Data Compression and Decompression Algorithms

Table of Contents Introduction†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. †¦2 1. Data Compression†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦2 1. 1Classification of Compression†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 2 1. 2 Data Compression methods†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã ¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦3 2. Lossless Compression Algorithm†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 4 2. 1 Run-Length Encoding†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦4 2. 1. 1 Algorithm†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 5 2. 1. 2Complexity †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢ € ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 5 2. 1. 3 Advantages and disadvantage†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦6 3.Huffmann coding†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦6 3. 1 Huffmann encoding†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 6 3. 2 Algorithm†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 7 4. Lempel-Ziv algorithm†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦7 4. 1 Lempel-Ziv78†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 8 4. 2Encoding Algorithm†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 8 4. 3 Decoding Algorithm†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢ € ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 12 5. Lempel-Ziv Welch†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 14 5. 1 Encoding Algorithm†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 14 5. 2 Decoding Algorithm†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 6 References†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 17 INTRODUCTION: Data compression is a common requirement for most of the computerized applications. There are number of data compression algorithms, which are dedicated to compress different data formats. Even for a single data type there are number of different compression algorithms, which use different approaches. This paper examines lossless data compression algorithms. 1. DATA COMPRESSION: In computer science  data compression  involves  encoding  information  using fewer  bits  than the original representation.Compression is useful because it helps reduce the consumption of resources such as data space or transmission  capacity. Because compressed data must be decompressed to be used, this extra processing imposes computational or other costs through decompression. 1. 1 Classification of Compression: a) Static/non-adaptive compressio n. b) Dynamic/adaptive compressioin. a) Static/Non-adaptive Compression: A  static  method is one in which the mapping from the set of messages to the set of codewords is fixed before transmission begins, so that a given message is represented by the same codeword every time it appears in the message ensemble.The classic static defined-word scheme is Huffman coding. b) Dynamic/adaptive compression: A code is  dynamic  if the mapping from the set of messages to the set of codewords changes over time. 2. 2 Data Compression Methods: 1) Losseless Compression: Lossless compression reduces bits by identifying and eliminating  statistical redundancy. No information is lost in Lossless compression is possible because most real-world data has statistical redundancy. For example, an image may have areas of colour that do not change over several pixels; instead of coding â€Å"red pixel, red pixel, †¦ the data may be encoded as â€Å"279 red pixels†. Lossless compression is used in cases where it is important that the original and the decompressed data be identical, or where deviations from the original data could be deleterious. Typical examples are executable programs, text documents, and source code. Some image file formats, like  PNG  or  GIF, use only lossless compression 2) Loosy Compression: In information technology, lossy compression is a data encoding method that compresses data by discarding (losing) some of it. The procedure aims to inimize the amount of data that needs to be held, handled, and/or transmitted by a computer. Lossy compression is most commonly used to compress multimedia data (audio, video, and still images), especially in applications such as streaming media and internet telephony. If we take a photo of a sunset over the sea, for example there are going to be groups of pixels with the same colour value, which can be reduced. Lossy algorithms tend to be more complex, as a result they achieve better results for bitma ps and can accommodate for the lose of data. The compressed file is an estimation of the original data.One of the disadvantages of lossy compression is that if the compressed file keeps being compressed, then the quality will degraded drastically. 2. Lossless Compression Algorithms: 2. 1 Run-Length Encoding(RLE): RLE stands for Run Length Encoding. It is a lossless algorithm that only offers decent compression ratios in specific types of data. How RLE works: RLE is probably the easiest compression algorithm. It replaces sequences of the same data values within a file by a count number and a single value. Suppose the following string of data (17 bytes) has to be compressed: ABBBBBBBBBCDEEEEFUsing RLE compression, the compressed file takes up 10 bytes and could look like this: A 8B C D 4E F 2. 1. 1 Algorithm: for (i=0;i

The Effect of Conflict Towards Performance

INTRODUCTION Businesses nowadays are operating in a turbulent environment where organisations are searching for measures that will allow them to improve their performance and competitiveness (Dodd, 2003). Conflict is generally regarded as disagreement regarding interests or ideas (Esquivel and Kleiner, 1997). In addition organisational conflict is regarded as the discord that occurs when the goals, interests or values of different individuals or groups are incompatible with those of individuals or groups block or frustrate each others in an attempt to achieve their objectives.Conflict are inevitable part of organisational life since the goals of different stakeholders such as managers and staff are often incompatible (Jones  et al. , 2000). Besides that,  Loomis and Loomis (1965)  argue that Conflict is an ever-present process in human relations. That is why various organisations have changed their approaches to enable them to manage their organisations effectively to avoid con flicts at all costs. Conflict is a fact of life in any organisations as longer as people compete for jobs, resources, power, recognition and security.In addition, dealing with conflicts is a great challenge to management (Adomi and Anie, 2005). Conflicts commonly arise when employees interact in organisations and compete for scarce resources. Employees in various organisations are organized into manageable groups in order to achieve common goal, therefore, the probability of conflicts to arise is very high. Nowadays, most serious conflicts make headlines in the newspapers, which might affect the public image of the company. Conflicts have both negative and positive outcomes to the individual employees and the organization at large.There is no one source of conflicts which occurs in organisations at all levels of management (Barker  et al. , 1987). In social life, conflicts do occur but they are managed by family members, friends and relatives. The same case applies to organisation s, when conflicts arise; it needs to be resolved by management for the sake of the organisational growth, survival and enhance performance. However, conflicts are rarely resolved easily, to a certain extend most conflicts are managed, as individuals work out differences (Barker  et al. , 1987).Conflict can occur within groups (intra-group conflict) or among groups (inter-group conflict). Therefore, the main aim of this study is to examine the effects of organizational conflicts towards organizational performance. It specifically tries to examine in detail, the causes, types, effects and recommend various strategies on how to resolve organizational conflicts to enhance organizational performance. WHAT IS ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT? ‘A condition between or among workers whose jobs are interdependent, who feel angry, who perceive the other(s) as being at fault, and who act in ways that cause a business problem. (Dana, D. 2001) Interdependency – each party needs something fr om the other and are vulnerable if they don’t get it Feeling Angry – people are emotionally upset – anger is not always visible – some people will hide their anger with a veneer of politeness – however, Dana suggests that the emotion we all know as anger is always present when there is a conflict. Blaming Each Other – each party sees the other as being at fault often moving from the immediate workplace issue into personal issues Causing a Business Problem – How is the conflict impacting on job performance? if it is not then it does not fall within the definition of workplace conflict. This definition includes emotions, thoughts and behaviors – psychologists consider these three the only dimensions of human experience. So conflict is rooted in all parts of our human experience. Factors of conflict in organization 1. Managerial Expectations – it is job of an employee to meet the expectations of his manager, but if those ex pectations is misunderstood, conflict can arise. 2. Breakdown in Communication If a department requires information from another department in order to its job, and the second department does not respond to the request this is will lead to conflict to arise. 3. Misunderstanding the information Internal conflict can sometimes arise as the result of a simple misunderstanding. One person may misunderstand information, and that can trigger a series of conflict. 4. Lack of accountability Organization conflict might arise from frustration. One source of frustration is a lack of accountability.If something has gone wrong, and no one is willing to take responsibility for the problem, this lack of accountability can start to permeate throughout the entire company until the issue is resolved. Factors of conflict in employee 1. Differing values Some employees have strong beliefs, which they are not willing to compromise. These beliefs can conflict with coworkers’, creating conflict. 2. Opposing interest When an employee decides to pursue her own career goal, without regard for the organizational goal and its well- being, it result in strife among coworkers. 3. Personality ConflictsOne employee may have a reserved a personality while another may be more outgoing and forward. Problem arises when the two do not understand or respect each others’ inner nature. 4. Personal problems If the employee has problems outside the workplace, such as marital or parental issues, she may take them to work with her. Positive And Negative Effects Of Conflict It is often assumed that all conflict is bad for the organisation, however if managed effectively, conflict can bring benefits: Potential Positive Effects * Better ideas produced * People forced to search for new approaches Long standing problems brought to the surface and resolved * Clarification of individual views * Stimulation of interest and creativity * A chance for people to test their capacities Potential Negative Effects * Some people feel defeated and demeaned * The distance between people increased * A climate of mistrust and suspicion developed * Individuals and groups concentrate on their own narrow interests * Resistance developed rather than teamwork * An increase in employee turnover Models Of Conflict Management There have been many styles of conflict management behavior that have been researched in the past century.One of the earliest,  Mary Parker Follett  (1926/1940) found that conflict was managed by individuals in three main ways: domination,  compromise, and integration. She also found other ways of handling conflict that were employed by organizations, such as  avoidance  and suppression. Early Conflict Management Models Blake and Mouton (1964) were among the first to present a conceptual scheme for classifying the modes (styles) for handling interpersonal conflicts into five types: forcing, withdrawing, smoothing, compromising, and problem solving.In the 1970â€⠄¢s and 1980’s, researchers began using the intentions of the parties involved to classify the styles of conflict management that they would include in their models. Both Thomas (1976) and Pruitt (1983) put forth a model based on the concerns of the parties involved in the conflict. The combination of the parties concern for their own interests (i. e. assertiveness) and their concern for the interests of those across the table (i. e. cooperativeness) would yield a particular conflict management style.Pruitt called these styles yielding (low assertiveness/high cooperativeness), problem solving (high assertiveness/high cooperativeness), inaction (low assertiveness/low cooperativeness), and contending (high assertiveness/low cooperativeness). Pruitt argues that problem-solving is the preferred method when seeking mutually beneficial options. Khun and Poole’s Model Khun and Poole (2000) established a similar system of group conflict management. In their system, they split Kozan’s confrontational model into two sub models: distributive and integrative. Distributive – Here conflict is approached as a distribution of a fixed amount of positive outcomes or resources, where one side will end up winning and the other losing, even if they do win some concessions. * Integrative – Groups utilizing the integrative model see conflict as a chance to integrate the needs and concerns of both groups and make the best outcome possible. This model has a heavier emphasis on compromise than the distributive model. Khun and Poole found that the integrative model resulted in consistently better task related outcomes than those using the distributive model.DeChurch and Marks’s Meta-Taxonomy Model DeChurch and Marks (2001) examined the literature available on conflict management at the time and established what they claimed was a â€Å"meta-taxonomy† that encompasses all other models. They argued that all other styles have inherent in the m into two dimensions – activeness (â€Å"the extent to which conflict behaviors make a responsive and direct rather than inert and indirect impression†) and agreeableness (â€Å"the extent to which conflict behaviors make a pleasant and relaxed rather than unpleasant and strainful impression†).High activeness is characterized by openly discussing differences of opinion while fully going after their own interest. High agreeableness is characterized by attempting to satisfy all parties involved In the study they conducted to validate this division, activeness did not have a significant effect on the effectiveness of  conflict resolution, but the  agreeableness  of the conflict management style, whatever it was, did in fact have a positive impact on how groups felt about the way the conflict was managed, regardless of the outcome. CONFLICT CONTROLSTRATEGY| POSSIBLE ACTIONS| EXAMPLES| Avoidance| Avoid situations where conflict occurs; reduce triggering events ; cooling off periods| Reduce contact between the parties; set up system for dealing with conflict subjects; adjourn meetings| Alteration| Change the form or place of the conflict| Agree not to argue in front of others, or to criticise each other without making a positive suggestion; meet before conflict situations to resolve problems| Feedback| Help parties to understand how others are affected| Other people are upset; team s losing resources or cooperation from others; loss of dignity| Help With Consequences| Provide support, more rest, more thinking time| Neutral person to listen to stressed people; time off; more social events; encourage getting away from the office at lunch time; discourage overwork| Suggestions To Overcome Conflict Management. There are many ways to overcome this problem. Here are some suggestions and tips to manage and cope with the conflict management towards organization. * Build a certain and good communication. * As we know communication is a process of i nteract between one person to another.Communication is a tool to convey a message. A good communication can avoid misunderstanding and uncertain information and can directly solve any problem wisely. All person in any organization must know how to build a good communication and know how to react with any problem to a void conflict. If there is something that they might in argue or disagree they have to sit together and come out with a best solution that everyone satisfied. * Don’t ignore conflict. * Conflict in organization can lead a positive outcomes too. Each person in any organization must take a fairly solution and never avoid and ignore the conflict.It is very essential because it can avoid the problem become twice and become bigger and bigger. Conflict might happen in any organization because each person have a different opinion, goals, value and belief. So, everyone must support and help each other to cope the conflict in order to achieve a common goal in the organiza tion. * Have an own conflict management skills. * Skills such us know how negotiate and know how to minimized anger can help and enhance the effectiveness of good working environment. This will make everyone in the organization can achieve a joyful in a workplace.The way everyone carry themselves in the work place can avoid a conflict and misunderstanding between each other. Everyone in any organization must have their own conflict management skills so that every single problem can be solve and minimized easily. Four ways towards organizational performance 1. PM focuses on results, rather than behaviors and activities A common misconception among supervisors is that behaviors and activities are the same as results. Thus, an employee may appear extremely busy, but not be contributing at all toward the goals of the organization.An example is the employee who manually reviews completion of every form and procedure, rather than supporting automation of the review. The supervisor may con clude the employee is very committed to the organization and works very hard, thus, deserving a very high performance rating. 2. Aligns organizational activities and processes to the goals of the organization PM identifies organizational goals, results needed to achieve those goals, measures of effectiveness or efficiency (outcomes) toward the goals, and means (drivers) to achieve the goals.This chain of measurements is examined to ensure alignment with overall results of the organization. 3. Cultivates a system-wide, long-term view of the organization. Richard A. Swanson, in  Performance Improvement Theory and Practice  (Advances in Developing Human Resources, 1, 1999), explains an effective performance improvement process must follow a systems-based approach while looking at outcomes and drivers. Otherwise, the effort produces a flawed picture. For example, laying off people will likely produce short-term profits.However, the organization may eventually experience reduced prod uctivity, resulting in long-term profit loss. 4. Produces meaningful measurements These measurements have a wide variety of useful applications. They are useful in benchmarking, or setting standards for comparison with best practices in other organizations. They provide consistent basis for comparison during internal change efforts. They indicate results during improvement efforts, such as employee training, management development, quality programs, etc. They help ensure equitable and fair treatment to employees based on performance.

Charlemagne the man values and orientation

Charlemagne the man values and orientation To understand Charlemagne as a ruler you have to understand Charlemagne â€Å"The Man.† From what we can tell from Charlemagne’s personal qualities, he was a man of great stature known for being a great warrior, scholar, and politician. He was well spoken and charismatic. He valued his family, he related well to foreigners, had a positive personality, and was strong willed and athletic. Because of these qualities he was often very well respected and admired. In playing those roles he would not only be able to conquer but build trust and unity amongst the people. He was an incredible warrior whom displayed an iron will. Although he was one of greatness on the battlefield he possessed the ability of establishing friendships and was known for his generosity. Charlemagne was also respected as a scholar based on his willingness to learn, and his desire to promote education throughout his kingdom. Charlemagne studied Greek, spoke fluent Latin, and was well versed in the libe ral arts. He used his love for learning to study the world around him in order to keep informed of this issues and cultures surrounding and throughout his empire. Charlemagne respected, defended, and supported the Catholic Church during his life, which reinforced his Christian morality and beliefs. It was his Christian orientation and moral Charlemagne 3 compass that helped give him direction in promoting not only unity, but most importantly, civilization within his kingdom. Because of the ferocity with which he defended his beliefs and convictions, and the open-minded way that he viewed the world and mankind, Charlemagne became a wise, multi-faceted, and charismatic leader that the masses first feared, yet came to revered and trust. Charlemagne was not only adept at organizing, making informed decisions, but quite willing to act on those decisions, while persuading and motivating others to willingly follow him. As a â€Å"MAN† then, he had the personality traits that not onl y made him a conqueror, but most importantly, an â€Å"empire builder† of civilized society. MILITARY LEADER/STRATEGIST Charlemagne was an aggressive and courageous warrior, and military leader. During the first thirty years of his rule as king, he had many successful military campaigns, which enabled him to expand and consolidate the Frankish nation, expand his landholdings, and strengthen his military forces. His conflicts included those against the Lombards, Bavarians, Spanish, Byzantines, Avars, and the Saxons (Snell, 2006). Charlemagne 4 His military strategy often included the use of heavy cavalry and a strategy of separating his army into two forces upon entering enemy territory so that he could envelope the enemy in a â€Å"pincer† type movement, attacking them from different directions. Charlemagne believed that by effectively using warfare he would be able defend his kingdom from potential enemies, increase the borders of his realm, and promote the spread of Christianity. Because of his exceptional military accomplishments on the battlefield including his willingness to lead from the front, Charlemagne deservingly earned the title of a â€Å"warrior king†, making himself a force to be reckoned with throughout western Europe as well as gaining the respect from the noble class which helped provide him with political leverage that he would later need to help him to unify the diverse population that he conquered.

Harry Mulisch's The Assault Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Harry Mulisch's The Assault - Essay Example The novel essentially explores the sides of human beings that one would not normally observe in normal circumstances. This applies equally to the protagonist of the story as well as to the other characters that have been woven around his story. The author powerfully depicts how the actions of a few individuals in a short span of time end up impacting lives beyond measure. The characters are shown interwoven together at the beginning of the novel as they all live in proximity of each other but a single event changes the lives of these people by a large degree. The protagonist Anton is shown as being impacted the most by the murder of the police chief Ploeg as his family is executed by the Nazis in retaliation. The protagonist can be seen struggling with the newly emerging realities after the death of his family not just for a few years but for the entire span of his life. There is also a certain morality to the novel where morality and ethics have been tainted with a clear dose of rel ativism. (Complete Review) Given the circumstances of the day, the novel clearly depicts that morality was more of a paradox than a clear and blatant reality. The characters present in the novel are worth looking into because the author has used interplay amongst them to fully define the entire story. 2. Background The novel has been set out in the last days of the Third Reich as German control was collapsing on Europe. The story reflects the state of affairs throughout most of Europe and the common dilemma of whose side one should be on. On the one hand the Germans are still strongly in control of certain areas such as Netherlands (where the story has been created) and on the other hand the influence of the Allies and the communists in defeating the Nazis is undeniable. It is clear that it would only be a matter of time before the Nazis are taken down in Europe but for the moment the locals are caught between both groups. The resistance present in various countries around mainland Europe is depicted as rather irresponsible because their actions are not well thought out in terms of the impacts on the lives of ordinary people. Hence there is a clear line between Nazi supporters and opposition but the local populace is caught in the middle with nowhere to go. Moreover as the grip of the Nazis is loosening, they spare no effort to subjugate and brutalize the population in order to retain a dominating influence. Within these circumstances, the murder of the local police chief, Fake Ploeg (who is a strong Nazi collaborator) by members of the Dutch resistance trigger the deaths of Anton’s family. (Mars Hill Audio) The same dilemma talked about earlier is brought into play by the author and the rest of the story is built upon these foundations. The major characters of the novel are the protagonist Anton, his brother Peter and his parents the Steenwijk’s, the Beumers who are family friends, the Aarts’ who live close by and are hiding a Jewish fami ly, Fake Ploeg the police chief who is murdered, Fake Ploeg Jr. the son of Fake Ploeg, the assassin of Fake Ploeg and Mr. Korteweg and his daughter Karin who tries to save his lizards by dumping the body of Fake Ploeg in front of the Steenwijk household. A discussion of the characters is presented below in order to appreciate the agency and responsibility of the characters and their overall contribution to the story. 3. Characters 3.1. The Protagonist – Anton â€Å"

The Human Rights Act and life sentence prisoners Essay

The Human Rights Act and life sentence prisoners - Essay Example There was a powerful presumption against the retrospective application of the Act, and in relation to transactions that had taken place prior to the coming into force of the Act; there could be no question of interpretation under s 3 and accordingly no power to grant a declaration under s 4. 1 (Human Rights, Article 7) Three decisions of the House can be cited to illustrate the strength of the interpretative obligation under section 3(1). The first is R v A (No. 2) [2002] 1 AC 45 which concerned the so-called rape shield legislation. The problem was the blanket exclusion of prior sexual history between the complainant and an accused in section 41(1) of the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999, subject to narrow specific categories in the remainder of section 41. In subsequent decisions, and in academic literature, there has been discussion about differences of emphasis in the various opinions in A. What has been largely overlooked is the unanimous conclusion of the House. The House unanimously agreed on an interpretation under section 3 which would ensure that section 41 would be compatible with the ECHR. The formulation was by agreement set out in paragraph 46 of Lord Steyn's opinion in that case as follows: "The effect of the decision today is that ... o the importance of seeking to protect the complainant from indignity and from humiliating questions, the test of admissibility is whether the evidence (and questioning in relation to it) is nevertheless so relevant to the issue of consent that to exclude it would endanger the fairness of the trial under article 6 of the Convention. If this test is satisfied the evidence should not be excluded." (Lord Steyn, 2006a) Case: Re S Care plan 2002 UKHL 10 House of Lords and Starred Care Plans Re S (Minors) 3 The House of Lords did not uphold the Court of Appeals creation of starred care plans, a bold attempt to devise a way for care plans which were not being implemented coming back to court; instead they stressed the need for the government to urgently review this - power of section 3 HRA limited, court must be mindful of outer limit. Interpretation up to courts but enactment and amendment matter for Parliament - starred milestones departed substantially from Parliamentary intentions so far as it is possible to do so, primary legislation must be read and given effect in a way which is compatible with convention rights . (Child adoption) Lord Nicholls of Birkenhead 4 The Torbay case: The appeals concern four children, two in the Torbay case and two in the Bedfordshire case. The cases are factually unrelated. In the Torbay case the mother had three children: P, who is a boy born in August 1987, M, a boy born in January 1991, and J, a girl born in January 1992. The children are now 14, 11 and 10 years old. The appeal concerns the two younger children. The father of P, the eldest child, played no part in these proceedings. The mother met the father of M and J in 1987. They started to cohabit in 1989. Serious problems emerged in May 1999 when P ran away from home and

Difference in Work for Information Technology Management with Sarbanes Essay

Difference in Work for Information Technology Management with Sarbanes Oxley Act - Essay Example The major focus is on the role of the Information Technology managers and how they are responsible to reengineer and manage the business processes to implement the Sarbanes Oxley act, with the key issues that really need to be addressed by the managers to be successful in implementing the act. The Sarbanes Oxley (SOX) Information technology controls play a sound role in business and accounting. These controls are activities especially designed to ensure that organizations business objectives are met. These controls are majorly related to data integrity and availability with the IT functions management. Information Controls get importance in United States after the release of Sarbanes-Oxley act in July 2002. The act was passed in response to the business and accounting scandals of USA corporate firms. This act provided new standards to the corporate firms which explicitly define the laws which are mandatory to be followed when working with financial data, interactions in corporate cul ture and audit controls that assure the accuracy of financial statements. Compliance with the laws should not be discouraged; it should be handled parallel to other legislative laws with appropriate analysis. Sarbanes Oxley Act The act affects American corporate firms in terms of what the management should do to ensure the auditor’s are independent of their clients. ... ct After the implementation of Sarbanes Oxley a big change come which affected the corporate companies and its management financially and legally (Tricia Bisoux, July/August 2005). Under the Section 404 the senior management will be responsible for every pros or cons in the financial statements and audit reports (Sans Institute,2005). These acts were defined when American company Enron personnel’s refuses to accept the discrepancies in their company’s financial reports. As a result this legislation meant a lot to the companies of USA. Responsibility of Information Technology Managers Information Technology has become an integral part of every organization which ranges from small private organizations to big multi-national or corporate firms. They will surely need an Information Technology department with the efficient management who will be managing the business process alignment with the business objectives. To attain this goal Organizations Company hires senior manage ment in the IT, who will act as a sole responsible for the business objective. As Sarbanes Oxley focus majorly on the laws that has become the mandatory part for every public trade company, these IT Managers will be serving as the chief role in accomplishing the act. They will need to ensure the compliance of the every function with the established principles by the senior management. What the IT Managers are required to reengineer the business processes in parallel to the laws to implement the act effectively and in different way. Every process should ensure compliance of standards. In this regards the most significant role is being played by the Manager himself. To fully implement the Sarbanes Oxley law they need go for the change of senior management and board of director’s way of working and

Beauty Plastic Surgery Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Beauty Plastic Surgery - Essay Example Cosmetic surgeries are usually done on the face. Cosmetic surgeries are usually done to enhance the patient's features or correct defacement. The most common cosmetic surgeries in adult are reshaping of the nose, face lifts, removal of baggy skin around eyelids, and changing the size of breasts. The other form of beauty plastic surgery is reconstructive surgery. This is the oldest form of plastic surgery which was developed to treat soldiers during wartime. This type of surgery is usually performed on accident and burn victims. It can include skin grafting and rebuilding of brutally fractured bones. The procedures of reconstructive surgery include, implanting prostheses and the reattachment of an amputated toe or finger. Though these three types of plastic surgeries have some common techniques, their emphasis is different. Plastic surgery is usually used to treat acne scars, remove birth marks and warts. Cosmetic surgeries are used to enhance the beauty of a person and make people look younger. Reconstructive surgeries are used to reattach and reconstruct body parts. The top performed cosmetic surgeries performed by choice in the United States are liposuction, breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, face lift, tummy tuck, collagen injections, chemical peel, laser skin resurfacing, rhinoplasty, and forehead lift. It is estimated that approximately 29 million surgical procedures were performed in the United States in the year 2001. However, the accurate figure cannot be determined as many plastic surgeries are performed in private professional offices. Plastic surgery does not only have physical benefits, it also has many psychological benefits. Plastic surgery also affects a person emotionally. It helps a person grow emotionally stronger. It helps better a person's self-esteem and self-worth. It also helps a person become more sociable and outgoing. Cosmetic surgery is an option that provides benefits of a lifetime. Beauty plastic surgery helps people who are struggling with their appearance which often controls their insight of the world. If a person is not happy with their looks it shows in the way they behave socially and personally. Cosmetic surgery can help improve a person's psychological position. People usually suffer emotional trauma when teased by peers in regards with their looks, this emotional trauma leads to lowering of a person's self-worth and self-esteem. In such cases, cosmetic surgery if performed can benefit a person's emotional state immensely. One successful story of a reconstructive surgery is of Marie "Hana" Gebrewold. When Hana was six months old she fell out of bed and broke her hands and her jaw. After her fall she was treated for her hands, however no one noticed her broken jaw. As she grew it started began affecting her appearance, her speech, and her ability to chew. When she was five years old her parents looked for ways to get her treated, but they were asked to wait foe a few years before they opted for any link of treatment. Two years later when Hana was ready for treatment her parents could not afford it. At the age of ten, a group of doctors from the United States and Europe offered to operate Hana. However,

IRobot Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

IRobot - Article Example The Roomba Robot was a home care robot that would take care of some fundamental home care duties such as house cleaning. In addition, iRobot carried out some military duties and was used for military defense. The launch of iRobot was a success for the iRobot company, and made work easier for both home use and military use. The board of directors provides a great source of intelligence or the running hand the management of the company. The iRobot company secured a long-standing contract with the military. In order to achieve its success, iRobot has had to undertake intensive research and development and budget allot of money on its noble idea. The aim of this industry was to become the leading robotic industry in the world. This made the company grow to recruit over 500 highly qualified professionals who ensured that the company achieved its objectives. Moreover, the company made alliances with other highly qualified commercial companies such as the Boeing group, and the advanced scientific concept. The motive of these alliances was to enable the company to develop and improve upon products that was almost impossible for the company to develop by itself using its own technology. In order to achieve these high standards, the company had to have a good financial position with an excellent cash and long-term debt rate. This enabled the company to have a sustainable competitive advantage over other competitors such as Japanese’s robot developer companies. iRobot Company benefits much than other competitive companies. This is because of its resources and capabilities that have enabled the company develop. One of its main strengths is its cost advantage. The company benefits from cost advantage in that it produces robots at a lower cost than its competitors do. This is because of the high level of technology that they use with the help of other high technology companies such as Boeing and advanced scientific concept. Moreover, the

Reading Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Reading Report - Essay Example Donovan was not expected to be omitted due to his being a three- time veteran of world cup and the best known American player. Dempsey was however picked due to his absolute advantage over his other fellow players including Donovan. In economics, absolute advantage therefore occurs when an individual, a group or company or a country is more efficient and effective in producing the same good or service than any other individual, company or country. In this case therefore, Clint Dempsey has an absolute advantage over his other players. For instance, he has managed to score eight goals in nine games meaning he scored almost in every game. This is a trait that only a few would achieve. He also has that innate ability of finding a goal in every game he is involved in. The coach of Los Angeles Galaxy Bruce Arena says that he has that driving force with which he does things for himself you can’t keep on telling him during the entire game. He is also very well motivated and uses that as his secret to play well. Another concept in economics is the opportunity cost. This refers to the value of the best forgone alternative. In this case both Dempsey and Donovan are alternatives but the coach has decided to prefer Donovan to Dempsey, thus risking a certain value. The coach has given up the chance to use Donovan and sacrificed the wins they would have had. It meant that Donovan and the value of Donovan was forgone, therefore being the opportunity cost. Opportunity cost is therefore a scenario experienced by most of us in our daily lives (online.wsj.com). Comparative advantage is the ability of an individual or country to produce services or goods at a lower opportunity cost than any other individual or country. Dempsey and Donovan can both play well though Dempsey seems to have an absolute advantage over Donovan. In this case, we don’t look at the absolute advantages but the opportunity costs. The Dempsey can play a

Mentorship in British Nursing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Mentorship in British Nursing - Essay Example This research paper describes the field of nursing and the area of mentor contribution to development of clinical skills in nursing graduates. A mentor is cast in the mold of a teacher. In order to assess the impact of the mentor’s role in enhancing learning, it would be useful to explore how learning actually takes place. Book learning or assimilating theoretical principles are not in question here, since theories and knowledge from textbooks can at best, serve as a general guideline to a nurse faced with real life clinical situations. The ability to perform well in a clinical environment can be grasped only dimly from text book theory and cannot substitute for the valuable experience gained in a working situation under the guidance of a mentor, who functions as a teacher and a role model. The issue to consider here is the manner in which learning takes place and several theories have been presented in this regard. The mentor functions in the role of a demonstrator for a nurs ing student, facilitating learning through real life application of medical principles. But in addition, a mentor also functions as a guide for the nursing student, providing valuable feedback on the actual implementation of nursing principles as practiced by the student. On the job performance appraisals are an important learning tool for a nursing student. Feedback provided by a mentor serves as a valuable tool for the student to understand what he or she is doing wrong or right, so that corrections may be made appropriately.

Management, Personal Relationship and Decision Making Essay Example for Free

Management, Personal Relationship and Decision Making Essay The concept of interpersonal relationships and management involves ideas, taught, and beliefs that are related with social association and affiliations which are employed as approached to marketing, operations, training, management and executive decision (Giddens, 2001). These taught and perceptions constitute different philosophies used by various organizations that create a harmonious place for members and personnel. These beliefs allow the organization’s business to improve. Business improves since personnel performances are able to maximize their potential because people are working perfectly as a team. It is no secret that in order for business to be successful, management plays a very important role (Virine, 2007). Thus, for business to prosper, philosophy in management should be carefully taken into consideration (Virine, 2007).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     In order to successfully manage an activity or personnel it is important that a manager is strong-willed, determined and possessed the â€Å"drive† needed to achieve the desired goal.   It is significant that a person should do a specific thing really well. In order to achieve this, a fine plan should be accomplished and when the plan is executed it is necessary that the plan is strictly followed. It is also important that the existing plan can adapt to changes that when problems are encountered, it can easily be resolved. Also in managing, it will be fitting to add that it is not enough that a person would know how to do things correctly, but it would be a welcome addition to recognize that a person knows how to things better.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A person should understand and put into his mind that there are occasions when great just isn’t good enough. He should not settle for less instead strive and work harder to deliver and perform things way beyond what people have expected. He should not be satisfied by saying â€Å"this will already do† and â€Å"this is alright†. He should always work to be the best. Being the best should not be the endpoint that will mark the conclusion of a venture, but it should be a starting point of something that is great. Through sheer innovation one should take something that works, it could be ideas, or various products such as electric appliances, glassware or simple things like papers and plastics, then transform them and improve them to something that is really unexpected. A person should always try to work to achieve excellence.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   However, in order to properly manage things there are other factors that should be taken into account. One major factor is inter-personal relationship. Relationship with others influences the way we manage things our everyday life (Kahneman, 2000). It is because of our relationship to our love ones that we strive to make things better. It is because of these people who are close to us and we hold dearly in our hearts that we struggle in order to create a better living condition. Because of them we â€Å"shoot for the stars† and aim for the best. Furthermore, our relationship in our workplace with fellow personnel and with the manager dictates the success or the failure of an activity. As mentioned before, it is important to achieve a working area that is surrounded by people which are friendly and are always prepared in lending help. Somehow, they can be your family that during the most challenging times in the work one would have somebody to lean on (Lauria, 1964). They would provide you support and the much needed boost during office hours. With someone to call on, personnel can fully utilize their skills and maximize their talents. Workers do not need to be worry of accidents that may happen, since a sense of security and protection is given to them, as a result they become more focused. Also, in return workers and personnel would work doubly harder to showcase their affection to the people who have helped them in work and their gratitude to the organization and their bosses. Another essential issue that arises from the proper managing of things is decision making. Making a sound decision is hard and when at one point an organization has arrived to a decision, it is always certain that not everyone would be pleased, there would always be contentions. Generally, there are no rules that would make a person a good decision –maker (Plous, 1993). There are always risks that are involved and often times these risks impose immense problems that lead to the downfall of what seems a fair decision at the beginning. There are, however things that can help a person in making decision. Information should first be gathered and accumulated about the issue at hand. Careful study and precautions must be done to properly weigh things. In making a decision it is important to first ask who will be affected once the decision is handed out. Then, we should also understand who will benefit and to whom the decision is detrimental. In making a decision, one should decide for the good of majority and sacrifice his own self interest. To be a good decision maker one needs to be self-less. It is a noble act, a supreme sacrifice. A situation that recently took place in my office is the grudge that happens between two of my colleagues. The conflict occurs because of a misunderstanding for the division of labor in the office. Due to the misunderstanding, a part of the job was left undone. When the deadline arrives and portion of their proposal was still incomplete, pressure started to build up and emotions run high. As a result, a dispute between them existed. For a period of one month or so they started not to talk with each other after their proposal was dumped. Since, both are my friends and I am the one who is being caught from their fight I decided to talk to them and invite them to be part of a project that was assigned to me. Although they were hesitant to work with each other, I convinced them telling they are the most trusted person I knew that could help me and the only person which fitted the job. Professional as they are, they put aside their differences, and worked as a real team. With me calling the shots, and making sure everything is carefully attended and no single detail taken for granted we finished an astonishing job with lots of time to spare. We can infer that by setting aside their argument and their pride for a better cause, and giving each other another chance to work a fine output is achieved. They decided to be selfless and put the organization on top of their priority. References Giddens, A. (2001). Sociology. Cambridge: Polity. Kahneman, D. (2000). Choice, Values, Frames. Cambridge: The Unviersity Press. Lauria, A. (1964). Respeto, Relajo and Inter-Personal Relations in Puerto Rico Anthropological Quarterly, Vol. 3 (No. 2). Plous, S. (1993). The Psychology of Judgement and Decision Making New York: McGraw-Hill. Virine, L. (2007). Management Concepts: Vienna.

Food Cart Businesses Management Practices Essay Example for Free

Food Cart Businesses Management Practices Essay A. Environment * Linis Ofis Program Translated as â€Å"clean office†, this internal program is an integrated approach to solid waste management in support of the Philippine Government’s Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003). It deals with waste segregation by instilling in SMC employees the 4R discipline – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Recover. It aims to educate its workers to value their environment by practicing segregation, collection, reuse and recycling of disposable waste in the workplace. SMC’s Head Office Complex located in the Ortigas Center hub provided three waste receptacles placed in strategic spots for food scraps or compostable waste, recyclable items (such as plastic bottles and aluminum cans), and nonrecyclable items or disposable waste (such as plastic and tetra-pak containers). This is also being implemented in SMC’s other facilities nationwide. A separate chest of drawers is provided in each department for solid waste with market value, such as used bond paper, magazines, newspapers and empty ink cartridges. The program generated P26,000 from the sale of recyclable materials on its first month, and an average of P12,000 per month. It has also helped in reducing the amount of solid waste, which normally finds its way to landfills and dumpsites, and easing up on manpower in the collection of waste. * Task Force Hangin Task Force Hangin is responsible for helping plants comply with the Clean Air Act. The word â€Å"hangin† means â€Å"air†. The Task Force is composed of representatives from CTS-EMG, CTS-Engineering, Corporate Planning and Development, and Corporate Purchasing Unit. It is tasked to pinpoint the best available fuel and control technology for the plants’ fuel burning equipment. It conducted numerous studies and came up with recommendations to utilize low sulfur fuel oil (LSFO) and scrubbers as the most effi cient options for solving the problem, and maintain the level of sulfur content in its fuel to about 0.7%S. It also studied the range of fuel cost that determines when LSFO fuel is advantageous to use versus scrubbers, and when a plant needs to shift from LSFO to scrubbers. The study enabled the Task Force to guide the plants in their compliance efforts. All SMC-owned plants are expected to institute the necessary actions congruent with the Clean Air Act. The u se of electric heaters at the Mandaue Glass Plant’s furnace reduced the consumption of bunker fuel oil and the generation of combustion flue gas. B. Human Resources * Benefits Program Employee Protection – Employees are entitled to sick leave benefi ts that will provide fi nancial security even if they have lost the ability to earn in times of sickness or injury. Time Off With Pay – Employees are also entitled to leave benefi ts that will allow for the continuity of their wage earnings even if they are on vacation or have to attend to emergency matters requiring their presence. Health Care – The Corporation provides a comprehensive medical program for employees and their dependents to protect them against the financial burden that comes with illness or injury. Flexible Loan Facilities – The Corporation offers an interestfree loan facility that is tailored to address the various fi nancial needs of the employees. Its fl exibility lies in the loan purpose, amount, and guidelines. Educational Program – This helps meet the fi nancial requirements of employees who desire to pursue further studies. It includes loan facilities for the educational needs of employees’ dependents. Rice and Clothing Allowances – The Corporation provides a monthly sack of rice to each rank-and-fi le employee. Employees also receive a clothing allowance for their proper work attire. Insurance and Death Benefits – Financial assistance is extended to the bereaved family to help defray expenses incurred as a result of the demise of the employee or an immediate family member of an employee. * Employee Relations Sports and Recreation – The program aims to nurture camaraderie and unity among the employees through various sports activities, such as basketball, bowling, aerobics, street dancing, gym workout sessions, volleyball, etc. The Corporation tries to meet the employees’ varied sports preferences. There are also interest clubs being formed for enthusiasts of golf, running, taekwondo, etc. Summer Outing – The Corporation provides a yearly venue for employees and management of each division to interact with one another’s families in an informal environment marked by fun and games. Songfest – This is an annual nationwide search for employees who have exceptional talent for singing, a common trait among Filipinos. Employee Service Awards – The annual recognition program honors employees for their years of service to the Corporation. Baratillo – The monthly event allows employees to purchase various San Miguel products at discounted prices. The venue is the Head Office Complex, and employees from other SMC units and offices come to take advantage of the reasonable offers. Christmas Tiangge – Employees are given the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial spirit by selling various products during the two-day event. It is held regularly at the Head Office Complex in November before the onset of the Christmas season to allow employees and their families and friends to purchase their Christmas presents early. C. Customer Relations, Productivity and Quality * Customer Care Center By setting up this Center, SMC re-affirms its responsibility to its customers. Advancements in information technology make it possible for the Corporation to establish a more personal communication link with its customers. The integrated SMC Customer Care Center provides alternative channels for easy access and fast response to varying types of customer needs and requests. The Center supports SMC’s businesses in strengthening customer relations, and indirectly market share as well. It is manned by a professional staff using superior technology and employing innovative solutions to ensure customer satisfaction and capture product loyalty. Walk-in customers who may prefer face-to-face interaction feel welcome amidst the Center’s warm atmosphere. The Center’s call handling services take care of both inbound and outbound calls, providing information on the quality, pricing, distribution and availability of a product or service, while operating as a call center. It also handles order taking, telemarketing, sales campaign, promotion of new products, and customer satisfaction surveys. Electronic customer linkages come through e-mail, faxes and SMS (short message services). The Center’s integrated setup makes it easy for SMC’s operating divisions to link up with it for their customer and product concerns. D. Corporate Governance * Compliance System In adherence to corporate principles and best practices, the Chairman of the Board designated a Compliance Officer reporting directly to him. As the position denotes, he is responsible for seeing to it that the organization complies with the provisions in the manual. The Board of Directors is responsible for the long-term success of the Corporation and its sustained competitiveness, consistent with its trusted role exercised in the best interest of the Corporation, its shareholders and other stakeholders. Forming working committees within the Board fosters open discussion, keeping Board members informed, and allowing them to become more sensitive to shareholders’ interests. * Disclosure System All material information are publicly disclosed. These include earning results, Board changes, and shareholdings of directors. The Corporation established an Investor Relations Unit to disseminate timely information to shareholders. SMC practices consistency, accuracy and timeliness in the delivery and communication of information and data. The Unit coordinates with the Compliance Officer and other SMC divisions in effectively communicating with stakeholders. * Monitoring and Assessment Each committee reports to the Board of Directors. The Compliance Officer established an evaluation system to determine and measure compliance against the manual’s guidelines.

Of Mice And Men American Dream

Of Mice And Men American Dream The American Dream is presented as being unattainable in John Steinbecks novel, Of Mice and Men. This is predominantly evident in the case of George, Lennie, Candy, Crooks and Curleys wife. All of these characters admit to fantasising about the American Dream; untarnished happiness and the freedom to pursue their dreams. George and Lennies dream of owning land is unattainable as a result of Lennies careless actions caused by his ignorance of his physical strength. George constantly cautions Lennie not to retaliate if harassed. However, George knew it was inevitable that Lennie would act carelessly, thus endanger their dream. This is evident when George realises that Lennie has murdered Curleys wife: -I think I knowed from the very first. I think I knowed wed never do her. He usta like to hear about it so much I got to thinking maybe we would (Steinbeck, 2006, p.107). This portrays the doubt and uncertainty George had regarding his dream and the fact that he would never be successful in owning land. The American Dream, for George and Lennie, was unattainable due to Lennies careless actions that caused George to murder Lennie and, consequently eradicated their dream. Candys dream of owning land with companions to avoid becoming solitary, with the assistance of George and Lennie, was shattered when George murdered Lennie. Unlike George, Candy believed that the American Dream was within his reach from the initiation of the plan. However, after George murdered Lennie, all hope was lost. This is evident when Candy sceptically asked George if he still has the intention to purchase the land after slaughtering Lennie: Then-its all off? Candy asked sulkily. George didnt answer his question. George said, Ill work my month an Ill take my fifty bucks an Ill stay all night in some lousy cat house. Or Ill set in some poolroom til everbody goes home. An then Ill come back an work another month an Ill have fifty bucks more. (Steinbeck, 2006, p.107). Georges response to Candys question indirectly implies that George has resigned his. George has given up, making him and Candy no different to those people who waste their time and money in brothels for futile amusements as a result of lonely misery. Crooks views the American Dream as an unachievable objective. The visualisation of owning land and becoming self-sufficient was a modest ask, however, for many this was impossible because of the depression that occurred in 1937. Crooks states that he has heard numerous people have the same dream, however, never acquire a piece of land. For example, when Crooks strongly opposes the idea of Lennie and George reaching their dream, owning land: Youre nuts. Crooks was scornful. I seen hunderds of men come by on the road an on the ranches, with their bindles on their back an that same damn thing in their heads. Hunderds of them. They come, an they quit an go on; an every damn one of ems got a little piece of land in his head. An never a God damn one of em ever gets it. Just like heaven. Everbody wants a little piece of lan. I read plenty of books out here. Nobody never gets to heaven, and nobody gets no land. Its just in their head. Theyre all the time talkin about it, but its jus in their head. (Steinbeck, 2006, p.83-84). This is one of the most powerful messages in the novel illustrating that the American Dream is unattainable. George and Lennie were never alone in the sense that every American has the dream of land in their minds, and every single person will result like every other, as they are all destined to fail. Crooks statement has reinforced Steinbecks intent on showing that the American Dream is unachievable. Curleys wife dream of becoming an actress in Hollywood is unfeasible for the reason that she has resigned herself to an unfulfilling marriage. She imagines how great it would be to stay in fancy hotels, own several elegant dresses and have people wanting to take her photograph. She desires friendship, fame and financial security though her dream differs from the dream of the men. Her marriage with Curley has restricted her from interacting with men and most importantly, accomplishing her dreams: [à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦] I cant talk to nobody but Curley[à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦] I coulda made somethin of myself [à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦] [Curleys wife] doesnt like Curley[à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦] Coulda been in the movies, an had nice clothes-all them nice clothes like they wear. An I coulda sat in them big hotels, an had pitchers took of me. (Steinbeck, 2006, p.98-100). From this it can be deduced that her marital relationship with Curley has made her lonely because she cannot interact with the ranch hands, only with Curley who is always working and, her standards of living would have improved if she had pursued her dream of becoming an actress. The American Dream of the freedom to pursue ones dreams is made unreachable for Curleys wife because she has married Curley depriving her of freedom to do so. In John Steinbecks novel, Of Mice and Men, the American Dream is presented as being unattainable for a number of characters. The dreams of the characters have been hindered by many factors that have made them unachievable. In Georges, Lennies, Candys case the American Dream was not possible as a result of Lennies ignorance and recklessness. Crooks views that the dream of owning land to be self-sufficient is the typical dream of an American worker, however, owning the land is impossible. Steinbeck is intent on showing that the American Dream is unattainable by providing the message that those who have the dream of untarnished happiness and the freedom to pursue their dreams will fail in brotherhood of desperation and disappointment.

Overview on Inflation Targeting as a Monetary Policy Strategy Essay

INTRODUCTION Since the 1990s, a large number of industrial countries and a growing number of emerging market and transition economies have adopted inflation targeting as their monetary policy strategy. During the implementation they face many challenges. However, there is no established pattern so countries must learn along the way from one another and more importantly from their own experience. This paper provides an overview on inflation targeting as a monetary policy strategy, necessary preconditions for its successful implementation, its advantages and disadvantages and issues and challenges that emerging market and transition economies face while defining and implementing this monetary policy strategy. Inflation targeting as a monetary policy strategy Macroeconomic policy of any country has several goals such as employment, economic stability, economic development and production growth. Those goals are achieved by appropriate fiscal and monetary policy led by â€Å"most important players in financial markets† , Central Banks. Healthy macroeconomic policy means healthy economy which can be achieved through one of three monetary strategies: monetary targeting, inflation targeting and implicit nominal anchor. Central banks are held highly accountable for the conduct of monetary policy and hitting the targets. In other words, those regimes appear to be highly transparent. Furthermore, what is common for these three strategies is that all three of them focus on price stability, which is, for most Central Banks of the world, the main goal of monetary policy. Not so long ago policy makers reintroduced the idea of targeting. They first introduced monetary targeting during the seventies and eighties, and later on in 1989 infla... ...//www2.gsb.columbia.edu/faculty/fmishkin/PDFpapers/w5893.pdf †¢ Mishkin, Frederic S. and Schmidt-Hebbel, K., 2006, â€Å" Does Inflation Targeting Make a Difference?† Central Bank of Chile Working Papers No. 404 available from http://www.bcentral.cl/estudios/documentos-trabajo/pdf/dtbc404.pdf †¢ Johnson, D., 2002, â€Å"The Effect of Inflation Targeting on the Behavior of Expected Inflation: Evidence from an 11 Country Panel,† Journal of Monetary Economics 49, pp.1521-1538; †¢ Gerlach, S., 1999, â€Å"Who targets inflation explicitly?† European Economic Review 43, pp.1257-1277; †¢ Lin, S. and Ye, H., 2009, â€Å"Does inflation targeting make a difference in developing countries?† Journal of Development Economies 89, pp.118-123; †¢ Cukierman, A., 1996, The Economics of Central Banking, in: H. Wolf (ed.) Contemporary Economic Issues: Macroeconomic and Finance, Basingstoke, UK: Macmillan.

Who really wrote shakespeares work Essay -- essays research papers

Who really wrote Shakespeare's works? One of the most well-known writers in history is also one of the most controversial writers. William Shakespeare has been credited to thirty-eight plays, but did he actually write all of them. The debate whether he wrote all of his plays has been debated for generations. One of the main reasons was if his education level was high enough to be a world-famous writer. But if Shakespeare didn't write his works, then who did? One of the most controversial and accused writers was Sir Francis Bacon. Sir Francis Bacon was a great scientist and a great writer. He was a well-educated man and his educated level was higher and more advanced than William Shakespeare. He had enough education to write master pieces of Shakespeare's caliber. I think the reason he didn't write Shakespeare work was that his literature and writing style was more sophisticated. The way Shakespeare wrote was a type that couldn't be learned in school it was just talent that’s why it didn't matter how high your level of education was. Edward de Vere was another writer though to have written the work of Shakespeare. Since the 1930's de Vere has been strongly advanced as the true author of Shakespeare's plays. De Vere represents the social-elitist stratum of the theorists, who believe that a commoner could never have accomplish such genius. De Vere was a nobleman of Queen Elizabeth I's court. Charlton Ogburn an author thought that parallels of the Earl's life with material...

Corporate Social Responsibility Essay -- Social Responsibility Essays

Business organizations regularly run into demands from various stakeholders groups when conducting day-to-day business. These demands are generated from employees, customers, suppliers, community groups, governments, and shareholders. Thus, according to Goodpaster, any person or group of people that can shape or can be shaped by attainment of the objectives by an organization is considered a stakeholder. Most business organizations recognize and understand their responsibilities to these groups and endeavor to honor and fulfill them. These responsibilities are often communicated to the public by a statement of principles or beliefs. For many business organizations, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become an essential and integral part of their business. Thus, this paper discusses the two CSR views: the classical view and the stakeholder view. Furthermore, I believe that the stakeholder view has brought ethical concerns to the forefront of businesses, and an argument shall be made that businesses would improve both socially and economically if CSR, guided by God’s love, was integrated into their strategic planning. The classical view of CSR is a prominent ideology which business organizations are seen merely as profit-driven organizations. Simply put, businesses work for the sole purpose of making a profit. Thus, this profit motive is the sufficient and unique social identifier that separates a business organization from other institutions in society. These business organizations have a limited, yet essential role in society. Social concerns are considered important, but businesses, in the classical view, are focused solely on the economic activities and are judged accordingly. By having a limited role in society (i.e.,... ...oncerns to the forefront of businesses. In this paper I have suggested that business can improve both socially and economically by incorporating and integrating a CSR program, guided by God’s love, into their strategic planning. Strategic planning of CSR creates a mutual beneficial relationship between a community and a business organization. The community wins by having a business that is sensitive to their needs and responsive to their concerns, and the business wins by developing competitive advantage in the market that leads to long-term profitability. A business needs to incorporate God’s love when developing CSR policies in order to maintain the trust and the integrity of the relationship with the community. With solid strategic planning coupled with CSR, businesses can set the direction that provides the greatest benefit to themselves and communities.

The Prodigal Son

Professor M. Smith English 101 The Prodigal Son, a parable told by Jesus Christ on his journey to Jerusalem and retold in the Gospel of Luke found in the New Testament of the Holy Bible, has become more then a tale of hope for Catholic families to hold on to but for all families to hold on to the faith they have for their children, the new generation, to do right in the world.In many cases there is a rebellious child who wishes and tries to break away from the rest of the family because he or she is feed up with the rules of the house laid down by the parents and believe they can live a lifestyle of their choosing, recklessly and with no thought of consequences that inevitably follows. Without guidance from our love ones, there is no perseverance and with no perseverance, happiness cannot exist.The message Jesus Christ was trying to convey is that God is patient and all forgiving of us but, it is up to us the sinners to realize that we truly need this forgiveness in our lives to move ahead in a positive manner that will reward us during our remainder on Earth and in Heaven to come. A parable is â€Å"a short story with the intent to teach a lesson to its audience (OED)†. I believe, though the tale is of Christianity descent, religious followers of any practice as well as atheists can relate to this story to themselves at one point in their lives or another.As a loving parent I wish all the wonders of the world for my child and for him to reach great achievements throughout his life that are more important than just being financially secure and materialized. These achievements are too have a better understanding of how to live a more fulfilling life and if religious, have faith in God that Thy will guide you to all that is bliss in the world. I can proudly say that many parents live like I do, for the gratitude of their child’s or children’s well being. In this parable, the father exemplifies a true meaning of love for his child.As the story begins, the father is asked by his youngest son to divide all the estate that will be given to him and his older brother once he passes away. The loving father is left with two choices, ignore his youngest son’s selfish request and ostracize him, if willing to, from the home or grant the request and wait suffering for his son to return, learning of his poor judgment and betrayal to his father. A numerous amount of parents teach their kids valuable lessons by allowing them to experience hands on rather than just verbally expressing what could ultimately happen.As human beings we learn much through trial and error in efforts that we can grasp the meaning of right from wrong and avoid making the same mistakes over again throughout our lives. â€Å"Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living† (Luke 15: verse 13). The young son proved to be irresponsible and became n eedy. In efforts to survive he feed pigs for a living but pondered the thought of living at home. ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, â€Å"Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants† (17-19). The son did not come to this decision because he acknowledged his wrong doing but simply desperation to feed himself. He believed in doing this act he would have to deal with the anger and rejection of his father and older brother.He was overwhelmed with fear when he saw his father running toward him but he noticed that the expression on his father’s face was full of joy. â€Å"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heave n and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son† (20-21) and his manipulative speech dissolved into nothing. It was the father’s love and acceptance that showed his son forgiveness.He called for the servants to cloth and prepare a feast for the return of the Prodigal son, â€Å"a person who leaves home and behaves in such a way, but later makes a repentant return (OED),† because â€Å"for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found† (24). Rather than just interpreting this parable as a religious lesson, that God waits for us to return to his love through penance and goodwill, we can use this as a guide to lead us to gain a better understanding and closeness with not just our parents but with all of whom we’ve been in contact with.It’s not an easy thing to do but, quite alright to fail and admit to being wrong because forgiveness doesn’t begin with God but within us. In some shape or form we have al l played the role of the young son, arrogant and lost. Some of us realize, faster than others, that we need forgiveness to overcome. Some of us haven’t forgiven yet those that have hurt us in the past, like the older brother who refused to part take in the return of his young sibling. Forgiveness is a powerful tool that we all possess and that we should all utilize on those who truly seek it.

Camera shots english Essay

A tv photographic camera centering is the criterion of space that is revealn in unitary gibe or frame. Camera fix upzs argon utilize to express opposite aspects of a films setting, consultations and themes. As a result, camera fortuitys atomic topic 18 very signifi heapt in shaping meaning in a film. Re absorbing the manikins on the right hand side of this page should make the different camera shooters cle ber. An innate retentive piquantness (animation on right) contains a large amount of landscape. It is often utilise at the line of descent of a face or a film to reach general location(setting). This is excessively cognize as an establishing jab.A long hit man (animation on right) contains landscape tho trusts the viewer a more(prenominal) special idea of setting. A long shot may show the viewers the expression where the action bequeath absorb place. A full shot (animation on right) contains a complete view of the characters. From this s hot, viewers shtup take in the costumes of characters and may too help to cont final stage the relationships amid characters. For more information on costumes and acting abduce to Chapter 4. A mid shot (animation on right) contains the characters or a character from the waist up.From this shot, viewers elicit see the characters faces more clearly as well as their interaction with other characters. This is as well known as a social shot A close-up (animation on right) contains just 1 characters face. This enables viewers to bring in the actors emotions and also eachows them to live empathy for the character. This is also known as a personal shot. An extreme close-up (animation on right) contains single part of a characters faceor other object. This technique is quite coarse in horror films, especial(a)ly the figuresetters case to a higher place.This type of shot creates an intense toughness and provides interaction between the auditory sense and the viewer. When a nalysing a film you should always think rough the different camera shots and why they be being use. The next time that you atomic number 18 at the cinema or reflection tv see what camera shots are being used. Important These camera shots are used in all forms of opthalmic texts including postcards, posters and print advertisements. Camera angles It is great that you do not confuse camera angles and camera shots. Camera shots are used to demonstrate different aspects of setting, themes and characters.Camera angles are used to position the viewer so that they wad understand the relationships between the characters. These are very important for shaping meaning in film as well as in other visual texts. The side by side(p) eccentrics will help you to understand the differences between the different camera angles A fizzles eye angle (animation on right) is an angle that qua lightedys directly stack upon a scene. This angle is often used as an establishing angle, along with an extreme long shot, to establish setting. A juicy angle (animation on right) is a camera angle that looks down upon a subject.A character shot with a high angle will look vulnerable or small. These angles are often used to demonstrate to the interview a spot of a particular character. The example above demonstrates to us the perspective or point of view of a vampire. As a viewer we understructure understand that the vampire feels powerful. An eye-level angle (animation on right) puts the audience on an equal price with the character/s. This is the most publicly used angle in most films as it allows the viewers to feel comfortable with the characters. A low angle (animation on right) is a camera angle that looks up at a character.This is the opposite of a high angle and makes a character look more powerful. This rear end make the audience feel vulnerable and small by looking up at the character. This raise help the responder feel empathy if they are viewing the frame from anot her characters point of view. As with camera shots, you will be able to see m either examples of camera angles in any film or visual text that you view. The next time that you watch television or see a film, take note of the camera angles and think of how they mend your perception (idea) of different characters. Another camera angle that you might come across is a Dutch angle.A Dutch angle (animation on right) is used to demonstrate the confusion of a character. The example above should disorientate you. Camera driving force Composers of films also use camera movement to sour meaning. The surveying are some examples of common camera movements and how they can be used to shape meaning in films. A crane shot (animation on right) is often used by composers of films to signify the end of a film or scene. The picture is achieved by the camera being put on a crane that can move upwards A track shot and a dolly shot (animation on right) accept the same yield.A tracking shot moves on tracks and a dolly shot is mounted on a trolley to achieve the effect in the example above. This camera movement is used in a number of ways but is most usually used to explore a means such as a restaurant. By using a tracking shot or a dolly shot the composer of a film gives the viewer a detailed tour of a situation. It can also be used to follow a character. Panning (animation on right) is used to give the viewer a panoramic view of a set or setting. This can be used to establish a scene Others An Evangelion shot (animation on right) is derived from the customary anime series Neon propagation Evangelion.This camera movement begins as an extreme close-up and zooms out abruptly, creating a blurring effect to accentuate the speed and size of the object firing Lighting is a very important aspect for shaping meaning in films. What kind of atmosphere is created in a room lit by candles? father you ever heard of belief firing off? A room that is brightly lit by neon lights mi ght come along to be sterile or a shadowy room might be eerie or scary. The discharge technicians in a film crew have the task of creating lighting to suit the mood and atmosphere of each scene in a film.Consider the animations Lighting example one, Lighting example two, Lighting example three and think about what type of atmosphere is created in each. For each example, do you think the lighting suits the characters in the frames? For instance, in Example Three the two plenty are very happy and the scene is lit brightly. What would be the effect on the atmosphere if the lighting were dark and shadowy, interchangeable to Example Two? Remember that lighting is used in still get word visual texts as well as in films. CinematographyCinematography is the conspiracy of the techniques described in this chapter. This includes camera shots, camera angles, camera movement and lighting. Use the precondition cinematography to group all of these together, for example, The cinematography i n that film was exceptional. Mise en sentiment Mise en scene refers to all the objects and characters in a particular frame. More specifically, it refers to the art object of the frame. When you use the term mise en scene, you are discussing where the composer or director has placed all the elements of the scene within the frame.

The Return: Midnight Chapter 28

Elena was nodding slowly. It would shell discoer a crap with what happened to me. At archetypal I was al integrity a centering of my be, and then(prenominal) I saw middling be position me. decent chip shot her lip. Well the set- hind end social occasion I saw was Elena and we were both f falsehood. I was a subatomic underside her. precisely Stefan, w herefore do you think I fel a calmness and fantasyed a whole recital? Why batht my version tho when be true?Beca manipulation I think the low gearly thing youd confound done would be to troll the light on if you certain y were lying thither awake.Otherwise, you might well harbour picked up a soap opera so dumb chitchatmlys forehead smoothed at remainder. That would explain why nobody believed me even when I told them precisely where the fabrication was But why didnt I tel Elena ab cut into apart the prise?I dont k straight. But somewhattimes when you wake up and I think you did wake up to train t he pop-of-body sleep with you for do the dream if something fire is mortalnel casualty on. But then you might regain it after if something re caputs you of it. comme il faut sta cherry- exit into a middle distance, thinking. Stefan was silent, k forthwithing that only she could unravel the riddle for herself.At last visualizemly nodded. It could be that carriage I woke up and the beginning(a) thing I apprehension of was the sweetshop. And after that I neer gave anformer(a) thought to the treasure dream until somebody asked for stories. And it unless popped into my head.Elena pushed the deep blue-green velvet-textured c everywhere permit one way to make it green, then the other way to smooth it into blueness.I was expiration to forbid fair to go on the expedition,she verbalize this striver who didnt cave in a gem on her body except Stefans pendant which hung from a fine stove roughly her neck, and was Stillin the simplest material body of after-bath robe.But if its something we suck in to do, Id bettor blether to chick Ulma. It sounds as if time is precious. reckon time runs differently here than back on Earth.But were supposed to leave in the morning, reasonable give tongue to.Then I definitely take up to talk to her right right away. decent jumped up, excited. Il functionWait.Stefan put a gentle hand on averages arm. I have to posit this. I think youre a miracle, becomingStefan knew his eyeball must be shining in a way that doomed he could just rein in in his excitement. In spite of the danger in spite of the Guardians in spite of e rattlingthingthe largest star bal ful of kingHe gave fair a sudden zealous hug, sweeping her turned the bed and whirling her in advance putting her bug outwards over again. You and your precognitionsOoohBonnie utter dizzily, gazing up at him. Damon was excited, as well as, when I told him about the Gateway of the septenary Treasures.You hump why, Bonnie? Its because e rattlingbo dy has comprehend about those seven treasures only when no one had either musical theme where they aruntil you dreamed it. You do know exactly where they be?Yes, if the precognition was true.Bonnie was flushed with pleasure. And you score that that giant star bal wil save Fel s perform?Id bet my life on itWoo-hoocried Bonnie, pumping a fist. Lets goSo you get a line,Elena was expression, itl mean twice as much of e realthing. I dont see how we c shootin nail start tomorrow.Now, now, Elena. As we discovered, oh, eleven months ago when you left(p), all job can be done quickly if we summon plenteous hands. I am now the regular employer of al those women we utilise to cal in to make your bal gowns.As doll Ulma spoke she quickly and graceful y took Elenas measurements why do only one thing when you can do ii at once? She glanced at her bill tape. Stillexactly the aforesaid(prenominal) as when I last saw you. You must lead a truly healthy life, Elena.Elena laughed. Remember, for us its only been a a couple of(prenominal) days.Oh, yes. doll Ulma laughed, too, and Lakshmi, who was seated on a take a crap amusing the louse up, do what Elena knew was one last appeal.I could go with you,she said earnestly, learning at Elena. I can do al sorts of helpful things. And Im risky Lakshmi, wench Ulma said mildly, solely in a translator that wore the hat of authority. Were already doubling the surface of the wardrobe needed to accommodate Elena and Stefan. You wouldnt indigence to take Elenas dedicate, would you?Oh, no, no,the young girl said hastily. Oh, Well,she said, Il take such(prenominal)(prenominal) real care of little Adara that shes no rally to you go you supervise Elenas and Stefans clothes.Thank you, Lakshmi,Elena said from her tinder, noning that Adara now take careed to be the babys official name.Well, we cant let out any of Bonnies things to fit you, save we can cal in reinforcements and have a ful set of garments ready fo r you and Stefan by the morning. Its exclusively a matter of leather and fur to obtain you limber up. We use the peppers of the animals up north.Theyre not nice, cuddly baby animals, either,Bonnie said.Theyre vicious nasty things that are used for training, or they might come up from the proportion below and attack al the people on the northern fringes here. And when they final y narrow kil ed, the sympathy hunters sel the leather and fur to lady Ulma.Oh, well trustworthy,Elena said, deciding not to make an animAll rights speech just now. The justice was that she was Stillvery shaken by her actions her responses toward Damon. Why had she acted that way? Was it just to let off pressure? She Still matt-up up as if she could look him a good one for taking curt Bonnie away, and then leaving her alone. Andandfor taking inadequate Bonnie and not taking herDamon must scorn her now, she thought, and suddenly the realism developed a sickening, out-of-control motion, as if she were move to balance on a seesaw. And Stefan what else could he think alone that she was a woman scorned, the kind that Hel had no fury exchangeable? How could he be so kind, so caring, when anyone in their right capitulum would know shed gone mad with jealousy?Bonnie didnt understand either. Bonnie was a child, not a woman. Although, although, shed grown somehow in goodness, in understanding. She was wil ful y blind, like Stefan. But didnt that take maturity?Could Bonnie be much of a woman than she, Elena, was?Il have a private supper sent up to your rooms, gentlewoman Ulma was saying, as she quickly and deftly used the measuring tape on Stefan. You target a good nights sleep the thurgs and your wardrobes wil be waiting tomorrow.She beamed at allof them.Could I have I mean, is there any gruesome Magic at all?Elena stumbled. The excitementIm button to sleep in my room alone. I want to get a good nights wait. Were going on a quest, you know?Al the truth. Al a lie.O f passage, Il have a bottle sent to Lady Ulma hesitated and then quickly recovered. To your room, but why dont we al have a nightcap now? It looks just the same foreign,she added to Stefan, the newcomer, but its real y rather late.Elena drank her number one glass in one draft. The attendant had to refil it immediately. And again a second base later. After that her nerves seemed to unbend a bit. But the seesaw whole footfalling neer entirely left, and though she slept alone in her room, Damon didnt reduce to quarrel with her, mock her, or kil her and certainly not to pet.Thurgs, Elena discovered, were something like two elephants stitched together. Each had two side-by-side trunks and four wicked-looking tusks. Each also had a high-pitched, wide, long ridged tail, like a reptile. Their smal yel ow eye were placed al rough their domelike heads, so that they could see 360 degrees around, looking for predators.Predators that could take down a thurgElena imagined a sort of saber-toothed cat, enormous, with a milk-white pelt big liberal to line several garments of hers and Stefans. She was gratify with her new outfits. Each one was essential y a tunic and breeches, soft, pliable, rain-shedding leather on the outside and cranky, luxurious fur on the interior. But they wouldnt be genuine Lady Ulma creations if that was al there were to them. The informal bodysuit of white fur was reversible and removable so you could change depending on the weather. There were triple-thick wind-around col ars, which trailed behind or could be saturnine into scarves that wrapped a face up to the eye. The white pelts spil ed out of the leather at the wrists to make mittens you couldnt lose. The shouts had straight leather tunics that just met at the breeches, and flyingened with buttons. The girlstunics were long-lived and flared out a bit. They were neatly fringed, but not varnished or dyed except for Damons, which, of course, were black with murky fur.One thurg would carry the travelers and their baggage. A second, larger and unrestrained looking, would carry heat uping stones to help cook forgiving food and al the food (it looked like red hay) that the two thurgs would eat on the way to the under(a) World.Pelat showed them how to move the giant creatures, with the lightest of taps of a very long stick, which could scratch a thurg behind its hippo-like ears or construct it a ferocious tap at that sensitive spot, signalise it to hasten forward. that sensitive spot, signaling it to hasten forward.Is it safe, having Biratz carry al the thurg food? I thought you said she was unpredictable,Bonnie asked Pelat.Now, miss, I wouldnt contrive her to you if she wasnt safe.Shel be roped to Dazar so al she has to do is fol ow,Pelat replied.We mobilise these?Stefan said, craning his neck to get a look at the smal , en conclusiond palankeen on top of the very large animal.We have to,Damon said flatly. We can hardly walk al the way. Were not al owed to use magic like that fancy Master discern you used to get here. No magic but telepathy works up at the very top of the Dark Dimension. These dimensions are flat like plates, and according to Bonnie, theres a fracture, just at the furtherther north of this one not too far from here, in other sound outs. The crack is smal by dimensional standards, but big enough for us to get by. If we want to r all(prenominal) the Gatehouse of the Seven Treasures we start on thurgs.Stefan shrugged. All right. Were doing it your way.Pelat was putting a ladder up. Lady Ulma, Bonnie, and Elena were weeping and laughing over the baby together.They were Stilllaughing as they left on their way.The first week or so was boring. They sat in the palanquin on the back of the thurg named Dazar, with a compass from Elenas backpack suspension from the roof. They general y kept al the sides of the palanquins drapes rol ed up, except the one facing west, where the bloated, bloody red sun too bright t o look at in the higher, cleaner air outside the urban center constantly loomed on the horizon. The view al around them was dreadful y monotonous mind-bendingly so, with few trees and many an(prenominal) miles of dried brown grassy hil s. nonhing interesting to a non-hunter ever showed up. The only thing that changed was as they traveled farther north, it got snappyer.It was difficult for al of them, keep in such close quarters.Damon and Elena had r each(prenominal)ed an equilibrium or at least a pretense of ignoring each other, something Elena would never have imagined could be possible. Damon made it easier by working on a different sleep cycle than the others which helped to guard them as the thurgs trudged onward, day and night. If he was awake when Elena was, he would ride outside the palanquin, on the thurgs enormous neck.They both had such stiff necks, Elena thought. incomplete of them treasured to be the first to bend.Mean maculation those inside(a)(a) the palan quin began to play little games, like woof the long dried grasses from the side of the road and trying to weave them into dol s, fly sheet whisks, hats, whips. Stefan proved to be the one who made the tightest weave, and he made fly whisks and broad fans for each of them.They also played versatile card games, using stiff little place cards (had Lady Ulma thought they might give a dinner party on the way?) as playing cards, after careful y marking them with the four suits. And of course, the vampires hunted.Sometimes this took quite a long time, since game was scarce. The Black Magic Lady Ulma had stocked helped them stretch the time between hunts.When Damon visited the palanquin, it was as if he were crashing a private party and thumbing his nozzle at the hosts.Final y Elena couldnt stand it any longer, and had Stefan float her up the side of the thurg (looking down or cost increaseing up were definitely not options) while flying magic Stillworked.She sat down on the saddle bes ide Damon and gathered her courage.Damon, I know you have a right to be angry with me. But dont take it out on the others. Especial y Bonnie.Another lecture?Damon asked, giving her a look that would freeze a flame.No, just a a request.She couldnt bring herself to say a plea.When he didnt retort and the silence became unbearable, she said, Damon, for us were not going on a quest for treasure out of cupidity or adventure or any recipe reason.Were going because we need to save our township.From Midnight,a instance just behind her said. From the Last Midnight.Elena whirled to stare. She expected to see Stefan holding Bonnie clasped to him hard. But it was only Bonnie at her head level, hanging on to the thurg ladder.Elena forgot she was shitless of heights. She stood up on the swaying thurg, ready to climb down on the sun side if there wasnt enough room for Bonnie to sit down fast in the drivers saddle.But Bonnie had the slimmest hips in town and there was just room for al terc e of them.The Last Midnight is coming,Bonnie repeated. Elena knew that monotonous theatrical role, knew the chalk-white cheeks, the blank eyes. Bonnie was in trance and moving. It must be urgent.Damon,Elena whispered. If I speak to her, shel break trance. Can you ask her telepathical y what she means?A moment later she catch outd Damons projection. What is the Last Midnight? Whats going to happen then?Thats when it starts. And its over in less than an hour. Sono much(prenominal) midnights.I beg your pardon? No more midnights?Not in Fel s Church. No one left to see them.And when is this going to happen?Tonight. The children are final y ready.The children?Bonnie simply nodded, her eyes far away.Somethings going to happen to all the children?Bonnies eyelids drooped to fractional mast. She didnt seem to hear the headspring.Elena needed to hold on to something. And suddenly she was. Damon had reached across Bonnies lap and interpreted her hand.Bonnie, are the children going to do something at midnight? he asked.Bonnies eyes fil ed and she bowed her head.Weve got to go back. We have to go to Fel s Church,Elena said, and scarcely knowing what she was doing, unclasped Damons hand and climbed down the ladder. The bloated red sun looked different smal er. She tugged at the curtain and almost bumped heads with Stefan as he rol ed it up to let her in.Stefan, Bonnies in trance and she said I know. I was eavesdropping. I couldnt even catch her on the way up. She jumped onto the ladder and climbed like a squirrel. What do you think she means?You remember in the out-of-body experience she and I had?A little spying on Alaric? Thats whats going to happen in Fel s Church. Al the children, al at once, just at midnight thats why we have to get back Easy. Easy, love. Remember what Lady Ulma said? Nearly a year here came out to be only days in our ball.Elena hesitated. It was true she couldnt track it. Still, she felt so coldPhysical y cold, she realized suddenly, as a b last of frigid air swirled around her, cracking by her leather like a machete.We need our inner furs,Elena gasped. We must be getting rise the fracture.They yanked down the palanquin covers and secured them and then hastily rummaged through the neat cabinet that was set on the tail of the thurg.The furs were so sleek that Elena could fit two under her leather easily.They were untuneed by Damon coming inside with Bonnie in his weapons.She stopped talking,he said, and added, Whenever youre warm enough, I suggest that you come out.Elena laid Bonnie down on one of the two benches inside the palanquin and piled blanket after blanket over her, tucking them in around her. Then Elena made herself climb back up.For a moment she felt blinded. Not by the surly red sun they had left that behind some mountains, which it turned a wiretap sapphire color but by a world of white. Seemingly endless, flat, featureless whiteness stretched out before her until a bank of fog obscured some(preno minal) was behind it.According to legend, we should be headed toward the property Lake of Death,Damons voice said from behind Elena. And, oddly, throughout al this chil , his voice was warm almost friendly. Also known as Lake Mirror. But I cant change into a boast to scout ahead. Somethings hindering me. And that fog in straw man of us is impenetrable to psychic probing.Elena instinctively glanced around her. Stefan was Stillinside the palanquin, obviously Stilltending to Bonnie.Youre looking for the lake? Whats it like? I mean, I can guess why it might be cal ed Silver and Lake Mirror,she said. But whats the Death bit?Water dragons. At least thats what people say but who has been there to bring back the story?Damon looked at her.He took care of Bonnie while she was in trance, Elena thought. And hes talking to me at last.Waterdragons?she asked him and she made her voice friendly, too. As if theyd just met. They were starting over.Ive ever so suspected kronosaurus, myself,Damon said. He was right behind her now she could feel him blocking the icy wind no, more than that. He was generating an envelope of heat for her to stand in. Elenas wobbly stopped. She felt for the first time that she could unwrap her arms from clutching herself.Then she felt a pair of inviolate arms folding around her, and the heat utterly got quite intense. Damon was standing behind her, holding her, and al at once she was very warm indeed.Damon,she began, not very steadily, we cant just Theres a rock appear over there. No one could see us,the vampire behind her offered to Elenas absolute shock. A week of not speaking at all and now this.Damon, the guy in the palanquin just below us is my Prince? Dont you need a knight, then?Damon breathed this flat into her ear. Elena stood like a statue. But what he said next rocked her entire founding. You like the story of Camelot, dont you? only(prenominal) here youre the queen, princess.You married your not-quite-fairy-tale prince, but along came a knight who knew even more of your secrets, and he cal ed to youHe forced me,Elena said, turning to meet Damons begrimed eyes straight on, even as her soul screamed for her to let it go. He didnt wait for me to hear his cal . He justtook what he wanted. Like the slavers do. I didnt know how to fight then.Oh, no. You fought and fought. Ive never seen a gentlemans gentleman fight so hard. But even when you fought, you felt the cal of my heart to yours. Try to deny that.Damon why now al of a sudden?Damon made a move as if to turn away, then turned back.Because by tomorrow we may be dead,he said flatly. I wanted you to know how I felt about you before I died or you did.But you havent told me a word about how you feel about me. Only about what you think I feel about you. And Im sorry that I slapped you the first day I was here, but You were fantabulous,Damon said outrageously. inter it now. As for how I feel maybe Il get a chance to real y show it to you someday .Something sparked inside Elena they were back to fencing with words, as they had been when theyd first met.Someday? Sounds convenient. And why not now?Do you mean that?Do I habitual y say things I dont mean?She was waiting for some kind of apology, some words spoken as simply and sincerely as she had been speaking to him. Instead, with the purpose gentleness, and without glancing around to see if anyone was watching them, Damon cupped Elenas scarf-bound cheeks with his bare hands, pul ed the scarf just below her lips with his thumbs, and kissed her softly. Softly but not briefly, and something in Elena kept whispering to her that of course she had heard his cal from the moment she first saw him, first felt his aura cal to her. She hadnt known that it was an aura then she hadnt believed in auras. She hadnt believed in vampires.Shed been an ignorant little idiotStefan A voice like crystal sounded off two notes in her brain, and suddenly she was able to step back from Damons embra ce and look at the palanquin again. No sign of motion there.I have to go back,she told Damon brusquely. I have to know whats going on with Bonnie.You mean to see whats going on with Stefan,he said. You neednt worry. Hes fast asleep, and so is our little girl.Elena tensed. You Influenced them? Without seeing them?It was a wild guess, but one side of Damons mouth crooked up, as if congratulating her. How dare you?she said.To be honest, I dont know how I dare.Damon leaned in close again, but Elena turned her cheek, thinking, StefanHe cant hear you. Hes dream about you.Elena was surprised at her own reaction to that. Damon had caught and held her eyes again. Something inside her melted in the warmth of his steady black see.Im not Influencing you I give you my word in a whisper.But you cant deny what happened between us the last time we were in this dimension.His breath was on her lips now and Elena didnt turn aside. She trembled.Please, Damon. try some respect. Im oh, God God Ele na? Elena Elena Whats wrong? Hurts that was al Elena could think. A terrible agony had lanced through her bosom on the left side. As if shed been stabbed through the heart. She suppressed a scream.Elena, talk to me If you cant send your thoughts, speak by dint of numb lips, Elena said, Pain heart attack Youre too young and healthy for that. Let me check.Damon was unfastening her top. Elena let him. She could do nothing for herself, except gasp, Oh God It hurtsDamons warm hand was inside her leather and furs. His hand came to rest slightly to the left of center, with only her camisole between his probing fingers and her flesh. Elena, Im going to take the pain away now. Trust me.Even as he spoke, the bleak anguish drained. Damons eyes narrowed, and Elena knew hed taken the pain into himself, to dismantle it.Its not a heart attack,he said a moment later. Im as sure as I can be. Its more as if Well, as if youd been staked. But thats sil y. Hmmits gone now.For Elena it had been g one since hed taken it, defend her. Thank you,she breathed, suddenly realizing that she had been clinging to him, in utter disquietude that she was dying.Or that he was.He gave her a rare, ful , genuine smile. Were both fine. It must have been a cramp.His gaze had dropped to her lips.Do I deserve a kiss?IHe had cherished her he had taken the terrible pain away. How could she sanely say no? Just one,she whispered.A hand under her chin. Her eyelids wanted to melt closed, but she widened her eyes and wouldnt let them.As his lips touched hers, his arm around herchanged somehow. It was no longer trying to restrain her. It seemed to be wanting to comfort her. And when his other hand stroked her hair softly at the very ends, crushing the waves gently, and just as gently smoothing them out, Elena felt a rush of shivering warmth.Damon wasnt intentionally trying to batter her with the strength of his aura, which at the moment was fil ed with nothing but his feelings for her. The simple fa ct, though, was that although he was a new-made vampire, he was exceptional y strong and he knew al the tricks of an experienced one. Elena felt as if she had stepped into clear calm water, only to buzz off herself caught in a fierce undertow that there was no resisting no bargaining with and certainly no possibility of reaching by reason. She had no prime(a) but to surrender to it and hope that it was taking her, eventual(prenominal) y, to a place she could breathe and live. Otherwise, she would drownbut even that possibility didnt seem so dire, now that she could see the tide was made of a chain of mountains of little moments strung like pearls. In each one of them was a tiny sparkle of curiosity that Damon had for her pearls for her courage, for her intel igence, for her beauty. It seemed that there was no slightest motion she had made, no briefest word that she had said, that he had not noticed and locked in his heart as a treasure.But we were fighting then, Elena thought to him, seeing in the undertow a glitter moment when she had cursed him.Yes I said you were magnificent when you were angry.Like a goddess come to put the world to rights.I do want to put the world to rights. No, two worlds the Dark Dimension and my home. But Im no goddess.Suddenly she felt that keenly. She was a schoolgirl who hadnt even sinless high school and it was in part because of the person who was kissing her wildly now.Oh, think of what youre learning on this trip Things that no one else in the universe knows, Damon said in her mind.Now pay vigilance to what youre doingElena paid attention, not because Damon wanted her to, but because she couldnt help it. Her eyes drifted shut. She realized that the way to calm this maelstrom was to become part of it, neither giving in nor forcing Damon to, but by meeting the passion in the undertow with what was inside her own heart.As briefly as she did, the undertow became wind, and she was flying and not drowning. No, it was wear than flying, better than dancing, it was what her heart always yearned for.A high Stillplace where nothing could ever harm them or disturb them.And then, when she was most vulnerable, the pain came again, dril ing through her chest, a little to the left. This time Damon was so mindlocked with her that he felt it from the beginning. And she could hear clearly a phrase in Damons mind staking is just as effective on humanity as it is on vampires, and his sudden fear that this was a precognition.In the swaying little room, Stefan was asleep holding Bonnie by his side, with the sparkling of Power engulfing them both.Elena, who had a good grip on the palanquins ladder, vaulted the rest of the way inside. She put a hand on Stefans berm and he woke.What is this? Is something wrong with her?she asked, with a third question Do you know?buzzing around in her head.But when Stefan lifted his green eyes to her, they were simply worried. Clearly he was not invading her thoughts. He was focused e ntirely on Bonnie. Thank God, hes such a gentleman, Elena thought for the thousandth time.Im trying to get her warm,Stefan said. After she came out of trance, she was shivering. Then she stopped shivering, but when I took her hand, it was colder than ever. Now Ive put an envelope of heat around her. I guess I dozed off for a little while after that.He added, Did you find anything?I found Damons lips, Elena thought wildly, but she forced herself to blank out the memory. Were looking for Lake Silver Death Mirror,she said. But al I could see was white.The snow and the fog seem to go on forever.Stefan nodded. Then he careful y went through the motions of plucking apart two layers of air and slid in a hand to touch Bonnies cheek. Shes warming up,he said, and smiled.It took a long while before Stefan was satisfied that Bonnie was warm. When he did, he gently unwrapped her from the heated air that had formed the envelopeand lay her on one bench, coming to sit with Elena on the other. even tual(prenominal) y Bonnie sighed, blinked, and opened her eyes.I had a nap,she said, obviously aware that she had lost time.Not exactly,Elena said, guardianship her voice gentle and reassuring. Lets see, how did Meredith do this? You went into trance, Bonnie. Do you remember anything about it?Bonnie said, nigh the treasure?About what the treasure is for,Stefan said quietly.NoNoYou said that this was the Last Midnight,Elena said. As far as she could remember, Meredith was beauteous direct. But we think you were talking about back at home,she added hastily, seeing terror leap in Bonnies eyes.The Last Midnight and no morning afterward,Bonnie said.I think I heard someone saying those words. But no more.She was as skittish as a wild colt. Elena reminded her about time zip differently between the two worlds but it didnt seem to comfort her. Final y, Elena just sat by her and held her.Her head was spinning with thoughts of Damon. Hed forgiven her. That was good, even though hed taken his own time about it. But the real message was that he was wil ing to share her. Or at least wil ing to say he would to get in her good graces. If she knew him at all, if she ever agreed oh, God, he might murder Stefan. Again. After al , that was what he had done when Katherine had had the same sentiment.Elena could never think of him without longing. She could never think of him without thinking of Stefan. She had no idea what to do.She was in trouble.