Online Journal Entry #23

And by the way, everything in life is writable about if you have the outgoing guts to do it, and the imagination to improvise. The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt. ~Sylvia Plath

Of everything we've done this year, the blogs have always been one of my favorite things to grade. I love to see what you think when you don't have to worry about saying it out loud in class. Oh, the freedom anonymity brings! Your online responses have allowed me to see your dreams, plans, values--your THOUGHTS--and it has been amazing. You all are a bunch of talented, creative, intelligent, and introspective people; and I hope you continue to write--for yourselves--for many years to come.

So, for one last online journal entry, I want you to tell me something you have enjoyed in this class this year. Something we read that stands out in your memory or an activity you enjoyed (something educative, not "that one time you and your friend ..."). Of course, you have the option to say "you've enjoyed nothing," but know that that is equal to the amount of points you will receive for it as well!. I have enjoyed this year--and getting to know you all--more than you know. Thank you for being the wonderful, insightful people you are. Have an awesome summer and an Incredible Junior Year!!

The act of putting pen to paper encourages pause for thought, this in turn makes us think more deeply about life. ~Norbet Platt

Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart. ~William Wordsworth

Online Journal Entry #22

"No kind action ever stops with itself. One kind action leads to another. Good example is followed. A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees. The greatest work that kindness does to others is that it makes them kind themselves." ~Amelia Earhart

As we have been studying poetry, this weeks blog is a little more complicated. Archibald MacLeish once said, "A poem should not mean, But be." Similarly, this week, you are not going to sit and think, but get up and DO. So, your blogging assignment is go out and perform a random act of kindness--a kind act for the benefit of someone else which brings no profit or honor to yourself. Then come back here and tell us what you did, how the recipient reacted, and how you felt after you did it. Make a difference to someone today, then see if it makes a difference in you.

Love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the one who receives them, and they bless you, the giver. ~Barbara De Angelis