Protein is a key component in building, maintaining and repairing the tissues of the body. A large composition of cartilage, muscle, skin and hair is protein. Protein helps to carry oxygen using the blood to various parts of the body. The body’s metabolism is controlled by protein. Protein makes anti-bodies which helps fight diseases. There are two major types of protein; simple protein and conjugated proteins.
The immune system deals with all levels of toxic every day. The artificial sweeteners and bad fats that we eat do not nourish the body , but rather, are products that needs to be eliminated. Foods that are nourishing to the body include protein, carbohydrates, fiber and fats.
Protein take a high rank among the much needed food on the food chart as it is helps build the immune system of the body. According to www,thebody.com (2008), the body must be replenished daily with high quality protein, “Generous amounts of high quality protein are important for maintaining rapid production of cells to support the immune system, preventing loss of lean muscle mass and boosting energy.”. Protein contain amino acids which make up the building blocks of the body. High quality protein include beans, legumes and tofu for vegetarians and meat and fish for meat lovers.
According to a research done at Penn State University, posted in the ScienceDaily, 2007, scientists found that low protein over time can lead to severe autoimmune diseases such as colitis, multiple sclerosis and arthritis.
In conclusion, sufficient intake of protein helps to eliminate a major epidemic today, obesity. Protein helps to ward off hunger pangs. According to Proteins are Essential to Life, 2006, “ Despite, or perhaps because of, unprecedented levels of obesity in the US and many European countries, consumer interest in health and wellbeing is growing. This includes a nutritious start to life, an active lifestyle and full and quick recovery from any illness. All of these can be aided by proteins, one of the fundamental building blocks of
human health.”
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
I do not think we should eliminate fats from our diets. Fats are an essential part to our diet, like a well oiled machine. fats play key role in our body.
According to www.webmd.com,2008, fats are an essential part of our diet and it is a requirement for a daily consumption."Fats are an important part of a healthy diet: They provide essential fatty acids, keep our skin soft, deliver fat-soluble vitamins, and are a great source of energizing fuel. But it's easy to get confused about good fats vs. bad fats, how much fat we should eat, how to avoid artery-clogging trans fats, and the role omega-3 fatty acids play in heart health.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2005 Dietary Guidelines recommend that adults get 20%-35% of their calories from fats. At a minimum, we need at least 10% of our calories to come from fat.". Those obese people are fat, this fat did not come about by eating fatty foods such as nuts, and avocados. Weight gain takes place when there's an overconsumption of too many calories.
Increasing of protein in one's diet is a good idea for over weight people, as protein helps to curb hunger. Too much protein, however, is not a good thing either. Too much protein produces ketones. Ketones are toxic. The kidneys will then have to go in overdrive to release the ketones. The body also loses water when trying to excrete ketones which lead to dehydration!
I think proteins do contain many nutritious values. Protein helps the muscle repair itself. Iron is also found in protein enriched foods such as meat and beans. Unsaturated fats are great for the body as they provide nutrients to the body. The bad fat or trans fat ( fried foods especially) are very bad for the body.
According to www.webmd.com,2008, fats are an essential part of our diet and it is a requirement for a daily consumption."Fats are an important part of a healthy diet: They provide essential fatty acids, keep our skin soft, deliver fat-soluble vitamins, and are a great source of energizing fuel. But it's easy to get confused about good fats vs. bad fats, how much fat we should eat, how to avoid artery-clogging trans fats, and the role omega-3 fatty acids play in heart health.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2005 Dietary Guidelines recommend that adults get 20%-35% of their calories from fats. At a minimum, we need at least 10% of our calories to come from fat.". Those obese people are fat, this fat did not come about by eating fatty foods such as nuts, and avocados. Weight gain takes place when there's an overconsumption of too many calories.
Increasing of protein in one's diet is a good idea for over weight people, as protein helps to curb hunger. Too much protein, however, is not a good thing either. Too much protein produces ketones. Ketones are toxic. The kidneys will then have to go in overdrive to release the ketones. The body also loses water when trying to excrete ketones which lead to dehydration!
I think proteins do contain many nutritious values. Protein helps the muscle repair itself. Iron is also found in protein enriched foods such as meat and beans. Unsaturated fats are great for the body as they provide nutrients to the body. The bad fat or trans fat ( fried foods especially) are very bad for the body.
According to www.Medicinenet.com, (2008), lipids is another word for fats. Lipids do not dissolve in water. "Lipids are an important part of living cells. Together with carbohydrates and proteins, lipids are the main constituents of plant and animal cells.Cholesterol and triglycerides are lipids. Lipids are easily stored in the body. They serve as a source of fuel and are an important constituent of the structure of cells." Lipids contain fatty acids which are important to the growth and maintenance of cells.
The food, once chewed, swallowed and goes into the stomach, the fats separates from the other food and stays on top of the other food. Since the fat does not mix well with the fluids of the stomach, the fat travels to the small intestine where it mixes with the bile that was given out by the gallbladder. This is where the absorption of the lipids take place! The bile must mix with the fat and the fluid from the other fluid. The fat-digesting enzyme released from the pancreas then breaks the lipids into smaller bits to be absorbed through the walls of the small intestine. If this mixing does not mix well then the lipids will not be absorbed. Once the fat crosses through the intestine they are carried though the body as good cholesterol or bad cholesterol. The lipids then move through the lymph system then the liver. The lipids are used for energy or stored as fat. The healthy person typically absorbs 98% of the lipids.
The food, once chewed, swallowed and goes into the stomach, the fats separates from the other food and stays on top of the other food. Since the fat does not mix well with the fluids of the stomach, the fat travels to the small intestine where it mixes with the bile that was given out by the gallbladder. This is where the absorption of the lipids take place! The bile must mix with the fat and the fluid from the other fluid. The fat-digesting enzyme released from the pancreas then breaks the lipids into smaller bits to be absorbed through the walls of the small intestine. If this mixing does not mix well then the lipids will not be absorbed. Once the fat crosses through the intestine they are carried though the body as good cholesterol or bad cholesterol. The lipids then move through the lymph system then the liver. The lipids are used for energy or stored as fat. The healthy person typically absorbs 98% of the lipids.
According to www.obesity.org, obesity is when a person is overweight to a point where their health is affected."Obesity is the excessive accumulation of adipose tissue to an extent that health is impaired."
Obesity is a growing epidemic in our nation. Obesity is associated with the following diseases:
Heart Disease
Diabetes
Stroke
Hypertension
Some types of cancer
Sleep Apnea
Osteoarthritis
Gallbladder Disease
Most people are obese today because they are stressed, sad, depressed or even bored. This I find shocking. The reason for obesity I feel, is lack of education among people who resort to food for comfort. People should try to become more aware of what they are eating and the effects on their body of what they are eating! The typical american diet which is readily available when consumed regularly lead to obesity. I live in Stone Mountain, Georgia and the typical diet here is fried foods! There are so many obese people here and it's sad that they are so comfortable, or so it seems, in their skin.
Though some may argue that obesity, as well as other illnesses, may be transferred through genes, it is all true that their are other contributing factors. The food we eat, how often we eat, the amount of exercises we get , the toxicity level of the body, fluid consumption are all important factors that do affect our weight.
The following are mindblowing facts taken from www.drdonnica.com
o An estimated 97 million Americans (55 percent of the U.S. population) are overweight or obese -- 59 million are overweight and 38 million are obese.
o Over the past 20 years, the number of children who are overweight has increased by more than 50 percent. The number of obese children has nearly doubled.
o Forty percent of non-Hispanic Blacks and nearly one quarter of Mexican Americans are obese.
o Obesity rates among African-American girls are the fastest growing among any demographic group in the country.
Obesity is a growing epidemic in our nation. Obesity is associated with the following diseases:
Heart Disease
Diabetes
Stroke
Hypertension
Some types of cancer
Sleep Apnea
Osteoarthritis
Gallbladder Disease
Most people are obese today because they are stressed, sad, depressed or even bored. This I find shocking. The reason for obesity I feel, is lack of education among people who resort to food for comfort. People should try to become more aware of what they are eating and the effects on their body of what they are eating! The typical american diet which is readily available when consumed regularly lead to obesity. I live in Stone Mountain, Georgia and the typical diet here is fried foods! There are so many obese people here and it's sad that they are so comfortable, or so it seems, in their skin.
Though some may argue that obesity, as well as other illnesses, may be transferred through genes, it is all true that their are other contributing factors. The food we eat, how often we eat, the amount of exercises we get , the toxicity level of the body, fluid consumption are all important factors that do affect our weight.
The following are mindblowing facts taken from www.drdonnica.com
o An estimated 97 million Americans (55 percent of the U.S. population) are overweight or obese -- 59 million are overweight and 38 million are obese.
o Over the past 20 years, the number of children who are overweight has increased by more than 50 percent. The number of obese children has nearly doubled.
o Forty percent of non-Hispanic Blacks and nearly one quarter of Mexican Americans are obese.
o Obesity rates among African-American girls are the fastest growing among any demographic group in the country.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Why organic milk? Many new parents as well as parents that are expecting to have a child have asked me this question!
I fed my son organic cow’s milk ever since he was 6 months old. He’s now almost 4 years now. Though the organic milk is a bit more expensive than regular non-organic milk, it certainly is a better choice. I think the organic milk contributed to his strong immune system. I can honestly say that my son has had a serious cold once in his entire life.
By being organic means that the cows were fed an organic grain diet. The cows are also able to roam openly. The farming practice of organic food is also better for the environment. Organic foods are free of synthetic chemicals found in non-organic foods. According to Advancing the Chemical Sciences Website, 2008 “there is a worry that intensive farming… will destroy the fertility of the land and in the long run organic farming will secure the future for sustainable farming.”, www.rsc.org.
Pesticides used in non-organic farming are very dangerous to one’s health. An infant’s body is by no way capable of defending itself against the harshness of unsafe pesticides found in milk and other food products. An infant is susceptible to illnesses such as colds and fever.
The sales of all organic foods have increased tremendously over the past few years. People are realizing that the organic industry provides foods that are healthier. Some parents may argue that organic milk is too costly for their tight budget. However, when one considers the benefits of organic milk as well as all the illnesses can be avoided, parents cannot afford not to buy organic milk for their infants! Children are more vulnerable to illnesses and do need the important nutrients found in organic milk so as to build a stronger immune system.
Pediatricians do emphasize that infants need the presence of good fats in their diet. The animals on industrial farms are exposed to pesticides, heavy metals as well as synthetic hormones. Organic milk, on the other hand have none of these toxic items. One study done proved that organic milk taken by infants with eczema helped reduced this eczema growth by 36 per cent. The fatty nutrients required for optimal health of an infant is largely present in organic milk. These fatty nutrients include conjugated linolenic acid (CLA), vitamin E, natural beta-carotene and omega-3 fatty acids. Dietary fats are essential in early brain development. Visual development is also largely dependent on obtaining the omega 3 fatty acids found in cows milk. The cows do obtain their high omega 3 by feeding on grass. This explains why grass-fed cow’s milk is high in omega 3 acid and extremely important for a child’s development. In addition organic cows milk contain natural vitamin E and beta-carotene which help protect the milk from going bad quickly. The CLA found in organic milk helps maintain a child’s metabolism which protects children from weight gain. It is accurate to state that organic milk is more nutritious and less toxic.
All parents would want the best for their children. Choosing organic milk is one of the first steps a mother can take to ensure that her child is given the right nutrients. A nutritious diet ensures and help aid in this very special time of growth and development in a child’s life.
I fed my son organic cow’s milk ever since he was 6 months old. He’s now almost 4 years now. Though the organic milk is a bit more expensive than regular non-organic milk, it certainly is a better choice. I think the organic milk contributed to his strong immune system. I can honestly say that my son has had a serious cold once in his entire life.
By being organic means that the cows were fed an organic grain diet. The cows are also able to roam openly. The farming practice of organic food is also better for the environment. Organic foods are free of synthetic chemicals found in non-organic foods. According to Advancing the Chemical Sciences Website, 2008 “there is a worry that intensive farming… will destroy the fertility of the land and in the long run organic farming will secure the future for sustainable farming.”, www.rsc.org.
Pesticides used in non-organic farming are very dangerous to one’s health. An infant’s body is by no way capable of defending itself against the harshness of unsafe pesticides found in milk and other food products. An infant is susceptible to illnesses such as colds and fever.
The sales of all organic foods have increased tremendously over the past few years. People are realizing that the organic industry provides foods that are healthier. Some parents may argue that organic milk is too costly for their tight budget. However, when one considers the benefits of organic milk as well as all the illnesses can be avoided, parents cannot afford not to buy organic milk for their infants! Children are more vulnerable to illnesses and do need the important nutrients found in organic milk so as to build a stronger immune system.
Pediatricians do emphasize that infants need the presence of good fats in their diet. The animals on industrial farms are exposed to pesticides, heavy metals as well as synthetic hormones. Organic milk, on the other hand have none of these toxic items. One study done proved that organic milk taken by infants with eczema helped reduced this eczema growth by 36 per cent. The fatty nutrients required for optimal health of an infant is largely present in organic milk. These fatty nutrients include conjugated linolenic acid (CLA), vitamin E, natural beta-carotene and omega-3 fatty acids. Dietary fats are essential in early brain development. Visual development is also largely dependent on obtaining the omega 3 fatty acids found in cows milk. The cows do obtain their high omega 3 by feeding on grass. This explains why grass-fed cow’s milk is high in omega 3 acid and extremely important for a child’s development. In addition organic cows milk contain natural vitamin E and beta-carotene which help protect the milk from going bad quickly. The CLA found in organic milk helps maintain a child’s metabolism which protects children from weight gain. It is accurate to state that organic milk is more nutritious and less toxic.
All parents would want the best for their children. Choosing organic milk is one of the first steps a mother can take to ensure that her child is given the right nutrients. A nutritious diet ensures and help aid in this very special time of growth and development in a child’s life.
Everyone should implement religious teachings into
his or her life so as to live more harmoniously and providing a safer
tomorrow.
Would this world be better without religion? Would society be better without religious groups or leaders trying to force their teachings? Many may not be aware this, but all the main religions in this world have the same basic teachings and principle! For example, love, compassion,
education and forgiveness, are all basic principles of all major
religions! Every one of the main religions teach mankind to be live in
unity!
Would you agree that every religion teaches people to live harmoniously? According to the Baha’I Faith, the fastest growing
religion after Christianity, “According to the direct and sacred command
of God we are forbidden to utter slander, are commanded to show forth
peace and amity, are exhorted to rectitude of conduct, straightforwardness
and harmony with all the kindreds and peoples of the world.” (‘Abdu’l-
Baha, The Will and Testament, p. 7). Wouldn’t this world be a better if the people were to follow the teachings of the religions? All the religions of the world preach the importance of peace, love and unity. A just world
can be accomplished if everyone practice peace, love and unity.
Why practice religion? What are the benefits that come to those that
practice religion? Who practices religion? These are all common
questions among mankind. There are basic principles that will benefit
mankind as a whole. The oneness of world of humanity can be realized
with the practice of love amongst mankind. Religion can help bring unity
among mankind with the realization that there is only one God. Equality
between men and women. The abolition of all forms of prejudice can also be gained over a period of time.
Universal peace can definitely be achieved. Economic problems can also be overcome with following the basic principles of religions. This is the purpose of religion. Religion was created so as to provide an ever advancing civilization. Religion was created to stop dissention and strife in homes, schools and communities at large. Mankind needs to understand that by embracing one another, will surely bring about a well developed and progressive world.
The statistics below prove that there are many believers in the world.
Every person would like to have a better future. Eradicating hatred of
any kind definitely promises a brighter world. Below is the approximate
estimate of the number of followers of the main religions of the world.
1.Christianity: 2.1 billion
2.Islam: 1.5 billion
3.Secular/Nonreligious/Agnostic/Atheist: 1.1 billion
4.Hinduism: 900 million
5.Chinese traditional religion: 394 million
6.Buddhism: 376 million
7.Primal-indigenous: 300 million
8.African Traditional & Diasporic: 100 million
9.Sikhism: 23 million
10.Juche: 19 million
11.Spiritism: 15 million
12.Judaism: 14 million
13.Baha’i: 7 million
14.Jainism: 4.2 million
15.Shinto: 4 million
16.Cao Dai: 4 million
17.Zoroastrianism: 2.6 million
18.Tenrikyo: 2 million
19.Neo-Paganism: 1 million
20.Unitarian-Universalism: 800 thousand
21.Rastafarianism: 600 thousand
22.Scientology: 500 thousand
Religion is very popular among mankind. Even though most religions have millions of followers, as shown in the estimated statistics and pie chart, the world is still faced with many serious problems. Are the followers practicing the essence of religion?” Below is a pie chart, taken from WWW.Adherents.com, used to show how popular religion is in the hearts of people today. People do want a better world and are turning to religion as guidance. Even though some may realize how important religion is, by not practicing the teaching is not practicing the religion. One needs to apply the teachings of the religions into his or her every day activities. People need to smile at one another, help others more in times of need and learn to be more charitable. These are the fruits of every religion. Praying and fasting does not necessarily means the followers are adhering to the principles of the religion. One needs to practice what the
scriptures teach.
Being more forgiving and kind in one’s daily life can lead to a more rewarding. Many people are consumed by hate and cannot see beyond that. Filling one’s life with love and forgiveness can help a person become more productive and are better able to face challenges in life. A person consumed with love can only make positive decisions which will in turn create a more rewarding career and family life. Unity can certainly be achieved in this world if the citizens of this world can think on a wider scale. People need to recognize that all mankind are created equal. There are no differences among human being. Every human being have the same needs and desires. Every one wants to be loved and respected. Citizens of other countries are also equal and should be considered equal. The people of other countries are friends not enemies and should be treated as such. Baha’u’llah, the most recent manifestation of God points out, in Gleanings,(1874), “The belief in the unity of all human beings is the pivot of the Baha’i Faith. Baha’u’llah said, let your vison be world-embracing, rather than confined to your own selves.”
The first teacher of love is family. Living harmoniously is very crucial in a family. Teaching love within family members is like teaching love at the grass root level. This will allow for love to stay in all the members of the family throughout each one of their lives. Family members have the opportunity to correct each other when mistakes are made. Every member of the family must learn to overlook the faults of others so as to create love. By portraying love among one another encourages family members to live lovingly. When a member of the family builds his or her family, he or she will practice love in that family as well. Each member of the family have an important role to play.
Communities and villages are also a great teacher of love. By living lovingly in communities is also very critical. Presently, in society, neighbors don’t know each other. Neighbors can be very happy living joyously together if people take some time to get to know each other. Neighbors can learn to respect each other. Neighbors can learn to ignore a of a person’s cultural or racial background, and live harmoniously. By living in this manner teaches the children of that community to also ignore these unimportant difference.
A loving community can instill unity and love, which are primary teachings of every religion, into it’s members. Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Bahai Faith announced that the importance of unity, (1874) ”Religion is not for separating mankind, but rather to unite everyone. This will allow for a world that is moral and fair.” A member of such a community, if move to live in another community, can teach that community to also live harmoniously among themselves. Every member of a community have a role to play in this big picture. Living with love and fellowship in peoples heart certainly provide for a better world in the future. Happiness among families can be achieved through unity. The picture below shows that happiness and love exists in families. Wouldn’t this world be a much better place with the practice of love? Love and first taught in each home as early as from birth.
Why is weapons of mass destruction ever manufactured? This is essentially used to bring about destructiveness in the world. Everyone can clearly see that there has to be another alternative to bringing about peace in the world. Weapons of mass destruction need to stop being manufactured.
How can one human hurt another human being? It is a sin to hurt or kill another person. This visual shows the effect that war have on the children that are affected. If we are to have love and fellowship in our hearts, war needs to stop. How many kids have to suffer from the after-effects of war? So many kids today are homeless due to political war worldwide. The effects of war on children and all families are tremendous. Families could lose loved ones and are never able to overcome or deal with such a big loss. Children can be affected by war in a number of ways. They may lose close or extended family member, become displaced, become wounded, witness or be the victim of violent acts, become separated from family members, and lack adequate nutrition and medical care.” (Lina Kurdahi, 1996)
The citizens of the world needs to have a world embracing vision. Everyone needs to be treated equally. No one deserves to be ill-treated. If someone is treated with hate that is what will most likely be reciprocated. If love is given, then love will be returned. Despite of one’s background, racial or otherwise, holds no bearing when there is love. Even if one makes an error or unknowingly hurt someone, that person can be easily forgiven if the other person carries love in his or her heart.
What determines that one religion is better than the other? There is no determining factor on which religion may be better than another. How can one religion be better than the other when all religions stem from the same source?
Religious leaders are busy trying to prove that one religion should be ridiculed. One can engage oneself in this when harmony is absent. Even the learned and knowledgeable are trying to prove one religion is better than the other. All religions practice the same teachings! Every religion stress the importance of love. Every religion encourages fellowship. When compared, all religions lead to the pathway to a more fruitful life. Life’s goal should be to live in peace and harmony. It does not benefit anyone to create dissention and strife.
A person practicing religion does not constitute to worshipping a diety. Religion for many is a way of life for many. A person needs to only thing pure thoughts and engage in loving acts for society to be a better place. By thinking and engaging in charitable causes is one way that one may be practicing what all the religions have preached. By one living his or her life with pure actions is surely a great example to others. This can only encourage good deeds by all.
“Religion has been shown to contribute to reduced involvement in unhealthy behaviors: alcohol abuse, smoking, drug abuse, unsafe sex, suicide attempts, violence prone behavior, and an unhealthy diet . ( Journal of Religion & Health: 2004). Studies have shown the great impact of practicing religion on members studies. People that are churchgoers, for example, are more unlikely to adapt unhealthy habitual behaviors. People that portray a more spiritual way of life also display a more sound mental health.
Even an Atheist, doing selfless acts of love will reap amazing results. That person will have a more fruitful life. A person that treats everyone with love is an asset to society. According to Doy Moyer, (2008) in Religion and Faith , it is emphasized that religion is not necessarily linked to God, but could also be the way a person think. “However, “religion” is not confined only to those who believe in a transcendent deity”.
Everyone will respect and love that person that lives well with others. If society as a whole were to treat each other this way, what an impact that will have!
Practicing love and fellowship will only promote and create a path to a brighter future. The children of today can have a better world to live in tomorrow. Given all the situations used, one can agree that all religion carry the same message. What a beautiful world this world can be if everyone can live in love and fellowship! Wouldn’t this world be worth living in when love surrounds each and every one?
Would society as a whole not be a better place for everyone if honesty, purity of motive, service to others and trustworthiness were practice everyday? Is there any harm in these deeds? Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith reiterates how great is unity. “So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.” Bahá’u’lláh.
In conclusion, it has been the aim of this paper to articulate and reiterate that religious teachings play a very important role the transformation of every human being in this world. Personal and global transformation is at it’s peak now as more and more people become more aware of the importance of basic principles such as patience with one another, love of one another and complete compassion with one another. (Slew Slim Chin, 2006) “Transformation is about such recognition of connection with one another, a connection of hearts and respect of the sacredness of hearts and respect of the sacredness of each heart. Echoing Eriko, we are all human beings, and we belong to the world.” Following the teachings of religions give a person a sense of satisfaction, knowing that he or she has contributed to a much brighter future.
Reference:
1. Retrieved August 17, 2008
‘Abdu’l-Baha, The Will and Testament, p. 7)
2. Major Religions of the World Ranked by Adherents. Retrieved July 21, 2008 from http://adherents.com
3. Gleanings , 1874. Retrieved July 30th, 2008
Doy Moyer, (2008) Religion and Faith.
4. Retrieved August 17, 2008
Lina Kurdahi, (1996) Effects of War on the Behavior of Lebanese Preschool Children
5. Retrieved August 17, 2008,
Jones, James, (2004) Journal of Religion & Health, Pg 318,
University Of Phoenix.
6. Retrieved August 17, 2008
Slew Slim Chin, (2006) I am a Human Being, and I belong to the World, Pg 41. University of Phoenix Library.
his or her life so as to live more harmoniously and providing a safer
tomorrow.
Would this world be better without religion? Would society be better without religious groups or leaders trying to force their teachings? Many may not be aware this, but all the main religions in this world have the same basic teachings and principle! For example, love, compassion,
education and forgiveness, are all basic principles of all major
religions! Every one of the main religions teach mankind to be live in
unity!
Would you agree that every religion teaches people to live harmoniously? According to the Baha’I Faith, the fastest growing
religion after Christianity, “According to the direct and sacred command
of God we are forbidden to utter slander, are commanded to show forth
peace and amity, are exhorted to rectitude of conduct, straightforwardness
and harmony with all the kindreds and peoples of the world.” (‘Abdu’l-
Baha, The Will and Testament, p. 7). Wouldn’t this world be a better if the people were to follow the teachings of the religions? All the religions of the world preach the importance of peace, love and unity. A just world
can be accomplished if everyone practice peace, love and unity.
Why practice religion? What are the benefits that come to those that
practice religion? Who practices religion? These are all common
questions among mankind. There are basic principles that will benefit
mankind as a whole. The oneness of world of humanity can be realized
with the practice of love amongst mankind. Religion can help bring unity
among mankind with the realization that there is only one God. Equality
between men and women. The abolition of all forms of prejudice can also be gained over a period of time.
Universal peace can definitely be achieved. Economic problems can also be overcome with following the basic principles of religions. This is the purpose of religion. Religion was created so as to provide an ever advancing civilization. Religion was created to stop dissention and strife in homes, schools and communities at large. Mankind needs to understand that by embracing one another, will surely bring about a well developed and progressive world.
The statistics below prove that there are many believers in the world.
Every person would like to have a better future. Eradicating hatred of
any kind definitely promises a brighter world. Below is the approximate
estimate of the number of followers of the main religions of the world.
1.Christianity: 2.1 billion
2.Islam: 1.5 billion
3.Secular/Nonreligious/Agnostic/Atheist: 1.1 billion
4.Hinduism: 900 million
5.Chinese traditional religion: 394 million
6.Buddhism: 376 million
7.Primal-indigenous: 300 million
8.African Traditional & Diasporic: 100 million
9.Sikhism: 23 million
10.Juche: 19 million
11.Spiritism: 15 million
12.Judaism: 14 million
13.Baha’i: 7 million
14.Jainism: 4.2 million
15.Shinto: 4 million
16.Cao Dai: 4 million
17.Zoroastrianism: 2.6 million
18.Tenrikyo: 2 million
19.Neo-Paganism: 1 million
20.Unitarian-Universalism: 800 thousand
21.Rastafarianism: 600 thousand
22.Scientology: 500 thousand
Religion is very popular among mankind. Even though most religions have millions of followers, as shown in the estimated statistics and pie chart, the world is still faced with many serious problems. Are the followers practicing the essence of religion?” Below is a pie chart, taken from WWW.Adherents.com, used to show how popular religion is in the hearts of people today. People do want a better world and are turning to religion as guidance. Even though some may realize how important religion is, by not practicing the teaching is not practicing the religion. One needs to apply the teachings of the religions into his or her every day activities. People need to smile at one another, help others more in times of need and learn to be more charitable. These are the fruits of every religion. Praying and fasting does not necessarily means the followers are adhering to the principles of the religion. One needs to practice what the
scriptures teach.
Being more forgiving and kind in one’s daily life can lead to a more rewarding. Many people are consumed by hate and cannot see beyond that. Filling one’s life with love and forgiveness can help a person become more productive and are better able to face challenges in life. A person consumed with love can only make positive decisions which will in turn create a more rewarding career and family life. Unity can certainly be achieved in this world if the citizens of this world can think on a wider scale. People need to recognize that all mankind are created equal. There are no differences among human being. Every human being have the same needs and desires. Every one wants to be loved and respected. Citizens of other countries are also equal and should be considered equal. The people of other countries are friends not enemies and should be treated as such. Baha’u’llah, the most recent manifestation of God points out, in Gleanings,(1874), “The belief in the unity of all human beings is the pivot of the Baha’i Faith. Baha’u’llah said, let your vison be world-embracing, rather than confined to your own selves.”
The first teacher of love is family. Living harmoniously is very crucial in a family. Teaching love within family members is like teaching love at the grass root level. This will allow for love to stay in all the members of the family throughout each one of their lives. Family members have the opportunity to correct each other when mistakes are made. Every member of the family must learn to overlook the faults of others so as to create love. By portraying love among one another encourages family members to live lovingly. When a member of the family builds his or her family, he or she will practice love in that family as well. Each member of the family have an important role to play.
Communities and villages are also a great teacher of love. By living lovingly in communities is also very critical. Presently, in society, neighbors don’t know each other. Neighbors can be very happy living joyously together if people take some time to get to know each other. Neighbors can learn to respect each other. Neighbors can learn to ignore a of a person’s cultural or racial background, and live harmoniously. By living in this manner teaches the children of that community to also ignore these unimportant difference.
A loving community can instill unity and love, which are primary teachings of every religion, into it’s members. Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Bahai Faith announced that the importance of unity, (1874) ”Religion is not for separating mankind, but rather to unite everyone. This will allow for a world that is moral and fair.” A member of such a community, if move to live in another community, can teach that community to also live harmoniously among themselves. Every member of a community have a role to play in this big picture. Living with love and fellowship in peoples heart certainly provide for a better world in the future. Happiness among families can be achieved through unity. The picture below shows that happiness and love exists in families. Wouldn’t this world be a much better place with the practice of love? Love and first taught in each home as early as from birth.
Why is weapons of mass destruction ever manufactured? This is essentially used to bring about destructiveness in the world. Everyone can clearly see that there has to be another alternative to bringing about peace in the world. Weapons of mass destruction need to stop being manufactured.
How can one human hurt another human being? It is a sin to hurt or kill another person. This visual shows the effect that war have on the children that are affected. If we are to have love and fellowship in our hearts, war needs to stop. How many kids have to suffer from the after-effects of war? So many kids today are homeless due to political war worldwide. The effects of war on children and all families are tremendous. Families could lose loved ones and are never able to overcome or deal with such a big loss. Children can be affected by war in a number of ways. They may lose close or extended family member, become displaced, become wounded, witness or be the victim of violent acts, become separated from family members, and lack adequate nutrition and medical care.” (Lina Kurdahi, 1996)
The citizens of the world needs to have a world embracing vision. Everyone needs to be treated equally. No one deserves to be ill-treated. If someone is treated with hate that is what will most likely be reciprocated. If love is given, then love will be returned. Despite of one’s background, racial or otherwise, holds no bearing when there is love. Even if one makes an error or unknowingly hurt someone, that person can be easily forgiven if the other person carries love in his or her heart.
What determines that one religion is better than the other? There is no determining factor on which religion may be better than another. How can one religion be better than the other when all religions stem from the same source?
Religious leaders are busy trying to prove that one religion should be ridiculed. One can engage oneself in this when harmony is absent. Even the learned and knowledgeable are trying to prove one religion is better than the other. All religions practice the same teachings! Every religion stress the importance of love. Every religion encourages fellowship. When compared, all religions lead to the pathway to a more fruitful life. Life’s goal should be to live in peace and harmony. It does not benefit anyone to create dissention and strife.
A person practicing religion does not constitute to worshipping a diety. Religion for many is a way of life for many. A person needs to only thing pure thoughts and engage in loving acts for society to be a better place. By thinking and engaging in charitable causes is one way that one may be practicing what all the religions have preached. By one living his or her life with pure actions is surely a great example to others. This can only encourage good deeds by all.
“Religion has been shown to contribute to reduced involvement in unhealthy behaviors: alcohol abuse, smoking, drug abuse, unsafe sex, suicide attempts, violence prone behavior, and an unhealthy diet . ( Journal of Religion & Health: 2004). Studies have shown the great impact of practicing religion on members studies. People that are churchgoers, for example, are more unlikely to adapt unhealthy habitual behaviors. People that portray a more spiritual way of life also display a more sound mental health.
Even an Atheist, doing selfless acts of love will reap amazing results. That person will have a more fruitful life. A person that treats everyone with love is an asset to society. According to Doy Moyer, (2008) in Religion and Faith , it is emphasized that religion is not necessarily linked to God, but could also be the way a person think. “However, “religion” is not confined only to those who believe in a transcendent deity”.
Everyone will respect and love that person that lives well with others. If society as a whole were to treat each other this way, what an impact that will have!
Practicing love and fellowship will only promote and create a path to a brighter future. The children of today can have a better world to live in tomorrow. Given all the situations used, one can agree that all religion carry the same message. What a beautiful world this world can be if everyone can live in love and fellowship! Wouldn’t this world be worth living in when love surrounds each and every one?
Would society as a whole not be a better place for everyone if honesty, purity of motive, service to others and trustworthiness were practice everyday? Is there any harm in these deeds? Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith reiterates how great is unity. “So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.” Bahá’u’lláh.
In conclusion, it has been the aim of this paper to articulate and reiterate that religious teachings play a very important role the transformation of every human being in this world. Personal and global transformation is at it’s peak now as more and more people become more aware of the importance of basic principles such as patience with one another, love of one another and complete compassion with one another. (Slew Slim Chin, 2006) “Transformation is about such recognition of connection with one another, a connection of hearts and respect of the sacredness of hearts and respect of the sacredness of each heart. Echoing Eriko, we are all human beings, and we belong to the world.” Following the teachings of religions give a person a sense of satisfaction, knowing that he or she has contributed to a much brighter future.
Reference:
1. Retrieved August 17, 2008
‘Abdu’l-Baha, The Will and Testament, p. 7)
2. Major Religions of the World Ranked by Adherents. Retrieved July 21, 2008 from http://adherents.com
3. Gleanings , 1874. Retrieved July 30th, 2008
Doy Moyer, (2008) Religion and Faith.
4. Retrieved August 17, 2008
Lina Kurdahi, (1996) Effects of War on the Behavior of Lebanese Preschool Children
5. Retrieved August 17, 2008,
Jones, James, (2004) Journal of Religion & Health, Pg 318,
University Of Phoenix.
6. Retrieved August 17, 2008
Slew Slim Chin, (2006) I am a Human Being, and I belong to the World, Pg 41. University of Phoenix Library.
I live in Stone Mountain, Georgia. What a beautiful and diverse group of people live here! We have Whites, African Americans, Native Americans, Pacific Islanders and Hispanics.
This photo shows how the minority groups have spread across the United States.
This chart shows the races in Stone Mountain.(2008)
I am originally from Guyana. My country consists of people of 6 different races; Indians, Africans, Chinese, Portuguese, Amerindian and Europeans. My close friends belong to other races. I have always been world embracing in my thoughts. I never thought a person us different because of their skin color. My parents have always instilled in me that everyone is equal despite of their skin color. My fore-parents are originally from India. Since our culture and appearance are very similar to the Indians of India I mostly am categorized as an immigrant from India. I pride myself in keeping friends from all nations.
There are many members of my community in Stone Mountain that do look like me. There are others that don’t necessarily look like me. My community is predominantly blacks. There are blacks from the Caribbean as well as African American. I have also seen blacks from Somalia, Africa. The blacks from the Caribbean and the African American blacks do not necessarily look very different from me. They all dress similar to the way I do. Their complexion is not very much different from Indians who have migrated from the Caribbean. The blacks do have a different hair than other races. I would not be able to determine if the blacks are from the Caribbean or are African Americans as they all dress alike. The difference is only in the accents of their language. People of the Caribbean have an accent. I have observed that the blacks from Somalia can be easily distinguished as the women dress differently. In my experience they do not speak English well. I have taken the taxi a few times. On every occasion that I’ve taken the taxi, the driver is from Somalia.
This picture illustrates how the women of Somalia dress.
Leaders are very important to any community. Leaders help mould and shape a community. Leaders also have a great responsibility to the members to the community. They should live their life as an example. The religious leaders in Stone Mountain do treat people within our community equally. I have visited a few churches within the area and was quite impressed with the way the pastors spoke to the guests. People of all races and background were shown love and respect. I have seen people of various backgrounds being employed by political leaders. A person may not get a job, not because of their race or ethnicity, but because they are not qualified. People of my group, Indo-Caribbean, do hold prestigious positions within the community. Some are business leaders. People of other minority groups get treated fairly as well. People of other groups hold important jobs such as teachers. Some of them are well educated as well.
Since my community is such a diverse group, everyone gets treated equally. I have not sensed or observed people being treated unequally at the grocery stores or at the banks. Everyone gets respect from each other. Being a Mom, I take my son to playschool very often and interact with children and parents of other groups. All the parents are equally nice. I have admired the children themselves, being loving to other children as well. This sends a strong message that the parents are raising their kids to be prejudice free.
I belong to the minority group of immigrants from the Caribbean, Indo-Caribbean. Though the study materials did not discuss my group directly, the materials covered minority groups of which I am a part of. “People in the United States and elsewhere are beginning to consider that the same principles that guarantee equality based on race or gender can apply to other groups who are discriminated against. There have been growing efforts to ensure that the same rights and privileges are available to all people, regardless of age, disability, or sexual orientation. These concerns are emerging even as the old divisions over race, ethnicity, and religion continue to fester and occasionally explode into violence that envelops entire nations.” Racial and Ethnic Groups, (2006). As stated in the materials provided a minority group does not necessarily mean a small group. A minority group can outnumber the dominant group. As also stated in the study materials, “A minority group is a subordinate group whose members have significantly less control or power over their own lives than do the members of a dominant or majority group”. Racial and Ethnic Groups, (2006).
The local newspapers as well as radio stations do cover news and issues faced by minorities in my community. Local news are published in the newspaper regularly. Jobs openings are posted. There is even a local Indian community radio station that covers the songs, news and community members successes as well as the students achievements. There are other radio stations that broadcasts songs and events that relates to Somalians and African Americas as well as the Whites. There are also Hispanic radio stations covering the Stone Mountain area.
There are many great similarities between myself and the leaders of Stone Mountain area. I feel strongly about the betterment of the community members at large. I, as well as the leaders, encourage children to take their education seriously so as to be better citizens which will in turn make the community a richer at large. I would like to see that all the adult members of my community be employed. The differences between the leaders and me are, they have the resources and finances to help the community as a whole, I don’t. The leaders have the assets and support of the community to undertake tasks and complete them successfully. The political leaders can even provide grants and scholarships to students of the community to further their education. I feel happy, as a member of the community, that the minority group interests are represented in the community. Our community has health centers and hospitals as well as an remarkable school system. The Stone Mountain Park, the largest granite in the Northeast section of the United States, serves as a great recreational park to children. There are also elderly care centers which are available to people of different ethnic backgrounds. There are also programs at the libraries such as ESL, Spanish classes and computer classes among others. There are also the YMCA which is available to everyone at low or no charge. The Government also provides aid such as foodstamps and housing to low income families.
I have not seen any inequities within my community. A benefit to this community will be free 2 year college education. This will place the members of the community the competitive job market. The reason why I feel strongly about this is because I’ve seen young adults who are not able to secure a job due to lack of a college education. This opportunity will enforce that people of all ethnic backgrounds be given a fair opportunity to develop themselves and be able to achieve goals that seem unachievable without this chance. This will greatly benefit the Stone Mountain community. These individuals with the now 2 year education will be in jobs which will provide them with the chance to choose forward to achieve a higher education and or create families. As educated parents, these individuals will be an asset to the community and their children. Their children will benefit due to the guidance and financial support which will create a better community for the future generations.
This community is comprise of various ethnic groups. A lot of these ethnic groups within the community are categorised based on race. Although all the ethnic are not racially defined, for example the African Americans , the Africans as well as some of the Indo-Caribbeans , with the doctrine of racism, people are categorized into ethnic groups that make up cultures in the community. “Racism is a doctrine of racial
supremacy, stating that one race is superior to another (Bash 2001; Bonilla-Silva 1996).” Racial and Ethnic Groups, 2006. In some instances, a person belonging to one race or minority group can be interpreted to be part of another group and be given a job vacancy. I am oftentimes thought to be Spanish. Some favoritism can sometimes stem from this. The material further states that race is more of a social standing rather than a biological difference. People of different race gets categorized as prettier or more hardworking or richer for example.
This is a photo of an ethnic minority group.
Reference:
1. Retrieved October 20, 2008 from
Racial and Ethnic Groups, Tenth Edition, by Richard T. Schaefer. Published by Prentice-Hall. Copyright © 2006.
2. Retrived October 20, 2008 from
Racial and Ethnic Groups, Tenth Edition, by Richard T. Schaefer. Published by Prentice-Hall. Copyright © 2006.
This photo shows how the minority groups have spread across the United States.
This chart shows the races in Stone Mountain.(2008)
I am originally from Guyana. My country consists of people of 6 different races; Indians, Africans, Chinese, Portuguese, Amerindian and Europeans. My close friends belong to other races. I have always been world embracing in my thoughts. I never thought a person us different because of their skin color. My parents have always instilled in me that everyone is equal despite of their skin color. My fore-parents are originally from India. Since our culture and appearance are very similar to the Indians of India I mostly am categorized as an immigrant from India. I pride myself in keeping friends from all nations.
There are many members of my community in Stone Mountain that do look like me. There are others that don’t necessarily look like me. My community is predominantly blacks. There are blacks from the Caribbean as well as African American. I have also seen blacks from Somalia, Africa. The blacks from the Caribbean and the African American blacks do not necessarily look very different from me. They all dress similar to the way I do. Their complexion is not very much different from Indians who have migrated from the Caribbean. The blacks do have a different hair than other races. I would not be able to determine if the blacks are from the Caribbean or are African Americans as they all dress alike. The difference is only in the accents of their language. People of the Caribbean have an accent. I have observed that the blacks from Somalia can be easily distinguished as the women dress differently. In my experience they do not speak English well. I have taken the taxi a few times. On every occasion that I’ve taken the taxi, the driver is from Somalia.
This picture illustrates how the women of Somalia dress.
Leaders are very important to any community. Leaders help mould and shape a community. Leaders also have a great responsibility to the members to the community. They should live their life as an example. The religious leaders in Stone Mountain do treat people within our community equally. I have visited a few churches within the area and was quite impressed with the way the pastors spoke to the guests. People of all races and background were shown love and respect. I have seen people of various backgrounds being employed by political leaders. A person may not get a job, not because of their race or ethnicity, but because they are not qualified. People of my group, Indo-Caribbean, do hold prestigious positions within the community. Some are business leaders. People of other minority groups get treated fairly as well. People of other groups hold important jobs such as teachers. Some of them are well educated as well.
Since my community is such a diverse group, everyone gets treated equally. I have not sensed or observed people being treated unequally at the grocery stores or at the banks. Everyone gets respect from each other. Being a Mom, I take my son to playschool very often and interact with children and parents of other groups. All the parents are equally nice. I have admired the children themselves, being loving to other children as well. This sends a strong message that the parents are raising their kids to be prejudice free.
I belong to the minority group of immigrants from the Caribbean, Indo-Caribbean. Though the study materials did not discuss my group directly, the materials covered minority groups of which I am a part of. “People in the United States and elsewhere are beginning to consider that the same principles that guarantee equality based on race or gender can apply to other groups who are discriminated against. There have been growing efforts to ensure that the same rights and privileges are available to all people, regardless of age, disability, or sexual orientation. These concerns are emerging even as the old divisions over race, ethnicity, and religion continue to fester and occasionally explode into violence that envelops entire nations.” Racial and Ethnic Groups, (2006). As stated in the materials provided a minority group does not necessarily mean a small group. A minority group can outnumber the dominant group. As also stated in the study materials, “A minority group is a subordinate group whose members have significantly less control or power over their own lives than do the members of a dominant or majority group”. Racial and Ethnic Groups, (2006).
The local newspapers as well as radio stations do cover news and issues faced by minorities in my community. Local news are published in the newspaper regularly. Jobs openings are posted. There is even a local Indian community radio station that covers the songs, news and community members successes as well as the students achievements. There are other radio stations that broadcasts songs and events that relates to Somalians and African Americas as well as the Whites. There are also Hispanic radio stations covering the Stone Mountain area.
There are many great similarities between myself and the leaders of Stone Mountain area. I feel strongly about the betterment of the community members at large. I, as well as the leaders, encourage children to take their education seriously so as to be better citizens which will in turn make the community a richer at large. I would like to see that all the adult members of my community be employed. The differences between the leaders and me are, they have the resources and finances to help the community as a whole, I don’t. The leaders have the assets and support of the community to undertake tasks and complete them successfully. The political leaders can even provide grants and scholarships to students of the community to further their education. I feel happy, as a member of the community, that the minority group interests are represented in the community. Our community has health centers and hospitals as well as an remarkable school system. The Stone Mountain Park, the largest granite in the Northeast section of the United States, serves as a great recreational park to children. There are also elderly care centers which are available to people of different ethnic backgrounds. There are also programs at the libraries such as ESL, Spanish classes and computer classes among others. There are also the YMCA which is available to everyone at low or no charge. The Government also provides aid such as foodstamps and housing to low income families.
I have not seen any inequities within my community. A benefit to this community will be free 2 year college education. This will place the members of the community the competitive job market. The reason why I feel strongly about this is because I’ve seen young adults who are not able to secure a job due to lack of a college education. This opportunity will enforce that people of all ethnic backgrounds be given a fair opportunity to develop themselves and be able to achieve goals that seem unachievable without this chance. This will greatly benefit the Stone Mountain community. These individuals with the now 2 year education will be in jobs which will provide them with the chance to choose forward to achieve a higher education and or create families. As educated parents, these individuals will be an asset to the community and their children. Their children will benefit due to the guidance and financial support which will create a better community for the future generations.
This community is comprise of various ethnic groups. A lot of these ethnic groups within the community are categorised based on race. Although all the ethnic are not racially defined, for example the African Americans , the Africans as well as some of the Indo-Caribbeans , with the doctrine of racism, people are categorized into ethnic groups that make up cultures in the community. “Racism is a doctrine of racial
supremacy, stating that one race is superior to another (Bash 2001; Bonilla-Silva 1996).” Racial and Ethnic Groups, 2006. In some instances, a person belonging to one race or minority group can be interpreted to be part of another group and be given a job vacancy. I am oftentimes thought to be Spanish. Some favoritism can sometimes stem from this. The material further states that race is more of a social standing rather than a biological difference. People of different race gets categorized as prettier or more hardworking or richer for example.
This is a photo of an ethnic minority group.
Reference:
1. Retrieved October 20, 2008 from
Racial and Ethnic Groups, Tenth Edition, by Richard T. Schaefer. Published by Prentice-Hall. Copyright © 2006.
2. Retrived October 20, 2008 from
Racial and Ethnic Groups, Tenth Edition, by Richard T. Schaefer. Published by Prentice-Hall. Copyright © 2006.
In this paper, I will attempt to provide a brief summary of the linguistic, political, social, economic, religious and familial statuses of the Mexican Americans, the Puerto Rican Americans, the Cuban Americans and the Dominican Americans.
These Hispanic or Latino groups are a diverse population. Though they are from different groups they have been categorized by Americans as the same. This is largely due to the common language; Spanish. Almost all of the Hispanic and Latinos come to the United States in search of the American Dream and political asylum. Originally members of these migrating groups were not well received in the American Society and schools.
The Mexican Americans have been U.S. residents longer than any other Hispanic American. “In the United States Mexican-Americans comprise 60 percent of the Hispanic/Latino population. Mexicans live predominantly in California, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. The difference between Mexican, Puerto Rican, and other Latin American countries includes 500 years of separate history, as well as entirely different native populations that were present when the Spaniards arrived. Thus, the Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Latin American cultures each have a completely different concept of what foods are appropriate and what these foods are called.” http://ohioonline.osu.edu. ( 2008). The Mexican Americans mostly hold low end paying jobs. They are primarily involve in more laborious jobs such as building and road construction workers, architecture and lawn care. This group of people maintain a humble profile within their communities.
This image is of a typical Mexican American family.
The second largest subgroup of the Hispanic Americans is the Puerto Ricans. There are approximately 3.5 million Puerto Ricans who live in the United States. Most of them reside in New York and New Jersey states. The Puerto Ricans are US citizens since Puerto Rico is a territory (Commonwealth) of the United States. As citizens of the country, the Puerto Ricans pay no federal tax. They cannot vote in the presidential elections. “Puerto Rico is a territory (Commonwealth) of the United States of America and Puerto Ricans have common citizenship, currency and defense. Although Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens, residents of Puerto Rico pay no federal income tax, nor can they vote in presidential elections. As citizens, Puerto Ricans do not require a work visa (also known as green cards) to live and/or work in the United States. Over 2 million Puerto Ricans live in the United States, primarily in the northeast.” www.welcome.topuertorice.org (2008). The Puerto Ricans have been associated with high poverty levels. The Puerto Ricans rate among the highest poverty rates of any groups in the United States. Puerto Ricans are primarily catholics. “In addition to these, Puerto Ricans celebrate religious and political holidays with great enthusiasm —singing, playing music, drinking, and feasting in recognition of a sacred day, an historical event or figure, or a time of year. Often called "home fiestas," these observances tend to be private affairs that bring together close friends and family members. Public fiestas include those that honor patron saints and occasional folk-music festivals.”. www.everyculture.com, (2008). Puerto Ricans still continue with the struggle of drug-use, high crimes, poor education and the destruction of the familial structure.
A typical Puerto Rican American family.
“The Cuban people are descendants of Spanish colonizers and of African slaves once employed in the sugar industry. Two-fifths of the Cuban population is Roman Catholic. Nearly half report no religious affiliation. Many of those who call themselves Catholics are also adherents of an Afro-Cuban religious tradition known as santeria. The official language of Cuba and the language spoken by nearly all Cubans is Spanish.”. www.everyculture.com, (2008). Cuban American strive to achieve education. Cuba has now become the center for preparing some of the finest doctors today. Cubans are strong in math and science. Almost47 percent of Cuban Americans have attended private schools. There have been some antagonism between Cuban Americans and African Americans. The Cuban Americans have rooted themselves in the communities the Miami area by becoming the dominating ethnic group there. Most Cuban Americans maintain a nondiscriminatory relationship with white Americans. The Cuban Americans have always been known to maintain close knit family ties. The parents hold strong parental control over their children. Slowly this is decreasing. Most Cuban Americans are Roman Catholics, Protesants, Presbyterian, and Episcopal. The Santeria is another religious practice of the Cuban American that have received publicity. The unemployment rates of Cuban Americans are lower than Puerto Ricans and Mexican Americans. Cuban Americans do hold better jobs than Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans. Cuban Americans are employed in technical, sales and administrative positions. Cuban Americans are better off financially than other Hispanic Americans groups. Cuban Americans are considered as a successful migrating group.
A Cuban American family.
The Dominican Americans speak Spanish as their native language but most of them speak English quite well. Dominican Americans mostly practice Roman Catholics though Protestants, Jewish and Afro-Christian exist as well. Many Dominican Americans come to the United States illegally. In the Cuban American households, the men are head of household. They control the finances of the family while the women are in control over the domestication of the house. Recently, the Dominican women are taking more control over budgets and taking more authority from their husbands. The women are also the breadwinners in homes now. Education do play an important role in Cuban American lives. Some Cuban Americans further their education to college level. For many Cubans though, baseball is a sport which is enriched in this group. Baseball is a part of many Cuban American lives. Many Dominican American leave professional jobs in their home country before migrating to the US. Many Dominican American occupy low paying jobs in the US. Dominican Republicans can be seen doing cleaning jobs, working in hotels and restaurants.
A Dominican American family.
References:
1. Retrieved October 8, 2008, from
http://ohioonline.osu.edu, Cultural Diversity: Eating in America Mexican-American, 1989
2. Retrieved October 8, 2008 from
www.welcome.topuertorico.org, People, 2008
3. Retrieved October 8, 2008
www.everyculture.com, Puerto Ricans Religion and Expressive Culture, 2008
4. Retrieved October 8, 2008
www.everyculture.com
These Hispanic or Latino groups are a diverse population. Though they are from different groups they have been categorized by Americans as the same. This is largely due to the common language; Spanish. Almost all of the Hispanic and Latinos come to the United States in search of the American Dream and political asylum. Originally members of these migrating groups were not well received in the American Society and schools.
The Mexican Americans have been U.S. residents longer than any other Hispanic American. “In the United States Mexican-Americans comprise 60 percent of the Hispanic/Latino population. Mexicans live predominantly in California, Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. The difference between Mexican, Puerto Rican, and other Latin American countries includes 500 years of separate history, as well as entirely different native populations that were present when the Spaniards arrived. Thus, the Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Latin American cultures each have a completely different concept of what foods are appropriate and what these foods are called.” http://ohioonline.osu.edu. ( 2008). The Mexican Americans mostly hold low end paying jobs. They are primarily involve in more laborious jobs such as building and road construction workers, architecture and lawn care. This group of people maintain a humble profile within their communities.
This image is of a typical Mexican American family.
The second largest subgroup of the Hispanic Americans is the Puerto Ricans. There are approximately 3.5 million Puerto Ricans who live in the United States. Most of them reside in New York and New Jersey states. The Puerto Ricans are US citizens since Puerto Rico is a territory (Commonwealth) of the United States. As citizens of the country, the Puerto Ricans pay no federal tax. They cannot vote in the presidential elections. “Puerto Rico is a territory (Commonwealth) of the United States of America and Puerto Ricans have common citizenship, currency and defense. Although Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens, residents of Puerto Rico pay no federal income tax, nor can they vote in presidential elections. As citizens, Puerto Ricans do not require a work visa (also known as green cards) to live and/or work in the United States. Over 2 million Puerto Ricans live in the United States, primarily in the northeast.” www.welcome.topuertorice.org (2008). The Puerto Ricans have been associated with high poverty levels. The Puerto Ricans rate among the highest poverty rates of any groups in the United States. Puerto Ricans are primarily catholics. “In addition to these, Puerto Ricans celebrate religious and political holidays with great enthusiasm —singing, playing music, drinking, and feasting in recognition of a sacred day, an historical event or figure, or a time of year. Often called "home fiestas," these observances tend to be private affairs that bring together close friends and family members. Public fiestas include those that honor patron saints and occasional folk-music festivals.”. www.everyculture.com, (2008). Puerto Ricans still continue with the struggle of drug-use, high crimes, poor education and the destruction of the familial structure.
A typical Puerto Rican American family.
“The Cuban people are descendants of Spanish colonizers and of African slaves once employed in the sugar industry. Two-fifths of the Cuban population is Roman Catholic. Nearly half report no religious affiliation. Many of those who call themselves Catholics are also adherents of an Afro-Cuban religious tradition known as santeria. The official language of Cuba and the language spoken by nearly all Cubans is Spanish.”. www.everyculture.com, (2008). Cuban American strive to achieve education. Cuba has now become the center for preparing some of the finest doctors today. Cubans are strong in math and science. Almost47 percent of Cuban Americans have attended private schools. There have been some antagonism between Cuban Americans and African Americans. The Cuban Americans have rooted themselves in the communities the Miami area by becoming the dominating ethnic group there. Most Cuban Americans maintain a nondiscriminatory relationship with white Americans. The Cuban Americans have always been known to maintain close knit family ties. The parents hold strong parental control over their children. Slowly this is decreasing. Most Cuban Americans are Roman Catholics, Protesants, Presbyterian, and Episcopal. The Santeria is another religious practice of the Cuban American that have received publicity. The unemployment rates of Cuban Americans are lower than Puerto Ricans and Mexican Americans. Cuban Americans do hold better jobs than Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans. Cuban Americans are employed in technical, sales and administrative positions. Cuban Americans are better off financially than other Hispanic Americans groups. Cuban Americans are considered as a successful migrating group.
A Cuban American family.
The Dominican Americans speak Spanish as their native language but most of them speak English quite well. Dominican Americans mostly practice Roman Catholics though Protestants, Jewish and Afro-Christian exist as well. Many Dominican Americans come to the United States illegally. In the Cuban American households, the men are head of household. They control the finances of the family while the women are in control over the domestication of the house. Recently, the Dominican women are taking more control over budgets and taking more authority from their husbands. The women are also the breadwinners in homes now. Education do play an important role in Cuban American lives. Some Cuban Americans further their education to college level. For many Cubans though, baseball is a sport which is enriched in this group. Baseball is a part of many Cuban American lives. Many Dominican American leave professional jobs in their home country before migrating to the US. Many Dominican American occupy low paying jobs in the US. Dominican Republicans can be seen doing cleaning jobs, working in hotels and restaurants.
A Dominican American family.
References:
1. Retrieved October 8, 2008, from
http://ohioonline.osu.edu, Cultural Diversity: Eating in America Mexican-American, 1989
2. Retrieved October 8, 2008 from
www.welcome.topuertorico.org, People, 2008
3. Retrieved October 8, 2008
www.everyculture.com, Puerto Ricans Religion and Expressive Culture, 2008
4. Retrieved October 8, 2008
www.everyculture.com
Stone Mountain located in the suburbs of Atlanta has a very unique and different ecosystem.. The Stone Mountain Park is the home to many plants and animals.
The Stone Mountain Park is the home to animals such as the White-tail deer, the Red-tailed hawk, Monarch Butterflies, Cottontail rabbits, Black Rat Snake, Eastern Chipmunk, Painted Turtle, Title Swallowtail, American Toad, Great Blue Heron, Grey Squirrel, Mallard Ducks, Grey Fox and Wild Turkey. The park also houses several plants such as Trout lily, Red Moss and Sandwort, Poolsprite and Quillwort, Prickly Pear Cactus, Yucca, Dayflower and Confederate Daisy.
White-tail Deer:
The deer is among the variety of habitats which can be seen in the park in early mornings. Deers eat leaves, twigs, nuts and acorns. Deers are in important part of the ecosystem of this country as they were used for food. Their skin have also been used for clothing by Native Americans. “White-tailed deer can greatly influence the composition of plant communities through their grazing, especially where they are abundant.” http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Odocoileus_virginianus.html, (2008)
Red-tailed Hawk:
This hawk can be seen around the entire park. These birds eat mice, rabbits and snakes. Their long strong toes and talons are used to claw and kill their prey. They have a special role in the ecosystem. By eating rodents, they aid in the rodents not having a bigger population. “Their special role in nature is keeping the rodent population under control.” www.Stonemountainpark.org ( 2008 ).
Monarch Butterflies:
This beautiful insect are seen feeding on the flowering plants in the park during the summer. The monarch butterflies hatch their eggs on a very toxic plant- milkweed plants. When the eggs are hatched, their babies eat off the plant, thereby becoming toxic. This prevents their predators from killing and eating them. Their bright colors are used as a warning to their predators of how toxic they are. These butterflies help reduce the growth of the toxic plants since they eat these plants.
Cottontail Rabbits:
These nocturnal mammals can be seen in the park in early mornings and late evenings. They eat lots of plants. The rabbits are preys to large mammals and birds. Their defense is speed and their sharp sense of hearing. These rabbits are hosts to fleas. This can be harmful when they come in contact with humans.
Black Rat Snake:
This is a non-venomous constrictor. They feed off rodents and other small animals. They also help in keeping the rodent population low.
Eastern Chipmunk:
These small mammals are throughout the park. They usually occupy areas with dense plants, as they are able to hide easily among those. The Chipmunks can be seen eating nuts. Chipmunks are important to the ecosystem as they help in the dispersal of seeds by storing their seeds. Buried seeds oftentimes germinate as well when they get forgotten.
Painted Turtle:
These are very popular in the entire North America. These turtles usually hibernate at the bottom of ponds and shallow lakes during winter. They are usually out and about during warm weather. They eat fish and insects and leaves. Painted turtles are prey to foxes and raccoons but are predators to small fishes.
Tiger Swallowtail:
This is one of the most popular butterfly of North America and Georgia State. They are seen eating flowering-plants throughout the park. These butterflies add extreme beauty to the park.
American Toad:
There are many of these toads in and around the park. The toads prefer to live in freshwater ponds during their early stages. They then live in dense patches of vegetation. “Toads prefer to live in areas where insects and moisture are abundant. These toads do have warts in the spots on their skin and these secrete a toxin, which will make many predators sick if a toad is eaten.” http://www.stonemountainpark.org/new%20plants%20and%20animals.htm, (2008). The main predators of American toads are snakes. There are some snakes that are immune to the poisonous glands of American toads. “When these toads are faced with a predator that is immune to their poison they will sometimes urinate on themselves to become a less attractive meal. They also inflate their bodies with air to make themselves more difficult for a snake to swallow.” http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Bufo_americanus.html (2008).
Great Blue Heron:
This bird can be seen near the park lakes. They live in the marshes and eat mainly fishes but are also predators to frogs, lizards and snakes and other water insects. The Great Blue Heron help control the fish and insect population. They provide a great food source to the animals that prey on them.
Grey Squirrel:
These are one of the most common animals in the park and can be seen in the park woods. They feed on plenty of nuts. The grey squirrels are important important role in the ecosystem is the dispersal of tree seeds. The grey squirrel are hosts for parasites such as fleas, ticks, lice and roundworms. These animals served as food to Native Americans. People still eat them today.
Mallard Duck:
These are often seen near the park’s lakes and ponds. The Mallards eat a variety of food such as vegetation, insects, worms and gastropods. The Mallard ducks also are important to humans. “An important game species. The money generated by license fees pays for the management of mallard populations and is used to protect important habitats. Also, money spent on hunting equipment is a significant addition to the economy.” http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Anas_platyrhynchos.html, (2008)
Grey Fox:
The Grey Fox can be seen within the park. This is the smallest of the dog family. They feed on mice, moles, birds eggs and rabbits. The fox are preys to eagles and man in some areas.
Box Turtle:
The box turtle can be seen in the wooded areas of the park and near shallow water. The box turtle eat snails, insects, berries, fungi, worms, roots, flowers, snakes and birds. The box turtle can be extremely dangerous to human since the turtle can eat poisonous mushrooms, for instance, without being harmed. The turtle carry a virus in their blood which can be deadly for humans. On the other hand, the turtle help with seed dispersion of berries as well as by eating harmful insects, they help the ecosystem and man. The Native Americans used them for food, medicinal and for hunting purposes.
Wild Turkey:
The turkeys are sometimes seen the park in the forests areas and near the forest edge. The turkeys eat nuts and seeds in the fall and Turkeys are sometimes seen in the park in our mature forests and near forest edges. They feed on nuts and seeds in the fall and in the winter they eat greens and insects. They were also like the deer an important part of the Native American diet. Their predators include the grey fox, rat snakes and raccoons. They are also important to the ecosystem of the park as they are a good source of food for the animals that hunt them. They also help in the maintaining the population of trees and plants as they eat many seeds.
Late Winter:: Trout Lily:
This beautiful plant can be seen throughout park mostly in the wooded areas in late winter. The markings on the trout lily leaf are similar to markings found on the brook trout. Native Americans knew to fish for trout at the time they saw the trout lily.
Spring:: Red Moss (Elf –Orphine): and Sandwort:
The two plants can be seen on the mountain in early spring. The Red Moss is not a moss at all but a succulent plant. The sandwort can easily withstand harsh weather conditions. These plants help host animals that dwell on the mountain, such as lizards. These plants hold strongly onto the soil that they utilise , so by living within the cracks of the mountain, they help prevent erosions.
Poolsprite and Quillwort:
These endangered water plants live within the pools at the protected top of the mountain. Animals love the leaves of the fleshy parts of these plants. These plants are rich in nutrients. Where these plants live, it is known that a good water quality exists.
Summer Flowers::
Prickly Pear Cactus:
This is a very popular plant on the Mountain and throughout the park. This plant biggest function is the storage of water. The fruits and green pads are edible.
Yucca:
This desert plant can be found on the slopes of the mountain. The Native Americans have used the roots and trunk of the tree as soap. The leaves of the plant are used for weaving baskets.
Dayflower:
The flower is used as a herb by many. “Commelina coelestis, C. diffusa, and C. erecta are often grown as ground covers because of their sprawling habit and their small blue flowers. Especially in moist shady places, they spread easily by cuttings and seed and by rooting of their prostrate stems.” www.britaninica.com (2008). This dayflower seeds are eaten by birds such as quails, doves and songbirds.
Late Summer flowers:: Confederate Daisy:
“This is also called “Stone Mountain Yellow Daisy” because it is only found within a 60-mile radius of Stone Mountain. It was first discovered as a new species in 1846 and every fall beginning in August the mountain is scattered with yellow from this flower, which grows on the granite outcrops in shallow soil.” http://www.stonemountainpark.org/new%20plants%20and%20animals.htm, (2008). This beautiful flower is quite an attraction to the park, thereby providing income.
There are great biological inter-relationships that exist among the life forms in the Stone Mountain Park area. The blending of odours, gases and exhaled air tend to balance the composite of the air circulation inhaled by plants and animals. Hence, a positive inter-relationship has developed. The remains of decomposed life forms and droppings from animals as well as dead plants do enrich the soil tremendously. This will promote a healthier plant life which in turn is a great source of animal food.
The human habitation of the Stone Mountain dates back to prehistory. Though there are humans living on the mountain or within the park, there are human intrusions threatening the area. The introduction of toxic elements, such as, chemicals used to control plants and grass are a threat to other life forms. The use of heavy machinery compresses the surface of the earth which in turn will delay plant growth and decrease animal productivity. Fire used in the campgrounds, for instance, is an enemy to the ecosystem.
The protections that do exist to safeguard and preserve the area are extremely effective. The mountain provides a means of study of the various animals and plants. Various habitats will be expanded and studied thereby preventing extinction. The caged and fenced areas prevent intrusion of predators. The Stone Mountain Park provides an avenue of scientific experiments to aid in the improvement of life, disease prevention, weather conditions and disease control.
There are some efforts that can be used to help further this preservation. The staff members can try to discover and implement cures for disease by use of some medicinal plants within the area. Park officials can apply strict means against unwanted species and predators. The park members can ensure that floods, fires and littering are prevented. The staff of the park can install nurseries. Qualified personnel can be employed to study the various plants to determine their medicinal benefits to humans.
Individuals can be supportive of activities within the park. Individuals can also provide information to the park officials if there is any illegal intrusion. Individuals can help encourage visitors to the park as well as school tours which will in turn generate income.
If intrusions go unchecked, the results can be quite devastating. If tigers, for instance, are to intrude on the park grounds, several losses of life will occur. The tigers will eat the smaller animals such as the fox, squirrels and wild turkey. The tigers will also attack the visitors to the park, thereby, creating fear within tourists that may want to visit the park. The ecosystem will be disrupted as well as the income will decrease tremendously.
References:
1. Retrieved October 19, 2008 from
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Odocoileus_virginianus.html, white-tailed deer, 2008
2. Retrieved October 19, 2008 from http://www.stonemountainpark.org/new%20plants%20and%20animals.htm, About Ecosystem: plants & animals, 2008.
3. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Bufo_americanus.html , Bufo americanus, American toad, 2008
4. Retrieved October 19, 2008 from
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Anas_platyrhynchos.html, mallard, 2008
5. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from
http://www.stonemountainpark.org/new%20plants%20and%20animals.htm, about Ecosystem: plants and animal
The Stone Mountain Park is the home to animals such as the White-tail deer, the Red-tailed hawk, Monarch Butterflies, Cottontail rabbits, Black Rat Snake, Eastern Chipmunk, Painted Turtle, Title Swallowtail, American Toad, Great Blue Heron, Grey Squirrel, Mallard Ducks, Grey Fox and Wild Turkey. The park also houses several plants such as Trout lily, Red Moss and Sandwort, Poolsprite and Quillwort, Prickly Pear Cactus, Yucca, Dayflower and Confederate Daisy.
White-tail Deer:
The deer is among the variety of habitats which can be seen in the park in early mornings. Deers eat leaves, twigs, nuts and acorns. Deers are in important part of the ecosystem of this country as they were used for food. Their skin have also been used for clothing by Native Americans. “White-tailed deer can greatly influence the composition of plant communities through their grazing, especially where they are abundant.” http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Odocoileus_virginianus.html, (2008)
Red-tailed Hawk:
This hawk can be seen around the entire park. These birds eat mice, rabbits and snakes. Their long strong toes and talons are used to claw and kill their prey. They have a special role in the ecosystem. By eating rodents, they aid in the rodents not having a bigger population. “Their special role in nature is keeping the rodent population under control.” www.Stonemountainpark.org ( 2008 ).
Monarch Butterflies:
This beautiful insect are seen feeding on the flowering plants in the park during the summer. The monarch butterflies hatch their eggs on a very toxic plant- milkweed plants. When the eggs are hatched, their babies eat off the plant, thereby becoming toxic. This prevents their predators from killing and eating them. Their bright colors are used as a warning to their predators of how toxic they are. These butterflies help reduce the growth of the toxic plants since they eat these plants.
Cottontail Rabbits:
These nocturnal mammals can be seen in the park in early mornings and late evenings. They eat lots of plants. The rabbits are preys to large mammals and birds. Their defense is speed and their sharp sense of hearing. These rabbits are hosts to fleas. This can be harmful when they come in contact with humans.
Black Rat Snake:
This is a non-venomous constrictor. They feed off rodents and other small animals. They also help in keeping the rodent population low.
Eastern Chipmunk:
These small mammals are throughout the park. They usually occupy areas with dense plants, as they are able to hide easily among those. The Chipmunks can be seen eating nuts. Chipmunks are important to the ecosystem as they help in the dispersal of seeds by storing their seeds. Buried seeds oftentimes germinate as well when they get forgotten.
Painted Turtle:
These are very popular in the entire North America. These turtles usually hibernate at the bottom of ponds and shallow lakes during winter. They are usually out and about during warm weather. They eat fish and insects and leaves. Painted turtles are prey to foxes and raccoons but are predators to small fishes.
Tiger Swallowtail:
This is one of the most popular butterfly of North America and Georgia State. They are seen eating flowering-plants throughout the park. These butterflies add extreme beauty to the park.
American Toad:
There are many of these toads in and around the park. The toads prefer to live in freshwater ponds during their early stages. They then live in dense patches of vegetation. “Toads prefer to live in areas where insects and moisture are abundant. These toads do have warts in the spots on their skin and these secrete a toxin, which will make many predators sick if a toad is eaten.” http://www.stonemountainpark.org/new%20plants%20and%20animals.htm, (2008). The main predators of American toads are snakes. There are some snakes that are immune to the poisonous glands of American toads. “When these toads are faced with a predator that is immune to their poison they will sometimes urinate on themselves to become a less attractive meal. They also inflate their bodies with air to make themselves more difficult for a snake to swallow.” http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Bufo_americanus.html (2008).
Great Blue Heron:
This bird can be seen near the park lakes. They live in the marshes and eat mainly fishes but are also predators to frogs, lizards and snakes and other water insects. The Great Blue Heron help control the fish and insect population. They provide a great food source to the animals that prey on them.
Grey Squirrel:
These are one of the most common animals in the park and can be seen in the park woods. They feed on plenty of nuts. The grey squirrels are important important role in the ecosystem is the dispersal of tree seeds. The grey squirrel are hosts for parasites such as fleas, ticks, lice and roundworms. These animals served as food to Native Americans. People still eat them today.
Mallard Duck:
These are often seen near the park’s lakes and ponds. The Mallards eat a variety of food such as vegetation, insects, worms and gastropods. The Mallard ducks also are important to humans. “An important game species. The money generated by license fees pays for the management of mallard populations and is used to protect important habitats. Also, money spent on hunting equipment is a significant addition to the economy.” http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Anas_platyrhynchos.html, (2008)
Grey Fox:
The Grey Fox can be seen within the park. This is the smallest of the dog family. They feed on mice, moles, birds eggs and rabbits. The fox are preys to eagles and man in some areas.
Box Turtle:
The box turtle can be seen in the wooded areas of the park and near shallow water. The box turtle eat snails, insects, berries, fungi, worms, roots, flowers, snakes and birds. The box turtle can be extremely dangerous to human since the turtle can eat poisonous mushrooms, for instance, without being harmed. The turtle carry a virus in their blood which can be deadly for humans. On the other hand, the turtle help with seed dispersion of berries as well as by eating harmful insects, they help the ecosystem and man. The Native Americans used them for food, medicinal and for hunting purposes.
Wild Turkey:
The turkeys are sometimes seen the park in the forests areas and near the forest edge. The turkeys eat nuts and seeds in the fall and Turkeys are sometimes seen in the park in our mature forests and near forest edges. They feed on nuts and seeds in the fall and in the winter they eat greens and insects. They were also like the deer an important part of the Native American diet. Their predators include the grey fox, rat snakes and raccoons. They are also important to the ecosystem of the park as they are a good source of food for the animals that hunt them. They also help in the maintaining the population of trees and plants as they eat many seeds.
Late Winter:: Trout Lily:
This beautiful plant can be seen throughout park mostly in the wooded areas in late winter. The markings on the trout lily leaf are similar to markings found on the brook trout. Native Americans knew to fish for trout at the time they saw the trout lily.
Spring:: Red Moss (Elf –Orphine): and Sandwort:
The two plants can be seen on the mountain in early spring. The Red Moss is not a moss at all but a succulent plant. The sandwort can easily withstand harsh weather conditions. These plants help host animals that dwell on the mountain, such as lizards. These plants hold strongly onto the soil that they utilise , so by living within the cracks of the mountain, they help prevent erosions.
Poolsprite and Quillwort:
These endangered water plants live within the pools at the protected top of the mountain. Animals love the leaves of the fleshy parts of these plants. These plants are rich in nutrients. Where these plants live, it is known that a good water quality exists.
Summer Flowers::
Prickly Pear Cactus:
This is a very popular plant on the Mountain and throughout the park. This plant biggest function is the storage of water. The fruits and green pads are edible.
Yucca:
This desert plant can be found on the slopes of the mountain. The Native Americans have used the roots and trunk of the tree as soap. The leaves of the plant are used for weaving baskets.
Dayflower:
The flower is used as a herb by many. “Commelina coelestis, C. diffusa, and C. erecta are often grown as ground covers because of their sprawling habit and their small blue flowers. Especially in moist shady places, they spread easily by cuttings and seed and by rooting of their prostrate stems.” www.britaninica.com (2008). This dayflower seeds are eaten by birds such as quails, doves and songbirds.
Late Summer flowers:: Confederate Daisy:
“This is also called “Stone Mountain Yellow Daisy” because it is only found within a 60-mile radius of Stone Mountain. It was first discovered as a new species in 1846 and every fall beginning in August the mountain is scattered with yellow from this flower, which grows on the granite outcrops in shallow soil.” http://www.stonemountainpark.org/new%20plants%20and%20animals.htm, (2008). This beautiful flower is quite an attraction to the park, thereby providing income.
There are great biological inter-relationships that exist among the life forms in the Stone Mountain Park area. The blending of odours, gases and exhaled air tend to balance the composite of the air circulation inhaled by plants and animals. Hence, a positive inter-relationship has developed. The remains of decomposed life forms and droppings from animals as well as dead plants do enrich the soil tremendously. This will promote a healthier plant life which in turn is a great source of animal food.
The human habitation of the Stone Mountain dates back to prehistory. Though there are humans living on the mountain or within the park, there are human intrusions threatening the area. The introduction of toxic elements, such as, chemicals used to control plants and grass are a threat to other life forms. The use of heavy machinery compresses the surface of the earth which in turn will delay plant growth and decrease animal productivity. Fire used in the campgrounds, for instance, is an enemy to the ecosystem.
The protections that do exist to safeguard and preserve the area are extremely effective. The mountain provides a means of study of the various animals and plants. Various habitats will be expanded and studied thereby preventing extinction. The caged and fenced areas prevent intrusion of predators. The Stone Mountain Park provides an avenue of scientific experiments to aid in the improvement of life, disease prevention, weather conditions and disease control.
There are some efforts that can be used to help further this preservation. The staff members can try to discover and implement cures for disease by use of some medicinal plants within the area. Park officials can apply strict means against unwanted species and predators. The park members can ensure that floods, fires and littering are prevented. The staff of the park can install nurseries. Qualified personnel can be employed to study the various plants to determine their medicinal benefits to humans.
Individuals can be supportive of activities within the park. Individuals can also provide information to the park officials if there is any illegal intrusion. Individuals can help encourage visitors to the park as well as school tours which will in turn generate income.
If intrusions go unchecked, the results can be quite devastating. If tigers, for instance, are to intrude on the park grounds, several losses of life will occur. The tigers will eat the smaller animals such as the fox, squirrels and wild turkey. The tigers will also attack the visitors to the park, thereby, creating fear within tourists that may want to visit the park. The ecosystem will be disrupted as well as the income will decrease tremendously.
References:
1. Retrieved October 19, 2008 from
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Odocoileus_virginianus.html, white-tailed deer, 2008
2. Retrieved October 19, 2008 from http://www.stonemountainpark.org/new%20plants%20and%20animals.htm, About Ecosystem: plants & animals, 2008.
3. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Bufo_americanus.html , Bufo americanus, American toad, 2008
4. Retrieved October 19, 2008 from
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Anas_platyrhynchos.html, mallard, 2008
5. Retrieved October 19, 2008, from
http://www.stonemountainpark.org/new%20plants%20and%20animals.htm, about Ecosystem: plants and animal
The Earth is comprised over 9 to 10 million types of animals. “Somewhere around 9 or 10 million species of animals inhabit the earth; the exact number is not known and even our estimates are very rough. Animals range in size from no more than a few cells to organisms weighing many tons, such as blue whales and giant squid. By far most species of animals are insects, with groups such as mollusks and nematodes also being especially diverse.”.http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Animalia.html. (2008). All animals are part of the Animal Kingdom. Animals do not have the rigid cell walls as plant cells. Almost every animal is capable of movement in comparison to plants and organisms. Most animals sexually reproduce.
Two mammals chosen for this paper are gorilla and whales. The two insects that I have chosen to discuss in my paper are mosquitos and locusts. Two birds that I will be discussing are the hummingbirds and the flamingos. The two enchinoderms that I chose for this paper are sea urchins and star fishes.
Mammals have some distinct characteristics which separate them from other animals. Mammals have hair which vary in amount in different mammals. The gorilla is a mammal that have a lot of hair. The whale is a mammal that do not have a lot of hair. Mammals also have milk milk-secreting glands which are referred to as mammary glands. There are a few differences between these two mammals. The gorilla lives on land while the whale live in the ocean. The gorilla’s diet comprise of fruits, vegetables and leaves. The whale’s diet differ by eating fishes, algae and seals. The gorilla belong to the primate category in mammals. The primate group belong to the placental mammals group. Placental mammals all bear their young. The placental mammals nourish the babies before they are born in their placenta. According to www.gorilla-haven.org (2008), the primates are the highest form of mammals. “The dictionary says primates are the "highest" form of mammals,”. Gorillas are classified under this order because of the following features. The gorillas are warm-blooded and have lots of hair. The gorillas are also nursed by their mothers. The gorillas also have a large skeleton to protect their internal organs. The members of this order also have flexible hands and feet and can easily hold items. Two other animals that belong to this order of mammals are the monkeys and chimpanzees.
This image shows what a typical gorilla looks like.
The whales belong to the Cetacea order. Members of this order live in the ocean at large and some lakes and rivers. Some members of this order are the killer whale and the white sided-dolphins. These animals are almost hairless. Their young ones have hair on their snouts. These animals also live in water that is almost at freezing point.
This is an image of a whale.
A large percentage of the animals on Earth is contributed by insects. Insects are a diverse group of animals. The similar characteristic between the mosquitos and the locusts is that they were both hatched from egg, as most insects do. Another characteristic which these two insects share is they both undergo a series of changes as they grow and develop. The locusts are feared and known to destroy crops. The locusts threaten one-tenth of the economy. “Locusts are related to grasshoppers and the two insects look similar. However, locust behavior can be something else entirely. Locusts are sometimes solitary insects with lifestyles much like grasshoppers. But locusts have another behavioral phase called the gregarious phase. When environmental conditions produce many green plants and promote breeding, locusts can congregate into thick, mobile, ravenous swarms.”. www.nationalgeographic.com (2008). The locust travel in a large swarm and have a short antennae. The locusts eat mainly plants, while the mosquito suck other animals blood in order to survive. The mosquito differ from the locusts in size. The locusts size is compared to a paper clip while a mosquito is compared to black dots. The locusts belong to the Orthoptera Order. The grasshopper and crickets belong to the Orthoptera order. The animals belonging to this order range in size from 5mm to 100mm. The hind legs of these species are more developed and stronger and larger than the other four legs. These insects are really good at jumping.
This is an image of a locust.
The mosquito are very different from the locusts. The mosquito belong to the diptera order. Animals such as sand-flies and black-flies belong to this order. This order of species lay their eggs in water. These species usually live in damp places.
This is a picture of a msquito.
Birds do have similar characteristics such as they all have feathers and they are all hatched from an egg. Both the hummingbird and the flamingo have a beak with no teeth and a large stomach. The birds are different in their size. The hummingbird are small when compared to the flamingo. The hummingbird is the only bird that can fly backwards. The hummingbird can also flap it’s wing rapidly as it hovers. A flamingo eye is larger than it’s brain and the flamingos have webbed feet. The flamingo belong to the Phoenicopteriformes order. Members of this order are topical and have long legs. The flamingos are the only member of this order.
This is an image of a flamingo.
The hummingbird belong to the Apodiformes order. Members of this order are very small with short legs. These birds also have long wings. Other birds belonging to the Apodiformes order are the swifts and tree swifts.
This is an image of a hummingbird.
“Except for a few species which inhabit brackish waters, all echinoderms are benthic organisms found in marine environments. Echinoderms inhabit depths ranging from shallow waters at tide lines to the deep sea.”. http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Echinodermata.html (2008). The sea urchins and the star fish belong to the enchinoderms group of animals. Both these 2 animals live in marine animals and live in brackish water. The sea urchin’s life begin when the male sea urchin spurts out his sperm then the female spurts out her egg. If the eggs touch a sea urchin will form. The sea urchin is approximately 4 inches in size. The sea urchin’s diet includes seaweed, algae and piece of plants. The star fish dwell along the ocean floor. The star fish move very slowly. The star fish have the unique capability to regrow a limb if it gets cut off. The sea urchins belong to the echinoida order. Species of this group primarily live in coral reefs. As with the sea urchin, members of this group are covered in a hard shell with movable spins. They are also disk shaped. Other members of this category are hearth urchins and sand dollars.
This is an image of typical sea urchins.
The star fish belong to the Forcipulata order. This species have a protective body. The function is to absorb food. The arms of most of these species are long and rounded.
This image is of common star fishes burrowed into the ocean floor.
Reference:
1. Retrieved October 5th, 2008, 2008 at http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Animalia.html., Kingdom Anamalia, 2008.
2. Retrieved October 7, 2008 from
http://www.gorilla-haven.org/ghfunfacts.htm, Some fun info and facts about gorillas, 2008
3. Retrieved October 8, 2008 from
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/bugs/locust.html , Locusts profile, 2008.
4. Retrieved October 8th, 2008 fromPhylum Echinodermata echinoderms, 2008
Two mammals chosen for this paper are gorilla and whales. The two insects that I have chosen to discuss in my paper are mosquitos and locusts. Two birds that I will be discussing are the hummingbirds and the flamingos. The two enchinoderms that I chose for this paper are sea urchins and star fishes.
Mammals have some distinct characteristics which separate them from other animals. Mammals have hair which vary in amount in different mammals. The gorilla is a mammal that have a lot of hair. The whale is a mammal that do not have a lot of hair. Mammals also have milk milk-secreting glands which are referred to as mammary glands. There are a few differences between these two mammals. The gorilla lives on land while the whale live in the ocean. The gorilla’s diet comprise of fruits, vegetables and leaves. The whale’s diet differ by eating fishes, algae and seals. The gorilla belong to the primate category in mammals. The primate group belong to the placental mammals group. Placental mammals all bear their young. The placental mammals nourish the babies before they are born in their placenta. According to www.gorilla-haven.org (2008), the primates are the highest form of mammals. “The dictionary says primates are the "highest" form of mammals,”. Gorillas are classified under this order because of the following features. The gorillas are warm-blooded and have lots of hair. The gorillas are also nursed by their mothers. The gorillas also have a large skeleton to protect their internal organs. The members of this order also have flexible hands and feet and can easily hold items. Two other animals that belong to this order of mammals are the monkeys and chimpanzees.
This image shows what a typical gorilla looks like.
The whales belong to the Cetacea order. Members of this order live in the ocean at large and some lakes and rivers. Some members of this order are the killer whale and the white sided-dolphins. These animals are almost hairless. Their young ones have hair on their snouts. These animals also live in water that is almost at freezing point.
This is an image of a whale.
A large percentage of the animals on Earth is contributed by insects. Insects are a diverse group of animals. The similar characteristic between the mosquitos and the locusts is that they were both hatched from egg, as most insects do. Another characteristic which these two insects share is they both undergo a series of changes as they grow and develop. The locusts are feared and known to destroy crops. The locusts threaten one-tenth of the economy. “Locusts are related to grasshoppers and the two insects look similar. However, locust behavior can be something else entirely. Locusts are sometimes solitary insects with lifestyles much like grasshoppers. But locusts have another behavioral phase called the gregarious phase. When environmental conditions produce many green plants and promote breeding, locusts can congregate into thick, mobile, ravenous swarms.”. www.nationalgeographic.com (2008). The locust travel in a large swarm and have a short antennae. The locusts eat mainly plants, while the mosquito suck other animals blood in order to survive. The mosquito differ from the locusts in size. The locusts size is compared to a paper clip while a mosquito is compared to black dots. The locusts belong to the Orthoptera Order. The grasshopper and crickets belong to the Orthoptera order. The animals belonging to this order range in size from 5mm to 100mm. The hind legs of these species are more developed and stronger and larger than the other four legs. These insects are really good at jumping.
This is an image of a locust.
The mosquito are very different from the locusts. The mosquito belong to the diptera order. Animals such as sand-flies and black-flies belong to this order. This order of species lay their eggs in water. These species usually live in damp places.
This is a picture of a msquito.
Birds do have similar characteristics such as they all have feathers and they are all hatched from an egg. Both the hummingbird and the flamingo have a beak with no teeth and a large stomach. The birds are different in their size. The hummingbird are small when compared to the flamingo. The hummingbird is the only bird that can fly backwards. The hummingbird can also flap it’s wing rapidly as it hovers. A flamingo eye is larger than it’s brain and the flamingos have webbed feet. The flamingo belong to the Phoenicopteriformes order. Members of this order are topical and have long legs. The flamingos are the only member of this order.
This is an image of a flamingo.
The hummingbird belong to the Apodiformes order. Members of this order are very small with short legs. These birds also have long wings. Other birds belonging to the Apodiformes order are the swifts and tree swifts.
This is an image of a hummingbird.
“Except for a few species which inhabit brackish waters, all echinoderms are benthic organisms found in marine environments. Echinoderms inhabit depths ranging from shallow waters at tide lines to the deep sea.”. http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Echinodermata.html (2008). The sea urchins and the star fish belong to the enchinoderms group of animals. Both these 2 animals live in marine animals and live in brackish water. The sea urchin’s life begin when the male sea urchin spurts out his sperm then the female spurts out her egg. If the eggs touch a sea urchin will form. The sea urchin is approximately 4 inches in size. The sea urchin’s diet includes seaweed, algae and piece of plants. The star fish dwell along the ocean floor. The star fish move very slowly. The star fish have the unique capability to regrow a limb if it gets cut off. The sea urchins belong to the echinoida order. Species of this group primarily live in coral reefs. As with the sea urchin, members of this group are covered in a hard shell with movable spins. They are also disk shaped. Other members of this category are hearth urchins and sand dollars.
This is an image of typical sea urchins.
The star fish belong to the Forcipulata order. This species have a protective body. The function is to absorb food. The arms of most of these species are long and rounded.
This image is of common star fishes burrowed into the ocean floor.
Reference:
1. Retrieved October 5th, 2008, 2008 at http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Animalia.html., Kingdom Anamalia, 2008.
2. Retrieved October 7, 2008 from
http://www.gorilla-haven.org/ghfunfacts.htm, Some fun info and facts about gorillas, 2008
3. Retrieved October 8, 2008 from
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/bugs/locust.html , Locusts profile, 2008.
4. Retrieved October 8th, 2008 fromPhylum Echinodermata echinoderms, 2008
In this essay I will be discussing the effects of dehydration. Dehydration has always held a particular interest to me. I hope to provide adequate information to my readers on this very important topic.
Dehydration is explained simply at www.medicinenet.com, “Dehydration occurs when the amount of water leaving the body is greater than the amount being taken in”. (2008). There are many contributing factors to dehydration such as diarrhea, vomiting, sweat, diabetes, burns, and inability to drink fluids. The body will show signs of dehydration by outputting yellow urine and a great feeling of thirst to encourage water intake. Symptoms related to dehydration are dry mouth, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, light headedness. Dehydration can be treated by increasing intake of clear fluids. These include water, clear broths and electrolyte fluids such as Gatorade. Coma, shock and kidney failure have all been related to dehydration.
What role does water play in dehydration? Water is very important to the development and growth of the body. Approximately 75% of the body is made up of water. Water makes up two thirds of the weight of the body. A surprising fact is that the brain is also made up of 95% of water. The blood is 82% water and the lungs is made up of 90% water. What I find shocking is that a mere 2% drop in the water level of the body water level can trigger signs of dehydration. “A mere 2% drop in our body's water supply can trigger signs of dehydration: fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on smaller print, such as a computer screen.” www.freedrinkingwater.com ,2008.
The above diagram taken from www.revolutionhealth.com, Water: How much should you drink everyday.(2008) clearly shows how all the major organs of the body depend on water!
How important is water? Can we survive without it? Water is most essential to the body! The human body cannot survive more than a few days without water! Every cell and organ within the body must have water to function well. Water aids the body in serving as a lubricant within the joints. Water is also the base of saliva which aids in the digestion of food. Water is essential in regulating the temperature within the body. Water helps to regulate metabolism. Water is also the best detoxificant for the body as it helps to aid in toxic excretion and help prevent constipation!
Putting aside the daily benefits of water, water also helps to prevent certain diseases. These include colon cancer, bladder cancer and breast cancer! The daily requirement of consuming eight glasses of water can help reduce colon cancer by 45%, reducing bladder cancer by 50%! Did you know water is linked to many common illnesses today such as cough and cold, allergies, stroke, urinary and kidney stones, dry skin, blood pressure, high cholesterol, constipation, insomnia, cancer, prostate problems, hair loss, depression, stress, food poisoning, headache, gallstones, heat stroke, internal and external infections, arthritis, Alzheimer disease, pneumonia, menopause, premenstrual syndrome, water cramping, colon problems and diabetes? Almost every American experiences at least one or two of these symptoms. Ensuring that we consume the daily requirement of eight glasses of water daily can certainly have quite an impact on our nation at large. What a healthy nation we can be with the consumption of enough water!
This picture shows a child suffering from dehydration.
This picture shows one of the first signs of dehydration, dry and discolored tongue.
Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium and chloride play an important role in the body hydration level. Electrolytes are present in the body for normal functioning of cells and organs. Sodium is related to the topic dehydration as it helps regulate the amount of water in the body.
Sodium being transmitted into and out of the body is an important factor in the functionality of the body. Sodium is sometimes referred to as “The Youth Element” because it helps to keep the joints well lubricated. Sodium plays a critical role in electrical signals in the brain, nervous system and muscles. Extreme levels of sodium, way too much or way too much can be fatal and cause the cells to malfunction. When there is an increased level of sodium it is often referred to as hypernatremia. This occurs in the blood where there is excess sodium present. Hypernatremia is caused when there is too little water being consumed, or loss of water due to diarrhea or vomiting or kidney disease. When there is an increased amount of sodium it is referred to as hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is caused by a relative increase of body water. This is caused when there is a liver disease or kidney disease in patients with conditions such as congestive heart failure.
Potassium is also directly related to the function of the cells in the body and is often referred to as the alkalizer. Potassium is one of the most important electrolyte. Potassium helps regulate the heartbeat and the function of the muscle. Excess potassium can cause severe dehydration. A severe or abnormal increase in potassium is referred to as hyperkalemia while an abnormal increase of potassium is referred to hypokalemia can have a extreme or fatal effect on the nervous system and can be detected by irregular heartbeats! Since potassium is excreted through the kidneys an increase or decrease of potassium levels will have an effect on the kidneys. Certain medications are linked to hyperkalemia or increased potassium, while excessive sweating, eating disorders, vomiting and diarrhea are directly linked to hypokalemia or decreased potassium.
Chloride is the main fluid found outside of cells in the blood. Chloride is often referred to as “the cleanser” and is the most widely used seasoning in the world-salt! Salt ( sodium chloride) is 60 per cent chloride. Chloride plays an important role in aiding the body regulate a normal balance of fluids. Chloride also help promote normal heart functions. A great increase or decrease of chloride in the body can be fatal. Increased level is referred to as hyperchloremia while decreased level of chloride is referred to as hypochloremia. Persons suffering from increasing amount of chloride may suffer from diarrhea and certain kidney diseases. Persons suffering from decreasing amount of chloride which are lost in the urine usually face symptoms such as heavy sweating, kidney disease and vomiting.
Foods high in potassium, sodium and chloride include spinach, chard and mushrooms, bone joint jelly, dried tomatoes, dandelion, swiss cheese, goat cottage cheese, chicken broth and blackberry juice, table salt, sunflower seeds.
It appears that alcohol and caffeine are drugs which as consumed by over half of our nation. These two popular drugs have a very detrimental effect in our overall hydration level! Trimethyl xanthine commonly known as caffeine derive from plants and is found in coffee, tea and carbonated beverages. Caffeine has gained its popularity due to the stimulating effect on nervous system and increasing brain levels which in turn increases cognitive thinking and alertness and memory. At a high dose caffeine has a diuretic effect meaning that it helps promote water loss. So how detrimental is caffeine? Caffeine intake is very bad and leads to dehydration. One should refrain from caffeine of any sort and kids should never take caffeine drinks under any circumstance!
Alcohol have also known to work as a diuretic when consumed. Alcohol lead to additional loss of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, calcium and zinc. These are key to the fluid balance and nerve and muscles actions. Hence consuming alcohol have a negative effect on the entire body. The consumption of caffeine and alcohol is extremely damaging to the body’s hydration level! Expecting mothers should avoid any form of caffeine and alcohol as this can have a severe effect on the fetus.
Every cell in our body suffers when we are dehydrated. There are many foods that can help us keep ourselves well hydrated. It is recommended that a person drinks 8 cups of water daily as well as 4 to 6 cups of green tea. It is also advised to eat at least 10-12 servings of fruits and vegetables which consist of 80 to 95% water. Soup is also a great recommendation in keeping the body hydrated. A clear urine is a great sign of a well hydrated body!
Now that I have discussed the importance of water, I feel inclined to also point out that the quality of water is of equal importance. Most tap water as well as well-water is polluted with bacteria, chemicals and heavy metals. This will in term leave people exposed to many long term illnesses such as liver damage and cancer. Necessary steps must be taken to ensure that the water consumed is devoid of contaminants!
References:
1. Retrieved December 21, 2008 from http://www.medicinenet.com/dehydration/article.htm#tocb, Dehydration, (2008)
2. Retrieved December 21, 2008 from
http://www.freedrinkingwater.com/water-education/water-health.htm, Water Education, 2008.
3. Retrieved December 21, 2008 from
www.revolutionhealth.com, Water: How much should we drink everyday?, 2008.
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