How successful was Philip II’s foreign policy? Essay

Throughout Philip II’s reign there were regular substantial occurrences outside he monarchia which forced him to implement some kind of foreign policy. When assessing how successful Philip’s foreign policy was it is important to acknowledge the aim of foreign policy seem to be in line with the traditional Hapsburg aims of keeping his land and passing them on intact, whilst adding to them if possible. In line with these aims Philip seems to have achieved a moderate amount of success in the first half of his reign adding Portugal to his lands and eliminating the Turks as a threat, however these successes are seriously undermined by his later failures in England and France The area of foreign policy where Philip seemed to achieve the most success was in his exploitation of the political situation in Portugal which led to Portugal being added to Philip’s monarchia. Portugal was already in a fragile state after the death of King Sebastian in 1578 the throne of Portugal had been given to his sick and aged Uncle Henry due to Sebastian having no children. This left many worries over who would be Henry’s successor and eventually by 1580 Philip was King of Portugal. Philip’s was successful in Portugal due to his two pronged policy of diplomacy and bribery along with the dispatching of Granville, one of his closest advisors to cultivate merchants of Lisbon who already were closely identified with Philip due to loans from the crown. This detailed and precise approach successfully ensured the withdrawal of Catrina – Philip’s main rival in Portugal. Furthermore despite the crowning of Don Antonio as King of Lisbon, Philip was very successful in invading due to his awareness of Portugal’s army being depleted from expeditions to Morocco. Another area of Philip’s foreign policy where he achieved a high amount of success is his neutralisation of the Turks as a threat in the Mediterranean. Since the early 16th century the Turks had been attempting to expand their empire into Europe, forcing Philip to react. However despite later success, at first Philip was very unsuccessful against the Turks due to surprise assaults from the Turkish fleet along with blockades and poor weather. On the other hand, Philip made these early setbacks irrelevant in 1571 when alongside the Holy League he successfully defeated the Turks in Lepanto. This was seen as making Philip’s foreign policy particularly successful due it being seen as the greatest victory for the Christian empire, and thus had a huge religious impact. However, Philip’s greatest success when dealing with the Turks seems to be the negotiating of a truce in 1578. Despite the negative repercussions at the time involved with Philip putting his own problems before religion, the truce was highly successful as it allowed Philip to have little need for substantial military involvement in the Mediterranean, allowing him to move his armies further north in order to deal with the Netherlands and also his aspirations in France and England. This truce can be seen as having a negative impact on Philip’s prestige due to the agreement being a sign that he had backed down and was inspired for fighting for Catholicism as his title ‘champion of Catholicism’ would suggest. However, its political benefits easily outweigh the impact it has on Philip’s prestige and overall was one of Philip’s most successful decisions in his foreign policy. One area where Philip achieved little success was in the last 15 years of his reign where he seemed to change his foreign policy to being that of an aggressive imperialist, this appeared to be due to the fact that he spread his armies to thinly, fighting on three fronts at once in the 1590’s. Problems with England began through Elizabeth’s fears of England being turned Catholic as she could see what was happening in the Netherlands. These fears led to Elizabeth signing the treat of Nonesuch with rebels in the Netherlands, providing them with money and soldiers. In response Philip ordered the Armada to invade England in 1588 and despite this limiting English interference in Netherlands it was fairly unsuccessful due to Philip’s plan being highly complicated, furthermore the two fleets he sent had no co-ordination between them, and the as the Spanish fleet did not possess heavy artillery it was outgunned by the English. Philip did launch two more Armada’s in 1596 and 1597, however these achieved even less success due to weather and didn’t even reach England, furthermore these crippled Spain financially due to the sheer amount of money each Armada cost to construct. Similarly in France Philip achieved little success and moreover due to his actions in France he actually contributed to the success of the Netherlands revolt. After many years of civil war and attempted interventions by Philip to turn France Catholic, Henry of Navarre, an anti Spanish protestant was crowned King of France. In response Philip ordered the transferral of troops from the Netherlands to attack France in a bid to claim the thrown for his daughter Elizabeth of Valois. Despite Henry becoming a Catholic, Philip’s attack on France was highly unsuccessful and led to his third bankruptcy in 1596 and the removal of troops from the Netherlands during vital points of the revolt stopped victory against the rebels. Overall Philips foreign policy seemed to be successful early on in his reign due to him being defensive and reactive up to 1584 as it gained him Portugal and eliminated the threat of the Turks. However after 1584 Philip seemed to change to being an aggressive imperialist possibly due to the fact he wanted to leave behind some kind of impact as he realised he would not have long left as King, however this was unsuccessful as he tried to do to much in a short period of time, leaving his armies spread too thinly without enough equipment due to his mounting financial problems.

A Study on How Informatics Affect the Clinical Nursing Practice

Computers have played an important role in every profession including nursing. Information technology is widely used by different hospitals worldwide to strengthen the quality that was given to the patients. Hence, nursing informatics has emerged in the past and continues to boom and being used by the medical practitioners nowadays.Nursing Informatics is a specialty that integrates nursing science, computer science and information science to manage and communicate data, information and knowledge in nursing practice.It facilitates the integration of data, information and knowledge to support patients, nurses and other providers in their decision making in all roles and settings. This support is accomplished through the use of information structures, information processes and information technology. (ANA, 2001, p. 17)It is anticipated that majority of nurses who will enter the profession will be computer literate by the year 2010. In addition, it is also anticipated that every health c are setting will employ at least one Nurse Informatics specialist and will implement some type of a Clinical Information System.It is designed to support clinical nursing practice. It requires not only an understanding of professional nursing but also technology that is the application of science to function electronically.[1] Nursing practice has evolved and changed radically. It has become an integral part of the Electronic Health Record. Computer systems with nursing and patient care data, nursing care plans were integrated into one interdisciplinary patient health record in the Electronic Health Record.Continued advancement of information and technology and its application to the nursing practice plays an important role and greatly affect each nurse especially those registered nurses who are more experienced, that is why this term paper seeks to present and discuss the role of informatics in clinical nursing practice. More specifically, it answers the following:1.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What are the nursing tasks and responsibilities that will apply to the use of computer technology that will contribute to good clinical governance?2.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   How can the nurses further involve themselves both in the use of technology and decision making process in regards to the evaluation and selection of applications in the computer software and hardware?3.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What are the strategies that can be used to bridge the age and digital experience gap between participating nurses and the influx of the next generation new graduates that apply to informatics application?This particular topic needs a great deal of general description method. In the process, it can also be helped with the use of review of some studies that is related to the impact of nursing informatics to clinical nursing.I. BodyThe application of Nursing Informatics provides great benefits not only to the patients but to the nurses themselves as well. The health care team especially nurse s makes use of Electronic Health Record (HER) in documenting the case of the patient. It is a secure, real time point of care, patient-centric information resource for clinicians.The EHR can include dental and other records concerning a patient. It represents the portions of a patient’s medical record that are stored in a computer system as well the functional benefits derived from having an electronic health record. (HIMSS Analytics, INC, 2007) (Gartee, 2007)One advantage of an electronic health record is that it can be simultaneously available to everyone who needs to use it. Secondly is that, electronic records necessitate the collection of structured data. The nurse can systematically collect data that can be transformed into information for decision making and can also be used to examine what practices, treatments, and procedures are associated with the best outcomes.The nursing responsibility that will apply to the use of informatics is mainly the nursing documentation. Because it encompasses most of the nursing tasks which includes observation, plan of care which is also known as nursing care plan that has to be documented. Each and every procedure and intervention may it be dependent or independent nursing intervention has to be documented in a proper way.The strategies that can be used by nurses to involve themselves in informatics is based in the result of the study which was published in 2005 that examined the readiness of nurses in the United States for a shift to evidence based practice.There are several issues that has to be addressed to involve nurses to participate in the use of technology in delivering quality health care to their patients. These issues are the following: (1) lack of access to research findings; (2) lack of ability to mine the information from the bibliographic databases; (3) lack of time; and (4) lack of the value in research.The first issue according to Diane Pravikoff, the presence of rich and appropriate resources f or use in gathering the evidence is one of the most important factors in incorporating EBP into practice.Based on the issues that was given, the strategies that can be used to involve nurses in informatics is mainly participation to researches and breakthroughs that is given by accredited organization to foster the scarcity of nurses who are not aware to the rapidly increasing discoveries and breakthroughs in the field of nursing.Secondly is in the participation of nurses to seminars. In addition, it will also be a great help if the nursing professionals will involve themselves in the continuing education to further enhance their knowledge in improving the quality of care of the patients.Moreover, it will have a great outcome if all nurses will be trained on how to use the information technology and study the applications that are needed in using and accessing the electronic health record of the patient. Lastly, it is more important that this knowledge gained from experiences, resea rches and seminars and education must be put into practice and be mastered to provide the optimum health of the patients.As previously discussed, to bridge the age and digital experience gap between participating nurses and the influx of the next generation new graduates that apply to informatics application, all nurses should participate in a training in information and technology and involve themselves in continuing education especially in the field of nursing informatics to address the anticipated outcome of the American Nurses Association which is by year 2010, majority of nurses should be computer literate.Nurses should participate to formal trainings and pursue the course either through a traditional type of degree such as a Masters or via a Certificate program.[1] Kathleen A. McCormick, Essentials of Nursing Informatics (International edition 2006), 4 A Study on How Informatics Affect the Clinical Nursing Practice Computers have played an important role in every profession including nursing. Information technology is widely used by different hospitals worldwide to strengthen the quality that was given to the patients. Hence, nursing informatics has emerged in the past and continues to boom and being used by the medical practitioners nowadays.Nursing Informatics is a specialty that integrates nursing science, computer science and information science to manage and communicate data, information and knowledge in nursing practice. It facilitates the integration of data, information and knowledge to support patients, nurses and other providers in their decision making in all roles and settings.This support is accomplished through the use of information structures, information processes and information technology. (ANA, 2001, p. 17)It is anticipated that majority of nurses who will enter the profession will be computer literate by the year 2010. In addition, it is also anticipated that every health c are setting will employ at least one Nurse Informatics specialist and will implement some type of a Clinical Information System.It is designed to support clinical nursing practice. It requires not only an understanding of professional nursing but also technology that is the application of science to function electronically. [1]Nursing practice has evolved and changed radically. It has become an integral part of the Electronic Health Record. Computer systems with nursing and patient care data, nursing care plans were integrated into one interdisciplinary patient health record in the Electronic Health Record.Continued advancement of information and technology and its application to the nursing practice plays an important role and greatly affect each nurse especially those registered nurses who are more experienced, that is why this term paper seeks to present and discuss the role of informatics in clinical nursing practice. More specifically, it answers the following:1.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What are the nursing tasks and responsibilities that will apply to the use of computer technology that will contribute to good clinical governance?2.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   How can the nurses further involve themselves both in the use of technology and decision making process in regards to the evaluation and selection of applications in the computer software and hardware?3.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   What are the strategies that can be used to bridge the age and digital experience gap between participating nurses and the influx of the next generation new graduates that apply to informatics application?This particular topic needs a great deal of general description method. In the process, it can also be helped with the use of review of some studies that is related to the impact of nursing informatics to clinical nursing.I. BodyThe application of Nursing Informatics provides great benefits not only to the patients but to the nurses themselves as well. The health care team especially nurse s makes use of Electronic Health Record (HER) in documenting the case of the patient. It is a secure, real time point of care, patient-centric information resource for clinicians. The EHR can include dental and other records concerning a patient. It represents the portions of a patient’s medical record that are stored in a computer system as well the functional benefits derived from having an electronic health record. (HIMSS Analytics, INC, 2007) (Gartee, 2007)One advantage of an electronic health record is that it can be simultaneously available to everyone who needs to use it. Secondly is that, electronic records necessitate the collection of structured data. The nurse can systematically collect data that can be transformed into information for decision making and can also be used to examine what practices, treatments, and procedures are associated with the best outcomes.The nursing responsibility that will apply to the use of informatics is mainly the nursing documentation . Because it encompasses most of the nursing tasks which includes observation, plan of care which is also known as nursing care plan that has to be documented. Each and every procedure and intervention may it be dependent or independent nursing intervention has to be documented in a proper way.The strategies that can be used by nurses to involve themselves in informatics is based in the result of the study which was published in 2005 that examined the readiness of nurses in the United States for a shift to evidence based practice.There are several issues that has to be addressed to involve nurses to participate in the use of technology in delivering quality health care to their patients. These issues are the following: (1) lack of access to research findings; (2) lack of ability to mine the information from the bibliographic databases; (3) lack of time; and (4) lack of the value in research.The first issue according to Diane Pravikoff, the presence of rich and appropriate resources for use in gathering the evidence is one of the most important factors in incorporating EBP into practice.Based on the issues that was given, the strategies that can be used to involve nurses in informatics is mainly participation to researches and breakthroughs that is given by accredited organization to foster the scarcity of nurses who are not aware to the rapidly increasing discoveries and breakthroughs in the field of nursing.Secondly is in the participation of nurses to seminars. In addition, it will also be a great help if the nursing professionals will involve themselves in the continuing education to further enhance their knowledge in improving the quality of care of the patients.Moreover, it will have a great outcome if all nurses will be trained on how to use the information technology and study the applications that are needed in using and accessing the electronic health record of the patient. Lastly, it is more important that this knowledge gained from experiences, rese arches and seminars and education must be put into practice and be mastered to provide the optimum health of the patients.As previously discussed, to bridge the age and digital experience gap between participating nurses and the influx of the next generation new graduates that apply to informatics application, all nurses should participate in a training in information and technology and involve themselves in continuing education especially in the field of nursing informatics to address the anticipated outcome of the American Nurses Association which is by year 2010, majority of nurses should be computer literate.Nurses should participate to formal trainings and pursue the course either through a traditional type of degree such as a Masters or via a Certificate program.Information relevant to clinical decision making continues to expand, and its relevance will only increase as the electronic health record becomes a standard part of practice. The examples of information technology sup port for Evidenced Based Practice are internet resources, and software applications for EBP.   When it comes to EBP, internet is one of the most valuable sources of information.Different organization especially the US government provides several website that can be accessed to update the medical professions in expanding their knowledge regarding informatics. Internet can be accessed in different modes. It can be provided through a wireless broadband, mobiles used as a modem for internet connection and some makes use of dial up connection.Whether access is in mobile or not, the internet is increasingly an important adjunct to safe practice. The number of practical tools available on the internet increases each year which may result into information overload, unless the user knows how to retrieve and structure available tools. Basic and advanced internet skills are needed to adapt to a frequently changing internet environment and to retrieve the wealth of internet information applic able to clinical practice in an efficient manner.According to the University of California at Berkeley’s Library (2007), there are five internet steps strategy for effective internet searches: (1) Analyze your topic to decide where to begin; (2) pick the right search engine; (3) learn as you go and vary approach as what you have learned; (4) don’t bug down in a search strategy that does not work; and (5) return to any of the previous strategies with the insights and the information gained and repeat the process.The software application for EBP is supplied by the Electronic Health Record. The EHR has many components that incorporate EBP at the bedside, including Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS) and Computerized Provider Order Entry (CPOE).This is of great importance because is always updated in terms of knowledge and applied reasoning by a CDSS. The clinical tasks performed by the decision support are the following: alerts and reminders, diagnostic assistance, t herapy plans, medication orders and information retrieval. As a result, the appropriateness of data regarding this updates is validated because of their responsibilities.II.  Ã‚   ConclusionPatient safety continues to be a well-documented priority for healthcare organizations. This is the reason why many research was made and is continuously being done to improve the delivery of optimum health care to the clients. Nursing informatics greatly affects the nurses especially the old nurses who were not able to catch up with the advancement of technology.But in the long run, many of them wants to improve their knowledge and be part of the rapid immersion of information technology in the field of nursing to provide benefits both in the patient and nurses such as more accurate data and zero errors in drug administration, accessibility and easy view of the patients record by the health care team at the same time when needed.BibliographyAmerican Nurses Association (ANA). (2001). Scopes and Standards of Nursing Practice for Nursing Informatics. Washington, DC: American Nurses PublishingGartee, R. (2007). Electronic Health Records: Understanding and Using Computerized Medical Records. Upper Saddle Rivers, NJ: Prentice HallHIMSS Analytics, INC. (2007). Definitions. Retrieved January 27, 2008, from HIMSS Analytics: http://www.himssanalytics.org/docs/Definitions-By-Term.pdfMcCormick, K. A. . Essentials of Nursing Informatics. International edition 2006.[1]  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Kathleen A. McCormick, Essentials of Nursing Informatics (International edition 2006), 4

Case study journal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Case study journal - Essay Example This paper explores the three learning and teaching strategies as discussed by as discussed in the book. The book explains how effective learning among students is achieved. Collaboration is among the key elements that have been given much emphasis in this chapter. The author states that collaboration helps students to be receptive to challenging assignments, develop crucial skills in cooperation. It also builds a community of learners who are responsible for each other’s learning rather creating a competitive environment which alienates some students, particularly those who perform poorly in class (Willems & Gonzalez-DeHass, 2006). Students’ engagement is also substantially improved by allowing students to learn in pairs or groups. Learning in groups requires them to share ideas and interact in an effective manner. However, accomplishing collaborative learning is faced with challenges such as inequities that exist in the social system of a classroom. In his case, students who perform well dominate groups formed during collaborative learning while poor performers are unable to convince other group members. According to the author, the main elements of effective learning include collaboration, self-regulation and constructivist learning. Constructivism is categorized into two; physiological constructivism and social constructivism. Under physiological constructivism, people use information, help from other persons and from other resources to develop problem solving strategies and mental models, while Social constructivism makes people perceive learning as a participative activity Inquiry based learning and problem based learning are other effective approaches that improves the learning process. Inquiry based learning involves asking students guide questions that are related to the curriculum where by the chosen questions guide students towards a common understanding. It also engages students in the inquiry by allowing them to make

Case Study- Applied Research skills subject Assignment

Case Study- Applied Research skills subject - Assignment Example Mr. Abdulla would be required to collect data from all the machine operators on their efficiency and also make observations on the amounts of fumes being emitted by the factory at the same time. The observations will be dependent on the levels of efficiency of the machines. These, therefore, would only mean that the type of unit of analysis being used in this study is the individual. Individual unit of analysis will allow Mr Abdulla to have an understanding of the fumes emitted by each of the machines, which forms the main reason for the individual as a choice of unit of analysis. Individual unit of analysis will also ensure that data would be obtained from every machine operator so as to get the levels of efficiency and the levels of fume production under each state. Having the results on each of the machines will allow the researcher to understand machine efficiency in comparison with fumes

Critical Analysis - Southern Discomfort & Waterway Industries Lab Report

Critical Analysis - Southern Discomfort & Waterway Industries - Lab Report Example The company needs to improve its performance and Return on Investments (ROI) to stay in the business. Under these circumstances, the company’s management is faced with only two options: Either to stay on in Oconomo with a substantially reduced operating budget, or to relocate the plant to Mexico where future profit margins are more assured. The primary type of change that needs to be brought about in the Oconomo Plant is a conspicuous transformation in people’s culture, attitudes and approach to work. This has assumed significant connotations, because the plant is now going through a very critical phase where, even its very future existence hangs on a balance. If the management is not in a position to convince the labour to accept lower wage rates, the plant may have to be moved to Mexico, thus endangering the jobs of nearly 520 employees. (Wallace 1996). Jim Malesckowski, President of the company has to deal with the challenging tasks of negotiating with a well organised and strong Labour Union while seeking to introduce changes in the work culture and remuneration of the labor force. The Wisconsin plant could be saved by changing the work culture and ethos of the work force and by convincing them that the reduction in wage rate would be beneficial to the labour force in the long run. The major underlying cause for the Union leaders’ resistance to change stems from the fact that they fear that changes would result in downsizing and lay-offs, or even the use of a person for multiple jobs, in order to gain maximum productivity from him. Fear of job losses or labour exploitation may be the underlying reasons for the Trade Union leaders’ reluctance to allow changes in the organization. The management has sought to dispel this fear by informing the Union about cross-training schemes after which a person would be able to undertake job

E learning Thesis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

E learning - Thesis Example The people in the country mainly follow the culture of Sunni Muslims, which directly resembles with Islamic values and beliefs. The economy of the country has also been on a continuous growth spree over the years owing to the commendable growth in the business sector. E-learning has been a particular domain that has focused towards implementing internet as means of educating people. In Saudi Arabia, the government is largely focused towards using internet extensively in the primary educational sector. The increase in internet in academic purpose has been seen from the year 2007 in Saudi Arabia. Its use can be visualized in primary as well as secondary educational sector of the country. The findings of the study were deemed to be in alignment with the predetermined objectives of the research study which are further discussed in detail hereunder. The study has certain predetermined questions that need to be answered based upon the needs of the study. It is quite apparent that the research study has been conducted with the intention of depicting the problems of e-learning in Saudi Arabia especially in the domain of primary schools. The research study has also aimed at depicting the impact of both financial and technical problems with regards to the growth of the educational sector in Saudi Arabia especially in the domain of primary public schools of the nation. The objectives of this particular research study have been provided in detail hereunder. The objective of this particular research study is to determine the barriers experienced by primary public schools in Saudi Arabia when adopting e-learning. With this objective in mind, several research questions are framed below: In order to provide comprehensive set of answers for the research questions framed above, proper set of research objectives have been ascertained in this particular research study. However,

Elevator Speech Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Elevator Speech - Essay Example He was still perplexed and concerned that I must be falling behind my fellow students in the class. Upon hearing such statements, I understood that he was not aware of the concept of distance learning; therefore, I began explaining how Axia online courses have helped me and the mode of communication that takes place between the participants. I explained the innovative platform of Axia courses by telling him that the instructor and all the students log-in at the same Forum (specific for every course) which is considered to be our virtual class, however, they might not be online at the same time. I told him that this type of communication is known as asynchronous communication. I even sent him the link for a paper written by Hrastinski (2008) that explained asynchronous communication as the communication that takes place on discussion boards, email, chat platforms etc. Raj was still not convinced as he said that conventional modes of acquiring education involved the valuable interactions between students that helped the students to clarify their concepts. I agreed and stated that such discussions also take place on distance learning platforms. I explained that students post their comments on discussion questions and can even post comments on other students’ responses. I clarified that the discussion builds on the b asis of the responses of the participants like any other conversation. I addressed his concern and said that all the messages are posted on the platform in the form of a long threaded discussion which can be easily traversed and followed by everyone. He seemed impressed with the structured form of communication offered by distance learning. However, he was still confused about the mode of assessments and communication with the instructor. Upon hearing this concern, I told him that assessments take place online and the feedbacks are supposed to be posted after

The Gramscian approach to understanding civil society and how this Essay

The Gramscian approach to understanding civil society and how this might be relevant to how the world bank works with NGOs through its lending programme - Essay Example The Civil Society Unit of the Bank is directly charged with overseeing the carrying out of the Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and related projects. This report is compiled on behalf of the unit with the aim of shedding some light on what considerations and choices are made in conceptualizing such projects. The unit believes that whereas some of the concerns leveled at the Bank are genuine and well founded, the vast majority of them are based on lack of information on the theoretical framework of carrying out the projects (The World Bank, 2005, 4). The main approach used by the Bank in dealing with civil society in general is grounded on the Gramscian approach originally postulated by Italian scholar Antonio Gramsci. This paper aims at shedding light on this approach so as to allay some of the criticisms that may be based on misinformation about the approach. The post Marxist or Gramscian approach to the understanding of civil society is grounded in the works of sociology scholars Karl Marx, Georg Hegel and Gramsci. It came up in opposing response to the liberal democratic approach which was mainly propagated by philosopher Alexis de Tocqueville. Both approaches aimed at explaining the nature and role of civil society. The development of civil society dates back to Roman Empire in which it was known by the Latin term societas civilis. The term refers to the range of organizations, groupings and societies that operate outside the formal government. They include registered NGOs and more informal groupings such as pressure groups and other small movements (Mcllwaine, 2007, p 5). According to Liberal Democratic Approach proposed by Tocqueville and others, Civil Society is a mainly autonomous sphere of liberty incorporating an organizational culture that morphs into both political and economic democracy. It is therefore a productive force and a useful

Ecotourism Final Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Ecotourism Final Project - Essay Example rest is a preservation cause spearheaded by the late Professor Wangari Maathai, a Nobel Prize laureate for her efforts in fighting for environmental conservation in her country. We hope to savor the progress of the saved forest and learn of any other activities that the Green Belt movement (a movement formed by Wangari Maathai for the continuation of her cause) is currently doing. We stand a chance to learn a lot from the movement about standing tall for future’s sake in the face of adversity (Maathai, 2003). From Nairobi, we will head to the town Narok, and it is here where we expect to marvel at the seventh wonder of the world- the great Mara wildebeest migration. Narok is a few miles off Maasai Mara Game Reserve, which plays host to thousands of wildebeests, part of the many migrants during the Mara migration that gets to see them cross over to the neighboring country Tanzania (Maasai Mara, Visitor map guide, 2004). Finally, from Narok we will head to the next town in the Kenyan province of Rift Valley, Nakuru. Here, we expect to conduct a bird-watching exercise at Lake Nakuru, which hosts hundreds of the Flamingo bird species. Wednesday- We head back to the Green Belt movement offices and join them in conducting Wednesday’s nature walk. On this day, the walk is themed ‘’Save our Trees’’ so T-shirts also themed as such will be the day’s uniform as we head for this walk. Thursday- We go to Narok and head straight to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Here we will be taken round the reserve while viewing the hundreds of game it has to offer. We will spend the night at the Great Rift Valley Lodge. Friday- The Great Rift Valley lodge is almost in between the towns of Narok and Nakuru so on Friday morning we head for Lake Nakuru National park in our van. This is the last destination, and we will conduct a bird-watching exercise at this Lake, the Flamingoes being of imperative interest. Target age is 15-22 years, high school to college students. All

Theories of Decision Making Essay Example for Free

Theories of Decision Making Essay Theories of Decision Making The Rational Comprehensive Model The rational comprehensive model is based on the reasoning of economists, mathematicians, and psychologists. It assumes that the decisionmaker can identify the problem, that the decisionmaker’s goals, values, and objectives are clear and ranked in accord with their importance, that alternative ways of addressing the problem are considered, that the cost and benefits or advantages and disadvantages of each alternative are investigated, that alternatives and their consequences can be compared with other alternatives, and that the decisionmaker will choose the alternative that maximizes the attainment of his or her goals, values, and objectives. However, problems are not always clearly defined; problems have to be formulated in a way which enables people to make decisions about them. Decisionmakers must have vast amounts of information in order to make use of the rational comprehensive decision-making technique. There needs to be an ability to predict the future consequences of decisions made. Also, problems confronting decisionmakers often embody conflicting values. In addition, it is tough to ignore the sunk costs of former decisions, these may foreclose many alternatives. Moreover, this model of decisionmaking assumes that there is one (unitary) decisionmaker, when in fact a great many people, interests and institutions are usually involved. The Incremental Theory Attempts to correct deficiencies of the rational comprehensive model and to better describe how policy decisionmakers actually behave have resulted in incremental theory. Incremental theory holds that the selection of goals and objectives is intertwined with, not distinct from, the scientific analysis of the problem. Decision makers only consider alternatives for dealing with a problem that differs marginally (incrementally) from existing policies (suggesting that they do not completely remake policy every time they make a policy decision, but instead refashion existing policy). For each alternative, only important consequences are considered. Problems confronting the decisionmaker are continually redefined. Constant ends-means and, means-ends adjustments are made to better manage policy. Seldom are there ever single decisions or totally correct solutions available to resolve a problem. A good decision is one that policy makers can agree on, not one that may be most appropriate for an agreed objective. Incremental decisionmaking is remedial, not holisticly-devised or future-oriented. Rarely are decisions faced in all or nothing terms. Mixed Scanning Okay, this one is pretty simple. Sociologist Amitai Etzioni (you need only remember his last name) found fault with both the rational-comprehensive model of decisionmaking and the incremental model of decisionmaking. His mixed scanning approach considers both fundamental and incremental decisions. Mixed scanning incorporates a broad-based analysis sometimes and an in-depth analysis at other times. It considers the differing capacities of decisionmakers. Etzioni’s approach is not very specific about how mixed scanning could be used in practice. Decision Criteria Decisions can be studied as an individual or collective process. First, consider the role of values in decisionmaking. Values are a big deal in Presidential campaigns: witness Dan Quayle and â€Å"Murphy Brown† squabbling over values projected by a fictional TV character who elects to have a child out of wedlock. Much of the Clinton vs. Dole 1996 Presidential campaign involved disputes about values big government vs. small government, pro-life vs. pro-choice, and pro-gun control vs. antigun control, et cetera. Values Below are five categories of values which sometimes guide decisionmakers. Organizational Values Decision makers, especially bureaucrats, are influenced by organizational values. Sometimes agencies use rewards and sanctions in subtle ways to induce their members to act in accordance with organizational values. Wearing a common uniform—as do the police, firefighters, the military, the Park Service and the Forest Service, et cetera—is one way those organizations attempt to build common values among their workers. Organizational values involve the promotion of organizational interests in the decisionmaking of those in the collectivity. Professional Values The norms of one’s profession instill values that are often critical in decisionmaking. Lawyers (believe it or not), doctors, professors, and other occupational specialization’s requiring years of training, education, and ork experience embody professional norms or values that shape decisionmaking behavior. Personal Values This can involve personal ambitions, reputation, and self-interest. Note that rational choice theorists put far too much weight on explaining the behavior of individuals in terms of self-interest. This is understandable because so much of self-interest is tied to economic gain, which can be modeled in elegant, mathematical, and abstract terms. Policy Values This means acting on the basis of perceived public interest or acting in accordance with beliefs about what is proper, ethical, necessary, or morally correct. The Small Business Administration is filled with people who are likely to believe that small businesses are worthwhile, need help to survive, and promote beneficial public interests. Ideological Values Rationalizing and legitimizing actions on the basis of a political ideology (or belief system). Nationalism was a paramount ideology in explaining the behavior of many leaders (and average people) during Desert Shield and Desert Storm operations against Iraq. Conservatism and liberalism, although over-used and often misunderstood as American political ideologies, manifest ideological values. Political Party Affiliation Party membership is interwoven with leadership influence, policy values, and ideological values. However, the Republican and Democratic parties are mass membership parties that seek to appeal to an extremely broad range of political interests and ideologies. Also, party members are not nearly as cohesive in voting as they once were (more people vote split tickets than vote along straight party lines). Party is still a pretty good predictor of how most legislators will vote on a bill. Parties are sometimes associated with specific policy positions. Constituency Interests When party interests conflict with constituency interests, legislators usually vote in favor of their constituency interests. A legislator’s constituency is made up of the voters and key interests that elected him or her to office. Legislators are delegates sometimes, and trustees other times. As delegates they decide matters in accordance with the views of the majority of their constituents or in accordance with a vital block of back-home interests. As delegates they attempt to anticipate the feelings and sentiments of their constituents. When legislators behave as trustees, they consider interests beyond their constituencies. They may think about National interests, the greater public good, international issues, broadbased economic concerns, charity, future generations, interests with little or no political representation, and protecting the National and global environment, et cetera. Public Opinion Public opinion usually has an impact on policy decisionmaking when decisions involve broad direction or thrust. Most members of the general public have a very limited knowledge of what policy makers are considering. Public opinion does impact foreign policy in a broad sense. Deference Deferring to the judgment of others occurs when administrators obey the wishes of their politically appointed superiors, or when legislators vote in accordance with the wishes of the top representatives or senators who head key committees or subcommittees. Judges defer when they interpret laws in accordance with the wishes of the legislative originators of the statute. Decision Rules Stare decisis is sometimes a decision rule. It means new decisions are often based on precedents in decisionmaking that came before. It also applies to committee decisionmaking dynamics. THE PUBLIC INTEREST This is tough to define. It is sometimes thought of as the outcome of competing interest group forces. The public interest may involve decisionmaking aimed at helping the Nation as a whole, rather than seeking to benefit selfish special interests. Some may argue that reducing the Federal deficit or balancing the Federal budget advances the public interest. Some may reason that maintaining the Nation’s capacity to mobilize and respond to disaster threats is in the public interest.

Flash Floods In Jeddah Saudi Arabia Environmental Sciences Essay

Flash Floods In Jeddah Saudi Arabia Environmental Sciences Essay Jeddah is one of the most important cities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Located on the shore of the Red Sea, the city has a population of more than 3.5 million, and after Riyadh, is the second largest urban settlement of the country (CIA Factbook, 2010, p1). Containing the largest port on the Red Sea, it is the principal entry point for Mecca, the holiest city of the Islamic religion (CIA Factbook, 2010, p1). It acts as a conduit for millions of worshipers on their way to Mecca and is otherwise a very busy commercial centre (CIA Factbook, 2010, p1). Jeddah is also known to be among the more cosmopolitan of Saudi Arabian destinations and is home to many people from western countries, because of its sea facing location, commercial importance and international connectedness (CIA Factbook, 2010, p1). The city experienced flash floods in the last week of November in 2009 (Al-Bargi, A., 2009, p 1). The floods resulted in a veritable catastrophe as much of the city was submerged in 3 feet of water and cars were swept away and piled on top of each other (Al-Bargi, A., 2009, p 1). Appendix 1 provides some pictures of the flash floods, which illustrate the extent and enormity of damage caused. The floods, which lasted for barely a couple of days, resulted in the loss of more than a 100 lives and damaged 2 billions of dollars of property (Abumansour, W., 2009, p 1). The next few days saw the residents of the city facing the dangers of a possible epidemic because of (a) overflowing sewage from the nearby Musk Lake, which threatened to enter the city, and (b) obvious difficulties in burying the men, women, children, and animals, who had died during the floods (Abumansour, W., 2009, p 1). Western citizens were bemused by the intensity of the havoc and destruction caused by just three inches of rain in a very short span of time on November 25. A resident of Florida writes as follows: On Wednesday, my part of west-central Florida received three-to-five inches of rain. No one died, even as the result of a traffic accident. Other than a few puddles an inch or two deep, the water was gone within hours of the rains passing. My city has a population of about 52,000 people and nowhere near the financial assets of Jeddah. (Crossroads Arabia, 2010, p1) The days that followed the floods witnessed an unprecedented wave of outrage in Saudi Arabia over the incompetence of the government in preventing the floods, which assumed the overtones of a catastrophe of great magnitude in terms of loss of lives and damage to property (Alice King, 2009, p 1). The episode also resulted in severe and all round condemnation of the inefficiency of town planning in Jeddah (Alice King, 2009, p 1). Numerous accusations of corruption against government officials and members of the bureaucracy led to the suspension of numerous responsible officials and the institution of a public enquiry (Al-Sulami, 2010, p 1). Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah has ordered the cases of all those accused of complicity in the November floods in Jeddah referred to the watchdog for government employees and the national prosecution body The king made it clear that crimes involving financial and administrative corruption would not be included in the list of crimes he may choose to pardon later. (Al-Sulami, 2010, p1) 1.2. Definition of Problem Recent decades have witnessed a spate of natural flood related disasters of different dimensions with varying degrees of consequential damage. Pakistan has very recently, in early August 2010, experienced floods of immense severity, which have resulted in more than 1500 deaths. The impact of the Indian Ocean Tsunami, where more than 100,000 lives were lost, will not be forgotten soon (National Geographic News, 2005, p 1). A number of cyclones damaged American cities in the recent past and caused significant damage to life and property (Borland, 2010, p 1). Environmental and ecological experts attribute the greater occurrence of such natural disasters in recent years to global warming and consequential climatic change (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). With the impact of such climatic change not expected to abate in future, national and international policy makers are working on various stratagems to protect life and property from the consequences of such environmental turbulences (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). 1.3. Purpose Governments across the world are formulating and implementing customised plans and solutions for the protection of their citizens from the wrath of nature. Such plans obviously have to essentially be bespoke in character and designed to protect against specific environmental threats (Carter, 2007, p 330). Cities in hilly areas need to be protected from the consequences of earthquakes and landslides, even as residents of habitations near rivers, dams, reservoirs and seas need to be protected from the onslaught of water (Carter, 2007, p 330). Plans to protect citizens from disasters must also essentially incorporate disaster preparation and disaster management activities before, during and after the occurrence of disasters (Carter, 2007, p 330). The Saudi Government has evidenced high levels of concern about the implementation of flood and disaster management plans in the kingdom and the overcoming of associated difficulties and restrictions (A1SaudiArabia.com, 2010, p 1). This dissertation aims to investigate the various risks that can emerge from floods in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is also proposed to study the effect of various factors that can challenge or obstruct flood management plans at Jeddah and the various plans and measures that can be implemented to overcome such challenges. 1.4. Aims and Objectives The aims and objectives of this dissertation, framed in accordance with the defined problem and the purpose of this study, are now elaborated as under. To examine the various reasons that led to the enormous havoc and destruction after the occurrence of the flash floods in Jeddah on November 25, 2009. To examine and assess the various risks that can arise for life and property in the KSA because of unsuitable and inadequate flood management practices. To study the different issues concerned with flood management as also the implications of such issues on risk management for concerned public and private agencies and for members of the population. To study and understand the various implications of planning on ecosystems with specific reference to Saudi Arabia. To recommend specific strategies, plans and measures to protect the human population, animal and plant life, and individual and organisational property, in KSA, from such challenges. 1.5. Structure This dissertation has been structured to ensure sequential progress of research findings, right from the introductory section through the literature review, the choice of appropriate research methodology, and the obtaining and analysis of data to appropriate recommendations and conclusions. The bibliography and various appendices used during the study have been placed at the end of the dissertation. 2. Literature Review This review of extant literature involves a detailed study of various aspects of floods, their reasons, their effects, and the various ways in which communities and societies are (a) trying to prevent their occurrence, (b) minimise their impact on the ecosystem, human and animal life, and individual and organisational property, and (c) deal with their aftermath. Information sources have been chosen carefully for their relevance to the Jeddah floods of 2009, and to the broader issue of flood prevention and management in Saudi Arabia. 2.1. Risks from Floods Flooding is widely accepted to be the foremost causal factor for loss of life and damage to property from natural events in numerous regions of the world (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). It is to elaborate further considered to be far more damaging than other types of natural disasters or hazards like earthquakes and fires (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). The Munich Reinsurance Company, in a study conducted in 2000, found that practically 50% of loss of life and one third of economic losses that took place due to natural disasters, occurred because of flooding (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Damages from floods have been particularly severe in contemporary times (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). The last decade in particular has witnessed a number of flood related disasters across the world, which has resulted in widespread loss of life and damages, amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars, to property (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Whilst countries like China and Bangladesh experience flooding with associated loss to lives and property very frequently, other countries, like Saudi Arabia, for example, rarely face floods (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). However when floods do occur in such areas, their force, impact and consequential inundation is no less severe than in flood prone regions (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). It is evident that all populated areas across the world face risks from flooding, even as some societies are far more vulnerable than others to flood hazards (Alexander, 2006, p 1). Again whilst some societies have come to understand the damage that can be caused by floods and have adopted suitable measures to minimise associated damage, many others continue to be caught off guard and are found to be unprepared, to a great extent, when floods occur; such inadequacies exist both in minimising the damage from such floods and in taking appropriate post disaster action (Alexander, 2006, p 1). The members of such under protected societies thus often experience far more loss to life and property than those of better prepared communities (Alexander, 2006, p 1). The rapid and progressive increase in global population has led to the need for people to settle in new and hitherto unpopulated areas, some of which are known to be prone to natural hazards (Boruff Cutter, 2007, p 24). Saudi Arabia for instance is experiencing continuous increase in its population, much of which is fuelled by the inflow of people from other nations, who come in search of employment in the oil rich and fast growing Saudi economy (Boruff Cutter, 2007, p 24). The movement of people on account of political, social and economic reasons often leads to the development of habitation in areas that could be prone to flooding events (Boruff Cutter, 2007, p 24). Floods are defined in insurance contracts as a temporary covering of land by water as a result of surface waters escaping from their normal confines or as a result of heavy precipitation. (Kron, 2005 p 58) They can be categorised into three distinct classes, namely (a) storm surges, (b) river floods and (c) flash floods (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Apart from these three types of floods, flooding can also occur because of specific reasons like the occurrence of tsunamis, breaks in dams, rising of ground water, and glacial lake outbursts (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Storm surges occur mainly on the coasts of big lakes, seas, and oceans (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). They have in the past been the reason for the greatest losses to life and property that have occurred because of natural water related disasters (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). Whilst developed countries are fortifying their coasts in order to minimise the damage from such occurrences, storm surges continue to be a major threat in coastal areas across the world (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). River floods occur after heavy and continuous rainfall for many days, and even weeks, over substantially large geographical regions (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Saturation of soil in such cases results in the inability of the ground surface to absorb water indefinitely and further rainfall results in water running directly into streams and rivers (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Such floods generally grow gradually, even though they can sometimes occur within short periods, and can affect very large areas, especially where land topography is flat (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Whilst river floods in narrow valleys lead to inundation of small strips of land alongside rivers, the depths of such inundation and velocity of water can be excessively high and lead to enormous destruction of life and property in affected areas (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Whilst river floods occur from river based water sources and not from seas or oceans, their effect is often greater than that of flooding caused by seas (Changnon, 1996, p 14-32). Flash floods are predominantly local events, which occur in a scattered manner at different times across the world (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Such floods come about after the occurrence of intense rainfall in a short geographical area (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). The rate of infiltration of water into the ground in such cases is much slower than the rate of precipitation, even though the ground may not be fully saturated (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Flash floods often occur very suddenly and flood waves can rush to distant but contiguous locations in very short periods (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Whilst the forecasting of flash floods is very difficult because of the extremely small period between its first indication and actual occurrence and the actual period of occurrence of rainfall is short, their potential for destruction is immense (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Such floods occur not just in steep terrains, where water can flow swiftly, but also in flat areas where ground slopes are to o less for the occurrence of swift storm water runoffs (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Water in such situations collects on the surface in hardly noticeable depressions and in other areas like underground parking lots, basements and subways (Briguglio, 2008, p 1-15). Flooding also occurs because of water logging when widespread and continuous rains inundate large traps of land (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). 2.2. Impact of Eco Systems on Floods Environmental experts state that whilst climate change is possibly influencing the excessive rainfall that has been ravaging Asia in the last few years, the purposeful and progressive destruction of eco systems by humans is playing a greater role in the intensification of the severity of floods (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Extensive deforestation, along with the conversion of wet lands to sprawling urban development and the blocking of natural drainage systems are intensifying the impact of floods (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). A number of environmental experts agree that whilst much of the modern day problems associated with environmental issues are being attributed to climate change, the severity of natural disasters is actually intensifying because of human destruction of natural infrastructure (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Millions of people are building homes along flood plains and increasing garbage is blocking natural water ways (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). All across Asia, cities are experiencing unplanned growth of urban sprawls, along with poor land and waste management (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Such developments are reducing natural protective phenomena and exposing human life and property to chances of extensive damage (Kron, 2005, p 58-68). Obtaining a true understanding of eco system services in the safeguarding of human well being is difficult because of the range of factors that can both protect and harm humans during natural disasters (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). The following table illustrates the various ways in which eco systems play important roles in flood regulation (Castonguay, 2007, p 820). Key Role of Ecosystems in Regulating Extreme Events Ecosystem Role in Flood Regulation Cultivated Crop cover provides flood protection, conditioned on good management Dry land Protection through vegetation cover; recharge of aquifers Forest Protection from floods providing flood attenuation and soil loss prevention Urban Move people away from flood-prone areas, conditioned on good urban planning Inland Waters Provide mechanisms for flood attenuation potential (wetlands, lakes, etc.) Coastal Benefits from sediment transport to the coastal zone; flood protection provided by coastal ecosystems (barrier beaches, mangroves, etc.) Marine Benefits from nutrient transport to the oceans Polar Discharge regulation to oceans in the Arctic system (freshwater provision to Arctic oceans) Mountains Regulating flood-related events (slope stability) Islands Benefits from sediment transport to oceans through floods from the mainland; aquifer recharge as main source of fresh water (Source: Guenni, et al, 2005, p 444) 2.3. Role of Spatial Planning in Flood Prevention and Control Increased vulnerability to flooding of different types is occurring across the world because of destruction of protective eco systems like mangroves, coral reefs and flood plains (Alterman, 2001, p 7-19). Disasters have been found to be higher in regions that have suffered from greater environmental degradation (Alterman, 2001, p 7-19). Many countries experience severe problems from floods at irregular but frequent intervals (Chan Parker, 1996, p 313). The traditional approach taken by such nations for reduction of flood control consists mainly of (a) measures like construction of dykes and dams, and (b) improvements to canals, channels, and drainage systems (Chan Parker, 1996, p 313). Many of such programmes have been adopted specifically for cities and demarcated agricultural areas and have involved the deployment of a limited range of engineering activities for the overcoming of flooding problems (Chan Parker, 1996, p 313). Whilst some of these solutions have proven to be useful, others have ended up in aggravating flood damage (De Cola, 2002, p 363). Many western countries are now recognising the inadequacy of flood management programmes that are solely dependent upon structural measures (De Cola, 2002, p 363). Western countries are increasingly engaging in deployment of non-structural methods for flood prevention (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Such measures aim to minimise losses through controlling urban and collateral development in areas at risk from floods (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Non-structural measures are by and large utilised along with a range of structural measures in order to create comprehensive systems for dealing with flood problems (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Many such programmes with non-structural components have however met with partial success because of problems associated with zoning of land and relocation of people (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Comprehensive flood hazard management is the most effective way to address flood control issues. It incorporates a variety of engineering, environmental protection and planning measures. It includes flood plain management, flood control maintenance activities, storm water management, shoreline management, protection of frequently flooded areas under Growth Management, watershed management, other flood hazard mitigation activities, and preparation for flood disasters where mitigation activities cannot prevent flooding. (MRSC, 2010, p1) Experts agree that spatial management, which includes both structural and non-structural measures, can significantly help in preventing and reducing the impact of natural disasters (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82). Such planning essentially contains the following elements: Early warning system: Spatial planning will succeed only if it is based upon sound information on the region under consideration. This calls for the introduction and implementation of suitable methods for acquisition and measurement of data about environmental hazards. Risk Assessment and Mapping: The formulation of effective systems for prevention of flood related disasters depends upon the availability of comprehensive information on the causes and impact of flooding. Such systems require the creation of appropriate frameworks for assessment and evaluation of floods. Hydrological and geological information like thematic hazard maps can help significantly in reducing loss of life and property because of floods. Prevention and Reduction: Spatial planning efforts require the analysis of various inter-relationships between spatial planning and the occurrence of floods. Appropriate spatial models can be discussed and established only on the basis of results of such analysis. Risk management: Spatial planning, to be effective, needs to carefully look at various elements of infrastructure like evacuation routes and safety spaces, which can help safeguard and secure individuals during the occurrence of floods. Reconstruction: Spatial planning is of extreme importance during reconstruction after disasters, when rebuilding has to be appropriately executed in order to eliminate past inadequacies and prepare for future developments. (Comfort, 1988, p 78- 82) 2.4. Prevention, Management and Control of Flood Disasters Spatial planning, whilst extremely important for mitigation of the impact of floods is only one of a number of dimensions that have to be considered, when planning for prevention, management, and control of flood disasters. Some extremely important aspects of flood control are detailed in the following sub-sections (Haeuber Michener, 1998, p 74). 2.4.1. Vulnerability Analysis and Mapping A vulnerability analysis aims to assess the risks faced by structures and populations within flood prone areas (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Such analysis assesses the potential impact of flooding by way of damage to roads, bridges, buildings and critical utilities (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Vulnerability analysis is executed for different probability levels of floods and leads to the development of an elevation-damage curve (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Such an analysis, by identifying high risk populations, is useful for formulation of required emergency responses in terms of evacuation and temporary shelters (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). A vulnerability analysis also helps in deciding acceptable risk levels and the level for which protection is essential (Guenni, et al, 2005, p 1). Mapping is closely associated with vulnerability analysis and represents a detailed definition of risk prone areas (Kaschube, 2006, p 50). Mapping is an important fundamental activity for all types of flood preparation programmes (Kaschube, 2006, p 50). With such maps often having legal implications with regard to zoning and the execution of structural and non-structural flood control actions, they must be credible and accurate (Kaschube, 2006, p 50). Such mapping by and large takes place on the frequency of flood events and along with vulnerability analysis provides a basis for all flood control measures (Kaschube, 2006, p 50). 2.4.2. Protection of Flood Prone Lands Vulnerability analysis and mapping provide vital inputs for the formulation of policies and programmes for controlling the incidence and impact of areas that are susceptible to floods (Johnson, et al, 2007, p 374). Policies and programmes for effective flood control often envisage carefully thought out controls over fresh development in flood prone areas, along with programmes for reduction of damage to existing development (Johnson, et al, 2007, p 374). Such policies are needed to limit the increasing economic and social losses that come about from floods (Johnson, et al, 2007, p 374). Flood control programmes should in the first place focus on alternate utilisation of lands facing flood risks (Krischenbaum, 2004, p 57-60). It is often better to zone such lands and use them for parks or other nature areas, rather than to think of measures to protect future development from floods (Krischenbaum, 2004, p 57-60). Zoning along with appropriate measures for flood proofing can help significantly in mitigation of damages from future floods (Lerner, 1998, p 35). However the final utility of such measures depends upon maintenance and enforcement (Lerner, 1998, p 35). Many local authorities, who are under developmental pressure, have shown tendencies to relax their stand on flood control as years pass by without the occurrence of floods (Lerner, 1998, p 35). 2.4.3. Climatological Forecasting and Geographic Information Systems Significant advances in techniques and methods for climatological forecasting have now made it a very useful tool for mitigation of flooding risks (Kotter, 2003, p 78-86). Such forecasting entails the correlation of extreme events to major alterations in ocean and atmospheric circulation patterns (Kotter, 2003, p 78-86). The identification of such patterns helps in forecasting storm activity with substantially greater accuracy than what could be done in the past (Kron, 2000, p 570-581). Climatological forecasting provides important information for improvement of emergency response readiness (Kron, 2000, p 570-581). Such forecasts are also helpful for increasing availability of reservoir storage and for building awareness of flooding potential (Kron, 2000, p 570-581). Such measures can lessen flooding severity, as and when floods occur (Kotter, 2003, p 78-86). Forecasting of extreme flooding can help local authorities in taking preventive actions such as piling up of sand bags, arrang ing for supplies of food and water, and removing high value goods (Kotter, 2003, p 78-86). Climatological forecasting helps in building public awareness of the potential impact of floods, highlighting expected public responses, and carrying out drills to assess degree of preparedness (Kron, 2000, p 570-581). Geographic Information Systems (GIS) represent software driven information and management systems that help in forecasting of water flows and in development of emergency responses (Penning-Rowsell Tapsell, 2004, p 6-38). Such systems use data from various sources, combine them suitably, and thereafter provide information for specific locations (Penning-Rowsell Tapsell, 2004, p 6-38). Data on vegetative cover is for example combined with information on soil and slope of land to assess infiltration rates for purposes of forecasting (Penning-Rowsell Tapsell, 2004, p 6-38). Climatological forecasting and geographical information systems, when used in combination, can be helpful in providing information for the taking of a range of precautionary measures for the mitigation of the impact of floods (Penning-Rowsell Tapsell, 2004, p 6-38). 2.4.4. Structural Measures Structural measures represent the undertaking of a wide range of infrastructural activities that aim to protect regions from the devastation that can be caused by floods (Munich Re, 2000, p 1-5). Such structural measures largely consist of protective infrastructural development like reservoirs for flood storage, the diversion of flood water for storage in side channels or to other water sheds, and the building of storm channels that can carry water around risk prone areas (Munich Re, 2000, p 1-5). These structural measures can be built to ensure various protection levels and can help significantly in reduction of flood damage (MRSC, 2010, p1). The construction of structural work is influenced by (a) determined standards for protection against floods, (b) costs and benefits of planned structures, and (c) the need to satisfy determined risk levels (MRSC, 2010, p1). The undertaking of protective infrastructure is important when (a) substantial infrastructure is already in place, and (b) the costs of protecting such development is expected to be substantially less than what can be expected to arise out of relocation of such infrastructure, lost economic activity, reconstruction of damaged infrastructure, or disaster relief and assistance (Pelling, 2003, p 8-23). The example of Winnipeg in Canada underlines the importance of engagement in appropriate structural measures (Pelling, 2003, p 8-23). Structural flood protection measures amounting to USD 92 million were completed for the city in the 1960s (Pelling, 2003, p 8-23). It is estimated that these structures minimised the impact of five floods that occurred since then and prevented damages that would have cost approximately USD 2 billion to repair (Pelling, 2003, p 8-23). The erection of protective infrastructure often leads to increase in developmental activities in areas that are at risk from floods, because of assumptions that such areas become safe from floods after the execution of structural measure (Hultman Bozmoski, 2006, p 25). Such assumptions can however prove to be misplaced and lead to over development with consequent increase in the vulnerability of such areas to floods. Storage dams can prove to be extremely dangerous when development in surrounding areas exceeds specified thresholds, because unanticipated levels of rainfall can lead to swift increase in water levels, thereby making emergency and evacuation responses very challenging (Hultman Bozmoski, 2006, p 25). Structural work, to be successful against flood protection, must be accompanied by systematic and established programmes for assessment, repair and maintenance, in order to maintain originally specified design capabilities. Canals, channels, and dikes, may, for example, be weakened by progressive erosion, movement of animals or erection of utility facilities. Such infrastructural work need to be subjected to carefully thought out safety programmes, in accordance with established guidelines and standards. All new construction allowed in flood prone areas should incorporate flood protection measures in order to reduce the potential for future damage (Kahn, 2005, p 271-284). Building codes should incorporate measures for reducing flood damage by ensuring that important utilities are located above expected floor levels (Kahn, 2005, p 271-284). Items that cannot be moved away easily should not be allowed to be stored in basements or ground floors (Kahn, 2005, p 271-284). Whilst allowing new development, care must be taken to ensure that such development will not lead to significant increase of flood waters and thereby increase risks to the complete area (Kahn, 2005, p 271-284). Protection of existing structures from floods is often a challenging and expensive process (Handmer, 1987, p 51-58). Some governments have related post flood disaster help to the commitment of reconstruction methods that will reduce future damages from floods (Handmer, 1987, p 51-58). Such a strategy becomes specifically useful where flooding takes place often and monetary help for disaster assistance is an integral component of disaster policies (Pielke Jr., 2000, p 5-12). Flood protection of existing structures and buildings can incorporate measures like raising the level of structures to prevent future harm, movement of utilities, alteration in use of buildings, setting up of protective walls, building of waterproof enclosures, and utilisation of materials that are resistant to water and can be restored easily after flood events (Pielke Jr., 2000, p 5-12). The relocation of existing structures to other areas that are at lesser risks from floods is also a possible, though difficult option (Newson, 1997, p 22-36). Relocation for particularly vulnerable structures may however be imperative in certain cases, despite the associated difficulties and expenses (Newson, 1997, p 22-36). Particular buildings may be at such great risk that no amount of flood proofing measures may be sufficient to ensure desired levels of safety (Newson, 1997, p 22-36). Local authorities need to be firm in such situations and ensure relocation in order to prevent extensive loss to property and life in future flood events (Newson, 1997, p 22-

Sears and the dishwasher industry :: essays research papers

Where should Sears source the dishwashers from? Sears is the giant leading broad line retailer providing merchandise and related services. In keeping with its sourcing philosophy, Sears generally prefers to work with one, rather than multiple suppliers. When the supplier does not offer a specific type of appliance, Sears would source it somewhere else. Sears’ objective is to share as much as possible of the production and assembly process with the suppliers’ products. Based on the readings one important component of Sears’ sourcing strategy is to ensure that its suppliers have stable top management over a long term. Sears sources its dishwashers from D&M, because of D&M’s cost position. They would not find elsewhere the quality and the price that D&M offers. Sears itself designs the dishwashers based on the customer’s preferences and provides them the best quality with the best price named Kenmore. GE is the toughest competitor to Sears as well as to D&M and considering sourcing from GE would not be feasible, because GE’s policy is that GE product would carry GE name. Now GE is a customer of Sears that in the same time competes with Kenmore’s products. Another souring possibility could have been Whirlpool which like GE uses its name for its products, but for Sears it would not make economic sense to go towards that direction. After Sears, GE, and Whirlpool, there really is no full-line name in the market of any significance. Sears as well as the customers are content with D&M’s products, but one important issue could be if D&M will keep up with its R&D in order to continue competing with GE as well as with Whirlpool. After all these years it will be very difficult for Sears to pull back from D&M and go after another supplier.

Violin Essay examples -- Literature Music Composers Essays

Violin Music and art, the feelings that go through a person while the music of Mozart and Beethoven are playing, are indescribable. Listening to music can take a person away to a different era. Music like Mozart or Beethoven can really take a person's imagination soaring in a whole new perspective. Composers throughout the novel, Violin were Beethoven, Mozart, and Tchaikovsky. Violin was a truly fabulous name for this story. It contains many fantastic elements as well as realistic elements; however, it should not be confused with magical realism. Violin copy written in 1997 by Anne Rice. She has written several novels that were imaginary and fantastic. The novels that Anne Rice has written have that kind of effect on a person while reading her novels. During the story, the unreal elements of the story started with the fact that she kept her husband with her after he had been passed away for several days. The unreal elements of this situation is that anybody in her right mind wouldn't keep a dead body in the house with her and not tell anybody that he was dead. In a matter of time, the body would start to smell and start to rot. One of the unreal elements that are in the story was the man standing outside playing the violin. The man would stand in the light of the lamppost in the alley and play the violin. Watching the man playing the violin through the window made the main character think that she was dreaming. Listening to the music during the course of this type of emotional state that she was in made her stay calm and find herself in a type of dreamland. The music would take her somewhere else besides reality. Music can take a person elsewhere, in the future, in the past, and in la la land. Even though music can b... ...gical realism is in the fact that the woman didn't want to give up her husband and face reality. She kept him as long as she could to her self until she had to give him up. Grief happens this way in the real world. The family members do not want to give up the family member who has passed away. The magic was in the story; fantastic was also here in the story. Also, the music by Mozart and Beethoven can really take a person's imagination soaring in a whole new perspective. The Violin has suspense and excitement' the anticipation of the happenings during the story was uneventful. Works Cited Rice, Anne, Violin. N.Y.: Alfred A. Knopf, 1997. Robkin, Eric S. The Fantastic in Literature. Princeton, N.J. : Princeton UP, 1978. Todorov, Tzvetan. The Fantastic: A Structural Approach to a Literary Form. Cleveland: The Press of Case Western Reserve University, 1973.

The Young Offenders Act, A Continuing Debate :: essays research papers fc

The Young Offenders Act A Continuing Debate There is no question in society as to whether or not young people are committing crime. In fact, since "1986 to 1998 violent crime committed by youth jumped approximately 120%." The Young Offenders Act is a heated debate in today’s society, and one of the most controversial Acts in Canadian history since it was introduced in 1984. Some people think a complete overhaul is needed, others think minor changes would suffice, still others feel it is best left alone. Youth crime is a tough issue, with many differing opinions. Punishment and rehabilitation, one, the other, or both, all topics of debate within society. If you were to discuss the issues with the parents of a victim, it would be understandable that their opinions would differ greatly than those of the parents of the offender. Many people have formed an opinion without an in depth look at the act. Others simply do not care. The question that needs to be answered is, does the Young Offenders Act in Canada properl y address the victims' rights, the rights and needs of the young offender, and does it protect public safety? That question is hard to answer, as some people think that the Act is a more decent and humane way to approach young persons in trouble with the law. On the other hand others feel it offers too much protection to those whom least deserve it -- the young offenders, and very little to those who deserve it -- the victims. I think the Young Offenders Act should concentrate on making young offenders aware that they will be held responsible and accountable for their behaviour. To begin, it must be understood that the Young Offenders Act is a replacement piece of legislature for the outdated Juvenile Delinquents Act. The Juvenile Delinquents act was enacted in 1908, and was replaced by the Young offenders Act on April 2, 1984. The Juvenile Delinquents Act was a part of legislature that focused mainly on parental and social welfare of the child. It dealt with children as young as seven years of age regarding not only criminal behaviour but also sexual immortality. The Juvenile Delinquents Act allowed for many different courses of action for any child that was found to have delinquent behaviour. Placements in an industrial school for an indefinite period of time, committed to the children’s aid society, or placed in a foster home were all available options under the Juvenile Delinquents Act.

The Twilight Saga 5: Midnight Sun 12. Complications

â€Å"Complications,† Jacob read. â€Å"I don't like the sound of that.† â€Å"I'm sure it's not as bad as it sounds,† Bella shrugged. Bella and I walked silently to biology. I was trying to focus myself on the moment, on the girl beside me, on what was real and solid, on anything that would keep Alice's deceitful, meaningless visions out of my head. â€Å"It's not meaningless,† Jacob muttered, â€Å"don't underestimate it.† We passed Angela Weber, lingering on the sidewalk, discussing an assignment with a boy from her Trigonometry class. I scanned her thoughts perfunctorily, expecting more disappointment, only to be surprised by their wistful tenor. Ah, so there was something Angela wanted. Unfortunately, it wasn't something that could be easily gift-wrapped. â€Å"She must like the guy,† Bella said. â€Å"This should be interesting,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"It will only work if the guy likes her back though,† Bella said. â€Å"But Angela is cool†¦ who wouldn't like her,† Jacob said. I felt strangely comforted for a moment, hearing Angela's hopeless yearning. A sense of kinship that Angela would never know about passed through me, and I was, in that second, at one with the kind human girl. â€Å"What does he mean by that†¦ your yearning isn't hopeless, Edward!† Bella huffed. It was oddly consoling to know that I wasn't the only one living out a tragic love story. Heartbreak was everywhere. â€Å"Argh,† Bella groaned. â€Å"Only if you keep thinking that way.† In the next second, I was abruptly and thoroughly irritated. Because Angela's story didn't have to be tragic. She was human and he was human and the difference that seemed so insurmountable in her head was ridiculous, truly ridiculous compared to my own situation. There was no point in her broken heart. What a wasteful sadness, when there was no valid reason for her not to be with the one she wanted. â€Å"Yeah, wasteful,† Bella muttered, thinking that Edward's was wasteful too, though he did have more of a reason to be so cautious. Why shouldn't she have what she wanted? Why shouldn't this one story have a happy ending? I wanted to give her a gift Well, I would give her what she wanted. Knowing what I did of human nature, it probably wouldn't even be very difficult. I sifted through the consciousness of the boy beside her, the object of her affections, and he did not seem unwilling, he was just stymied by the same difficulty she was. Hopeless and resigned, the way she was. â€Å"Come on, people, have faith in yourselves,† Jacob said. Bella, however, was thoughtful. She wondered if this was a mirror of how she and Edward felt†¦ both of them not fully realizing what they other felt. She was sure that her book self couldn't have known how much he loved her†¦ there was no possible way for her to know that. And she could see clearly that Edward didn't understand how much she lo†¦ er†¦ however she felt about him. She stopped that train of thought as something else seemed to go through her. She was wondering how strongly did she feel about this guy that she had yet to meet†¦ and she longed for that meeting to happen already. Jacob started reading then, drawing her concentration back to the book. All I would have to do was plant the suggestion The plan formed easily, the script wrote itself without effort on my part. I would need Emmett's helpgetting him to go along with this was the only real difficulty. Human nature was so much easier to manipulate than vampire nature. â€Å"You've got to watch out for this guy, Bells, he's definitely a speciesist,† Jacob said. â€Å"Whatever,† Bella rolled her eyes. I was pleased with my solution, with my gift for Angela. It was a nice diversion from my own problems. Would that mine were as easily fixed. My mood was slightly improved as Bella and I took our seats. Maybe I should be more positive. Maybe there was some solution out there for us that was escaping me, the way Angela's obvious solution was so invisible to her. Not likely But why waste time with hopelessness? I didn't have time to waste when it came to Bella. Each second mattered. Mr. Banner entered pulling an ancient TV and VCR. He was skipping through a section he wasn't particularly interested ingenetic disordersby showing a movie for the next three days. Lorenzo's Oil was not a very cheerful piece, but that didn't stop the excitement in the room. No notes, no test-able material. Three free days. The humans exulted. â€Å"It sounds kind of boring to me,† Bella mumbled and Jacob looked at her oddly. It didn't matter to me, either way. I hadn't been planning on paying any attention to anything but Bella. I did not pull my chair away from hers today, to give myself space to breathe. Instead, I sat close beside her like any normal human would. Closer than we sat inside my car, close enough that the left side of my body felt submerged in the heat from her skin. â€Å"I get it! She's hot!† Jacob said and laughed when Bella blushed and glared at him. It was a strange experience, both enjoyable and nerve-racking, but I preferred this to sitting across the table from her. It was more than I was used to, and yet I quickly realized that it was not enough. I was not satisfied. Being this close to her only made me want to be closer still. The pull was stronger the closer I got. I had accused her of being a magnet for danger. Right now, it felt like that was the literal truth. Bella rolled her eyes but chuckled at this. I was danger, and, with every inch I allowed myself nearer to her, her attraction grew in force. And then Mr. Banner turned the lights out. It was odd how much of a difference this made, considering that the lack of light meant little to my eyes. I could still see just as perfectly as before. Every detail of the room was clear. â€Å"That's cool,† Jacob said. â€Å"I wish I could see in the dark like that.† So why the sudden shock of electricity in the air, in this dark that was not dark to me? â€Å"Shock of electricity?† Bella raised an eyebrow. What was he talking about and why did that make her think of the first time he touched her in the second chapter (the first time he talked to her in the books)? Was it because I knew that I was the only one who could see clearly? That both Bella and I were invisible to the others? Like we were alone, just the two of us, hidden in the dark room, sitting so close beside one another My hand moved toward her without my permission. Just to touch her hand, to hold it in the darkness. Would that be such a horrific mistake? If my skin bothered her, she only had to pull away I yanked my hand back, folded my arms tightly across my chest and clenched my hands closed. No mistakes. I'd promised myself that I would make no mistakes, no matter how minimal they seemed. If I held her hand, I would only want moreanother insignificant touch, another move closer to her. I could feel that. A new kind of desire was growing in me, working to override my self-control. Jacob and Bella were thinking the complete opposite thing here. No mistakes. Bella folded her arms securely across her own chest, and her hands balled up into fists, just like mine. â€Å"You feeling this too, aren't you?† Jacob questioned, â€Å"and I know it didn't happen†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Yeah, I think I am feeling this,† Bella answer before he could say any more. â€Å"I wonder what it means.† â€Å"It seems like you're calling to each other somehow,† Jacob said, and then he bit his lip. It seemed like some kind of instinctual reaction that went way beyond human†¦ whatever that means. What are you thinking? I was dying to whisper the words to her, but the room was too quiet to get away with even a whispered conversation. The movie began, lightening the darkness just a bit. Bella glanced up at me. She noted the rigid way I held my bodyjust like hersand smiled. Her lips parted slightly, and her eyes seemed full of warm invitations. Or perhaps I was seeing what I wanted to see. I smiled back; her breathing caught with a low gasp and she looked quickly away. That made it worse. I didn't know her thoughts, but I was suddenly positive that I had been right before, and that she wanted me to touch her. She felt this dangerous desire just as I did. Between her body and mine, the electricity hummed. Bella blushed, still not sure what this all meant, but had a good idea. She was also wondering what would happen if he did touch her. She didn't move all through the hour, holding her stiff, controlled pose as I held mine. Occasionally she would peek at me again, and the humming current would jolt through me with a sudden shock. â€Å"Um†¦ stop looking at him,† Jacob said. â€Å"I doubt I can help it,† Bella said. â€Å"Besides, he's looking at me nonstop†¦ I should be allowed to look too.† The hour passedslowly, and yet not slowly enough. This was so new, I could have sat like this with her for days, just to experience the feeling fully. â€Å"So the electricity was pleasant,† Jacob said. â€Å"Apparently,† Bella said evenly, but she was still blushing. I had a dozen different arguments with myself while the minutes passed, rationality struggling with desire as I tried to justify touching her. Finally, Mr. Banner turned the lights on again. In the bright fluorescent light, the atmosphere of the room returned to normal. Bella sighed and stretched, flexing her fingers in front of her. It must have been uncomfortable for her to hold that position for so long. It was easier for mestillness came naturally. â€Å"So now you're trying to mimic the vampires,† Jacob said shaking his head, trying to laugh. â€Å"Well, they are the coolest thing around,† Bella smiled when he made a face at that. I chuckled at the relieved expression on her face. â€Å"Well, that was interesting.† â€Å"Umm,† she murmured, clearly understanding what I referred to, but making no comment. What I wouldn't give to hear what she was thinking right now. â€Å"I would like to know that too,† Bella said. â€Å"I wouldn't have guessed that by your smug expression,† Jacob chuckled. I sighed. No amount of wishing was going to help with that. Both Bella and Jacob were chuckling at that. â€Å"Shall we?† I asked, standing. She made a face and got unsteadily to her feet, her hands splayed out as if she were afraid she was going to fall. I could offer her my hand. Or I could place that hand underneath her elbowjust lightlyand steady her. Surely that wouldn't be such a horrible infraction No mistakes. â€Å"How would that be a mistake?† Bella questioned. â€Å"Even with hearing his thoughts, I can't really understand most of his thinking,† Jacob shrugged. â€Å"Though it's clear that he's afraid of touching you.† She was very quiet as we walked toward the gym. The crease was in evidence between her eyes, a sign that she was deep in thought. I, too, was thinking deeply. One touch of her skin wouldn't hurt her, my selfish side contended. I could easily moderate the pressure of my hand. It wasn't exactly difficult, as long as I was firmly in control of myself. My tactile sense was better developed than a human's; I could juggle a dozen crystal goblets without breaking any of them; I could stroke a soap bubble without popping it. As long as I was firmly in control â€Å"And you're always in control, so it will be fine,† Bella said. â€Å"He's not always in control†¦ we've seen him out of control,† Jacob said anxiously. Bella just frowned at that and Jacob read on. Bella was like a soap bubblefragile and ephemeral. Temporary. How long would I be able to justify my presence in her life? How much time did I have? Would I have another chance like this chance, like this moment, like this second? She would not always be within my arm's reach Bella turned to face me at the gym's door, and her eyes widened at the expression on my face. She didn't speak. I looked at myself in the reflection of her eyes and saw the conflict raging in my own. I watched my face change as my better side lost the argument. â€Å"Who's to say what the better said is, Edward?† Bella mumbled to herself but Jacob heard. My hand lifted without a conscious command for it to do so. As gently as if she were made of the thinnest glass, as if she were fragile as a bubble, my fingers stroked the warm skin that covered her cheekbone. It heated under my touch, and I could feel the pulse of blood speed beneath her transparent skin. Enough, I ordered, though my hand was aching to shape itself to the side of her face. Enough. â€Å"He doesn't sound too controlled now,† Jacob muttered. â€Å"He's touch is gentle†¦ it's not hurting me,† Bella said. â€Å"But his mind doesn't seem to have control over his actions,† Jacob countered. â€Å"His instincts do.† â€Å"And what instinct is he following now?† Bella raised her eyebrows. â€Å"It's not to hurt me.† â€Å"Right,† Jacob mumbled, â€Å"but there still is an instinct in him that wants to hurt you†¦ don't forget that.† â€Å"I won't,† Bella sighed. â€Å"But that isn't the only instinct he has towards me now.† It was difficult to pull my hand back, to stop myself from moving closer to her than I already was. A thousand different possibilities ran through my mind in an instanta thousand different ways to touch her. The tip of my finger tracing the shape of her lips. My palm cupping under her chin. Pulling the clip from her hair and letting it spill out across my hand. My arms winding around her waist, holding her against the length of my body. Enough. I forced myself to turn, to move away from her. My body moved stiffly unwilling. I let my mind linger behind to watch her as I walked swiftly away, almost running from the temptation. I caught Mike Newton's thoughtsthey were the loudestwhile he watched Bella walk past him in oblivion, her eyes unfocused and her cheeks red. He glowered and suddenly my name was mingled with curses in his head; I couldn't help grinning slightly in response. â€Å"Too bad Mikey,† Jacob said, trying to chuckle again. My hand was tingling. I flexed it and then curled it into a fist, but it continued to sting painlessly. No, I hadn't hurt herbut touching her had still been a mistake. It felt like firelike the thirsting burn of my throat had spread throughout my entire body. The next time I was close to her, would I be able to stop myself from touching her again? And if I touched her once, would I be able to stop at that? â€Å"Yes,† Bella answered, there was no doubt in her, though Jacob wasn't totally convinced. No more mistakes. That was it. Savor the memory, Edward, I told myself grimly, and keep your hands to yourself. That, or I would have to force myself to leavesomehow. Because I couldn't allow myself near her if I insisted on making errors. I took a deep breath and tried to steady my thoughts. Emmett caught up to me outside the English building. â€Å"Hey, Edward.† He's looking better. Weird, but better. Happy. â€Å"Ah†¦ and him being happy is weird,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"Hey, Em.† Did I look happy? I supposed, despite the chaos in my head, I felt that way. Way to keep your mouth shut, kid. Rosalie wants to rip your tongue out. â€Å"I like to see her try†¦ and then get beaten down,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"That's not very nice,† Bella glared at him and he shrugged. I sighed. â€Å"Sorry I left you to deal with that. Are you angry with me?† â€Å"Naw. Rose'll get over it. It was bound to happen anyway.† With what Alice sees coming â€Å"Don't mention that,† Jacob flinched. Alice's visions were not what I wanted to think about right now. I stared forward, my teeth locking together. As I searched for a distraction, I caught sight of Ben Cheney entering the Spanish room ahead of us. Ahhere was my chance to give Angela Weber her gift. â€Å"Ben Cheney,† Bella mumbled and got out her year book to look at him. He was cute enough, though not her type at all. Still she studied the picture, if Angela and Ben liked each other she wanted them to be together in this reality, too. She thought that things might be different now that she knew what Edward was thinking about her, so she might have to be the one to help Ben and Angela out†¦ argh†¦ that wasn't really her strong point. Oh well, it will have to happen someway. I stopped walking and caught Emmett's arm. â€Å"Hold on a second.† What's up? â€Å"I know I don't deserve it, but would you do me a favor anyway?† â€Å"What is it?† he asked, curious. Under my breathand at a speed that would have made the words incomprehensible to a human no matter how loud they'd been spokenI explained to him what I wanted. He stared at me blankly when I was done, his thoughts as blank as his face. â€Å"That sound interesting,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"So?† I prompted. â€Å"Will you help me do it?† It took him a minute to respond. â€Å"But, why?† â€Å"C'mon, Emmett. Why not?† Who are you and what have you done with my brother? Bella and Jacob both chuckled at this. â€Å"Aren't you the one who complains that school is always the same? This is something a little different, isn't it? Consider it an experimentan experiment in human nature.† He stared at me for another moment before he caved. â€Å"Well, it is different, I'll give you that Okay, fine.† Emmett snorted and then shrugged. â€Å"I'll help you.† I grinned at him, feeling more enthusiastic about my plan now that he was on board. Rosalie was a pain, but I would always owe her one for choosing Emmett; no one had a better brother than mine. â€Å"Aw,† Jacob said in teasing voice but Bella smiled at what Edward had just said. Emmett didn't need to practice. I whispered his lines to him once under my breath as we walked into the classroom. Ben was already in his seat behind mine, assembling his homework to hand in. Emmett and I both sat and did the same thing. The classroom was not quiet yet; the murmur of subdued conversation would continue until Mrs. Goff called for attention. She was in no hurry, appraising the quizzes from the last class. â€Å"So,† Emmett said, his voice louder than necessaryif he were really speaking only to me. â€Å"Did you ask Angela Weber out yet?† â€Å"Oh†¦ I get it,† Jacob said laughing. â€Å"This should work.† The sound of papers rustling behind me came to an abrupt stop as Ben froze, his attention suddenly riveted on our conversation. Angela? They're talking about Angela? â€Å"Hm†¦ it definitely makes it easy that Edward knows what he's thinking,† Bella muttered. Good. I had his interest. â€Å"No,† I said, shaking my head slowly to appear regretful. â€Å"Why not?† Emmett improvised. â€Å"Are you chicken?† I grimaced at him. â€Å"No. I heard that she was interested in someone else.† Edward Cullen was going to ask Angela out? But No. I don't like that. I don't want him near her. He'snot right for her. Notsafe. â€Å"You got that right,† Jacob chuckled and Bella glared at him. â€Å"What? You want him to go out with Angela?† â€Å"Don't be ridiculous,† Bella rolled her eyes and Jacob laughed louder. I hadn't anticipated the chivalry, the protective instinct. I'd been working for jealousy. But whatever worked. â€Å"You're going to let that stop you?† Emmett asked scornfully, improvising again. Jacob laughed even more at that. â€Å"Not up for the competition?† I glared at him, but made use of what he gave me. â€Å"Look, I guess she really likes this Ben person. I'm not going to try to convince her otherwise. There are other girls.† The reaction in the chair behind me was electric. â€Å"Who?† Emmett asked, back to the script. â€Å"My lab partner said it was some kid named Cheney. I'm not sure I know who he is.† â€Å"That's rude†¦ the guy's right behind you,† Jacob muttered. â€Å"Um†¦ Jake, that's the point,† Bella said. â€Å"I know,† Jacob rolled his eyes. â€Å"I'm just saying it makes him sound like a stuck up†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Whatever,† Bella rolled her eyes. I bit back my smile. Only the haughty Cullens could get away with pretending not to know every student at this tiny school. Ben's head was whirling with shock. Me? Over Edward Cullen? But why would she like me? â€Å"Edward,† Emmett muttered in a lower tone, rolling his eyes toward the boy. â€Å"He's right behind you,† he mouthed, so obviously that the human could easily read the words. â€Å"Oh,† I muttered back. Jacob and Bella were laughing at this again. I turned in my seat and glanced once at the boy behind me. For a second, the black eyes behind the glasses were frightened, but then he stiffened and squared his narrow shoulders, affronted by my clearly disparaging evaluation. His chin shot out and an angry flush darkened his golden-brown skin. â€Å"Huh,† I said arrogantly as I turned back to Emmett. He thinks he's better than me. But Angela doesn't. I'll show him â€Å"Well, there's that problem solved,† Jacob chuckled. Perfect. â€Å"Didn't you say she was taking Yorkie to the dance, though?† Emmett asked, snorting as he said the name of the boy that many scorned for his awkwardness. â€Å"That was a group decision apparently.† I wanted to be sure that Ben was clear on this. â€Å"Angela's shy. If Bwell, if a guy doesn't have the nerve to ask her out, she'd never ask him.† â€Å"You like shy girls,† Emmett said, back to improvisation. Quiet girls. Girls likehmm, I don't know. Maybe Bella Swan? Jacob laughed at this line of teasing as Bella blushed. I grinned at him. â€Å"Exactly.† Then I returned to the performance. â€Å"Maybe Angela will get tired of waiting. Maybe I'll ask her to the prom.† No, you won't, Ben thought, straightening up in his chair. So what if she's so much taller than me? â€Å"Oh†¦ it's because he's short†¦ poor guy,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"I suppose that's not a problem you have to deal with,† Bella said, Jacob seemed pretty tall for his age. â€Å"Not at all,† Jacob said. â€Å"I think I might even have grown an inch since yesterday.† â€Å"Sure you did, Jake,† Bella rolled her eyes. If she doesn't care, then neither do I. She's the nicest, smartest, prettiest girl in this school and she wants me. I liked this Ben. He seemed bright and well-meaning. Maybe even worthy of a girl like Angela. â€Å"Well, it looks like there're three humans that he might think highly of,† Jacob chuckled. I gave Emmett a thumbs up under the desk as Mrs. Goff stood and greeted the class. Okay, I'll admit itthat was sort of fun, Emmett thought. I smiled to myself, pleased that I'd been able to shape one love story's happy ending. I was positive that Ben would follow through, and Angela would receive my anonymous gift. My debt was repaid. How silly humans were, to let a six inch height differential confound their happiness. â€Å"That is a pretty big difference,† Jacob said. â€Å"That guy must be a midget.† â€Å"Jake!† Bella reprimanded him. â€Å"Sorry,† Jacob sighed. My success put me in a good mood. I smiled again as I settled into my chair and prepared to be entertained. After all, as Bella had pointed out at lunch, I'd never seen her in action in her gym class before. â€Å"No,† Bella groaned and Jacob laughed in anticipation. Mike's thoughts were the easiest to pinpoint in the babble of voices that swarmed through the gym. His mind had gotten far too familiar over the last few weeks. With a sigh, I resigned myself to listening through him. At least I could be sure that he would be paying attention to Bella. I was just in time to hear him offer to be her badminton partner; as he made the suggestion, other partnerings ran through his mind. My smile faded, my teeth clenched together, and I had to remind myself that murdering Mike Newton was not a permissible option. â€Å"Hm†¦ I'm not so sure about that,† Jacob laughed. â€Å"It's not,† Bella said firmly. â€Å"Thanks, Mikeyou don't have to do this, you know.† â€Å"Don't worry, I'll keep out of your way.† They grinned at each other, and flashes of numerous accidentsalways in some way connected to Bellaflashed through Mike's head. Jacob started chuckling and Bella groaned. Mike played alone at first, while Bella hesitated on the back half of the court, holding her racket gingerly, as if it was some kind of weapon. Then Coach Clapp ambled by and ordered Mike to let Bella play. â€Å"Why?† Bella moaned, didn't the coach understand yet? Uh oh, Mike thought as Bella moved forward with a sigh, holding her racquet at an awkward angle. Jennifer Ford served the birdie directly toward Bella with a smug twist to her thoughts. Mike saw Bella lurch toward it, swinging the racket yards wide of her target, and he rushed in to try to save the volley. I watched the trajectory of Bella's racquet with alarm. Sure enough, it hit the taut net and sprung back at her, clipping her forehead before it spun out to strike Mike's arm with a resounding thwack. Jacob was howling with laughed and Bella turned bright red and held her head in her hands. That was a new all time low for her. â€Å"You really are awful,† Jacob choked out some time later. â€Å"Yeah, yeah, now can you continue reading,† Bella tried to sound as if this wasn't bothering her, but she was still red and her voice was too weak to pull that off. Ow. Ow. Ungh. That's going to leave a bruise. â€Å"Good,† Jacob said, his dying laughter starting again. Bella was kneading her forehead. It was hard to stay in my seat where I belonged, knowing she was hurt. But what could I do, if I were there? And it didn't seem to be serious I hesitated, watching. If she intended to continue to try to play, I was going to have to manufacture an excuse to pull her out of class. â€Å"Overreaction,† Bella rolled her eyes. The coach laughed. â€Å"Sorry, Newton.† That girl's the worst jinx I've ever seen. Shouldn't inflict her on the others More laughter for Jacob, but Bella was pleased that the coach seemed to get it better now. He turned his back deliberately and moved to watch another game so that Bella could return to her former spectator's role. Ow, Mike thought again, massaging his arm. He turned to Bella. â€Å"Are you okay?† â€Å"Yeah, are you?† she asked sheepishly, blushing. â€Å"I think I'll make it.† Don't want to sound like a crybaby. But, man, that hurts! â€Å"Crybaby,† Jacob laughed. Mike swung his arm in a circle, wincing. â€Å"I'll just stay back here,† Bella said, embarrassment and chagrin on her face rather than pain. Maybe Mike had got the worst of it. I certainly hoped that was the case. At least she wasn't playing anymore. She held her racquet so carefully behind her back, her eyes wide with remorse I had to disguise my laugh as coughing. What's funny? Emmett wanted to know. â€Å"You know†¦ if you were in Emmett's Gym class, I bet he would have liked you from the first day,† Jacob teased. â€Å"Shut up,† Bella hissed at him. â€Å"Tell you later,† I muttered. Bella didn't venture into the game again. The coach ignored her and let Mike play alone. I breezed through the quiz at the end of the hour, and Mrs. Goff let me go early. I was listening intently to Mike as I walked across the campus. He'd decided to confront Bella about me. Jessica swears they're dating. Why? Why did he have to pick her? He didn't recognize the real phenomenonthat she'd picked me. â€Å"Don't go overboard with that,† Bella rolled her eyes, it was more of a phenomenon that he had picked her after a hundred years after all. â€Å"So.† â€Å"So what?† she wondered. â€Å"You and Cullen, huh?† You and the freak. I guess, if a rich guy is that important to you†¦ Bella was glaring at the book, she didn't like this assumption at all, but what was really getting to her was how very wrong Mike was†¦ Edward was so much more than just a rich guy. I gritted my teeth at his degrading assumption. â€Å"That's none of your business, Mike.† Defensive. So it's true. Crap. â€Å"I don't like it.† â€Å"You don't have to,† she snapped. Why can't she see what a circus sideshow he is? Like they all are. Bella was glaring more at the book than before, not liking his way of thinking at all. The way he stares at her. It gives me chills to watch. â€Å"He looks at you likelike you're something to eat.† Bella and Jacob both tensed a little at that†¦ it wasn't good that Mike was able to notice that. I cringed, waiting for her response. Her face turned bright red, and her lips pressed together like she was holding her breath. Then, suddenly, a giggle burst through her lips. â€Å"You laughed?† Jacob looked at her incredulously. â€Å"Um†¦ the irony of that must have gotten to me,† Bella said. â€Å"I'm sure it was a nervous laugh if that makes you feel any better.† â€Å"It doesn't,† Jacob said and then started reading again. Now she's laughing at me. Great. Mike turned, thoughts sullen, and wandered off to change. I leaned against the gym wall and tried to compose myself. How could she have laughed at Mike's accusationso entirely on target that I began to worry that Forks was becoming too aware Why would she laugh at the suggestion that I could kill her, when she knew that it was entirely true? Where was the humor in that? What was wrong with her? â€Å"Nothing's wrong with me,† Bella huffed. â€Å"I beg to differ,† Jacob chuckled, though he was giving her an odd look, too. Did she have morbid sense of humor? That didn't fit with my idea of her character, but how could I be sure? Or maybe my daydream of the giddy angel was true in the one respect, in that she had no sense of fear at all. Bravethat was one word for it. â€Å"I'm not brave,† Bella mumbled. Others might say stupid, â€Å"So I guess you're stupid then,† Jacob chuckled and Bella glared at him. but I knew how bright she was. No matter what the reason, though, this lack of fear or twisted sense of humor wasn't good for her. Was it this strange lack that put her in danger so constantly? Maybe she would always need me here Just like that, my mood was soaring. If I could just discipline myself, make myself safe, then perhaps it would be right for me to stay with her. When she walked through the gym doors, her shoulders were stiff and her lower lip was between her teeth againa sign of anxiety. But as soon as her eyes met mine, her rigid shoulders relaxed and a wide smile spread across her face. It was an oddly peaceful expression. She walked right to my side without hesitation, only stopping when she was so close that her body heat crashed over me like a tidal wave. â€Å"Hi,† she whispered. The happiness I felt in this moment was, again, without precedent. â€Å"Hello,† I said, and thenbecause with my mood suddenly so light I couldn't resist teasing herI added, â€Å"How was gym?† â€Å"Argh†¦ did he have to mention that?† Bella groaned. â€Å"Yep,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"Besides, isn't it better that you know he's watching you†¦ not as creepy that way at least.† â€Å"Whatever,† Bella shrugged. Her smile wavered. â€Å"Fine.† She was a poor liar. â€Å"True,† Jacob and Bella both said. â€Å"Really?† I asked, about to press the issueI was still concerned about her head; was she in painbut then Mike Newton's thoughts we so loud they broke my concentration. I hate him. I wish he would die. I hope he drives that shiny car right off a cliff. Why couldn't he just leave her alone? Stick to his own kindto the freaks. â€Å"What does he mean, his own kind?† Jacob asked. â€Å"He doesn't know that Edward is a vampire.† â€Å"I suppose he means rich?† Bella said slowly, not sure of the answer herself. â€Å"That or he instinctively knows that Edward is different.† â€Å"What?† Bella demanded. My eyes refocused on her face. She looked at Mike's retreating back, and then at me again. â€Å"Newton's getting on my nerves,† I admitted. Her mouth fell open, and her smile disappeared. She must have forgotten that I'd had the power to watch through her calamitous last hour, or hoped that I hadn't utilized it. â€Å"More likely the latter,† Bella said, after all he had demonstrated that gift quite well during their last few encounters. â€Å"You weren't listening again?† â€Å"How's your head?† â€Å"You're unbelievable!† she said through her teeth, and then she turned away from me and stalked furiously toward the parking lot. Her skin flushed dark redshe was embarrassed. â€Å"You got that right,† Jacob said. â€Å"Well, no one asked him to watch me in Gym,† Bella grumbled, her clumsiness was always a sore spot for her. I kept pace with her, hoping that her anger would pass soon. She was usually quick to forgive me. â€Å"You were the one who mentioned how I'd never seen you in Gym,† I explained. â€Å"It made me curious.† She didn't answer; her eyebrows pulled together. She came to a sudden halt in the parking lot when she realized that the way to my car was blocked by a crowd of male students. I wonder how fast they've gone in this thing Look at the SMG shift paddles. I've never seen those outside of a magazine Nice side grills Sure wish I had sixty thousand dollars laying around â€Å"Um†¦ Jacob do you want me to leave,† Bella chuckled as Jacob was practically drooling at the description of the car. â€Å"No, but I want you to get me into the Cullen garage sometime in the future,† Jacob said. â€Å"You do realize that's Rosalie's car†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Bella said smirking. â€Å"Argh,† Jacob groaned. â€Å"Why did you have to remind me of that?† This was exactly why it was better for Rosalie to only use her car out of town. I wound through the throng of lustful boys to my car; after a second of hesitation, Bella followed suit. â€Å"Ostentatious,† I muttered as she climbed in. â€Å"What kind of car is that?† she wondered. â€Å"An M3.† She frowned. â€Å"I don't speak Car and Driver.† â€Å"Come on, Bella!† Jacob groaned. â€Å"You should know that at least.† â€Å"Sorry,† Bella shrugged, chuckling at his behavior. â€Å"It's a BMW.† I rolled my eyes and then focused on backing out without running anyone down. I had to lock eyes with a few boys that didn't seem willing to move out of my way. A half-second meeting my gaze seemed to be enough to convince them. â€Å"Is that car really that special?† Bella rolled her eyes. Jacob just stared at her incredulously. â€Å"I guess it is,† Bella mumbled. â€Å"Are you still angry?† I asked her. Her frown had relaxed. â€Å"Definitely,† she answered curtly. I sighed. Maybe I shouldn't have brought it up. Oh well. I could try to make amends, I supposed. â€Å"Will you forgive me if I apologize?† She thought about that for a moment. â€Å"Maybeif you mean it,† she decided. â€Å"And if you promise not to do it again.† â€Å"Don't hold your breath,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"I know†¦ that's never going to happen,† Bella chuckled too. I wasn't going to lie to her, and there was no way I was agreeing to that. Perhaps if I offered her a different exchange. â€Å"How about if I mean it, and I agree to let you drive this Saturday?† I cringed internally at the thought. â€Å"Oh†¦ that works,† Bella said. The furrow popped into existence between her eyes as she considered the new bargain. â€Å"Deal,† she said after a moment of thought. Now for my apology I'd never tried to dazzle Bella on purpose before, but now seemed like a good time. â€Å"Oh great,† Bella mumbled, blushing already. The thought of him actually trying to dazzle her was too much for her. I stared deep into her eyes as I drove away from the school, wondering if I was doing it right. I used my most persuasive tone. â€Å"Then I'm very sorry I upset you.† Her heartbeat thudded louder than before, and the rhythm was abruptly staccato. Her eyes widened, looking a little stunned. I half-smiled. It seemed like I'd gotten it right. Of course, I was having a bit of difficulty looking away from her eyes, too. Equally dazzled. It was a good thing I had this road memorized. â€Å"What?† Bella said, snapping out of her daze†¦ she liked thinking of them both being dazzled by each other†¦ but still, â€Å"He's not even looking at the road!† â€Å"But he has it memorized†¦ that's just as good,† Jacob laughed at her expression. â€Å"That is not good at all!† Bella snapped, note to self, no dazzling in the car†¦ um†¦ while it's moving at least. â€Å"And I'll be on your doorstep bright and early Saturday morning,† I added, finishing the agreement. She blinked swiftly, shaking her head as if to clear it. â€Å"Um,† she said, â€Å"it doesn't help with the Charlie situation if an unexplained Volvo is left in the driveway.† â€Å"He's not going to take his car,† Bella said, how little she understood him in this book. Ah, how little she still knew me. â€Å"I wasn't intending to bring a car.† Bella blinked at that and then smiled, it was nice knowing they could think alike. â€Å"How† she started to ask. I interrupted her. The answer would be hard to explain without a demonstration, and now was hardly the time. â€Å"Don't worry about it. I'll be there, no car.† She put her head on one side, and looked for a second like she was going to press for more, but then she seemed to change her mind. â€Å"Is it later yet?† she asked, reminding me of our unfinished conversation in the cafeteria today; she'd let go of one difficult question just to return another that was more unappealing. â€Å"Yeah, isn't that nice of her,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"I suppose it is later,† I agreed unwillingly. I parked in front of her house, tensing as I tried to think of how to explainwithout making my monstrous nature too evident, without frightening her again. Or was that wrong? To minimalize my darkness? She waited with the same politely interested mask she'd worn at lunch. If I'd been less anxious, her preposterous calm would have made me laugh. â€Å"And you still want to know why you can't see me hunt?† I asked. â€Å"Well, mostly I was wondering about your reaction,† she said. â€Å"Did I frighten you?† I asked, positive that she would deny it. â€Å"No.† I tried not to smile, and failed. â€Å"I apologize for scaring you.† And then my smile vanished with the momentary humor. â€Å"It was just the very thought of you being therewhile we hunted.† Jacob shivered at that. â€Å"That would be bad?† The mental picture was too muchBella, so vulnerable in the empty darkness; myself, out of control I tried to banish it from my head. â€Å"Well, you don't have to send it our way,† Jacob snapped. â€Å"Extremely.† â€Å"Because† I took a deep breath, concentrating for one moment on the burning thirst. Feeling it, managing it, proving my dominion over it. It would never control me againI willed that to be true. I would be safe for her. I stared at the welcome clouds without seeing them, wishing I could believe that my determination would make any difference if I were hunting when I crossed her scent. â€Å"When we huntwe give ourselves over to our senses,† I told her, thinking through each word before I spoke it. â€Å"Govern less with our minds. Especially our sense of smell. If you were anywhere near me when I lost control that way† Jacob and Bella both shivered at that. No, she could definitely never see him hunt. I shook my head in agony at the thought of what wouldnot what could, but what wouldsurely happen then. I listened to the spike in her heartbeat, and then turned, restless, to read her eyes. Bella's face was composed, her eyes grave. Her mouth was pursed just slightly in what I guessed was concern. But concern for what? Her own safety? Or my anguish? I continued to stare at her, trying to translate her ambiguous expression into sure fact. â€Å"Your anguish, I'm sure,† Jacob mumbled. â€Å"She puts others before herself.† â€Å"You don't have to make it sound like a bad thing,† Bella sighed. She gazed back. Her eyes grew wider after a moment, and her pupils dilated, though the light had not changed. My breathing accelerated, and suddenly the quiet in the car seemed to be humming, just like in the darkened biology room this afternoon. The pulsing current raced between us again, and my desire to touch her was, briefly, stronger even than the demands of my thirst. â€Å"Um†¦ this really is pretty freaky,† Jacob muttered and Bella rolled her eyes, curious to know what this really meant. The throbbing electricity made it feel like I had a pulse again. My body sang with it. Like I was human. More than anything in the world, I wanted to feel the heat of her lips against mine. For one second, I struggled desperately to find the strength, the control, to able to put my mouth so close to her skin Bella froze in place†¦ waiting in anticipation†¦ heart hammering. Jacob shifted uncomfortably and was wary about how dangerous that would be. She sucked in a ragged breath, and only then did I realize that when I had started breathing faster, she had stopped breathing altogether. I closed my eyes, trying to break the connection between us. No more mistakes. Bella sighed sadly. Bella's existence was tied to a thousand delicately balanced chemical processes, all so easily disrupted. The rhythmic expansion of her lungs, the flow of oxygen, was life or death to her. The fluttering cadence of her fragile heart could be stopped by so many stupid accidents or illnesses orby me. I did not believe that any member of my family would hesitate if he or she were offered a chance backif he or she could trade immortality for mortality again. Any one of us would stand in fire for it. Burn for as many days or centuries as were necessary. â€Å"But you can't go back,† Bella said sadly, which meant that if they were ever going to be equal she would have to change†¦ Most of our kind prized immortality above anything else. There were even humans who craved this, who searched in dark places for those who could give them the blackest of gifts Not us. Not my family. We would trade anything to be human. â€Å"Right,† Jacob said, and he believed what Edward was saying, it really did explain why they did what they did. But none of us had ever been as desperate for a way back as I was now. I stared at the microscopic pits and flaws in the windshield, like there was some solution hidden in the glass. The electricity had not faded, and I had to concentrate to keep my hands on the wheel. My right hand began to sting without pain again, from when I'd touched her before. â€Å"Bella, I think you should go inside now.† She obeyed at once, without comment, getting out of the car and shutting the door behind herself. Did she feel the potential for disaster as clearly as I did? â€Å"Um†¦ I'm sure I felt the electricity†¦ and noticed that you don't want to touch me,† Bella sighed, â€Å"I'm probably just following your lead.† Did it hurt her to leave, as it hurt me to let her go? The only solace was that I would see her soon. Sooner than she would see me. I smiled at that, then rolled the window down and leaned across to speak to her one more timeit was safer now, with the heat of her body outside the car. She turned to see what I wanted, curious. Still curious, though she'd asked me so many questions today. â€Å"Oh there're so many more questions I have for you,† Bella said. My own curiosity was entirely unsatisfied; answering her questions today had only revealed my secrets â€Å"It looks like he's thinking the same thing,† Jacob chuckled. I'd gotten little from her but my own conjectures. That wasn't fair. â€Å"Oh, Bella?† â€Å"Yes?† â€Å"Tomorrow it's my turn.† Her forehead puckered. â€Å"Your turn to what?† â€Å"Ask the questions.† Tomorrow, when we were in a safer place, surrounded by witnesses, I would get my own answers. I grinned at the thought, and then I turned away because she made no move to leave. Even with her outside of the car, the echo of the electricity zinged in the air. I wanted to get out, too, to walk her to her door as an excuse to stay beside her No more mistakes. I hit the gas, and then sighed as she disappeared behind me. It seemed like I was always running toward Bella or running away from her, never staying in place. I would have to find some way to hold my ground if we were ever going to have any peace. â€Å"Well, that's most definitely true,† Bella said. â€Å"I wonder what he's going to ask me.† â€Å"Well, it looks like you're going to have to wait a long time to figure out,† Jacob said putting the book down. â€Å"Why?† Bella said looking at the clock, it was nine. â€Å"We still have some time.† â€Å"That's not why,† Jacob chuckled. â€Å"It's because that was the end of the book.† â€Å"What?† Bella said. â€Å"That can't be the end†¦ there so much more†¦ I don't know what happens!† â€Å"Sorry, Bells, that's it,† Jacob shrugged. â€Å"Is there at note or anything like that?† Bella asked, picking up the book and noticing a small note and read: I'm sorry that this was all that I could give you, but this was all I could write before you got to school. But there is no need to worry; your story goes on for a long time after this. Bella frowned as she read this, how could this person end the book here but promise that there is a lot more for her to find out? â€Å"Who is this SM person?† â€Å"Um†¦ I'm not sure, but it's the person that left me the note in the first place,† Jacob said. â€Å"Yeah, I figured,† Bella rolled her eyes. â€Å"So†¦ um†¦ what do we do now?† Jacob asked. â€Å"I'm not sure,† Bella said. â€Å"But you're planning on meeting this Edward guy for real, aren't you,† Jacob said. â€Å"Of course,† Bella looked at him suspiciously. He had promised at one time that he wouldn't let that happen. She hoped he had changed his mind because there was no way she would allow that. â€Å"And how do you plan on meeting him at first?† Jacob questioned. â€Å"Um†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Bella said, she didn't think of that but he was right†¦ the first meeting really was something that she had to think about†¦ Edward was, after all going to be deathly attracted to her. â€Å"I suppose we'll just have to think of something.†