Religious Billboards!!!

Take a look at some of the Rhetorical Religious Billboards below and the phrases that it uses to capture the "audience" attention. I wonder who would they be.

This is such a funny one! Science vs The Creation. 

Even with America being founded by our forefathers as Religious America, I don't think Atheist are Anti-American. 

Is religion a Club?

Is God Dead?

Since we have embarked on our Multi-Modal Project, I thought it is fitting to post a picture reflecting Religion. 

This is taken from Time magazine seen below and I'm quoting the reason given behind this picture from the article.  

"On Good Friday in April 1966, fifty years ago this month, Time magazine published its famously controversial cover story, “Is God Dead?” Placing that stark query in bold red lettering against an all-black background, the weekly informed readers that those “three words represent a summons to reflect on the meaning of existence.” Written by Time’s religion editor, John T. Elson, the article attempted to capture the nation’s shifting theological mood from the complacent faith of the 1950s to the metaphysical confusion of the mid-1960s."  

For more information visit: http://religionandpolitics.org/2016/04/05/is-god-dead-a-time-cover-turns-50/.

My feelings when I first saw this cover story online, was "WOW!!! That's a Bold question in a BOLD setting". My next thought was "Of course he is not", in answer to the question. This article gives a great comparison between the views of the Christian Faith and those that are Atheist. So read the article to know more! 

Trump trumping it away!!!

This video is hillarious!!! Go watch trump speaking about how rich and smart he is which i'm not sure is very smart on his presidential campaign. He also speaks about how inexpensive of a wall he is going to build at the southern border to mexico which he claims mexico is going to pay for it. I don't want to spoil it so watch the video and you would know how outrageous and funny his comments are. ENJOY!!!

2016 Brussels Bombing

It's sad to see things happen like that! Below is a summary of what went down during Brussels Bombings in Belgium. 

"On the morning of 22 March 2016, three coordinated nail bombings occurred in Belgium: two at Brussels Airport in Zaventem and one at Maalbeek metro station in Brussels. In these attacks, at least 35 victims and three suicide bombers were killed, and over 300 people were injured. Another bomb was found during a search of the airport. Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) claimed responsibility for the attacks.

The bombings were the deadliest act of terrorism in Belgium's history. The Belgian government declared three days of national mourning".

It is also noted that 3 missionaries from the France, Paris Mission were injured as they happened to be there at that time after escorting a sister missionary to the airport. According to my last companion who is still serving in the Belgium/Netherlands Mission, 2 of the missionaries have been discharged but are recovering from the shrapnel wounds received from the explosion. The 3rd missionary, a senior couple elder is still in the hospital and is in a medically induced coma. We pray for their speedy recovery as well as for those who were affected by the bombings in some way or another. 

We are not the ONLY ones that uses Social Media...

http://www.religionnews.com/2016/03/16/pope-francis-spread-message-instagram/

"Having already claimed the title of the world’s most influential leader on Twitter — with over 27 million followers across his nine accounts — Pope Francis has a new social media platform in his sights.

The Argentine pontiff will take to Instagram over the weekend, with images set to portray the main messages of his papacy. “Being close to anyone who’s suffering, for example. Tenderness, mercy and lots of joy,” said Greg Burke, a Vatican spokesman".(Rosie Scammell ) 

I thought President Monson is the most influential leader on Twitter.... OK.... I'm just kidding! I don't even use Twitter or Instagram or snap chat for that matter=P In all seriousness, this is a classic example of how impactful social media or online media have on the public sphere. No wonder our church has given greater emphasis to sharing the Gospel through Facebook or other online methods! Well... Guess I gotta post something now=D 

Politics and Drama

Seriously!!! The huge drama between Trump vs anyone else from the Republican side and Hillary vs Bernie from the Democratic side is probably History in the Making. I'm not from America.... I do have some sort of dislike on the topic of Politics.... BUT.... I can't help but be bombarded by the many arguments and information that is appearing on all forms of Media. WHICH.... surprisingly is giving me a bigger drive to know more about American Politics, specifically the debates and campaign that is going on weekly. I guess, politics for me is a dry topic, but when it is portrayed in such vivid conversations and creative ideas.... I'm really entertained!=D Well... I'm off to watch another video on the presidential debate! Go Mitt Romney!!! =P

Religious issues in Schools

Looking further into religious issues in schools and came across this video about the names of religious holidays not being included in the 2015 - 2016 school calendar.

Very interesting!

Religion in Public Schools.

I'm just doing some research to get more information on issues about religion in public school. I really want to know what the LAW is. Well, I think I found something from this website http://www.religioustolerance.org/ps_pra9.htm. This website states:

The one place where prayer is not normally permitted is in the classroom itself when a class is in session. The latter would violate the principle of church-state separation which is defined by court interpretations of the 1st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The separation principle is extended to Public Schools as an arm of the government. As interpreted by the courts, the Constitution's First Amendment requires that public school teachers, principals, and boards be religiously neutral:

• They may not promote a particular religion as being superior to any other.
• They may not promote religion in general as superior to a secular approach to life.
• They may not promote secularism in general as superior to a religious approach to life. 
• They many not be antagonistic to religion in general or a particular religious belief in particular.
• They may not be antagonistic to secularism.
• They must neither advance nor inhibit religion. 

I really like this guidelines because it clarifies what people say about religion in the classroom. As this is particularly for public schools, I agree with what is stated and it reminds me about the Articles of Faith 1:11 which states" We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may".

Please leave any comments - opinions or facts - on this post if any!=D 

Searching Google or Google Search???

Google search, how convenient it is to just get what you are looking for at the tip of your fingers. I really like it! OK, I adore it! I would even go to the extent of saying I would not be able to live without it. Wait, that sounds rather extreme and dangerous. It sounds almost as if I over-rely on it. I guess that's the disadvantages of Google search. It takes away my creativity. It is so easy to use that anyone regardless of age or experience with computers would have any trouble using it. There is also a voice recognition to google search on most mobile devices as well as computers, hence allowing those with physical disabilities to search for "anything" without typing. Such convenience is great! Some might even say it is genius, that we are living in a "new-age". Well, this very reason of convenience and easiness has however robbed us of our self reliance as well as deprive us of our ability to stretch our minds. Also, are we still able to function if google search fails and breaks down? Not that I'm hoping for that to happen but it brings the question of "are we searching google in all that we do? Or are we just merely using google search in a balanced way.

Arguments and Rhetorical devices used

The first article on Why Science can’t replace Religion provides an argument which really stems from the title, Science verses Religion. The question that comes to my mind and is also presented in the article is “Is science and Religion compatible with each other”? You could clearly see the author prove his point with the opening example of Biologist P.Z Myers when he strongly commented “Whenever we start talking about spirituality, I just want to puke”. He then provides 2 sides to his argument with the first example about the Hindu temples giving a powerful sense of mystery and transcendence which science is supposed to provide an antidote for it and the second example about what was said by Jeffrey Kluger in Time magazine about how our brains and bodies contain an awful lot of spiritual wiring where Religion is the antidote our evolutionary history created. Another method he uses to reinforce his argument is with example of Taft Blackhorse, a Navajo archaeologist. This point made was to show even though he being an archaeologist, a form of scientist in that aspect found it hard to explain stories about landscapes with just a scientific reasoning. He had a strong inclination towards his culture and religion as the author mentions “it was obvious how important they were to him”. The author re-establishes his point by linking back to an earlier phrase that said “Sometimes Science must Give Way to Religion”. I like his clever uses of examples which for me is rather persuasive.

The second Article on God, Darwin and My College Biology Class provides a similar issue to the first about how religion might conflict with the theories and explanation of evolution biology. He gives a general statement at the start when he mentions “The least controversial is to suggest that they are in fact compatible”. This gives readers a reason to think that he has a fair-minded relation to this topic which is a great move to give him credibility. He does this when he explained how Evolution and Science could go hand in hand with the phrase “God might well have used evolution by natural selection to produce his creation”. His phrase “this is undeniable” is probably his only counter-argument as he begins the next paragraph with “so far so comforting for my students implying that he is about to begin his huge rebuttal. Reading on you can clearly tell that the author cleverly proves Evolution as the basis and reasoning of our existence with the watch analogy and the example about suffering from Book of Job. This serves his argument well as people of all religion would be able to comprehend what his point is and best is to use an argument from a religious point of view and turn it against them.

The next article by Martin Luther King Jr titled “I have a dream” is clearly addressing the issue of Negros being treated unjustly. He starts off his argument well with providing a factual background on the Emancipation Proclamation and the Declaration of Independence which establishes credibility in his speech and gives an ethos rhetorical movement. His clever use of monetary terms to give readers an inferred speech as well as a visual explanation to what he says both literally and inferred shows maturity and professionalism in his speech. His phrase “Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred” shows his intention to resolve such matters in peace. He goes on by showing that he would not want to dwell on the past but would like to go forward towards progression giving him a reason to receive respect for his message. This is a great Logos rhetorical movement. He goes on to further expound on his argument with poems beginning with the same phrase “I have a dream” which really brings out much emotions to both reader and writer. A great Pathos rhetorical movement. I felt persuaded with this article as I could see his just intentions and desires throughout the article. 

The last Article about President Obama’s speech is about respecting Minority religion. Throughout his speech, he provides humor is his speeches as well as quotes for the bible. This does well for his argument to ease the tension in the room as the main audience in the room were religious leaders of different faith. By using quotes from the Bible, it gives his credibility for his speeches with many different religions being acquainted with the Bible. His uses of various stories of people from different background as well as his personal life story definitely invokes lots of emotions which is a great Pathos rhetorical movement. This use of stories and personal experience also provides the audience as well as readers a reason to listen and think as the stories and experiences he gave are strongly based on morals and ethics. 

Rhetorical Analysis Thesis Proposal.

Ronald Reagan had a great entrance into his speech when he acknowledge the audience and showed his humility by saying “I know you can’t endorse me, but I only brought that up because I want you to know that I endorse you and what you're doing”. Right at the start he gave credit to the audience which is those who are at his presidential campaign speech. He then gave a witty comment “We haven’t improved by one iota on the ten commandments but well on the 4 billion laws”, which is a great rhetorical tool to catch the audience attention. After grabbing the audience attention, he waste no time by addressing his issue on Traditional Judeo Christian value based system have on moral teaching or religion. A great issue to address as it was a very opportune timing as mentioned “perhaps their most serious challenge in our nation’s history”. This gives him credibility as his speech is serving the nation in what they need.

As for Mitt Romney, he gave a great entry to his speech by showing professionalism when gave respect to the President and his wife through acknowledging them. This does well for Mitt Romney as he gives the audience a reason to respect him. He then uses a story to grab the audience attention and give them a form of nostalgia which is a great rhetoric tool to use. Another reason that this story serves him well is that the pilot in this story was George Bush himself, the president at that time. This story about the rescued pilot gave Americans a cause to remember their belief that Americans rises to the occasion in defending the freedom of the nation as mention by Mitt Romney. Mitt Romney uses great metaphors and intelligent sentences when he mention “Freedom required religion and religion requires freedom”. It helps the audience remember and understand what message he is trying to convey.

However, Ronald Reagan took a risk when he gave the funny analogy of an atheist having dinner. This might have a back fire effect as he eliminates a group of audience – the Atheist.  

The Fault in Our Stars Introduction and Conclusion

What did the author do that was most effective?
I really like the introduction as he introduces the characters in a scenario that I could relate to and the words and thoughts that is used is something that I would say and think. The author mentions that Hazel hates going to those support group as she feels depressed during those sessions. The story continues as she finally attends a session and notices a new kid in the group that she really think is super good-looking. After exchanging multiple witty intriguing dialogues, they decide to go out on a movie which she never does. It made it really personal in a sense where I could imagine myself in the persons shoes as well as picture the situation in my head like in "real-life". The introduction states really clearly what problems the main characters have and what their feelings are towards it which catches the audience attention.

As for the conclusion, I really like how the author did not have a cliche ending like many books with the 2 "love-birds" getting what they want. Instead Augustus dies due to a deterioration of his condition leaving Hazel all alone which made it more painful as Hazel only realize later that she loved Augustus so much more. The author gives a brilliant capturing of the bitter sweet moment between them as just before Augustus is about to die he shares with her that "getting hurt in this world is inevitable, but we do get to choose who we allow to hurt us, and that he is happy with his choice." Augustus hope that she agrees with him and at the end of the novel Hazel says "she does".

What tool or approach did he take?
Very purpose informative  and you can get the main idea easily.
As for the conclusion it reiterates her problems which now is for the better or worse and that is for us as readers to choose. The author also leaves a quote that we can ponder on.

Let's give it a go!!!

So my topic for the OP-ED essay is from the Free-write topic which is still on Food but I’ve taken it in a different direction. Instead of addressing the lack of importance or thought students give to taking great meals at the right time in the right amount; I’ve decided to talk about an issue on food that most of us are familiar about. That Exigence is on the Word of Wisdom, specifically the issue if we should or should not consume drinks with caffeine in it. You would probably have heard the phrase, “I need an energy drink right now” many times but wait, is there any of such drinks on campus? BYU had this policy of a caffeine-free campus many years back and this issue of wanting such beverages has now been a huge hype to all BYU members at this day with recent occurrences of Coca-Cola products containing caffeine found in vending machines.

BYU presidents before and present definitely has its own reasons for upholding this policy but why is there such a big conflict of response to this policy. This policy might not have been a problem in terms of the feedback or response given back in the 1900s or early 2000s but it is at this moment a very controversial topic. This could be due to the increase in trends and popularity of caffeinated beverages and energy drinks to the current rising generation.

Now let’s ask the question of “why such a policy?” or “what’s so bad about having caffeinated products”? On the other hand, questions like “Is it such a big deal?” or “What’s the big fuss about this policy?” do arise from other BYU members who feel that such a policy is inspired and meant for our day. I personally agree with the policy for its good purposes but it still comes down to the personal preference of each individual who are more than welcome to share their opinions. I drink caffeinated drinks too but do I need to get them from campus? Does the policy have to change to fit my desires? I’ll let each of us answer this question ourselves.        

20 MINUTES OF FREE WRITING!!! Hmmmm... Never done that before....

So what does people on BYU campus who picks up The Universe wants to read? Great question, not too sure what people would like to see being argued. Just thinking about it, Food is such a big part of people's life. More so for students! 

I mean students probably would skip meals just to complete an assignment that is due the very minute or their appetite is loss due to stress. More so, some students cannot find time to eat something due to the many activities going on in their life. On the other hand, some students gorge themselves with food or constantly eat throughout the day as a means of a stress reliever. They find themselves over-eating to take their mind away from what’s overwhelming them. There are however, some students who do find a great balance in their student life and the everyday essential need of eating as a source of energy to their daily activities.

Scientist and Food nutritionists have definitely given many insights on the importance of having not just a good but great diet! There are thousands of articles to justify how eating rightly affects the alertness and strength of an individual positively and how bad eating habits or practices can have long-lasting and damaging consequences.

Let’s also not forget the spiritual food that we need daily! 

It's ME!

Well, I come from a family of 7, me being the 4th of five children which is HUGE in SINGAPORE! and yes, Singapore is where i'm from, BORN and RAISED!

A little about Singapore: It's a small country hence being called a City and an Island as well! To make it more VISUAL, If you look on the World Map, Its a DOT! Yeap! with about 5.5 million people on it! That's almost twice the population of UTAH!

OK, something about me: My life is practically split into 3 very different worlds!
1st: I'm a sports Fanatic!!! Tennis, Soccer, Basketball, Badminton and Table Tennis! Yes, I Play them ALL!!!

2nd: I'm also really ACTIVE in the Arts! I grew up practicing Ballet and am now on course to get into the Contemporary Dance Minor. I play the Piano and love to Sing.... terrible at remembering the LYRICS though! Cooking is also a form of Art for me #gottaLOVEtheCulinaryArt!

3rd: I call this my outside world i'm in. Having zero contact with anyone or anything, I'm drawn into this 'world' through reading, watching movies, computer games and just chilling! Oh' How I love them all!!!

OK... My life revolves around this 3 'worlds' BEFORE and AFTER... but mostly IN BETWEEN any form of 'school', assignments included.

Some other interesting facts about me: I serve 2 years in the Military (Mandatory in Singapore) as an Infantry Sergeant which allowed me to handle a range of FIREARMS such as a Rifle, Light Machine Gun, Heavy Machine Gun, Grenade Launchers and Missile Launders. Now that's WAY COOL!!! I also serve as a Full-time Missionary in the Belgium/Netherlands Mission which gave me the opportunity to learn Dutch. Hence, becoming trilingual with English and Chinese being the other 2 languages that I speak.

LAST but definitely not the least, I love the Gospel of Jesus Christ in my Life and of course my Family..... A LOT!!!

That's all for now=D