Altar Is a Sign of Religious People Essay

Filipinos have forever been said to be religious people – in fact, too religious, if one might say. It is one characteristic of Filipinos that describes their identity. Try entering houses of Filipinos you know, you would notice there would always be a special place for their altars. They always reserve a certain part in their houses not always necessarily as a â€Å"place of worship† but sometimes just for the traditional way of being religious. Altars are first introduced in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial times. They mostly consist of saints in different carvings, either with the use of wood or ivory. Eventually, having an altar inside the house grew as a Filipino tradition that until now is observed. In an altar, the primary attraction is either the figure of Jesus or the Virgin Mary, perfectly crafted and painted. When the figure does not include carved garments, rich ornate robes of satin were fashioned. Beads of gold and silver accentuate their clothing. Altars in different homes may vary depending on their size, location or adornments. There are altars exaggeratedly huge and elegant, adorned with different statues of angels and saints in a rock formation backdrop. Sometimes, altars and gardens are combined as one, producing a beautiful scenery. These kind are those seen outside their houses, located in their backyard. Such altar may contain of a small pond surrounded by flowers of different colors and plants of different sizes with the statue of the Virgin Mary centered inside. There are also the simple and ordinary altars inside their houses. It is usually easily seen upon entrance inside a house of a Filipino. The reason for this is because when they enter and leave the house, they touch or kiss the forehead of the figure. Mostly, the important components of such altars are candles, rosary, the Bible, a crucifix and of course, the figure of the Virgin Mary and/or Jesus. Ornamentation are only added optionally. Plastic plants/flowers may be used or sometimes the better, fresh flowers. Specifically, Filipinos most often prefer sampaguita. Aside from the fact that it has a unique sweet smell, it is cheap. Sampaguitas are hung like a lei on the body of the figure. Not only are altars found in a Filipino’s home. Even schools hear in our country have small altars located inside their classrooms. Most commonly, they are located on one corner of the classroom. Usually, a small table covered in clean white cloth serves as the base of the altar. The usual things are placed on top of the table, only that they are in a much smaller version. Pictures of the Holy Family are also sometimes posted on the wall. Altars symbolize the devotion of the Filipinos to their Catholic religion. It had been an important part of their tradition. Hopefully, as years go by, they may not be forgotten.

The influence of Fast food on life-span in Japan Research Paper

The influence of Fast food on life-span in Japan - Research Paper Example The above issues are analyzed in current paper; effort has been made in order to present the various aspects of the relationship between the long life span of Japanese and their eating behavior especially regarding their trend to avoid fast food. At the next level, the potential use of the specific eating behavior on the life-span of other populations worldwide is evaluated, aiming to answer the following question: would the avoidance of fast food – as an eating behavior adopted by Japanese – could help people worldwide to increase their life span – as this trend has contributed in the long life-span of Japanese? In order to understand the potential relationship between the avoidance of fast food and the long life span as observed in Japan, it would be necessary to present the common effects of fast food of health – as highlighted in the literature focusing on the specific subject. Then the trends of Japanese regarding fast food will be identified and evaluated showing the potential relationship of the specific eating behavior and the long life span. In this way, it will be possible to understand the potential value of the avoidance of fast food for health, a practice that could be suggested to people with different social and cultural characteristics who are likely to eat fast food, especially as a result of their style of life. The term ‘fast food’ is used in order to indicate food of the following characteristics: ‘a) either the food which can be prepared and served quickly or b) the food designed for ready availability, use or consumption’ (Merriam Webster, 2011). Fast food has a series of advantages, which is the reason for the expansion of this type of food in countries worldwide; at a first level, the access to the particular type of food is easy – referring to the fact that the number of restaurants providing the specific type of food is extremely high. Moreover, the cost of fast food is low, a significant advantage of this type of food; in fact, the low cost of fast food – compared to other types of food – is one of its key reasons for its popularity among people of low income – who cannot afford other types of food. Another advantage of fast food is the limited time required for its preparation; as the term itself declares, fast food can be prep ared quite quickly helping consumers to save time for their various activities. Despite its advantages, fast food has been proved to have a series of negative effects. In fact, the research over the health problems related to fast food has proved that the specific type of food can have severe health implications, leading to various health problems either in the short or the long term (Health Food Guide 2011). The most usual negative effect of fast food is the obesity; other damages that the fast food causes on health are the following ones: ‘heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension and even cancer’ (Health Food Guide 2011). Most commonly, the effects of fast food on health cannot be identified early; usually, it is after a severe problem of health, as a result of consuming fast food for a long period of time, that the dangers of the specific types of food are considered and evaluated. The specific issue can be identified in the article of Martindale (2011 ) where reference is made to the case of a ‘victim’ of fast food, a 56-year old woman who has suffered severe problems of health because of her eating practices – referring specifically to fast food. The particular woman has sued the most known fast food chains in her city – Wendy’s, McDonalds, Burger King and KFC – considering that the food served in these restaurants has been the cause for her health problems

Expository writing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Expository writing - Essay Example The book also challenges our values and the social system which labels people and does precious little to help them to rise above their tragedy of life. The author has sensitively explored the delicate but extremely important issues of drug addiction and prostitution that affect our youngsters today. Set against Australian background, this global issue is successfully exposed through this story. The opening paragraph deliberately, describes in detail the role of each of his television crew so as to maximise the impact of the subject. The empathetic attitude of various crew members adds to the seriousness of the problems that has infiltrated our society. The inclusion of women crew members has provided a sensitivity that has been able to win the confidence and trust of the affected people who have willingly talked about their circumstance that has driven them towards this. The information and the facts of the real life situation have successfully drawn the seedy atmosphere that can be found within our well organized society. The author has exposed the galleries in the busy market place that provide safe way of taking the heroin or drug or even facilitating prostitution for the addicts. The rooms behind and above the shops of the market seem to serve the dual purpose of safe haven for addicts while at the same time sex provides a quick way of earning more money for the drug. The irony of the situation is that though the gallery owner denies providing the drugs, he accepts providing the needles (for injection) and a place where they can safely take it at a price! The price goes up if the prostitution or sex is involved. The simple words used by the author to describe the scene where girls and boys come just for this purpose and then leave the place normally, jolts the reader with much more impact. ‘The rest of Australia might be shocked by what went on

Assignment 5-2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Assignment 5-2 - Essay Example Mistakes are relatively low on cost and therefore, less serious. Creative or lateral thinking is an alternative perspective on the situation; and thus the problem and solution states can be interpreted differently from how most people see it. This leads to an alternate style of responding to the problem. A novel solution can often seem more interesting, and people are likely to become involved in the process with more enthusiasm; thereby leading to a greater chance for success. Which style of information processing should be used in a given situation or is more likely to succeed should be chosen carefully by the person seeking to solve a problem they face in the workplace. In the present scenario, vertical processing and problem solving techniques were used to resolve a reoccurring problem in the office. It was noted that attendance of employees dropped drastically when there was a particular type of sporting event involving major regions or the country. During the previous sport sea son, there was a distinct drop in the productivity of the set-up. When another season was due; this history became a major concern for the manager. It was decided that a few key employees should be involved in finding a solution to the problem of reduced productivity. Upon discussion, it was found that the younger employees are more likely to want to take a day of to watch sports. After this conversation, it was decided that certain key playing days should be announced half – day working on the promise that other day’s would not be affected. Accordingly, a notice was circulated amongst the staff so that they feel motivated enough to come for the rest of the days without taking an unannounced (impromptu) holiday. On understanding the process of using lateral thinking it was believed that there could be other alternatives to the solution to this problem. First of all the assumptions made when evaluating the problem were tested. The manager found that the assumption that all productivity dropped on these target days was untrue. Only certain members of the staff were implicated in this situation. The other assumption that distraction was due to the game was also challenged, since the rest of the staff was not interested in abstaining from coming to work, or working at the same level a s any other day. If a reasonable number of staff were not planning to watch sports, they could easily continue work. But it is rather unfair to give free time only to a few employees because they want to watch a sport. Thus, a more right question needs to be asked by the manager as to what options are there so that it is a win – win situation for all. A new and alternate approach to the situation is to tune the cafeteria television to the Sports channel, and allow the employees watch the game for its said time-period. This option, though unconventional, at least keeps the employees at work, and only those who wish to see them do view the sports. Also, in the even t that another employee needs them to be around when getting a task done; this work will not stagnate due to the unavailability of the employee in question. Although any screen which can be connected to the office can be used to relay the match to the employees; it makes logical sense to select the one in the cafeteria, as the noise and cheering will not trouble other employees who may not be interested in the game. The vertical process comes most naturally to most employees, since

Strategic Management Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Strategic Management Plan - Essay Example In reference to the reports and records from leading economist, they advocate that, any strategic plan should begin with the initiatives from the stakeholders (Mintzberg, 2007, p.37). In precision, strategic management is an activity under a high level of managerial practices whose basis is goals over tactics. This means that the management team must formulate goals which will out do its competitors’ strategies. By so doing, the organization will have the capability of maintaining a sustainable share in the competitive business environment. This is an article discussing the strategic management plan of PPQ Parts. It s location is in United States and it is leading in meeting its customers demand. The company has not set strong root in reference to its international business structure. The article analyzes the firm’s strategic plans for the next 4 years so as to meet the gaps in its structure. Among the company’s, four years strategic plans are:- 1. Increasing the number employees by from 5,000 to 10,000 (the 5,000 employees work in the branches within USA). 2. Increasing of equipment for international expansion will rise by 80% 3. Increasing the company’s world market share from 5% to 9% 4. Increasing the stock price from $10 to $22 5. Increasing annual profit share from 6% to 13% (the firm’s annually average profits is6%) 6. ... one its corporate value) Other short term goals of the company are reduction in expenditures, high level of security, creativity and innovation, among others. This will act as the subsidiaries of the long term goals (Mintzberg, 2007, p.37). Environmental scanning of current conditions This is an explanation of the ongoing activities in the economy world. It encompasses different items, which in one way or the other may deter the achievement of the goals. These situations may also favor the achievement of the goal. It is the duty of management together with the other stakeholder to ensure that all stabling blocks do not affect the objectives. This will only be met by coordination and communication between different parties in the organization. In reference to the environment, there are many factors affect the process of meeting long term plans. This is because the plans work on the basis assumptions, by putting some of the parameters as constants yet they are not definite. These varia bles include changes in the economy, prevailing competition, and political stability (Chandler, 2010, p. 45). Economy PPQ is a company in the United; the national has a stable economy, thus favoring the stability of the economy. This is as a result of the government’s measures in protecting the business environment of the country. For the strategic plan to realist, the management of the company should consider the possibilities of changes the value of money. This is because, within the four years, there may be differences like those experienced in the year 2008 (global recessions resulting from changes in the price of oil). The company should be ready to offer terms that increase the rate of stock turnover. Other strategies, which are applicable to these instances, are innovation and

Religious influence on early American art Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Religious influence on early American art - Essay Example The Puritan outlook rooted in the medieval times and was deeply religious. The Puritans believed that all human actions should be directed to the main value of glory of God. On the other hand, Puritan medieval outlook combines with the new democratic feature, because Puritanism with its political ideas was close to the most daring democratic and republican theories. In most cases, Holy Bible served as an informal body of law and understanding of the rules of everyday life. In this respect, early American art being a sponge of the public ideas, absorbed the Puritanism with its religiousness. The current paper considers the influence of the religion on early American literature and fine arts. Considering the early American literature, the early writers had Holy Bible as a model. Bible was the most important source of plots, imagery, and inspiration in the conditions unsuitable even for life. Every passage of the Old and New Testament could become a subject of a sermon or a poem (works by Edward Taylor or a poem â€Å"The Day of Doom† by Michael Wigglesworth). In addition to that, every event of the daily life in New England was reinterpreted in accordance to Scriptures and was seen as a fulfilled prophecy and a confirmation of a reality of the Biblical texts. The joys of hearth and home, marital love, and the birth of children were seen as a manifestation of the Lord’s will and became a topic for New Anglican letters, diaries, poems, and reflections. A personal spiritual experience was also very important and worth literary incarnation. The spiritual experience included the moments of enlightenment or penance communication with God as well as the confrontat ion with the spirits of wickedness (Halleck, 2006). The writers of New England left behind mostly spiritual autobiographies and the diaries of the inner spiritual life (â€Å"The Spiritual Travels of Nathan Cole† (1765). Didacticism is another essential feature of the early literature of New

International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

International Business - Essay Example Japan is experiencing an intensive change as a result of its aging population and decrease in labour force. The country has faced challenge from deflation from previous years, but due to the help of government and political factors, the country is gradually gaining economic advantages at present. In this paper, major business sectors of Japan will be discussed. Socio-economic and political issues have a serious impact on the business growth, GDP growth along with economic development of the country. The growth of business has an impact on population of the country, which has been discussed in this paper as well. 2.0 Principal Business Sector of Japan Japan is one of the highly developed nations in the world. Since resources are limited in the country, companies import raw materials and process them to finished products. Fishing industry in Japan is a growing business sector because a huge amount of marine resources are available in the country (Kids Web Japan, n.d.). Manufacturing in dustries is a key sector in business of Japan. The development of manufacturing industries has been in the first rank. The country is one of the world’s leading shipbuilders. Majority of ships are exported along with large oil tanker in the world (Country Studies, 2011). Automobile business sector is one of the core industrial sectors of Japan. The country is also considered as one of the top automobile producers. Advanced technology of Japan in the design of buses, motorcycles, bicycles and high-speed trains are the major factors in the business growth of transport industry. Chemical in addition to petrochemical industry are primary business sectors. Semi-conductor business of Japan developed in size and thereby stimulating profits. Automotive products comprise of 16.9% of the entire value of manufacturing shipment of Japan and manufacturing industry comprises of 36.3% of combined shipments (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, 2010). Figure 1: Major Manufacturing Sec tor in Value Terms Source: (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, 2010). Japanese computer manufacturers (JCMs) play a leading role in the technology as well as business sector of Japan. As a core competence, JCMs have absorbed and mastered expert system technology (Feigenbaum, 1993). 3.0 Socio-Economic Issue and Political Issue Relating to Future Business Growth, GDP Growth and Economic Development Socio-economic issues of Japan have tremendous impact on the economic development of the country. The economic development of the country is facing challenges due to decrease in birth rate as well as aging population. At domestic and global level, socio-economic development can only be achieved by dealing with global warming along with environmental issues. A variety of economic activities are conducted on the assumption that environmental issues need to be properly addressed. Japan produces about 90 percent of global warming gases that originate from sources of energy. Japan has i ncorporated an approach to the issues of energy as well as global warming and they are responding to waste management issues by means of â€Å"3 Rs† (reduce, reuse and recycle). On the supply side, a point of competitiveness suitable for an advanced industrial economy is essential to achieve economic development in Japan. The government is assisting the efforts of companies to