass in either chamber of congress. Therefore, the policy should have some sort of precedent, such that its implementation is feasible, even if it is not plausible. Role for Government As a public health crisis, the government is not only justified in taking action to curb the problem, but they should also feel obligated. Over 10,000 Americans die due to gun violence each year, and tens of thousands more are injured (Brady Campaign, 2017). Aside from protectingRead MorePros And Cons Of Stricter Gun Control1357 Words à |à 6 Pagesââ¬Å"Guns are designed to kill. They have no other functionâ⬠(Bowman and Newton). Today, there is a major debate whether or not guns should be legalized. Gun control is a firearm regulation which sets laws or policies that regulate the manufacture, sale, or possession of firearms. The Second Amendment was ratified in on December 15, 1791 that allowed people the right to bear arms, but many people disagree with that and to express their opinions, both sides protest. Guns have a long history in the UnitedRead MoreCritical Analysis Of The Sandy Hook School Shooting1520 Words à |à 7 Pagesexplanation, the media emphasized variou s social issues such as mental health, violent video games, and gun control as possible catalysts. In the end, the Sandy Hook massacre became a highlighted example of why gun control should be accepted, otherwise known as a symbolic crime. 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In looking for an explanation the Media emphasized various topics such as mental health, violent video games, and gun control as possible catalysts. This essay will provide a critical analysis of what happened in the Sandy Hook Shooting, the mediaââ¬â¢s role in public opinion, and the arguments laid forth by claims-makers as associated with this symbolic crime. The Sandy Hook School shooting took place in Newtown, Connecticut, an upper-middle-classRead MoreThe University Of Alabama s Police Department s Gun Policy1074 Words à |à 5 PagesA major issue in the United States is gun control. Due to multiple mass shootings in schools and public areas, restrictions regarding guns have been implemented across the United States. Andrew Parks, a student at The University of Alabama, wrote an article against gun restrictions. His article, ââ¬Å"The University should allow concealed carry,â⬠supports the idea of college campuses like The University of Alabama, allowing students to conceal carry firearms. In an article written by Jennie Kushner, theRead MoreEssay on Canadian Firearms Program1321 Words à |à 6 PagesCase Study: Individual Preparation Report Name: Maruf Hashem Date: January 30, 2013 Case Title: Canadian Firearms Program Introduction Gun violence is serious social problem and Canada has a long history of firearms control. However, increasing costs to the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) has made it a lightning rod for criticism from both pro and anti-gun advocates. Reports out of the media and Auditor General Sheila Fraser paint a picture of inefficiency, incompetence and mismanagement. ThisRead MoreThe Effects Of Stricter Gun Control On The United States1352 Words à |à 6 PagesEffectiveness Statistical analysis about states in the U.S. proves the correlation between strict gun control policies and deaths related to firearms to the least extent. According to an article published by Richard Florida on CityLab, a research shows that states with stricter gun control have fewer gun-related fatalities. The study in the article was conducted by researchers at Boston Childrenââ¬â¢s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Harvard School of Public Health. Researchers measured ââ¬Å"legislative
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
The Early American Industrial Revolution And Westward...
Harikleia Sparakis 12/19/15 BSGE Antebellum Era Essay Word Count: 1396 The Early American Industrial Revolution and Westward Expansion, two interconnected yet independent occurrences, were significant events in the Antebellum Era. The Early Industrial Revolution utilized new inventions to improve the United Stateââ¬â¢s economy and change lifestyles (Hakim NN 105; Hakim NN 107). It had offered new opportunities and transformed America s farm economy into a market economy, which is, arguably, more efficient (Hakim NN 109). While Westward Expansion extended Americaââ¬â¢s borders, fueled by a popular ideal known as ââ¬Å"manifest destiny, it caused many disputes amongst the American citizens, creating complications in Congress (Hakim 62-63). As shown, the Industrial Revolution and Westward Expansion were both major changes for America s economy, each with its own benefits and disadvantages (Hakim NN 103-109; Hakim 58-59). The Early Industrial Revolution and Westward Expansion promoted and enhanced the effects of each other; the increased production o f textiles urged Southern farmers to expand their plantations, which in turn, produced more raw materials for the Northern industrial workers to process (Hakim NN 103-109; Hakim 58-59). While both, as shown above, had improved the economy and allowed some freedom for the workers in free states which would otherwise not have, they also promoted slavery, which, at the time, was an ongoing issueShow MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Global Warming On Manifest Destiny1631 Words à |à 7 Pagesfailed to keep our environment safe and sustained. As we advance technologically the earth is getting hotter, potentially so hot that eventually itââ¬â¢ll be uninhabitable(kind of like Mars). Humanity is at fault for this as around the time of the industrial revolution different fuels were being discovered and uses for them created. The use of these fuels (typically burning) cause greenhouse gasses to be trapped in the atmosphere, locking in heat. If humans didnââ¬â¢t have the unquenchable need for advancementRead MoreThe Philosophy of the American Settlers Westward Expansion Leads to Expulsion of the Native Americans1197 Words à |à 5 PagesThe people of the United States who were settling westward in the early nineteenth century viewed the Native Americans as a threat to westward expansion, and therefore pressured their leaders to set up policies that would remove Indians. Due to the long history various conflicts between Indians and Americans, the American settlers were apprehensive toward the Indians, leading to the perceived need of the removal of the Indians for their safety. Andrew Jacksonââ¬â¢s negative attitude toward of the IndiansRead MoreThe Battle Of The Civil War1686 Words à |à 7 Pagesethical and emotional battles taking place. A big question of the Civil War was about its origins and if there was more than just one cause for the rebellion of the South. Many issues at hand during this time are: slavery, westward expansion, and statesââ¬â¢ rights. We stward expansion and statesââ¬â¢ rights tend to be two sides of the same coin while slavery is a big issue in and of itself. These authors are addressing their thoughts on the Civil War and what they thought caused it. A historiographical questionRead MoreSummary : Forging The National Economy1664 Words à |à 7 Pagesdemands Better infrastructure and transportation helped move people, raw materials, and manufactured goods The recent momentum led to a more dynamic national economy The Westward Movement The rise of the first western president exemplified westward expansion The nation consisted of young and energetic people, always moving westward, and life for pioneer families was grim Above all, loneliness haunted them, especially the women who were cut off from human contact Pioneers were often ill-informedRead MoreSlavery During The American Revolution Essay1523 Words à |à 7 Pagesslavery, because of all the technological innovation that was making the slaves jobs easier. In the American Revolution war slavery played a role in which they began a sequence of abolishing slavery. Slavery played a role in the American revolutionary war to begin to grant themselves freedom, liberty, and rights. Slavery changed in 1808 due to a bill that abolished the slave trade. The westward expansion divided the nation because the north and the south werenââ¬â¢t coming into agreement of change goingRead MoreDemographic Changes in America (1607-1914)1167 Words à |à 5 PagesDemographic Changes in America (1607-1914) Historical records of American demography start with the settlement of Jamestown, Virginia in 1607. Puritans landed in Plymouth and made a home for themselves with the help of Native Americans. These first immigrants in the colonies (British, Dutch, and German), moved to America between the early 17th and late 18th centuries in what was known as Old Immigration. During the colonial period, the birth rate was high but the life expectancy was low. It wasRead MoreThe Age Of Transition Of The United States1874 Words à |à 8 PagesJefferson to Hamilton Although Thomas Jefferson swept the election of 1800 and witnessed the collapse of the Federalist Party in 1812, it was Alexander Hamiltonââ¬â¢s political and economic views which proved predominant in the subsequent 19th century. The expansion of capitalism and industrializationââ¬â the development of new railroads, canals, and manufacturing factories in the Northââ¬â not only contributed to the end of Thomas Jeffersonââ¬â¢s Agrarian Yeoman era, but ultimately proved crucial to the Unionââ¬â¢s victoryRead MoreThe Slavery Of The Cotton Gin By Eli Whitney1586 Words à |à 7 Pages1. Many Americans had expected the practice of slavery to die. Americans were given this impression in relation to decreasing tobacco production due to lack of fertile soil (Foner, 317). However, Americans would be presented with factors that would lead to an expansion in slavery. The expansion of slavery deteriorated already terrible conditions for slaves; slave families would be separa ted and many female slaves faced imminent forced reproduction with studs or white males. In the 1790ââ¬â¢s theRead MoreThe American Industrial Revolution During The 19th Century1290 Words à |à 6 Pages The American Industrial Revolution began in the 1700ââ¬â¢s and ended in the 1800ââ¬â¢s. Most people believe that the American Industrial Revolution began when Samuel Slater brought technology from Britain to America. This technology allowed America to use manufacturing to quicken production. Industrial items such as the sewing machine, river boats, trains, telegraph, and mills allowed for growth in the United States. Immigrants from other countries gave the industrial growth enough workers to allowRead MoreThe Colonization Of The 1800s1705 Words à |à 7 PagesIn the early years of the United Statesââ¬â¢ formation, the country had its roots in the original thirteen colonies. Through years of expansion, the United States grew into the country we know today. Without the migration movements like the pilgrimsââ¬â¢ voyage to America, the colonization founding of the original thirteen colonies, and the westward migration in the 1800s for gold and prosperity, the country could not be the way it is today. The colonization of the 1600s and the migration in the 1800s impacted
Competitive Strategy War of SUNTZU
Question: Write about theCompetitive Strategyfor War of SUNTZU. Answer: Strategy Different organizations have different perceptions regarding the concept of strategy in order to bring out the success for their respective organization. War of SUNTZU evaluates the concepts of strategy. As per this war, the winning of the war is considered to be a good strategy but the losing has been considered to be a bad strategy. The primary motive of each of the firm is to increase the effectiveness of their concerned business processes. Many of the firm uses strategy to reduce the issues coming between the executions of the work processes concerned. The word is derived from a Greek word STRATOS that signifies leading an army or supervising a group of the people. There are several facts that need to be understood such as reducing the coast or becoming the low-cost provider does not bring out to be a good strategy. The primary motives behind the adoption of the strategies are to increase the desired productivity along with the profitability of the concerned organization (Amit Z ott, 2012). There are few of the points important which need to be considered in order to bring out the effectiveness of the work processes concerned. These are satisfaction level reliability as well as consistency from the shareholders and customers. The strategy is supposed to define the desired goals along with the objectives of the firm as to bring out the success for the concerned firm (Tucci Massa, 2013). The concepts critically reflect the fact that use of the different types of the tactics in order to capture the entire market segments by working as per the satisfaction level of the customers. The uses of the strategies are to improve the overall performance of the firm by working as per the satisfaction level of the customers. On the other hand, the development of the brand image of the organization is important as it helps in developing trust between the customers and the firm which increases the profitability of the firm concerned. There r different organizing that is using different types of the strategies, one such firm is Allergen Australia Pty. Ltd. It is a Pharmaceutical company operating its business processes throughout different parts of Australia (Gobble, 2014). There exists crucial requirement to increase the effectualness I the wok processes of the firm and this can be done with the help of formulating effective strategies required t enhance the performance of the organization. The company has adopted several strategies in order to investigate the response of the public regarding the quality and the satisfaction f the customers regarding the products offered to them. It is a matter of fact there are different pharmaceuticals companies executing their business processes throughout the concerned market areas and thus, providing discount offers and enhancing the satisfaction level of the customers will help in bringing up the preferred success for the entire company concerned. Thus, it is supposed to be vital to investigate the desired market area to formulate effective strategies as per the market area concerned. The firm has measured two of the vital aspects that are the pricing strategies and the quality of the products (Massa Tucci, 2013). One of the other strategies adopted by this firm is the delivering of the medication facilities to all of the customers concerned. Business Innovation Model There are different types of the concepts proposed regarding the development of the business model innovation the business model innovation can be explained as to be the desired set of the unique and the innovative concepts in order to achieve the defined goal of the concerned firm. The fundamental idea is to bring out the new ideas along with the new sources as to enhance the quality of the services and products offered by the organization (Ward Peppard, 2016). There are four of the important steps discovered in order to execute the entire business process, these are the initiation, ideation, integration and implementation of the entire or the concepts concerned with the processes. The first step is initiation which reflects few of the factors needs to enhance the section of the wok processes concerned. The few of the factors are what to offer throughout the market to the customers, how the revenue could be generated, how the value proposition will eve generates and offering of the most interesting products in front o the concerned customers (Simons, 2013). The business triangle is supposed to be very safe in bringing out the desired requirement of the clients throughout the market segments concerned. There are few of the other points that nobody should think that they had first as getting the innovative idea first, bigger success requires bigger resources and all the innovation ideas are merely based on the fascinating technologies. In order to make the products and services suitable for the customers bringing out the desired changes as per the changing trends helps in increasing the selling of the services as well as the products offered b the firm. Grain Crop Limited is one of the well-known agricultural firms operating its business processes throughout different parts of Australia. It is considered to be very important for the organization to enhance the quality of the products as per the satisfaction level of the customers. Therefore, the firm needs to bring out few of the latest innovative techniques in order o increase the reliability o the users in purchasing the crops (Davenport, 2013). Moreover, there are several other types of the facilities which can be offered to the customers along with the delivery of the food crops, these are easily return process in case if the customer is not satisfied with the product. It has been evaluated that the firm imports and exports the products through 9 different terminals. Development of the brand image also plays the vital role in order to increase the selling of the products and this can be done with the help of the concepts of business model innovation (Cummings Worley, 2014). References Cummings, T.G., and Worley, C.G., 2014.Organization development and change. Cengage learning. Davenport, T.H., 2013.Process innovation: reengineering work through information technology. Harvard Business Press. Simons, R., 2013.Levers of control: how managers use innovative control systems to drive strategic renewal. Harvard Business Press. Ward, J. and Peppard, J., 2016.The Strategic Management of Information Systems: Building a Digital Strategy. John Wiley Sons. Massa, L. and Tucci, C.L., 2013. Business model innovation.The Oxford Handbook of Innovation Management, pp.420-441. Gobble, M.M., 2014. Business model innovation.Research-Technology Management,57(6), pp.58-61. Tucci, C. and Massa, L., 2013.Business model innovation(No. EPFL-CHAPTER-187818). Oxford University Press. Amit, R. and Zott, C., 2012. Creating value through business model innovation.MIT Sloan Management Review,53(3), p.41.
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Serpent handing Essay Example
Serpent handing Essay The book contributes greatly to the society in different ways. The major is a learning tool for Universities. The Archives of Appalancha at East Tennessee universities contain approximately 100 audio tapes and 50 video tapes on serpent handling services. The author according to me pays much attention to spiritual concerns other than the social change. The dynamic theory used to argue for the University of the Serpent as a means of body projections is directly related to death and resurrection.Despite the current modernization even in religion, the development of charismatic practices, some part of the United States is very strong on holiness sect. they are still practicing and following sings such as serpent handling. Although not all holiness sects handle serpents it is indeed an important act as described in mark 16:17 ââ¬â 18.The Author focuses on Saylor family to illustrate the evolution of the snake handling movement which intensified as the economy and lifestyle of the Appa lachian Mountain Region moved from Agricultural subsistence to Industrial capitalism.
Monday, March 16, 2020
Types of Writing Classes
Types of Writing Classes There is no better way to become a better writer than to sign up for and take some basic writing classes.à These classes can be found all over the place, at local park districts or community colleges, to online clubs, or a local group that meets weekly at a cafe to discuss their work. I strongly believe that anyone who has any serious desires towards becoming a writer, or simply to improve their style and tone should be signed up for these classes and meeting with other writers.à They will critique your work and help you learn how to more effectively communicate your ideas in writing, which, of course, will help you grow as a writer and as a person. In my experience, the best classes are offered through colleges, though they are typically much more expensive there than anywhere else.à Try to find a community college where you can take some classes at a significant discount rather than a major state university or a private school.à In general, the classes will be significantly less money, and there will be fewer people in class, so you get more of a one-on-one with the teacher. Another option is to start, or to find a local group to meet with and discuss your writing with.à This is difficult for many people who arenââ¬â¢t sure where to look.à Indeed, these little clubs are a little hard to find, and many do not actively look for new members, so it is difficult to get into even if you can find one. The other option, which is often the best option for most people, is to enroll in an online writing class.à These classes are offered all over the place, often through colleges (again, expensive), but they do not require you to meet regularly or discuss in person, since everything is done through an online forum. Other times, there are types of writing classes which focus on giving you exercises and practice activities to engage your mind in writing on things that you normally wouldnââ¬â¢t consider writing about.à I personally think that these are more helpful to you than writing critique groups because they take you out of your element and force you to try something totally new.à This can help people who write only in one style by helping them realize new techniques that they can take from the new discipline and apply to their own. No matter what kind of class you decide on, make sure you take the time to go out and sign up for one right away.
Friday, February 28, 2020
Managing capability Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words
Managing capability - Essay Example It is also utilised in order to evaluate the corporate image of Ford within the minds of its customers. In addition, strategic capability of Ford has also been evaluated with the help of varied strategic tools namely benchmarking and balance scorecard. 1.2 Introduction In the significantly competitive automobile market of South Africa, the main objective of every organisation is to enhance their brand equity and uniqueness in order to retain competitive advantage in the market. This can be done with the help of the core competencies and resources of the organisations in order to sustain their brand image and customer relationships in the long run. Ford is a multinational conglomerate and a leading name in the automobile sector, for past number of years. It is an American based organisation possessing a history of offering exceptional automobile products ranging from small personal vehicles to lavish brands to its target customers. The head office of Ford is situated in Dearborn regio n of Michigan in the United States (Ford Motor Company, 2012). Ford was established in the year 1903 by Henry Ford. It has positioned itself as the second leading producer of automobiles in the market of the United States and in the fifth place all across the globe. In terms of recent financial competencies of Ford, it can be observed that it has earned revenue of US$136.26 billion and a net income of US$20.21 billion in the year 2011 (Ford Motor Company, 2011). 1.3 Capabilities, Strategy, Competitive Advantage of Ford Ford is recognised as a Fortune 500 listed organisation with a market share of 13.4 percent in the global perspective. Is depicted in the below diagram. Market Share of Ford in Global Market Source: (Online Marketing Trends, 2012) In order to retain its brand loyalty in the global automobile markets, the management of Ford has developed a well planned set of competencies, with the view to augment the capabilities of their individual assets. The organisation has desire d to enhance the capabilities of four segments namely human resources, production department, marketing and sales and engineering (Scribd, n.d.). Integrity is the prime competency or capability of Ford. This signifies that the employees of Ford are entirely devoted to their assigned tasks, resulting in accomplishment of organisational objectives. Moreover, team-spirit and courage are the other underlying capabilities which can be observed within the workers that help in enhancement of uniformity and consistency within the organisational hierarchy. It is essential for the employees of Ford as it facilitates in development in the level of performances, resulting in achievement of varied rewards and recognitions. In order to do so, mutual communication is also extremely essential, bringing about augmentation of knowledge and skills of the employees which are vital for development of new products. Ford also attempts to utilise inventive methods and tools while producing innovative produ cts to satisfy altering customer needs and demands in the global market. These dynamic mechanisms employed
Wednesday, February 12, 2020
Technical report on hydrogen experiment Assignment Essay
Technical report on hydrogen experiment Assignment - Essay Example figures Figure 1 preparation of the electrolyzer module 6 Figure 2 Filling the syringe with distilled water 7 Figure 3 Placing inner containers 7 Figure 4 Connecting tubes 8 Figure 5 Using fuel cells and solar panel 8 Figure 6 Inserting batteries 10 Figure 7 Assembling electrical fans 10 Figure 8 Connecting the motor to reversible fuel cell 11 Figure 9 Using solar panel 11 Introduction Hydrogen derived from renewable sources such as wind and solar is clean, self-sufficient and a permanent energy solution for sustainable development. A kilogram of hydrogen is roughly equivalent to a gallon of gasoline in energy content. (Johanna L, 2007) This makes hydrogen a technology of the future in reducing reliance on imported fuel and greenhouse gas emissions. Hydrogen could be produced from fossil fuels using steam reforming, which emits CO2 and expensive ways such as catalytic cracking without CO2 emissions. This pathway is more cost-effective. Water electrolysis is an efficient and expensive way because of its high electricity requirement. For instance, a study (Khan M.J., Iqbal M.T., 2005) stated that assuming an electricity cost of $0.05/kwh, nearly nowadays price of wind produced electricity; hydrogen made from water electrolysis costs more than $2.84/kg based on higher heating value. Hydrogen produced from photovoltaic is also expensive because of high PV electricity cost.( Sherif S.A. et al, 2005) Wind produced electricity, on the other hand, is becoming more competitive nowadays. Therefore, it can produce less expensive hydrogen. Electrolysis: The general principle in electrolysis is that water is supplied to an electrochemical cell, and hydrogen evolves at the anode while oxygen evolves at the cathode when the supplied energy is greater than the zero current cell potential. Alkaline electrolysis is commercially available technology. It takes place at a temperature around 800C and pressure of 1-30bar.( US department of energy, 2010) Fuel cells: Fuel cells are ele ctrochemical devices that convert chemical energy in fuel to electrical energy with high efficiency and low environmental impact. Because combustion is avoided, they produce power with minimum pollution. They contain electrodes anode and cathode separated by an electrolyte. Fuels such as hydrogen or hydrogen rich synthesis gas, are supplied to the anodes while the oxidant is fed to the cathodes. The most common oxidant is oxygen from air. Electrochemical reaction occurs in the electrolyte producing current while deriving external load.( Fuel cell Handbook, 2010) Materials and Methods Preparation of the Electrolyzer Module and Solar Powered Hydrogen Production 1. Insert the reversible fuel cell, terminals on top, into the slot on the base. Cut 2 x 4cm length pieces of rubber tube and insert a black pin into the end of one tube. Place the tube with the black pin into the top pin on the hydrogen side (with black terminal). Place the other tube firmly onto the top input nozzle on the ox ygen side. Figure 1 preparation of the electrolyzer module 2. Fill
Friday, January 31, 2020
The Impact of an Exercise Tax on Demand, Supply, Price, and Quantity Essay
The Impact of an Exercise Tax on Demand, Supply, Price, and Quantity - Essay Example There are several factors that affect the price elasticity of demands. One of these factors is the level of prices. Expensive goods such as cars have a high elasticity of demand as a result of the sensitivity to price changes. On the other hand, the price elasticity of demand for inexpensive good such as matchboxes rarely changes the demand by a significant amount. Another factor that affects the price elasticity of demand is the income level. The elasticity of demand for any product is less in groups with higher income levels as compared to the low-income levels. This is as a result of the fact that the impact of prices changes is bigger to the poor people than the rich (Varian 320). The availability of a close substitute is another factor that affects the elasticity of demand. Demand for a product with many substitutes, for example, Pepsi is more elastic as compared to that with a few or no close substitutes such as salt. Lastly, the nature of a commodity is another factor that affects the price elasticity of demand. Necessity goods such as vegetables have inelastic demand while comfort goods such as refrigerators have elastic demand. Luxurious commodities such as cars have more elastic demand than comfort goods (Varian 323). For a consumer to maximize utility he must be at the consumer equilibrium condition. Economists express this condition by equating all of the marginal utilities per dollar that the consumer spends in buying a certain commodity. As seen from the above calculation, there is no single equation where the marginal utility per dollar is at equilibrium hence there is no combination where the consumer has the option of maximizing the utility.Ã
Thursday, January 23, 2020
Witchcraft Essay -- European History, Middle Ages, Witches
Beginning in the Middle Ages and through the seventeenth centuries, an infiltration of witchcraft persevered throughout Europe. The witch craze resulted in the torture and persecution of witches. More than 100,000 of witches who were tried were centered in the area of southwestern Europe. The mass hysteria of witches was denounced because of their rejection of God and their pact with the devil, which resulted in harsh punishments and accusations. One reason for the persecution of witches was they were thought to be the cause of bad harvests, epidemics, natural disasters, and personal tragedies. Witches also had a part in the religious aspect of Europe. The witches were persecuted because of the lack of a main religion, which was significant to life during the Protestant and Catholic Reformations. At this time of the witch phenomena, Europe was in a state of instability and people in Europe looked to benefit from the persecution of witches in the form of goods and money. The persecuti on of individuals as witches in Europe was mainly a repercussion of economic circumstances, strong religious beliefs, and prejudices of the people. The economic scene at the time of the witch craze was very apparent during the period between 1480-1700. During this period Europe was in a state of instability, therefore money, and exploration was important to many. An eyewitness to persecutions, canon Linden of Trier, Germany states that people used the trials for economic enhancement. Linden wrote that the executioner made the most money and describes it ââ¬Å"like a noble of the courtâ⬠(Document A2). This is evidence that high ranked people or people in office were into the witch trials for their economic greed and desire for goods. Mayor of Bamberg, Germ... ...is high position in society drove the pandemonium around the witch craze. The Protestant and Catholic religions were major influences on the everyday life of people in Europe during the 16th century, and all believed in persecuted witches. During the Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment, people began to realize that their superstition surrounding witches was ridiculous and when they used their reason over belief it didnââ¬â¢t make sense for witches to be a threat. In the late fifteenth through the seventeenth centuries it is evident that superstition and reason was pertained to the beliefs of influential people, resulting in the initial phase and final phase of the witch-hunt. The religious aspects, economic greed, and social stereotypes of the time influenced these beliefs. These three components led to the deaths of many so-called witches across Europe.
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Why is education important in order to achieve the MDGs
The Millennium Development Goals ( MDGs ) are eight international development ends that were established after the 2000 Millennium Summit in which United Nations Member States and International Organisations consented to accomplish by the twelvemonth 2015 ( United Nations Millennium Development Goals, 2010 ) . The MDGs set clip edge marks in bettering societal and economic conditions in the universe ââ¬Ës hapless states, which advancement towards cut downing income poorness, hungriness, disease, deficiency of equal shelter and exclusion, while advancing gender equality, wellness, instruction and environmental sustainability. They besides embody basic human rights so that each individual on the planet has the right to wellness, instruction, shelter and security ( Ki-Moon, 2010 ) . Three major countries of Humanity are focused in the MDGs: First, reenforcing human capital by bettering substructure, and increasing societal, economic and political rights, specifically concentrating on increasing the basic criterions of life ( United Nations, 2006 ) ; Second, bettering substructure through increasing entree to safe imbibing H2O, energy and modern information communications engineering, magnifying farm end products through sustainable patterns, bettering transit substructure, and continuing the environment ; and eventually the societal, economic and political rights, including authorising adult females, cut downing force, increasing political voice, guaranting equal entree to public services, and increasing security of belongings rights. The ends are intended to increase an person ââ¬Ës human capablenesss and progress the agencies to a productive life ( United Nations, 2006 ) . As persons moving together we have the power to take action and influence the procedure of making the MDGs by 2015 ( End Poverty Millennium Campaign, 2010 ) . Education is of import in accomplishing these ends. A basic instruction of a good quality is necessary for developing an apprehension of the universe and the possibilities it provides, and for being able to work efficaciously within it. Without the cognition and assorted accomplishments developed through schooling and basic instruction plans, the chances for persons and the ability to move independently are greatly reduced ( UNESCO, 2010 ) . Escalating the motion towards instruction MDGs will take straight to an acceleration of many of the other MDGs ( 2010 MDG SUMMIT, 2010 ) . In this essay I will explicate why instruction is of import in order to accomplish each of the eight millenary development ends. The first end of the millenary development ends is to eliminate utmost poorness and hungriness. Poverty forces kids out of school displacing their instruction driving them into the low paid work force because parents can non afford to educate them. Haines & A ; Cassels ( 2004 ) explain that one twelvemonth of schooling can increase a individual ââ¬Ës net incomes by 10 % with each extra twelvemonth of schooling raising the mean one-year GDP by 0.37 % . Accessible instruction can assist feed an faultless rhythm of enhanced growing and an elevated decrease in poorness, helping the hapless and profiting society as a whole. Education provides people with the accomplishments and cognition they require in order to increase income and develop employment chances. By educating the hapless, adult females and vulnerable groups it opens doors to occupations and recognition and has the potency for economic growing. With rigorous Torahs on compulsory instruction the millenary development end to eliminate utmost poorness and hungriness should be accomplishable in the hereafter. The 2nd MDG is to accomplish cosmopolitan primary instruction. Every kid regardless of where they live deserve the right to an instruction. The Development Education online Depository ( 2010 ) province that cosmopolitan primary instruction involves come ining school at an appropriate age, come oning through the system and finishing a full rhythm of primary instruction. By eliminating primary school fees 1000000s of kids worldwide have the opportunity to derive literacy and numeracy accomplishments increasing the per centum of educated people in the universe, increases the chances for employment and a stable hereafter for many kids which in manus will assist in accomplishing the MDG of accomplishing cosmopolitan primary instruction. The 3rd MDG focuses on advancing gender equality and authorising adult females. Attaran ( 2005 ) province that there are 759 million people in the universe that can non read or compose, and of those people two-thirds are female. Females face many barriers to education in several states around the universe, runing from negative attitudes to the load of family work and distance to school. In order to right the balance instruction needs to be made a precedence, particular attempts such as using female instructors, back uping hapless households and doing the instruction system girl-friendly could assist in advancing gender equality and in authorising adult females. Severine & A ; Shahani ( 2009 ) claim that there is a strong correlativity between educating females and an addition in adult females ââ¬Ës net incomes, improved kid and household wellness and nutrition, an addition in school registration, protection against HIV infection, higher maternal and child life anticipation, reduced birthrate rates and delayed matrimony. Equal schooling for both male childs and misss is the foundation for development in accomplishing the MDG of advancing gender equality and authorising adult females. The 4th MDG purposes to cut down child mortality. Supplying instruction to girls provides a great opportunity of endurance to her kids in the hereafter. Severine & A ; Shahani ( 2009 ) claim that a female parent with secondary or higher instruction more than halves the hazard of kid mortality compared to a female parent with small or no instruction. As mentioned above there is a strong connexion between educating females and higher maternal and child life anticipation every bit good as betterments in kid and household wellness and nutrition, they are besides more likely to immunise their kids. Educating adult females, with at least primary instruction, the MDG of cut downing child mortality is more likely to be achieved. The 5th end purposes to better maternal wellness. Maternal instruction is one of the strongest counterpoisons to childbearing-related hazards ( United Nations, 2010 ) . By educating females it enables them to do improved wellness associated determinations, fewer female parents would decease and the MDG of bettering maternal wellness would hold a greater opportunity of being achieved. The 6th MDG intends to battle HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases. Education is the key to battling HIV/AIDS, malaria and many other diseases. Education establishments take a cardinal function in the bar of HIV and other catching diseases as they can make out to a big figure of people, promoting positive attitudes and behaviors supplying them with the cognition and accomplishments to cut down their opportunity of undertaking HIV. School wellness plans are besides ideal in supplying consciousness and hygiene patterns to assist contend malaria and other diseases. Haines & A ; Cassels ( 2004 ) province that adult females with an instruction higher than primary degree are five times more likely than literate adult females to be cognizant of and cognize about HIV/AIDS. Education offers an of import step of protection against HIV and other diseases. The MDG for cosmopolitan primary instruction is estimated to forestall 700, 000 new HIV infections each twelvemonth ( MDG Monitor, 2007 ) . It is claimed that instruction reduces the exposure of misss, and each twelvemonth of schooling offers greater protective benefits. Education is the best vaccinum against HIV and Aids and other diseases it is besides the most cost effectual manner to accomplish the MDG of battling HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases. The 7th MDG is directed at guaranting environmental sustainability. Education for sustainable development ( ESD ) can assist us to populate sustainably. ESD is defined by UNESCO as the purposes to assist people to develop the attitudes, accomplishments and cognition to do informed determinations for the benefit of themselves and others, now and in the hereafter, and to move upon these determinations. By supplying instruction for environmental sustainability it besides educates pupils on cardinal issues including poorness decrease, sustainable supports, planetary heating and clime alteration, gender equality, corporate societal duty and the protection of autochthonal civilizations ( TeachMDGs, 2010 ) ESD will let persons to do determinations that meet the demands of the present without compromising those of future coevalss. Education is indispensable for guaranting environmental sustainability. The 8th and concluding millenary development end is directed at developing planetary partnerships for development. Developing states financially can non supply cosmopolitan primary instruction for free to their people. Therefore a planetary partnership is needed to make full the fiscal spread for instruction so that globally the education-related development ends can be achieved. And if underdeveloped states make instruction a precedence they can so in bend hike their economic system, which can assist to accomplish all of the millenary development ends. Teaching and larning in schools should take to heighten accomplishments, cognition and behavior related to the millenary development ends. Schools should be after their course of study so that content covered increases the impact that instruction has on the MDGs. Such as, in order to battle child mortality and to change female authorization, course of study on cleanliness, sanitation, and steps to minimise contagious diseases. In the instance of environmental sustainability the school should include plans such as the demand to conserve H2O and trees. To better the nutritionary position of the pupils the school can present meal plans to guarantee the pupils have atleast one nutritionary repast each twenty-four hours. Schools can besides advance gender equality by the different functions that school leaders take. Positive behavior aimed at accomplishing the MDGs can be learned and reinforced throughout instruction. By presenting grownup instruction and literacy plans for both work forces and adult females can supply chances for employment, bettering labour productiveness and presenting plans such as H2O and sanitation. The impact of grownup instruction for adult females can ensue in lower kid mortality rates and higher degrees of maternal wellness. With the completion of secondary instruction adult females are more likely to seek out prenatal attention and better medical intervention, are more likely to direct their kids to school, and have greater economic chances that will relieve poorness and hungriness. All in all grownup instruction in occupational and life accomplishments will positively impact the millenary development ends. 2010 should non be the beginning of the ââ¬Ënew and unsure ââ¬Ë journey towards the millenary development ends, instead it should be the ââ¬Ërefueling ââ¬Ë point on this ocean trip that has been traveling on for the past 10 old ages. The following five old ages complete the journey in accomplishing the MDGs by 2015. With the execution of the millenary development ends in school course of studies globally the program to make the finish should be accomplishable.ResourcesAttaran, A. ( 2005 ) . An Immeasurable Crisis? A Criticism of the Millenium Development Goals and Why they can non be Measured. PLoS Medicine 2 ( 10 ) 318. Development Education on-line Depository. ( 2010 ) . Making Global Connections through Education. Retrieved from hypertext transfer protocol: //www.developmenteducation.info// Haines, A. & A ; Cassels, A. ( 2004 ) . Can the Millennium Development Goals Be Attained? British Medical Journal, 329 ( 7462 ) 394-397. MDG Monitor. ( 2007 ) . Quick Facts. Retrieved from hypertext transfer protocol: //www.mdgmonitor.org/country_progress.cfm? c=BEN & A ; cadmium Moon, K. ( 2010 ) . Millennium Goals. Retrieved from hypertext transfer protocol: //www.un.org/millenniumgoals/bkgd.shtml Severine, D. , & A ; Shahani, L. ( 2009 ) . An Introduction to the Human Development and Capability Approach: Freedom and Agency. Sterling, VA: Earthscan. TeachMDGs. ( 2010 ) . The Millennium Development Goals. Retrieved from hypertext transfer protocol: //teachmdgs.net/// United Nations. ( 2006 ) . The Millenium Development Goals Report: United Nations Development Program. Retrieved from www.undp.org/publications/MDGReport2006.pdf United Nations Millennium Development Goals. ( 2010 ) . Acme on the Millenium Development Goals. Retrieved from hypertext transfer protocol: //www.un.org/milleniumgoals/
Tuesday, January 7, 2020
Monday, December 30, 2019
Essay A CASE STUDY - STRATEGY AT HR BLOCK, INC.
A Case Study Running head: A CASE STUDY - STRATEGY AT HR BLOCK, INC. A Case Study - Strategy at HR Block, Inc. Capella University OM 8012 Strategy Dr. Perry Hahn Dec 21, 2005 1 A Case Study 2 Abstract This paper will include an analysis of the company from the four strategy perspectives provided in the project deliverable which are: Strategy as rational thought - strategic planning and decision-making, Strategy as revolution - what is referred to as disruptive innovation, Strategy as resource allocation and accumulation in the firm, and finally Strategy as technology leadership viewed as a unique competitive advantage. This paper provides information about HR Block in the areas identified in the projectâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦14 Competitive Analysis - External ................................................................................................... 16 Industry Analyses....................................................................................................................... 16 Tax Preparation Competition .................................................................................................... 17 Software Comparison: TaxCut versus Turbo Tax ..................................................................... 20 Mortgage Industry ..................................................................................................................... 21 Financial Advice Industry.......................................................................................................... 22 Foreign Markets ........................................................................................................................ 23 Competitive Analysis ââ¬â Internal.................................................................................................... 24 SWOT Analyses.......................................................................................................................... 24 Strengths: ............................................................................................................................... 24 Weaknesses:Show MoreRelatedHR Block Case Study Essay1627 Words à |à 7 PagesHR Block Tax Services Case-Study Frank M. 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Casadesus-Masanell R, Zhu F, 2010, Strategies to fight ad-sponsored rivals, ManagementRead MoreBank Solution Case Study : Bank Solutions1797 Words à |à 8 Pages Bank Solutions Case Study Name: Institutional Affiliation: Course: Date: Ã¢â¬Æ' Data is the most important asset that the Bank Solutions, Inc. has to protect so as to ensure that the information confidentiality, integrity, and availability are guaranteed. Ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability is usually crucial to its operations. To be able to keep the most valuable asset at the moment, they have to make sure that they employ possible security measures that can uphold the highestRead MoreIn Certain Cases Porters Diamond of Competitive Advantage May Not Be an Appropriate Framework for the Analysis of a Nations Sources of Competitive Advantage.1621 Words à |à 7 Pagesonce restrictions were lifted. 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Review of Theories Reasons for the origin and prevalence of the incest taboo in its many forms include the following: (a) It is a mechanism for avoiding inbreedingRead MoreQualitative Research Essay3386 Words à |à 14 Pagesrepresentations, including field notes, interviews, conversations, photographs, recordings, and memos to the self. At this level, qualitative research involves an interpretive, naturalistic approach to the world. This means that qualitative researchers study things in their natural settings, attempting to make sense of, or to interpret, phenomena in terms of the meanings people bring to them. (Denzin amp; Lincoln, 2005, p. 3) From those definitions, it is obvious that a qualitative research has the aimRead MoreQualitative Research Essay3380 Words à |à 14 Pagesrepresentations, including field notes, interviews, conversations, photographs, recordings, and memos to the self. 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(Denzin amp; Lincoln, 2005, p. 3) From those definitions, it is obvious that a qualitative research has the aimRead MoreChallenges of Sustainability Within the Hospitality Industry2152 Words à |à 9 PagesUniversityà Collegeà ofà Northernà Denmarkà CHALLENGESà OFà SUSTAINABILITYà IMPLEMENTATIONà FORà MARRIOTTà HOTELSà à RESORTS Aà managementà caseà assignmentà byà Kellyà Hrupaà 5thà semesterà IHMà Eà 2011à 2013à submittedà toà theà Departmentà ofà Internationalà Hospitalityà Managementà inà accordanceà withà theà requirementsà forà theà PBAà degreeà No.à ofà charactersà (excl.à titleà page,à tableà ofà contentsà andà listà ofà references):à 11883 No.à ofà charactersà (incl.à titleà page,à tableà ofà contentsà andà listà ofà references):à 14472 Signature:à Read More Needs Assessment and Analysis Essay3182 Words à |à 13 Pagesthis paper will discuss the measures that several companies took in these areas to show special examples of these principles in use. Analysis Within the scope of needs assessment and analysis there are many building blocks that complete the full picture. One such block is comprised of the levels of analysis. And within the levels of analysis there are three main points. These points as reported by Goldstien (1993); McGehee and Thayer (1961); Moore and Dutton (1978); and Sleezer (1991) areRead MoreStrategic Change at Chrysler Essay5170 Words à |à 21 PagesStrategic Change: The case study of Daimler Chrysler Introduction Globalization results in rapid and constant business environmental changes. As a result, most organizations tend to be more transformational organization so as to be flexible to respond promptly to those changes. Strategic change is one of the effective solutions to this situation. This paper will discuss the nature of strategic change in the first part. The next section is an analysis of Daimler Chrysler case study; whether the strategic
Sunday, December 22, 2019
How College Student Inventory Turn Out - 870 Words
How did my college student inventory turn out to where I think I am actually at today? This examination turned out pretty well to what I am actually. There is a few I disagree with but, I donââ¬â¢t think it is totally wrong. This examination actually shocked me in a couple areas how exact it was to me from a questionnaire it could tell you all of this. The examination surpassed my thought of taking these multiple questions that had no point, but actually pin pointed me pretty closely. The areas that were the strongest for me on the College Student Inventory was, Math and Science, Attitude Towards Educators, Family Emotional Support, Sense of Financial Security and Academic Assistance. Now the math and science goes along with the attitude toward educators. Both of these were high because my mom was my math teacher and I respected all my teachers. I saw firsthand all the crap they got and stuff students tried on them. I just did what I was told and got along great with my tea chers. If they respected me, I respected them back, I believe respect is just like a two way street. Family Support and Financial Security also go together for me. My parents taught me to be tight and careful with my money. Always plan for if something happens you will be fine and can take it and not affect you to bad. Also the biggest thing is not to stretch myself out with loans and have showed me to save up and pay cash and how much you will pay in interest. Lastly is the Academic assistance,Show MoreRelatedFinancial Report : A Nyc Multinational Textile Corporation Hired A New Manager1150 Words à |à 5 Pagesexperience as a Baseball manager for 12 years in Houston Texas. He could not fix the problem of his company losing sales to competitors and company stocks were trading at a record low of $12.00 per share from 6 months high of $36.00 per share. How will you turn the company around, if you were hired as the new manager? Liquidity of a company is a companyââ¬â¢s ability to measure the extent to which a business can convert assets or has cash availability in order to meet the short-term liabilities and immediateRead MoreThe Relationship Between Peer Victimization And Academic Achievement1354 Words à |à 6 Pagesthird and fourth grade students. The combined results of the study indicated that peer victimization did have a negative impact on the academic functioning of the participants. However, in multiple instances, the authors cautioned that further study is needed. The authors also hypothesized that peer victimization may lead to future academic issues because these unpleasant experiences with peers might disrupt a the childââ¬â¢s learning progress. The disruption, in turn, could result in childrenRead MoreStudent Development And How Theory Has Evolved Over The Years.799 Words à |à 4 Pagesthis book set the background for student development and how theory has evolved over the years. As time passed and college student demographics changed, new ideas and views were developed to understand the ever changing student body. Theorists realized that the college experience was different between demographic groups. Being able to develop student affairs practices and activities that can reach the different student groups is probably the biggest challenge a student affairs professional will tackleRead MoreI Have Always Love Science Since A Young Age1440 Words à |à 6 Pageslove science since a young age. During high school I began experiment ing with all the different science classes that the school had to offer. Out of all of those classes I found the one that brought incredible amount of fascination. That class was Botany where I had studied plants and learned their functions. I learned about how they grow from a seed to how they reproduce. Even with that class I have always found that plants bring a certain amount of curiosity. I had dreamt many ways to the perfectRead MoreI Have Always Loved Science Since A Young Age1444 Words à |à 6 Pagesscience since a young age. During high school, I began experimenting with all the different science classes, that the school had to offer. Out of all of those classes I found the one that brought an incredible amount of fascination. That class was Botany where I had studied plants and learned their functions. I learned about how they grow from a seed to how they reproduce. Even with that class, I have always found that plants bring a certain amount of curiosity. I had dreamt many ways to the perfectRead MoreKmarts Past Struggle1577 Words à |à 7 Pagescompany to its downfall. Kmart is constantly changing CEO s, and thus focuses. Kmart has had four different CEO s since 2000, all with different management objectives. Youdath illustrates some of Kmart s management changes, Charles Conway wanted to turn Kmart into an Everyday low price destination, making Wal-Mart Stores a direct competitor. Conaway cut back on advertising and the results were not profitable. After an unprofitable holiday season in 2001 the company filed bankruptcy. In 2002,Read MoreThe Goal Book Report Essay1185 Words à |à 5 Pagesvery late order. Actually Alexââ¬â¢s plant has not been profitable for some time and because of that Bill gives an ultimatum to Alex to turn the plant around in 3 months or else the plant will be closed unless there are visible improvements. Due to the limited amount of time given, Alex almost gives up on the plant until Alex remembers his conversation with Jonah, his college physics professor. They happened to come across each other in the airport during Alexââ¬â¢s business trip. During that time, Jonah askedRead MoreEssay about Career Development Programs1565 Words à |à 7 Pageson a dail y basis, but for the high school student looking for a college, it is still hard to comprehend. What exactly is the criterion for a college or community college and which direction should the high school senior go? When choosing a college to attend, there are certain factors that the counselor should advise the student on. First, look for a college that has a program compatible to your interest. Second, check out the location of the college you are interested in looking at the communityRead MoreStress Experience By Millennial College Students Essay1505 Words à |à 7 Pages Stress in College Students Helen W. Bland, Bridget F. Melton, Lauren E. Bigham, Paul D. Welle Georgia Southern University, University of Georgia, Carnegie Mellon University Authorââ¬â¢s Note Helen W. Bland, Department of Public Health, Georgia Southern University; Bridget F. Melton, Department of Health and Human Science, Georgia Southern University; Lauren E. Bigham, Department of Counseling Psychology,University of Georgia; Paul D. Welle, Department of Engineering and Public Policy, CarnegieRead More Kmarts Past Struggle Essay1540 Words à |à 7 Pagescompany to its downfall. Kmart is constantly changing CEOââ¬â¢s, and thus focuses. Kmart has had four different CEOââ¬â¢s since 2000, all with different management objectives. Youdath illustrates some of Kmartââ¬â¢s management changes, Charles Conway wanted to turn Kmart into an ââ¬Å"Everyday low price destination,â⬠making Wal-Mart Stores a direct competitor. Conaway cut back on advertising and the results were not profitable. After an unprofitable holiday season in 2001 the company filed bankruptcy. In 2002, James
Friday, December 13, 2019
Succubus Blues CHAPTER 24 Free Essays
string(40) " buying time to warn Jerome and Carter\." ââ¬Å"Well?â⬠Roman asked softly. ââ¬Å"What do you think? Will you go with me?â⬠ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t know,â⬠I replied, looking down. ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢m afraid. We will write a custom essay sample on Succubus Blues CHAPTER 24 or any similar topic only for you Order Now â⬠A tremulous note hung in my voice. He turned my face toward his, obviously concerned. ââ¬Å"Afraid of what?â⬠I looked at him through my lashes. It was a demure action. Vulnerable, even. Hard to resist. I hoped. ââ¬Å"Ofâ⬠¦ of them. I want toâ⬠¦ but I donââ¬â¢t thinkâ⬠¦ I donââ¬â¢t think we could ever be free. You canââ¬â¢t hide from them, Roman. Not forever.â⬠ââ¬Å"We can,â⬠he breathed, putting his arms around me, his heart swelling at my fear. I didnââ¬â¢t resist at all, letting him press his body up against mine. ââ¬Å"I told you. I can protect you. Iââ¬â¢ll find the angel tomorrow, and weââ¬â¢ll leave the next day. Itââ¬â¢s that easy.â⬠ââ¬Å"Romanâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ I stared up at him, my eyes wide, the look of one overcome with some emotion. Hope, maybe. Passion. Wonder. I saw my expression mirrored in his own, and when he leaned down to kiss me, I didnââ¬â¢t stop him this time. I even kissed him back. It had been a long time since Iââ¬â¢d kissed simply for the sake of kissing, for the feel of his tongue gently pushing into my mouth, lips caressing mine as his hands held me tightly to him. I could have kissed like that forever, just enjoying the physical sensation, devoid of any succubus feeding. It was magnificent. Intoxicating, even. There was no fear. Roman wanted more than kissing, however, and when he pulled me down, right onto my living room carpet, I didnââ¬â¢t stop him then either. Obvious heat and yearning filled his body. Yet, he moved carefully and slowly over me, showing a restraint that surprised and impressed me. I slept with so many guys that yielded right away to their own needs that it was downright astonishing to have someone apparently concerned with my fulfillment. No way was I complaining. He kept his body against mine, so there was no space between us as he continued kissing me. Eventually he moved from my mouth to my ear, tracing it with his tongue and lips before shifting to my neck. My neck has always been one of my more erogenous places, and I exhaled a trembling breath as that clever tongue slowly stroked the sensitive skin, making gooseflesh rise. I arched my body into his, letting him know he could have expedited things if he wanted, but he seemed to be in no hurry. Down, down he moved, kissing my breasts through the delicate charmeuse of my shirt until the fabric was wet and clung to my nipples. I sat up so he could pull the shirt off me entirely. While he was at it, he slid off the skirt too, so I was left only in panties. Still focused on my breasts, however, he continued kissing and touching them, varying between soft, feathery kisses and hard, biting ones that threatened to leave flowering purple bruises. At last he slid down, trailing his tongue along the smooth skin of my stomach, pausing when he finally reached my thighs. Meanwhile, I was a wreck, aching and desperate to touch his body in return. But when I reached for him, he gently pushed my wrists to the floor. ââ¬Å"Not yet,â⬠he admonished. I guess that was just as well since I was supposed to be doing something with time here. Buying it, right? Yeah, that was it. I was delaying so I could figure out a plan. A plan that Iââ¬â¢d get toâ⬠¦ later. ââ¬Å"Magenta,â⬠he observed, running his fingers along the panties. They were flimsy, barely a collection of scraps of lace and sheer material. ââ¬Å"Whoââ¬â¢d have guessed?â⬠ââ¬Å"I almost never wear any clothes in the pink and magenta family,â⬠I admitted, ââ¬Å"but for some reason I love lingerie in those colors. And black, of course.â⬠ââ¬Å"It suits you. You can shape-shift these on anytime, right?â⬠ââ¬Å"Yeah, why?â⬠He reached out and, with one deft motion, ripped them off. ââ¬Å"Because theyââ¬â¢re in my way.â⬠Bending down, he pushed my thighs apart and buried his face between them. His tongue moved slowly over the edges of my lips and then darted forward to stroke my burning, swollen clit. Moaning, I lifted and ground my hips into him, trying to get more of my aching need fulfilled. Once again, he pushed me back to the floor, taking his time, letting his tongue circle and tease me, driving me into higher and higher pleasure. Every time I seemed about to peak, he would pull back and move his tongue down, letting it actually probe inside me where I was growing wetter. When he finally let me come, I did so loudly and wildly, my body practically thrashing as he held me down and continued sucking and tasting through my spasms. By then, I was so sensitive and dizzy that his touch was almost too much. I heard myself begging him to stop, even as he made me come again. Easing up, he released me and backed off, watching as the blissful spasms in my body slowed down. Between us, we had his clothes off in about two seconds, and he laid his body over mine, pressing bare skin against bare skin. When my hands slid down, grasping and stroking his erection, he sighed with palpable bliss. ââ¬Å"Oh God, Georgina,â⬠he breathed, eyes on mine. ââ¬Å"Oh God. You have no idea how much I want you.â⬠Didnââ¬â¢t I? I guided him toward me, sliding him inside. My body opened to him, welcoming him like a piece of myself Iââ¬â¢d been missing, and he moved in and out of me with long, controlled strokes, watching my face and gauging how each angle and motion affected me. Iââ¬â¢m buying time,I thought sagely, but as he pinned my wrists to the floor, claiming ownership of my body with each thrust, I knew I lied to myself. This was about more than just buying time to warn Jerome and Carter. You read "Succubus Blues CHAPTER 24" in category "Essay examples" This was about me. It was selfish. I had continuously craved Roman over the last few weeks, and now I had him. Not only that, but it was exactly as he had said: there was no survival here, only pleasure. I had had sex with other immortals before but not in some time. I had forgotten what it was like to not have someone elseââ¬â¢s thoughts in my head, to simply luxuriate in my own sensations. We moved with a practiced rhythm, like our bodies did this together all the time. Those controlled strokes grew more savage, less precise. Harder and fiercer he brought himself into me, like he was going to go through the floor. Someone was making a lot of noise, and I realized distantly that it was me. I was sort of losing track of what was around me, of coherent thought. There was only my bodyââ¬â¢s response, the building force that consumed me and set me on fire and still made me demand more. I longed for completion and urged him on, bringing my body up to meet his and clenching the muscles around him. He gasped as he felt me grow tighter. His eyes burned with a near-primitive passion. ââ¬Å"I want to see you come again,â⬠he gasped out. ââ¬Å"Come for me.â⬠For whatever reason, it only took that command to finish me off, to plunge me over the edge of that dizzying ecstasy. I cried out more loudly, my throat long since gone hoarse. Whatever expression I wore, it was enough to drive him into his own finish. No sound came out as his lips parted, but he closed his eyes and held himself inside me after a final hard thrust, shaking with pleasure. When he had finished, his body still trembling with the force of his orgasm, he rolled off me onto his back, sweaty and satisfied. I turned toward him, splaying my fingers on his chest, admiring the lean muscles and tanned flesh of his body. ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re beautiful,â⬠I told him, taking a nipple into my mouth. ââ¬Å"You arenââ¬â¢t so bad yourself,â⬠he murmured, stroking my hair. Perspiration rolled off my body too, making some of the strands damp and curl up more than usual. ââ¬Å"Is this you? Your real shape?â⬠I shook my head, surprised by the question. I trailed my lips up to his neck. ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢ve only worn that body once since becoming a succubus. A long time ago.â⬠Pausing mid-kiss, I asked, ââ¬Å"You want something different? I can be anything you want me to be, you know.â⬠He grinned, flashing those white teeth. ââ¬Å"One of the perks of loving a succubus, no doubt.â⬠Sitting up, he scooped me into his arms and then rose, slightly wobbly with the added weight. ââ¬Å"But no. Ask me in another century, maybe, and I might have a different answer. For now, Iââ¬â¢ve got a lot more to learn about this body.â⬠He carried me off to my bedroom, where we made love in a slower, slightly more civilized manner, our bodies twining together like ribbons of liquid fire. With that initial animalism somewhat satisfied, we lingered longer now, exploring the different ways each personââ¬â¢s body responded. We spent most of the night cycling through a pattern: slow and loving, fast and furious, rest, repeat. I grew exhausted somewhere around three and finally gave in to sleep, resting my head against his chest, ignoring the nagging worries in the back of my mind. I woke up a few hours later, sitting bolt upright as the previous nightââ¬â¢s events came slamming back into me with sharper clarity. Iââ¬â¢d gone to sleep in a nephilimââ¬â¢s arms. Talk about vulnerability. Yetâ⬠¦ here I was, still alive. Roman lay beside me, snug and warm, Aubrey at his feet. Both of them regarded me with tired, squinty eyes, wondering at my sudden motion. ââ¬Å"Whatââ¬â¢s the matter?â⬠he asked, stifling a yawn. ââ¬Å"N-nothing,â⬠I assured him. Removed from passion, I found myself able to think a bit more clearly. What had I done ? Sleeping with Roman might have bought me time, but I was no closer to finding some way out of this crazy situation. Lying there, I caught sight of Carterââ¬â¢s daffodils, and they jolted me into a decision. The flowers themselves had only been part of a small act, but something about them made me realize I could not sit passively by and let Roman kill Carter. I had to act, no matter the risk, no matter the likelihood of failure. We all have moments of weakness. Itââ¬â¢s how we recover from them that really counts. It didnââ¬â¢t matter if I loved the nephilim and hated the angel, neither of which was entirely true. This was more about me, about the kind of person I was. I had spent centuries hurting men for my own survival, often devastatingly so, but I could not be a part of premeditated murder, no matter how noble the cause. I hadnââ¬â¢t reached that stage of life. Not yet. I blinked back sudden tears, overwhelmed by what I had to do. What I had to do to Roman. ââ¬Å"Then go back to sleep,â⬠he murmured, running a hand along my body, from waist to thigh. Yes, I knew what I had to do. It was a long shot, hardly a solid plan, but I couldnââ¬â¢t think of anything else to take advantage of Romanââ¬â¢s current, off-guard mood. ââ¬Å"I canââ¬â¢t,â⬠I explained, starting to get out of bed. ââ¬Å"I have to work.â⬠His eyes opened wider. ââ¬Å"What? When?â⬠ââ¬Å"I open. I need to be there in a half hour.â⬠He sat up, dismayed. ââ¬Å"You work all day?â⬠ââ¬Å"Yup.â⬠ââ¬Å"I still had a few more things I wanted to do to you,â⬠he mumbled, sliding an arm around my waist to pull me back, cupping a breast in his hand. I leaned back into him, feigning being caught up in passion. All right, I wasnââ¬â¢t exactly feigning. â⬠Mmmâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ I turned my face toward his, brushing our lips together. ââ¬Å"I could call in sick maybeâ⬠¦ not that theyââ¬â¢d believe it. Iââ¬â¢m never sick, and they know it.â⬠ââ¬Å"Fuck them,â⬠he mumbled, pushing me back down into the bed, his hands growing bolder. ââ¬Å"Fuck them so I can fuck you again.â⬠ââ¬Å"Then let me up,â⬠I laughed. ââ¬Å"I canââ¬â¢t call in like this.â⬠Reluctantly he released me, and I slid out of the bed, grinning back at him as I went. He watched me hungrily, like a cat sizing up prey. Honestly, I liked it. That desire quickly melted into apprehension as I walked into the living room and picked up my portable phone. I had left all the room doors open, acting as casual and relaxed as possible, giving Roman no cause for alarm. Knowing he could probably hear me in the living room, I mentally rehearsed my words as I dialed Jeromeââ¬â¢s cell phone number. Not surprisingly, however, the demon did not answer. Damn him. What good was our bond if I couldnââ¬â¢t use it at will? Having anticipated this, I tried my next option: Hugh. If I got his cellââ¬â¢s voice mail, I would be out of luck. I could not pull off my plan if I had to call his office number and wade through his arsenal of secretaries. ââ¬Å"Hugh Mitchell speaking.â⬠ââ¬Å"Hey, Doug, itââ¬â¢s Georgina.â⬠A pause. ââ¬Å"Did you just call me Doug?â⬠ââ¬Å"Look, I canââ¬â¢t come in today. I think Iââ¬â¢ve caught that bug thatââ¬â¢s been going around.â⬠Roman wandered out of my bedroom, and I smiled at him as he made his way to my refrigerator. Meanwhile, Hugh tried to make sense of my nonsense. ââ¬Å"Uh, Georginaâ⬠¦ I think you dialed the wrong number.â⬠ââ¬Å"No, Iââ¬â¢m serious, Doug, so donââ¬â¢t get smart with me. I canââ¬â¢t come in, okay?â⬠Dead silence. Finally Hugh asked, ââ¬Å"Georgina, are you all right?â⬠ââ¬Å"No. I already told you that. Look, will you just pass it on?â⬠ââ¬Å"Georgina, whatââ¬â¢s going on ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Well, Iââ¬â¢m sure youââ¬â¢ll figure out something,â⬠I continued, ââ¬Å"but itââ¬â¢ll have to be without me. Iââ¬â¢ll try to be in tomorrow.â⬠I disconnected and looked up at Roman, shaking my head. ââ¬Å"It would figure Doug was there. He definitely didnââ¬â¢t believe me.â⬠ââ¬Å"Knows you too well, huh?â⬠he asked, drinking a glass of orange juice. ââ¬Å"Yeah, but heââ¬â¢ll cover for me, despite his complaining. Heââ¬â¢s good like that.â⬠I tossed the phone onto the couch and approached Roman. Time for more distraction. I doubted Hugh would fully grasp the situation, but he would at least assume something wasnââ¬â¢t right. As I had noted in the past, one couldnââ¬â¢t live as long as an immortal did and be stupid. He would suspect something and hopefully hunt down Jerome. My job now was to keep the nephilim busy until the cavalry came. ââ¬Å"So what exactly was it you wanted to do to me?â⬠I purred. A number of things, as it turned out. We wound up back in my bedroom, and I discovered waiting out the time until Hugh could take action wasnââ¬â¢t nearly as difficult as I had feared. Slight twinges of guilt tugged at me over enjoying Roman so much, especially now that Iââ¬â¢d made my decision and called for help. He had murdered untold numbers of immortals and had designs on a near-friend. Still, I couldnââ¬â¢t help my feelings. I was attracted to him ââ¬â had been for a long time, even ââ¬â and he was really, really good in bed. ââ¬Å"Eternity doesnââ¬â¢t seem so bad with you in my arms,â⬠he murmured later, stroking my hair as I curled up against him. Turning my face toward his, I saw a somber expression in his eyes. ââ¬Å"Whatââ¬â¢s wrong?â⬠ââ¬Å"Georginaâ⬠¦ do youâ⬠¦ do you really want me to leave this angel alone?â⬠ââ¬Å"Yes,â⬠I blurted out after a moment of surprise. ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t want you to hurt anyone else.â⬠He studied me for a long time before speaking. ââ¬Å"Last night, when you asked me, I didnââ¬â¢t think I could. I didnââ¬â¢t think I could let it go. Nowâ⬠¦ after being with youâ⬠¦ being like this. It just seems petty. Well, maybe petty isnââ¬â¢t the right word. I mean, what they did to us was terribleâ⬠¦ but maybe if I keep going after them, I let them win. I become what they say I am. I let them keep dictating the parameters of my life. Iââ¬â¢d be conforming to nonconformity, I guess, and missing whatââ¬â¢s really important. Like loving and being in love.â⬠ââ¬Å"Wh-what are you saying?â⬠He cupped my cheek. ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢m saying, Iââ¬â¢ll do it, love. The past will not rule my present. For you, Iââ¬â¢ll walk away. You and me. Weââ¬â¢ll go today and leave all this behind. Get a home somewhere and start a life together. We can go to Vegas.â⬠I turned rigid in his arms, my eyes widening. Oh God. A knock sounded at my door, and I nearly jumped ten feet. Only about forty minutes had passed. No, no, I thought. It was too soon. Especially in light of this sudden turnabout. Hugh couldnââ¬â¢t have acted so fast. I didnââ¬â¢t know what to do. Roman raised an eyebrow, curious more than anything else. ââ¬Å"Expecting anyone?â⬠I shook my head, trying to hide the racing of my heart. ââ¬Å"Dougââ¬â¢s always threatened to come get me,â⬠I joked. ââ¬Å"I hope he didnââ¬â¢t finally decide to act on it.â⬠Getting out of bed, I went to my closet, urging every nerve in my body to look nonchalant. I put on a deep red kimono, ran a hand self-consciously through my messy hair, and walked out to the living room, trying not to hyperventilate once out of Romanââ¬â¢s sight. Oh Lord, I thought, approaching the door. What am I going to do? What am I going to ââ¬â ââ¬Å"Seth?â⬠The writer stood outside, a bakery box in hand, his own face registering as much shock as mine undoubtedly did. I watched his eyes quickly slip up the length of me, and I suddenly became aware of how short my robe was and just how much the clinging silk revealed. His eyes snapped up to my face, and he swallowed. ââ¬Å"Hi. I.,.that isâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ One of my neighbors walked by, stopping and staring when he saw me in the robe. ââ¬Å"Come in,â⬠I urged Seth with a grimace, closing the door behind him. Having expected a cavalcade of immortals, I felt more confused than ever now. ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢m sorry,â⬠he managed at last, trying to keep his eyes from drifting to my body. ââ¬Å"I hope I didnââ¬â¢t wake youâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ ââ¬Å"Noâ⬠¦ noâ⬠¦ itââ¬â¢s not a problemâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ Naturally Roman chose that moment to make an appearance, coming down the hall from my bedroom in only boxers. ââ¬Å"So whatââ¬â¢s ââ¬â oh hey, howââ¬â¢s it going? Seth, right?â⬠ââ¬Å"Right,â⬠said Seth flatly, looking from me to Roman and then back to me. In the wake of that gaze, I didnââ¬â¢t care about nephilim, immortals, or saving Carter. All I could think of was how this must look to Seth. Poor Seth, who had done nothing but be nice to me since Iââ¬â¢d met him, yet who nonetheless managed to get hurt over and over by my insensitivity ââ¬â not to mention an unfortunate set of circumstances. I didnââ¬â¢t know what to say; I felt as mortified as he apparently did. I did not want him to see me like this, all of my lies and inconsistent signals coming to light. ââ¬Å"Is that breakfast?â⬠the nephilim asked cheerfully. He was the only one of us at ease. ââ¬Å"Huh?â⬠Seth still looked stunned beyond words. ââ¬Å"Oh yeah.â⬠He set the box down on my coffee table. ââ¬Å"Keep it. Itââ¬â¢s a coffee cake. Maple pecan. As for meâ⬠¦ Iââ¬â¢m going toâ⬠¦ Iââ¬â¢m just going to leave now. Iââ¬â¢m sorry to bother you. Really sorry. I knew it was your day off and just thought we couldâ⬠¦ I donââ¬â¢t know. Youââ¬â¢d said yesterdayâ⬠¦ well. It was stupid. I should have called. It was stupid. Iââ¬â¢m sorry.â⬠He started to turn, but the damage was done. Of all the possible scenarios, this would be the one in which short-spoken Seth chose to ramble. I knew it was your day off. Shit. Roman turned on me, the incredulity on his face transforming to fury before my eyes. ââ¬Å"Who,â⬠he gasped, voice barely coming out in his anger, ââ¬Å"who did you call? Who the fuck did you call?â⬠I stepped backward. ââ¬Å"Seth, get out of ââ¬â ââ¬Å" Too late. A wave of power, not unlike the one Jerome had used on me, slammed against both Seth and me, thrusting us against my living room wall. Roman strode up to us, glaring at me, his eyes like blue flame. ââ¬Å"Who did you call?â⬠he roared. I didnââ¬â¢t answer. ââ¬Å"Do you have any idea what youââ¬â¢ve done?â⬠Turning from us, he grabbed my phone and dialed. ââ¬Å"I need you to get over here right nowâ⬠¦.yes, yes, I donââ¬â¢t fucking care. Leave it.â⬠He recited my address and disconnected. I didnââ¬â¢t need to ask who he had called. I knew. The other nephilim. His sister. Running a hand through his hair, Roman paced frantically around my living room. ââ¬Å"Shit. Shit. You may have ruined everything!â⬠he yelled at me. ââ¬Å"Do you realize that? Do you realize that, you lying bitch? How could you do this to me?â⬠I didnââ¬â¢t respond. I couldnââ¬â¢t. Movement, even talking, was too hard in that psychic net. I couldnââ¬â¢t even look at Seth. God only knew what he must think of all of this. Ten minutes later, I heard another knock. If I had any sort of divine favor left, it would be Jerome and Carter, ready to come to my rescue. Surely even a succubus deserved a break now and then, I thought as I watched Roman open the door. Helena walked in. Oh, man. ââ¬Å"About time,â⬠Roman snapped, slamming the door behind her. ââ¬Å"Whatââ¬â¢s going ââ¬â â⬠She cut her words off, eyes widening at the sight of Seth and me. Turning back to Roman, she gave him and his boxers a once-over. ââ¬Å"For crying out loud, what have you done now?â⬠ââ¬Å"Someoneââ¬â¢s coming,â⬠he hissed, ignoring her question. ââ¬Å"Right now.â⬠ââ¬Å"Who?â⬠she demanded, hands on hips. There was no rasp in her voice now, and she looked amazingly competent. If I hadnââ¬â¢t already been rendered speechless, the sight of her would have done it. ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t know,â⬠he admitted. ââ¬Å"Probably our exalted sire. She called someone.â⬠Helena turned and approached me, making terror sink into my bones as I realized my danger. Helena was the other nephilim. Crazy, swindling Helena. Helena, whom I had insulted on a number of occasions, mocked behind her back, and stolen employees from. The look on her face informed me she was considering all of those things as she stared me down. ââ¬Å"Drop the field,â⬠she snapped to Roman, and a moment later, Seth and I slumped forward, gasping, as the power released us. ââ¬Å"Is he right? Did you call our father?â⬠ââ¬Å"Iâ⬠¦ didnââ¬â¢t callâ⬠¦ anyoneâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ ââ¬Å"Sheââ¬â¢s lying,â⬠Roman observed mildly. ââ¬Å"Who did you call, Georgina?â⬠When I didnââ¬â¢t answer, she walked over and slapped me hard, the impact making a loud crack. There was something oddly familiar about it, but then, there would be. Helena was the one who had beat me up that night on the street. I realized then she must have known it was me when I went to Krystal Starz, in spite of my disguise. Recognizing my signature, she had chosen to play with me, feeding me the lines about having a great future as she pushed titles and workshops on me. ââ¬Å"Always difficult, arenââ¬â¢t you?â⬠she scoffed. ââ¬Å"For years, Iââ¬â¢ve put up with you and others like you, those who mock my lifestyle and teachings. I should have done something about you a long time ago.â⬠ââ¬Å"Why?â⬠I wondered aloud, gaining control of my voice again. ââ¬Å"Why do you do it? You, of all people, who know about angels and demonsâ⬠¦ why do you tout the New Age bullshit?â⬠She eyed me scathingly. ââ¬Å"Is it really? Is it bullshit to encourage people to seize control of their own lives, to view themselves as sources of power instead of getting caught up in all the guilt of whatââ¬â¢s right and whatââ¬â¢s wrong?â⬠When I didnââ¬â¢t answer, she continued, ââ¬Å"I teach people to empower themselves. I teach them to let go of sin and salvation, to learn how to find happiness now ââ¬â in this world. True, some of it isâ⬠¦ embellished for the sake of creating wonder and awe, but what does that matter, if the ends are achieved? People walk away from my classes feeling like gods and goddesses. They find that within themselves, rather than selling out to some cold, hypocritical institution.â⬠I couldnââ¬â¢t even begin to formulate a response, and it occurred to me that Helena and Roman thought exactly alike, both of them dissatisfied with the system that had spawned them, each of them rebelling against it in different ways. ââ¬Å"I know what you think of me. Iââ¬â¢ve heard what you say about me. I saw you throw away the materials I gave you that night, no doubt thinking I was just some crazy, babbling New Age crackpot. And yetâ⬠¦ for someone so smugly confident, so critically self-righteous, you are one of the most unhappy people Iââ¬â¢ve ever met. You hate the game, and yet you play it. You play it, and you defend it because you donââ¬â¢t have the courage to do anything else.â⬠She shook her head, chuckling dryly. ââ¬Å"I didnââ¬â¢t have to be psychic to give you any of those predictions. You are gifted, but you waste it. You are wasting your life, and you will spend it miserable and alone.â⬠ââ¬Å"I canââ¬â¢t change what I am,â⬠I told her hotly, stung by her words. ââ¬Å"Spoken like a slave to the system.â⬠ââ¬Å"Fuck you,â⬠I shot back. Having oneââ¬â¢s pride and self-identity shattered will often make a person irrationally angry, regardless if the point was well made. ââ¬Å"Better a comfortable slave than some freakish divine bastard. Itââ¬â¢s no wonder your kind is being hunted to extinction.â⬠She hit me again, this time packing nephilim power with the punch, not unlike that night in the alley. It hurt ââ¬â a lot. ââ¬Å"You little whore. You have no idea what youââ¬â¢re talking about.â⬠She moved to hit me again but was stopped as Seth suddenly pushed himself in front of me. ââ¬Å"Stop it,â⬠he exclaimed. ââ¬Å"Stop it, all of ââ¬â ââ¬Å" A blast of power ââ¬â from Roman or Helena, I didnââ¬â¢t know ââ¬â pushed Seth across the room, to the other wall. I flinched. ââ¬Å"How dare you ââ¬â â⬠began Helena, her blue eyes flashing angrily. ââ¬Å"You, a mortal, who have no idea what youââ¬â¢re ââ¬â ââ¬Å" I was already moving before the words could even come out of her mouth. Seeing Seth abused sparked something in me, an angry response I knew to be hopeless but which I couldnââ¬â¢t really prevent. I sprang at Helena, taking on the first shape that came to mind, no doubt thanks to seeing Aubrey earlier: a tiger. The transformation only took a second but hurt like hell, as my human body expanded, feet and hands turning to heavy, clawed paws. I had the element of surprise, but only for a moment, as I slammed into her, knocking her slight body to the floor. My victory was short lived. Before I could sink teeth into her neck, a hurricane-worthy force blew me from her into my china cabinet. The impact was ten times harder than the one that had pinned Seth and me earlier, and the pain jolted me back into my normal shape as glass and crystal broke behind me, pieces falling around me, cutting my skin. I moved again, frantic, knowing the futility but needing to do something, too caught up in battle lust. I lunged at Roman this time, urging my body to take on the shape ofâ⬠¦ well, I didnââ¬â¢t even know what. I had no specific form in mind, only features: claws, teeth, scales, muscles. Sharp. Large. Dangerous. A creature of nightmares, a true demon of hell. I never even came close to touching the nephilim, however. One or both of them anticipated me, mid-leap, throwing me back to land near Seth this time, his wide eyes watching me with terror and wonder. Bolts of power struck me, making me cry out in pain, shattering every nerve within me. My new shapeââ¬â¢s hide protected me only briefly, and then hurt and exhaustion made me lose control of the transformation. I slipped back into the slim, human body just as another net of power pinned me into place, ensuring I couldnââ¬â¢t move anymore. My entire shape-shifting attack had lasted all of a minute, and I now felt completely drained and worn, my reserve of Martin Miller power finally dried up. So much for bravery. A nephilimcould easily blow one of you out of the water. ââ¬Å"Valiantly done, Georgina,â⬠chuckled Roman, wiping sweat off his brow. He had expended a great deal of power too, but he had a lot more of it to spend than I did. ââ¬Å"Valiant, but foolish.â⬠Walking over, he looked me up and down and shook his head with bitter amusement. ââ¬Å"You donââ¬â¢t know how to ration your energy. Youââ¬â¢ve burned yourself out.â⬠ââ¬Å"Romanâ⬠¦ Iââ¬â¢m so sorryâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ I didnââ¬â¢t need him to tell me how low on energy I was. I could feel it. I wasnââ¬â¢t just low, I was empty. Running on fumes, so to speak. Looking at my hands, I saw my appearance flicker slightly, shimmering almost like a heat mirage. That was bad. Wearing a body for long enough, even if it isnââ¬â¢t your original, becomes ingrained after a few years, and I had had this one for fifteen. It was second nature to me. I thought of it as my own; it was what I always unconsciously returned to. Yet, I was fighting to hold on to it right now, to not slip back to the body of my birth. This was bad ââ¬â very bad. ââ¬Å"Sorry?â⬠Roman asked, and I saw on his face just how terribly Iââ¬â¢d hurt him. ââ¬Å"You canââ¬â¢t even begin to imagine ââ¬â ââ¬Å" We all felt it at the same time. Roman and Helena spun around to shoot each other alarmed looks, and then my front door blew open. The bonds holding me dropped as the nephilim redirected their power at the apocalypse coming through. Brilliant light spilled inside, light so brilliant it hurt. Familiar light. The same terrible shape Iââ¬â¢d seen in the alley appeared once more, only there were two of them this time. Mirror images. Indistinguishable. I didnââ¬â¢t know who was who, but I remembered Carterââ¬â¢s offhand observation from a week ago: an angel in full form will freak most beings out ââ¬â itââ¬â¢ll kill a mortalâ⬠¦ ââ¬Å"Seth,â⬠I whispered, turning from that glorious spectacle to look at the writer. He was staring at it, brown eyes wide with awe and fear as the glory of it drew him in. ââ¬Å"Seth, donââ¬â¢t look at them.â⬠With my fleeting strength, I lifted a shimmering hand and turned his face toward mine. ââ¬Å"Seth, donââ¬â¢t look at them. Look at me. Only at me.â⬠Somewhere beyond us, someone screamed. The world was blowing apart. ââ¬Å"Georginaâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ breathed Seth, gingerly touching my face. ââ¬Å"Whatââ¬â¢s wrong with you?â⬠Focusing all of my will, I urged my body to fight and hold on to the shape he had first come to know me in. It was a losing battle. A dying one even. I could not survive much longer like this. Seth leaned closer to me, and I tuned out the sounds of chaos and destruction raging around us, instead focusing all the world, all of my perception, toward his face. I had said Roman was beautiful, but he was nothing ââ¬â nothing at all ââ¬â compared to Seth in that moment. Seth, with those long-lashed, quizzical brown eyes, kindness made manifest in all of his actions. Seth, his messy hair and slightly unkempt facial hair, framing a face which could not hide his nature, the strength of his character shining out at me, his soul like a beacon on a foggy night. ââ¬Å"Seth,â⬠I whispered. ââ¬Å"Seth.â⬠He leaned toward me, letting me draw him closer and closer, and then, as heaven and hell raged beyond, I kissed him. How to cite Succubus Blues CHAPTER 24, Essay examples
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