ESP?

For the past two years I have had instances in which I had become very fascinated with my ability to do what I find unexplainable mental abilities. I thought it was ESP (extra-sensory perception; psychic) or something. Although I don’t believe in psychics, I am open to the possibility in which psychics could exist. A reason I am fascinated with what I perceive is abnormal psycho-behavior is because for the past two years I had become really good with puzzles. Every time family friends would invite me for dinner, they would have another 500 to 1000 piece puzzle I would be interested in putting together. Although puzzles at their house could last me until 12 o’clock at night, I would eventually finish them. More than often I would put together an entire puzzle alone; however, occasionally or temporarily others would join in to help me. In addition, I treasured the silent time together with the family putting together a puzzle. However, it is not my ability to put puzzles together that fascinates me, it’s the speed it would take for me to put the puzzle together. To me it feels like a person could have put together a single piece and I would have had about four or five pieces already put together. Some members found it entertaining to watch as I would instantly place certain pieces together. It was as if I already knew where to place pieces. The shapes and colors would make sense and I would almost instantaneously snap them into place. Nevertheless, it could be because the rate at which I’m putting pieces together could be because I’m thinking very quickly as if in a competition. Moving on, it’s not only my own speed that fascinates me, it’s also my ability to come up with accurate thoughts. For example, there were some instances in which I thought things and came to find they were true, such as the feeling of a friend not feeling well or thinking if someone arrived at my house and becoming surprised when someone had actually arrived at my house. I took some time to deeply examining how his was possible; therefore, I would like to immaturely hypothesize and suggest that I believe the ability to be psychic would perhaps come from the extent of unfamiliarized imagination. If I may clarify, I would like to state that I believe the ability to be psychic would be as if using one’s imagination, but using their imagination in such a way to which one does not feel like it’s something they wouldn't usually think up. If I may state this hypothesis differently, imagine thinking of an idea, but distinguishing this idea that is not something you would normally imagine. I think this is what could be the ability of being psychic. Such a suggestion would mean that one would have to distinguish their imagination from the possibility that one’s imagination is being created by something other. Perhaps some believers would argue being psychic is more of a feeling or some sort of intellectual insight or spiritual power. I have yet to see proof. Nevertheless, even though it’s a crazy hypothesis, it wouldn't be worth sharing if I didn’t find it so lucrative and personal. In conclusion, this is what I have experienced which led me to come up with the hypothesis of what I perceive could be ESP.

Life and Influence of Culture

Life has no meaning… And without meaning, it has meaning. In other words life is whatever you make it. Life has no guidelines besides the rules created by man. Well unless of course to take in account the necessities to survive or religion. Nevertheless, there is no proper or set rule in which to live life. As mentioned in previous posts, I believe one should live to be and achieve happiness. I believe it’s right to respect what makes others happy, whether one may find it moral or immoral. If I may take a moment to be theatrical, disregard public opinion and  metaphorical, disturbingly and controversially state, I believe one should be kind to the prostitutes and respect the demons. Furthermore, it is my opinion that every individual is as if a book, their stories revealed page after page as their life unfolds; it’s my belief every book deserves to be respected; perhaps instead of criticizing the cover, it should also be read, there’s a good possibility one will discover knowledge and personal wisdom. Furthermore, it’s my belief life is about relationship, sharing, caring, learning and experiences.

Moving on, I believe it is a good idea to understand culture. It is quite possible one lives their entire life based on the idea of living by decisions put forth in society which is a byproduct of culture. I think culture influences an individual's behavior and the way they think. i think culture can be a good and can be bad thing. If I may examine the definition of culture, it is the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively (collectively defined as the relatively spontaneous and unstructured behavior of people who are reacting to a common influence in an ambiguous situation, or done by people acting as a group). In sociology, culture is defined as the way of life of a society, or totality of what is learned by being a member of society. It’s wise to examine how culture, or even sub culture, influences oneself. One might be surprised how their behaviors, thoughts, attitudes and actions are influenced by culture or subcultures. Nevertheless, this is not necessarily a bad thing; however, it’s perhaps a good idea to understand the reasons and logic of what shapes an individual. In addition, I want to state if one manages to eliminate culture, I think by thinking freely and behaving free of cultural expectations, I think one can create their own culture. Nonetheless, it's questionable how this would make society rather unpredictable and random.

To understand more, here is a video I found in relation to understanding what I'm stating regarding culture and becoming a free thinker:

 

 

My Opinion on Politics

For the longest time I have regarded politics to be what shapes and shakes the foundation of the country. It’s part of the institution of government which deals in shared ideologies, agendas, decisions, law and often controversies. It’s natural for everyone to have their own opinions on what is moral, ideal, necessary or justifiable when in the realm of politics. More than often, when one states one’s opinion relating to politics, it’s often scrutinized by another individual with a difference in ideology. I personally keep politics to myself unless asked or see rationality in which I feel able to express my beliefs freely. It’s my personal preference to not associate with those who want to be ignorant, irrational in conversation or are eager to seek argument, because no knowledge or sharing of ideas will come of it. Furthermore, I am certain that if I state the reason I believe in something, I will most likely be sought to one’s irrationality, subject to attack and unnecessary scrutiny. It is my desire to see things philosophically, logically and rationally so that I can understand why another thinks the way they do and see if their logic influences mine. In addition to doing so, I believe there is a mutual sharing or exchange of knowledge which will allow one to come to the conclusion to which political idea is most logical or most desirable.

I feel those making political decisions in Washington have their own idea of what should be done with or without the people in mind. With the over use of term limits I would believe could most likely instigate seniority or a sense of authority. I believe such a case is bad for those desiring to do good. Moreover, perhaps there is a loss in the idea of virtue, prosperity and the idea of serving in something greater than that of themselves. I would presume there would be a change in political ideology which could form different ideals in which one believes is to be the correct way to structure or govern. Along time ago I spoke with other in college, I took notice of their idea of how they believe a society should be governed and what their idea of government was. To my surprise I came across a group of individuals saying they believed that society needed to be governed authoritatively, “people are like sheep and they need someone to take care of them”. I asked them why they believed this way and I was told it was because they believe that society lacked instruction or can be seen as ignorant. This came to no surprise to me, I thought about what they said and the reason why they would think society lacked instruction. I came to the conclusion that wouldn’t it be the fault of institution, primarily education? Perhaps it is the inability to be a free thinker. Nonetheless, surely with proper education a herd mentality or the need to be governed in such a manner would be unnecessary. I also concluded that I believe education is the real foundation of a society. Nevertheless, perhaps a system of education that does not follow too much into political influences for if political figures rule education, they essentially have the possibility to manipulate society. Nevertheless, without education a civilization will most definitely lead to instructional, intellectual and perhaps civil decay.

I would like to take the time to share more of my beliefs and some interesting ideas that I think should be necessary or taken into consideration when it comes to politics. To start, I want to state I am a swing voter and hold no allegiance to any political party. I vote for what’s logical, common sense, and what will uphold the idea of liberty. In addition, I think it’s important to state I desire to get my news from Washington directly through C-span so that I can have a clear understanding on what is going on without the use or relying on popular media outlets. Moving on to today’s political environment, I grow concerned for virtue, prosperity, and the protection of United States, both internal and external. It seems to me much of the decisions and actions made in Washington seem to follow accusations made by conspiracies; moreover, I have grown dissatisfied how things are being runned in Washington. I feel what people consider freedom is more like obtaining permission. If things keep up the way they are, it could most likely lead to negative changes in the future structure of government. This will most likely lead to unnoticed, unforeseen and possibly undesired changes in liberty and prosperity. Now that I have covered my own beliefs I would like to share that I think it would be most suitable for all political institutions to read about Plato and the cycles of government. I think such a read will mold their understanding on what is and what will become of the future of their current decisions. Another reason is that the various ideologies and decisions that have been put fourth today have already been addressed in the past. It seems logical to obtain research and input from the wisdoms of the past. My final idea is more a controversial question. I am unsure if there is a proper answer for it conflicts with political philosophies. Would it be right to let those with a high school diploma or higher degree vote? It could be that those who have no form of education have very little or no knowledge of the functionality or idea of government or the understanding of the reasons behind political decisions? I’m sure one can still be educated without the use of a high school diploma; however, what is to say about others? Within rationality, I think this is something to really think about.

My Response to the Idea of War

“Will you have peace, or war?” “I shall have war!”

War has been raged throughout history, from the dawn of early man to today. From the desire of territory to religious ideology to the competition of power, the reasons for war are many. Is war and rivalry within the nature of man? I surely don’t want to believe so. According to conflict theorists, wars are created to obtain resources by means of force. If so, will there ever be peace? I believe wars are a fool’s game possibly played by the greedy and arrogant. In such an age as today, I would think that those in higher power would have a sense of rationality and logic to never come to the conclusion that war is the only means necessary to achieve a solution. Surely there are ways to come to resolution by means of rationality instead of force. Like children in a sandbox, it seems logical to find ways in which everyone can share their toys and get along with each other.

I strongly believe war should never be the answer; however, I did come up with a justifiable reason in which wars should be necessary. I propose wars should only be necessary if there is a tyrannical regime spreading its military power and murdering innocent individuals. Such example can be seen throughout history, like Adolf Hitler in World War II. Such an action perhaps should be seen as necessary to restore peace and order.

The Proper Use for Curse Words

I believe curse words are highly unnecessary. Although I disagree with the use of curse words, I propose that the use of curse words can have proper use. To begin, I would think the use of excessive curse words can be very disruptive to some and relatively disturbing to others. I think excessive use of curse words displays immaturity, irrationality or one’s inner ugliness. It seems to me that people who use excessive curse words can’t seem to stop. Could it be possible to have an addiction to cursing? I hope not. Nevertheless, I too can be accused of such foul language. Although I’d like to think I rarely curse, I commonly find it suitable for situations I have no control of. It makes a good stress reliever. This leads me to how I think there are proper uses for curse words. I think it’s proper to use curse words for necessary emphasis. It's a good way to be heard, be taken seriously, and emphasize scale of a situation; not-to-mention, not often it can be used for comedic purposes or to lighten a situation. 

Family, Parenting, Abortion, and Raising Children

Before I begin discussing the article, I would like to apologize in advance because I wrote this in a way that may seem very disorganized.

I believe family is the most important foundation one should have in their life. I believe the role of the father and mother are necessary for one to be complete psychologically. When a child is born it requires the love and attention of both parents. The father and mother are both important because I believe the offspring gains an example of what a functional relationship is like and obtains the needs for a healthy and balanced development. Of course in order for the child to have a good representation of a relationship, the parents need to find stability within their marriage. I would think in single parent households, or if an individual is being raised by grandparents (in a western society), it may be that the raised individual’s life feels incomplete or adapts a role in which can be unproductive to society or to their development into adulthood. Therefore, I stress the importance and magnitude of being a parent and having children.

Controversially, I have seen families that don’t care a lot of their young, mothers giving birth for personal gain and parents with lustful intent bring an unexpected children into the world. This saddens me. It saddens me even more to have the thought that some parents consider their children a nuisance or nothing more than a pet. I consider a child to be of upmost importance and should be well taken care of because they are the future of a society. I don’t think it’s right to commit acts that could lead to bearing children if one is not willing or prepared to raise and take care of then. If such an event is undesired, one should take proper measures to avoid unnecessary births. I believe it would be with good intention to sustain albescence or engage in protective sexual acts.  In addition, I personally do not believe abortion is right. I agree it is a females right; however, through the possibility of potentially creating another human being, I believe the idea that one can bring life into the world is and should always be considered sacred and rightfully respected. If a life is unexpectedly created, it should be cared for by another that can take proper care of that individual until they mature into adulthood. I do rather have a controversial suggestion idea that all undesired children should maybe be adapted into military culture and used to serve; however, this idea is highly debatable. Moreover, I’m sure the underlining reason for abortion is that some individuals want to engage in lustful acts or use their body in ways that maybe disregards the use of protection. Although it is their right to use their body any way they want, I believe they should do so in a more respectable manner to respect the potential giving of life. For those who look at this from an economic perspective, it is possible to have a functional society and possible for a female to use her body the way she wants and still maintain economic and population growth stability. I believe it’s possible to implement such a system that makes use of children put into adoption or find ways to encourage individuals from over populating. Nonetheless, by this time I’m sure there will be such technologies to sustain over growth of population if not the reanimation of mars or even possible space colonization.

Going back to discussing children, I believe it’s proper to have the essential needs and proper mindset necessary to bring a child into the world and be well equipped and informed when raising the life of that child. I believe a child that is given birth out of ignorance is to be a parent’s greatest sin.

There’s a saying that if one takes care of their children their children will one day take care of them. I believe this is to be true. It may be hard for a parent to raise their child, especially if their children, teenager, or young adult can be hard to tolerate. However, out of love and upheaval of family- culture tradition, one should take care of their offspring until their offspring feels prepared to go out into the world. In addition, if one’s offspring has great ambition that one can physically see, they should be helped, tolerated, and cared for until they are able to be in the position to go out and help themselves. However, if one’s off spring does not feel the need to leave, they should be reminded, encouraged, and perhaps pushed in positive ways to move out onto their own. If all rationality has failed, I believe it is necessary for them to be cast out into the world with the help of the entire family. It’s with great hope that they realize the good intention of their parents to do what is right for their offspring. Furthermore, having a stable foundation, I also believe it is important for one’s off spring to have the foundation to fall back on if they are in desperate need of help, would like to find ways to get ahead in life or to start their life over again. Thus, if I may quickly add, I think it’s out of tremendous respect and love of one’s family to respect one’s elders; be kind, compassionate, and caring; and take care of them until their time in this world is finished.

I believe it’s a parent’s duty to teach, explain, and guide their offspring. I think it’s with good intention that a parent teaches a child things that they themselves already know; such as things that might help them in life, how things work, what is right and wrong, and suggestions on what one should do in certain situations. In essence one is passing down one’s knowledge. Often I see parents force instructions onto their children in a very unnecessary way. For example, when I was at a restaurant, I observes a lady talk down to their kids in a very negative and rude way. I’m sure she was annoyed, however part of being a parent is knowing how to deal with your child in certain given situations. I believe there was a better way the lady could have dealt with her children then to treat them the way she did. It's most unfortunate children will be children and do what is in their nature. It’s with proper instruction and action that will help their children to behave and act accordingly. I think it's a good idea that such instructions should be researched if not asked by those with proper experience. In addition, I think there is a difference between forcing or pushing one to obey and instructing one properly to obey. In discipline, I think the use of force can be justifiable in the most extreme circumstances; however, I believe there are alternatives to disciplining a child. I think the best solution for children is to punish them and have them understand the reason why they are being punished. Or, instead of ordering instructions, have them understand why they should follow one's instructions. I also agree with the idea that if one’s child continues to disregard instruction (depending on the severity of the situation), they should be allowed to do as they please so that they can learn about the consequences for themselves. I think it is important to teach the power of decisions and consequences. A rather crazy idea would be to stage events that will allow a child to see the logic and guidance of their parent’s decisions.  Moreover, if a child is continuously disobedient, it’s most common that the problem resides in the parents. On such a case, a parent should reexamine their actions and behaviors to find a more logical, rational, and compassionate approach to dealing with their children and with their partner. It’s also a good idea to note that children learn by representation, they will mimic the traits of their parents; for this it’s wise for parents to set a positive example.  In addition, regarding parents, I would think there would have to be much self-discipline to understand that a child will make mistakes, act irrationally, and will not see things logically until they obtain a more matured frame of conscious. As stated before, it’s a parent who sets the example role for the future child family. What a child learns in the family will more than likely carry on with family of their own; therefore it’s best to set the best example possible.

An interesting idea I came up with is when raising a family, I believe it’s a great idea to have family traditions or unique family experiences that allows an individual to reminisce and reflect on past family events and allow for the possibility for one to have future family traditions, memories, and experiences to share with families of their own.

My Belief Why Anarchy is Not a Decent Form of Society and Government

There are those who believe anarchy is the best way to live or a functional form of government. It seems to some anarchy is the system in which one can do what one desires free of rational or moral decision, to others it’s the disagreement with the current system or the idea of capitalism. By definition, anarchy is: a state or society without government or laws; political and social disorder due to absence of government control; lack of obedience to authority; insubordination; or confusion or disorder. I personally strongly disagree with the idea of anarchy being a form of society or government. Although I personally believe one should live to be happy, this is not the way to do so. I will begin by stating how Plato explains how anarchy would arise if a governing body acts unjustly, is seen with corruption and disregards the desires of a society; such a view seems common for any disbalance in government. To me, I conclude that such a society has the possibility to last by its ability to survive; however, such a system is temporary. Individuals living in anarchy will most-likely never live in peace; will be subject to chaos, confusion and conflicting ideologies; they will subjected to the lawlessness of others; and may force individuals to make radical, regretful or undesired decision; and are also subject to the continuing cycles of government. Through the continuing cycles of government, anarchism, as I believe is seen similar to the first form of tribal government, will eventually meet conflict through the desire for power or resources. Anarchy, in my opinion, will surely be ruled by those who are the strongest if not ruled by religious take over. This will most likely lead to tyrannical rule. If we look at competition for the strongest, many will try and seize control by becoming the strongest to assert some sort of power and control. Once one obtains power through force and is made known, one will attract a gathering. The more powerful, the more of a following they will have as others desire to follow in their footsteps or possibly want the protection of that who is strong or those who are afraid to challenge those who are possibly stronger than themselves. This creates gangs and idealistic stronger families. If the state of anarchy is subject to a large geographical scale, this will without doubt create feudalism. Local powers, gangs, and families will fight for greater dominance.  Nevertheless, the latent (unnoticed) effect of anarchy will lead to no new technologies being created and no necessary use of education. Without this, a society will be subject to illnesses and possible wide spread pandemics.  Depending on the size of the state of anarchy, there could be food shortages, a need for food production, or the rivalry to obtain food. There might even be the need for cleaner filtration systems because of water, land and air pollution. In addition, the future of such a society, will surely see a collapse of infrastructure do to the lack of resources, maintenance and necessary pollution treatment. In addition, another form of government, aside from tyrannical rule, would be the eventual reinstatement of democracy, in which a society comes together to make rules for a more organized and harmonious society. However, since there are various differences in decisions and ideas, such  society will most-likely be subject to chaos as ideas, desires, an decisions are in completion for what one believes to be right or what one finds is morally justifiable. Eventually this will lead to the desire of organization which leads to the creation of having representatives. From here, the cycles of government can take further shape and form another cycle or possible shift in government as well as social ideologies. Nevertheless, this is what will come of anarchy. If I may look at anarchy from a different perspective, perhaps it would be a formidable system if individuals had self-discipline, made use of ethics, valued essential education and came together as a local community to rationally address the need for economic, environmental and social problems. However, such nature can be seen as impossible and for this I believe anarchy is not a decent form of society and government. 

Perhaps the true question is what does one desire to do if there was anarchy or no government? Maybe by understanding why one wants such a system one can look for ways to implement such desires to the existing rule of laws if not find other ways to make it possible; within rational reason of course (murder will always be unjustifiable in my opinion). To me, this is the vary idea of the liberty and freedom stated by the founding fathers of America. Sadly I believe, it seems such an idea has possibly been forgot in our understanding of what is government. 

Suggestion for Personal Tradition

All human life is unique. Everyone is like a book with their own story to tell. I think every story should have a little something that makes them a little bit more unique. I came up with the suggestion that everyone should have their own personal tradition. This could be a hobby, daily ritual or a simple action that is unique only to oneself. For example, Pope John Paul II kissed the ground after he gets off an airplane flight. I personally swish my hair and jump three times after I turn of the shower. I think everyone should have a unique, creative and interesting personal tradition that maybe even others won’t completely understand. I invite the strange and welcome the absurd. I think this will make everyone unique and help develop more of a personal relationship with oneself or attract the possible curiosity of others.

Questions Regarding Gender Roles

I was given a set of questions relating to someone’s post about gender roles. Although I don't feel it's a real or essential topic, I'll do my best to answer the following with my own personal opinions.

The questions are as followed:

1. Were our ancestors wrong to assign gender roles?
2. Are gender roles still necessary today?
3. Do the expectations that come with gender roles cause frustration and stress?

Regarding the first question, I think it’s best to examine gender roles and how it affected an older society. It’s obvious that many cultures believe every gender had its roles. The reasons can be examined with cultural or religious beliefs. For example, in the bible, Eve was created from Adam’s rib and of courses ate the fruit of the forbidden tree.  Being exiled from paradise, Adam had to work and survive for a living and provide for his family. There are more stories in the Old Testament that also talks about stories and reasons why a male is suggested to be more dominant than a female. If we examine other cultures and tribes, a female was different because of their rationality, emotional influences, lack of strength, and ability to give birth. Controversially females could also be used for expansion, wealth and even slavery purposes. Along with examining cultures, different societies or tribes, we see males as being dominant because of their strength and usefulness to the survival of a society. In conclusion, I don’t believe it was wrong that ancestors assigned gender roles, because they had to do what was necessary to survival.

Regarding the second question, I believe it’s both necessary and not necessary. It’s necessary because it’s preserves cultural norms, social structure, values and personal identity. I also believe it’s not necessary because it’s my belief that one should live to be happy and should strive to achieve the means to live happily by living the way they want. In addition, if we look at the cultural norm in Japan, where guys can dress very feminine, and the cultural norms in Western society, we can also see differences in cultural norms. 

Finally, regarding to the final question, I believe the only reason a gender role would cause frustration and stress is if one is dissatisfied with the cultural norms associated with a gender role; has personal discomforts with themselves or with their own gender roles; or find personal preference in the gender role which is not of their own because of cultural influences or personal desire.  

In conclusion, I would further examine the effects of a change in gender roles would have on a current and future society. I think it would be important to examine the influence on future birth rates, economy, family structure and cultural norms and traditions.

Discussion can be found here:
https://www.facebook.com/socialjusticewarriors/posts/825240954209412?comment_id=825281637538677&notif_t=comment_mention

My Most Heartwarming Moments

Throughout my life I have experience many heartwarming moments. My first heartwarming moments was in Brasil when I had a girlfriend. Her name was Gisele and I would sit with her during lunch and hang out with her friends. We would talk and walk around the school and she would hold my hand until it was time for class. Often she would hug me but twice she snuck kisses on my cheek. It was a very innocent relationship, but it was very heartwarming.

Another heartwarming moment I had when I was in a Brasilian middle school was at the end of a semester before summer vacation. Many of my friends that were girls, kissed me on the cheek. It’s common in Brasil to be kissed on the cheek, but the kisses on the cheek I received from these girls left a drunk-in-love heart-melting impression. I remember spacifically to girls, Bruna and Tachiani, both kissing my cheek at the same time when I least expected it. Tachiani’s little sister Talita, who was in my class, also sneakily kissed my cheek when I was at the town festival held in one of the town’s major park (Praca). I cherish these heartwarming moments to be some of the best memories I had when I was in middle school.

The next time I felt a nice heartwarming experience was when I was in high school. I had an interesting group of friends. They were either punk rockers or Utaku. I had a friend named Shane, who was a beautiful punk black girl, and an Anglo Hispanic girl named Sarah. I remember one time where I laid in the grass during the week of major exams called the taks test and Shane surprised me by laying on top of me. She put her hands on my chest, stared at my eyes and then laid her head on top of me. Sarah was another heart warming girl that would rest her head on my lap every time I sat in the halls waiting for class to begin. 

Later in high school and after I transferred to Carl Wunsche Acadamy, a very heart warming friend of mine, named Francis, who was very much in love with me although I didn't really open up to the idea, shared some heart warming experiences with me. Some of the best memories I had with her were Prom and whenever we use to hang around Wunsche. Even though I didn't find her very attractive, I enjoyed having her as a friend. 

In Wunsche there was another attractive girl, who was from India, I use to walk down the halls with to my chemistry class. We didn't really know each other and we rarely talked but we would often interact with each other by playfully bumping into each other, pulling on each other's back packs and competing with each other by racing through the crowds until we reach a door frame on the first floor. Then I would wave at her as we went inside our classes. 

Also in my time attending Carl Wunsche Acadamy, there was a girl I use to walk home with. Her name was Julia. She was a hyper energetic and beautiful pale skin girl with golden blond hair. I remembered she used to wear punk clothes before she transferred to Wunsche. Me and her shared Algebra II and Animation class together. Sometimes we would drive the teacher crazy by talking too much. Nevertheless, at the time she did have a boyfriend; however, she would still snatch my hand while walking home. Sometimes at school or even walking home, she would jump on my back. One time she nearly tackled me to the ground, because my backpack was too heavy with useless government and economic textbooks.

The next sequence of heartwarming moments was when I was in Arizona visiting my aunt’s house for Christmas. I met a girl named Amanda that was one of my cousin’s friends. I think the first time I saw her was when she came over to my aunt’s house, we played the Nintendo Wii and I think she spent the night on the basement/first floor of my aunt’s house. When we traveled around to nearby towns in my aunt’s large travel van, we would pick her up and hang out in the back seat. I remember driving back and falling asleep on the back seat. Since there was a lack of space, we snuggled close to each other.

These wonderful past memories doesn't compare to when I was in my first year in college and living in a house in the front of my old subdivision. The first time I saw my neighbor Kristen was when I was playing my old Pearl drum set and i saw her walking home from school.  The bus dropped her off and I watched her walk to her house with her books in her arms.

One day when I was designing a level for level design class in college (it was a sky scrapper level that had an alien space ship crash into it and you had to fight enemies to get to the first floor of the level before fighting a very tall alien hell bender in the street below), Kristen, also nicknamed Little K , came upstairs to the entertainment room we had and surprised me when I saw her for the first time. We joked, talked and she showed me bruises on her legs that she didn't even know where she got it from. I showed her my level for game design and from then on we became fast buddies. That same night my whole family gathered to watch a movie. My mom invited her to watch a movie with us. Even though I still didn't completely know her, me and her shared the sofa and laid across from each other at opposite ends of the sofa. She had her legs on top of mine and we shared a blanket over each other as we watched the movie, I would fight her legs to put my leg on top of hers and she would fight mine. Even though there was a huge age gap, me being 19 and she was 14, we got along extremely well.

After that day, she would go to and from my house frequently. I personally always felt she was more like a guy friend than a girl-friend. She would come over very often and her, her little sister, my brother, and I would just hang out, play videogames, joke, or talk. Sometimes we would jump the gate to go to the elementary school’s park and swing on the swing sets. Many times she would invite friends to hang out with us. Since I could drive, I would often drive them around and we would go to our friend’s house and hang out there.

There was one time after watching a movie, the day I made fun of her wearing a skirt, she cuddled right beside me and we fell asleep together. When I woke up she had her head leaning against my chest and I held her in my arms. It was the first time where I had an extremely heartfelt feeling burning inside me, it was a feeling I still find difficult to explain. Despite our age difference, I felt like I had developed a secret deep feelings for this person. Being that I was shy and didn't look for trouble, I kept myself from going overboard with emotions. Instead, I demonstrated my feelings by being nice, compassionate, playful, and kind. The next week, I met another friend of hers called Mariana. We gave her the nickname marijuana, because we thought it was funny. After talking and laughing for a long while in the guest bedroom, they both curled and huddled up beside me, using me as a body pillow we all fell asleep together. I leaned my head against Kristen’s head and laid there caressing her arm. I remember Mariana picking my arm hairs as we laid there not saying a word. This was by far the most heartwarming experience I had ever felt in my life. Even now, nothing compares to the feeling of heart warmth I felt when I was around them. We continued to be friends until I moved to another house at the back of our subdivision. They visited often, but it wasn't quite the same. 


My next heart warming experience came from a very interesting Vietnamese girl. I met her one day at a friends house. She had an incident where I was in a position to help her. We got to know each other more and since I had nothing else to do with my time other than study for college, I spent a lot of my time with her driving her around Houston, to malls, and various restaurants. I treasured the time I had with her as they were delightful and sometimes driven me to interesting situations. My most heart warming moments with her were eating crawfish and washing our hands with lemon and water to remove the scent of crawfish on our fingers.  I prized the silent times we had with each other or the times we would sing popular songs on the radio when driving around. Although misfortunes and misunderstandings had occurred, I feel a place in my heart to cherish such delightful times.


 

My most current moments I had that were heartwarming, was with a south pacific islander friend I met in Japanese class. A lot can be said about my interesting and perhaps unique friendship I have had with her and continue to have with her till this day. My most heart warming experience I've had with her was when we would lay in bed and talk about very interesting and philosophical topics; when we drove to various places singing my favorite songs; when you taught me how to do amazing massages; and how we use to dance in the living room to kpop songs, even though it was obvious I couldn't dance. These were my most heart warming times. I'm glad I was able to share my self with such an amazing, life changing and intellectual person. I hope there will be more memories to come. ... Especially since you still owe me bulgogi (Korean dish).  

I will forever cherish the heartwarming feelings I have experienced in life. I pray that I will have more experiences similar to that further in life. Every time I think about the heartwarming times I have had, I feel a warm feeling deep inside my soul. It’s a feeling that cannot be replaced nor forgotten. It helps keep me going and always manages to bring a warm smile to my face. I long for the time when I can have that feeling once more. It’s a feeling I hope to one day share and experience with others.