CHECK OUT NEW COLLECTION AND RECENT WORK!!!!
THE SWEETHEART COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN ORIGINAL PAINTINGS, PRINTS, TSHIRTS, ECOBAGS, AND CARDS!
Contact me at monika_blichar@hotmail.com for yours today!
MAB Ventures Inc.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
The Sweetheart Collection
CHECK OUT NEW COLLECTION AND RECENT WORK!!!!
THE SWEETHEART COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN ORIGINAL PAINTINGS, PRINTS, TSHIRTS, ECOBAGS, AND CARDS!
Contact me at monika_blichar@hotmail.com for yours today!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Goodbye 2009! Hello 2010!
In the spirit of the Christmas, a time to be with family, friends, and loved ones, I have found myself more excited than ever this year to celebrate. Maybe it is because the sun has been out the past few days, the lights around the city have popped up, or the funny children's requests to Santa I hear on the radio every morning. I'm not sure, but for some reason, this Christmas feels like one of the ones I had when I was a child, patiently waiting for the big guy to come to my house and drop off all those goodies I so wished for.
Working in a school during the month of December is, as many of you can imagine, almost as bad as working with kids the day after Halloween. The halls are usually bustling with excited laughter, candy canes, and the hums of Christmas Carols. Students and staff are counting down the days while they finish their exams, report cards, and tie up any loose ends before the end of yet another year and the beginning of a new one.
As someone who is very goal orientated while grateful for past and present opportunities, I was interested in learning about what my students were thankful for in 2009 and what they are looking forward to in 2010. Here are some of their responses!
I hope you all had a wonderful Chirstmas and are looking forward to a very eventful, happy, and successful New Year! All the best!
Best moments in 2009:
"In the summer, I went to watch an amazing concert in Hong Kong by Raymond Lam. It was a brilliant show in on e of the biggest concert arenas in Hong Kong. I loved it. I wished I can go there again and hope to see my cousins in HK there again!"
"Wathcing 2012! Most amazing movie ever!"
"Spending time with my brother's dog."
"Left for Dead 2" (I think this is a video game!)
"Making the B-Ball team!"
"Making more friends!"
"Nights of summer."
"The best moments of 2009 mostly happened in summer. I had gone to a six week camp in Alberta and had to survive on a fifty odllar budget per week. I met lots of people and learned if you want to move up, you have to give respect and appreciate whatever someone does for you. My most clear memory of this was when this man was at the side of the road next to a McDonalds and I looked at him sleeping. He had a dirty blanket and a garbage bag as a pillow. I went inside McDonalds and bought him a meal and brought it out for him."
"My best moment was when I got my XBOX. I was so happy especially because i earned it by myself."
"The best moment in 2009 was when we were all around the fire at camp. It was the best because I got to get to know my best friend better."
And of course, from the teacher herself:
"My best moment in 2009 was realizing that if you really want something to manifest, you have to make it happen and never give up. I was fortunate enough to have many strong people in my life this past year who have encouraged and mentored me, helping me realize that dreams aren't simply visions in our minds. I realized through determination, hard work, and a positive attitude, anything is possible and that all is real in this magically beautiful life."
What we are looking forward to in 2010:
"Moving into my new apartment."
"Having a blast and 2010 Olympics!"
"Carrying the Olympic Torch on opening day."
"Egypt."
"Hanging with my friends and playing soccer."
"My grandparent coming back from India."
"Eclipse the movie."
"I am looking forward to more French class and an end to all the corny end of year jokes!"
"Getting my braces off!"
"Not loosing my glasses!"
"Pass the 8th grade and survive school."
"To win."
"Season two of Glee."
"Try to have the biggest and best birthday party."
"Get on the Honor Roll."
"Taking horseback lessons."
After reading these responses, I always fill up with a bittersweet feeling. On one hand I am so happy that many of these young people are so willing to share their dreams and what they are grateful for, no matter how big, small, serious, or totally nutty they are! It's a great feeling as a mentor to know that your student feels safe enough to share his or her most personal and private thoughts with you. I truly believe that it is because of solid, respectful relationships that all goals, visions, and dreams progress and transform from fantasy to reality. Sadly, this knowledge reminds me of the realities of life. Many of us as adults forget the simple pleasures in life; friends, family, education, hobbies, the things that make us feel alive and lead us to pursue our passions. Falling into the dread of our own doubt is all too common, and as many of these young people remind me, sometimes, it's just best to look around and be thankful for what you have in the present, which is the greatest gift of all.
So, in the spirit of holiday glee, I would like to extend to you and yours a very Happy Holiday season and an even more special New Year filled with Health, Harmony, and Love. May all of your dreams come true!
Cheers!
Monika B
O! What I'm looking forward to in 2010:
1. New collaborations and business plans! I'll fill you all in as soon as I can! So exciting!
2. Going to Mexico and seeing Rob on a plane for the first time! This will be priceless and I promise I'll post pics! lol
3. Painting more! Adding more to The Sweetheart Collection and seeing them at various locations in Vancouver!
4. Surprises
5. Summer
6. Writing more of my book...hopefully it will be done this year!
7. Meeting new people and seeing new talent!
8. Art Shows!
9. Following my dream.
10. Never giving up!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
"Art~Sea" A Fundraiser at the Vancouver Aquarium Hosted by Monika Blichar and Rype Entertainment
One of my goals is to open my own art gallery and working studio. I have been talking about it for some time now and having participated in so many shows this year, I'm getting closer and closer to actually taking the plunge and putting something together. Instead of trying to push things too quickly, I figure I should dabble in many areas of the arts scene and gain experience in as many artic ventures as possible. Make sure this is what I really want to do before I actually go ahead and do it.
I have always volunteered my time to different organizations and causes. I've worked with the BC Cancer Agency, World Vision, community events and children's events. To be honest, volunteering is a lot of fun. You meet new people, learn new skills, you are a part of the community through your willingness to help others. It's not for everyone, but it has certainly helped me feel better about my place in the world and how I can make a more positive impact in it. If you haven't tried in a while, I would strongly encourage you to go help an organization that interests you, most of these non profits are screaming for help in a variety of areas.
So, being the creative genius that I like to think of myself as, I decided to go ahead and merge volunteering and the arts together and create a fabulous event here in Vancouver.
"Art-Sea" will be held on November 14, 2009 and the one and only Vancouver Aquarium. In addition to a fantastic venue, I have hand selected 30 artists who will show and sell over 250 pieces of unique artwork ranging in mediums from acrylic, oil, collage, to photography. Each artist will be present and more than happy to answer any questions or help you pick out that perfect piece just in time for the Christmas season. Further, we have organized a silent auction, walking art, music, hors d'oeuvres, and bar service. This should be one of the best art showcases in town and just to add that cherry on top, we are donating partial proceeds to a great organization; The ArtsUmbrella. This spectacular group of people helps offer arts programs to underpriviledged children in the lower mainland. How could you not feel good about attending or buying some art? Everyone wins.
So, if you aren't busy on November 14, grab a ticket from Clubzone.com and make an appearance at "Art~Sea." The turtles, dolphins, seahorses, and sharks will surely appreciate it!
See you there!
Monika Blichar & Rype Entertainment
monika_blichar@hotmail.com
604-999-6177
http://www.clubzone.com/events/Vancouver/164753/ARTSEA-at-the-Vancouver-Aquarium
Friday, October 9, 2009
New Work at BC Home and Interior Design Show BC PLACE STADIUM October 15-18, 2009
Here's to fabulous event held at B.C. Place October 15, 16, 17, and 18. I will be unveiling new work and look forward to seeing you all there! Here is a sneak peak!
http://www.bchomeandgardenshow.com/ME2/Sites/default.asp?SiteID=50F5BEDD5B7346B381567175B4EAE281
Body Painting
I never really thought about using human flesh as a canvas. In fact, it wasn't until a friend of mine asked if I would paint her pregnant belly for her until I actually considered it. That was an interesting session for sure! I think the baby to be was curious too because she kept poking her mom's belly as I painted! Here are some shots from a recent event at Pop Opera in Vancouver. My model was Alex who is a talented dancer and teacher. She looks as good in the clouds as she does on earth! Enjoy!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Photoshoot with my Sister, Photographer Vannessa Griffiths
http://www.flickr.com/photos/veggy/sets/72157622181939847/
A Day to Remember
Many days are days to remember. Birthdays, wedding days, graduation days. Landmarks in life that are celebrated with family and friends. Momentos in the scrapbooks of our lives meant to remind us of our varied journeys, how incredibly magical these fairy tales truly were. Today is one of those days, not because it is a day I want to remember really, but because it is the day I learned a little more about being human.
One year ago today, I lost my mother to a battle with Cancer. It was one of the worst days of my life. I still remember the gut wrenching feelings I was going through the entire night prior, as though my body could feel her slowly slipping from this reality. I stared at the moon all night long, it was so perfectly visible and eerily bright. When my sister phoned me that morning to tell me Mom was gone, I knew even before she uttered the words through her sobs. It was heartbreaking and I remember how all over again, I was going to have to learn how to live without someone I loved.
I dreaded September 27 all year. The last year has gone by so quickly and with trying to go to a brand new full time job, take care of an estate, keep fit, and follow my dreams; looking back now, I don't know how I did it. It's a wonder how I made it through this past year without her actually. I used to talk to her everyday, sometimes even more than once. About nothing in particular or everything important all at the same time. She was just always there. I could tell her anything. It's been so hard not having her the last year, even now, I haven't found anyone who fills the void I feel especially when I need someone to listen. I have a sister that is both beautiful inside and out, a dad who's a silent powerhouse, relatives who are pilars, and friends who I wouldn't consider trading for anything in the world, not even the stars; yet, there is something about a mother that a person can't replace. The essence of mom for all of us is such so precious, a truly one of a kind thing.
My mom was definetly a one of a kind thing. She was a vibrant Polak; a Polish Princess with a flair for fashion and a love of red wine spritzers all year. Dorota Moszner Blichar was a woman who never walked into a room unnoticed, even if it was at her daughter's humiliation. She had an aura about her that screamed life and goodtimes. Cease the day! Live! Love! Laugh! And do it all in a pair of really great heels! She was a truly amazing person, friend, mother, wife, and woman. I feel so fortunate to have known her, even when she would drop me off to High School in her sweat pants and ball cap. She hated getting up in the morning and I hated that she left the house so unkept!
I thought about what I might do today for the past few weeks and knew that she would have never wanted me to sit around and mope. She was so bubbly all the time and even in the end when she felt so awful in her own skin, she still managed to crack jokes and drink her wine spritzers. In keeping with her positivity and courage, I thought, "Well, hey, do something spectacular for her today!" I called my trainer
Daniela a few days ago and arranged for our next session to be the Grouse Grind.
The Grind, a popular hiking trail in Vancouver, is a 2.9k trail up the face of Grouse Mountain, also known as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster.” More than 110,000 hikers a year take on the grueling terrain, which begins at Valley Station and ends at Peak’s plateau, a total elevation of 2,800-feet. The average climber takes about an hour, beginners require up to two hours to complete the hull.
I had never hiked that high or that long but despite my lack of hiker's knowledge, I put on a happy face and braced myself for a climb that would surely empower me and honor my mom in my mind in some form. We started at about 9:00am and the first half was by far the most physically challenging thing I have done in a long time. If you have the priviledge of working with a trainer like mine, well then you would understand how hard I have worked this year with her; she seriously kicks my butt every time I see her. It's awesome.
After about the half way mark, which seemed like a lifetime when you're climbing a billion stairs, you get into a zone and even though you're body is screaming at you, your head is telling you that you can do it. Maybe it was the panting breaths all around me that reminded me I wasn't alone in this challenge or my own inner voice saying that I had to keep going. I'm not entirely sure. There was a moment where everything around me disappeared and it was as if I was in an adventure video game racing to the top of the forbidden mountain for the elixir that would give me another life. All I could think about was getting to the top, finishing, succeeding. I think there was even a moment where with every step, I heard 'Mom.' That helped, even though I knew she would never be caught dead up there in a million years.
When I got to the top it was an amazing feeling. Not only did we finish in just over an hour, but the postcard view rejuvinates the senses within seconds making you forget that your legs feel like Jell-O. You feel as though you are in another world entirely, far away from any harsh realities of life. It is stunningly wild; the entire city surrounded by water, the buildings in the distance, everything lost in the shrubery of the BC Coast. So lucky are we Vancouverites to live in such an amazing place where we can see the beauty of Nature all around us everyday. And thanks to my mom, I get to see all of this, not just BC, but life.
Sometimes we humans say things too quickly, not often enough, or too late. Moments pass us by and when we knew we should have said something at the time and didn't, we regret not putting it out there when we had the opporunity. I am sure I am not the only one on this planet to feel that sense of loss and the pain of not being able to turn back time. Maybe things would have been different, "if only."
Today I learned that I don't have to regret the past anymore. I don't have to regret not being there with my mom when her spirit went to heaven, or Steve when he flew up there a year and a half before her. I don't have to feel remorse for the things I couldn't change growing up, the things I should have done in different situations, or the way that my role in this story affected each of the players, some of whom are still here and others who have faded into their own tales, each with their own plots. Looking down at the vibrant city hub, I truly realized that life is an adventure, even in hard times and loss, we create our destinies.
I don't know if I ever told my mom I loved her enough, if I hung out with her enough, or if I even thanked her for giving me life. I don't know if I told her how grateful I am that her and my dad decided to move to Canada, to give me and my sister the opportunity to be great in a new land. To be an artist, a writer, a university grad, a homeowner, a world traveller, a triligual being; things I wouldn't have ever been had we stayed in Poland. I really can't say that I thanked her for the opportunity she gave me and the life that I have now because of her courage, determination, and drive in a country moons away from all she ever knew.
As we went down the mountain today and as I was looking at the face of the mountain I had just devoured, I realized that even though I may have regrets about things unsaid or undone, I can't change what has happened in this life, I can only make it better as time goes on. I can only keep moving forward, pursuing my dreams, keep climbling those mountains. "Nothing in life is perfect, Mons," said my friend Aaron yesterday, but I beg to differ. Life is perfect just the way that it is. All the ups and downs, all the excessive drama, the dusty turmoil, the evasive emotions. All the accomplishments, happiness, joy, sorrow. The interconnectivity between all things. The bright city lights on a dark night.
And this, Mom, is what I would like to send out to you on a day that is so bittersweet for all of us you left behind. A tribute to one of the most remarkable ladies that ever lived and who keeps living not only in my memory, but of all those she touched with her crazy ways and thick accent. Thank you for always believing in me, always loving me, and always telling me to grow up when I was a brat. Kocham cie goraco.
XOXO
Monika
Friday, September 25, 2009
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Daily Thought
What would you do if you lived in a perfect world?
Would you live in a meadow, a cabin by the sea, an apartment in the city? Would you walk pleasantly through the middle of the city, smiling, saying hello to the beautiful people you've never met? How about traveling through the Amazon, the Jungle of Life, the vast Emptiness of the enoromous oceans which surround and feed us. Would you love more? Laugh with more rumbling from the pit of your stomach? Maybe even call an old friend, someone who you had a quarrel with, just to say hello and see how their journey was panning out? Would you dance more, sing louder, or smile brighter? What would you do if there weren't any wars, any hunger, any poverty? If inequality were bannished, racism, hate and greed, all disappeared, just like that. What COULD you do?
What would our lives look like? Do you think about how many summers you have left? How many opportunities you have left to see the world, see your great aunt, see your parents? Maybe you could say thanks once more, thanks for the life you were given, thanks for the love you experienced, the kalidescope of emotions that were both stimulating and devastatingly difficult to migrate through. Maybe you would go play catch with your son, drink invisible tea at a tea party with your daughter, take bunt cake to your grandmother's trinket packed room at the old folks home down the street. Maybe even, you would volunteer some time to a good cause, we all need help sometimes.
In my perfect world, I see a union of people, a collaboration of talent, unique identity, supernatural forces all working towards a common goal, a greater good, a breath taking glimpse of the Garden of Eden. I see love, real, pure, innocent love. Love for each other, for the life we lead, the life we create, the living things all around us. I see humanity at its finest, imperfections invisible, perfection within us all. Mankind working through the fallen emotions, the jealousies, the greed, the rage that obstructs so many of us from moving forward in time, in space, in evolution of the creation of a perfect world. I see men and women, pursuing things they love with a passion so deep nothing gets in their way, for their eyes are so focused on their goal, no pleasure or pain affects these masters at work.
I see fields of blooming lilies, filling acres of air with an aroma of a thousand rejuvenating breaths. I see a rainbow of colour in an eternal sphere of eyes, eyes that resonate self assurance, peace, wisdom, and love. I see fingertips running across plump lips, long hair flowing tameless in the sweet winds of change, wet feet being kissed by the waves of the sea. Each flowing vien running parallel with the symposium of synch discovered.
I see rooms filled with laughter, babies breathing new life into their surroundings, hands placed on lips and hips, judgements suspended in natural rigidness. I see a world full of messy scrapbooks filled with songs of creativity, poems full of personality, picutres embracing people who are not afraid to show and tell. I see people biting apples and sleeping with rose petals. I see you and I, walking through OZ.
What do you see in a perfect world?
Would you live in a meadow, a cabin by the sea, an apartment in the city? Would you walk pleasantly through the middle of the city, smiling, saying hello to the beautiful people you've never met? How about traveling through the Amazon, the Jungle of Life, the vast Emptiness of the enoromous oceans which surround and feed us. Would you love more? Laugh with more rumbling from the pit of your stomach? Maybe even call an old friend, someone who you had a quarrel with, just to say hello and see how their journey was panning out? Would you dance more, sing louder, or smile brighter? What would you do if there weren't any wars, any hunger, any poverty? If inequality were bannished, racism, hate and greed, all disappeared, just like that. What COULD you do?
What would our lives look like? Do you think about how many summers you have left? How many opportunities you have left to see the world, see your great aunt, see your parents? Maybe you could say thanks once more, thanks for the life you were given, thanks for the love you experienced, the kalidescope of emotions that were both stimulating and devastatingly difficult to migrate through. Maybe you would go play catch with your son, drink invisible tea at a tea party with your daughter, take bunt cake to your grandmother's trinket packed room at the old folks home down the street. Maybe even, you would volunteer some time to a good cause, we all need help sometimes.
In my perfect world, I see a union of people, a collaboration of talent, unique identity, supernatural forces all working towards a common goal, a greater good, a breath taking glimpse of the Garden of Eden. I see love, real, pure, innocent love. Love for each other, for the life we lead, the life we create, the living things all around us. I see humanity at its finest, imperfections invisible, perfection within us all. Mankind working through the fallen emotions, the jealousies, the greed, the rage that obstructs so many of us from moving forward in time, in space, in evolution of the creation of a perfect world. I see men and women, pursuing things they love with a passion so deep nothing gets in their way, for their eyes are so focused on their goal, no pleasure or pain affects these masters at work.
I see fields of blooming lilies, filling acres of air with an aroma of a thousand rejuvenating breaths. I see a rainbow of colour in an eternal sphere of eyes, eyes that resonate self assurance, peace, wisdom, and love. I see fingertips running across plump lips, long hair flowing tameless in the sweet winds of change, wet feet being kissed by the waves of the sea. Each flowing vien running parallel with the symposium of synch discovered.
I see rooms filled with laughter, babies breathing new life into their surroundings, hands placed on lips and hips, judgements suspended in natural rigidness. I see a world full of messy scrapbooks filled with songs of creativity, poems full of personality, picutres embracing people who are not afraid to show and tell. I see people biting apples and sleeping with rose petals. I see you and I, walking through OZ.
What do you see in a perfect world?
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
RE: "Teens use less booze, drugs, tobacco" Vancouver Sun, April 15, 2009
In response to the interesting article about the decline of substance abuse among teenagers in today's society in today's issue of the Vancouver Sun, I felt compelled to write. As a recent graduate from UVIC and a new high school French teacher, I have seen the effects of substance abuse in youth in B.C.’s educational settings: withdrawal from routine activities, failure in courses due to deterioration of performance, lack of confidence, motivation, and drive, health issues both short and long term, and alienation from social circles and family ties. Tragically, I have even seen death as a result from the overindulgence of certain substances.
As I was driving to work this morning, the article caught my eye and seeing as how we are studying Health and Wellness as well as Media Influences in my 11 and 12 groups, I thought I would ask my students for feedback on the article. After reading the entire article aloud, shushing giggles when reading the bits about sexual orientation and experimentation, I found that the students had a lot to say about this topic. As a teacher and observer of this fascinating age, I would like to share with you some of the responses that I received today, which I’m sure, will make both adults and parents re-evaluate the strengths and abilities that lie within today’s youth despite the incessant negative attention they are constantly fighting. I have taken bits of their conversations and written responses and am forwarding you a light compilation which has been translated from French to English.
“Teenagers and young adults turn to substance abuse because they want to reduce stress caused by today’s world. They think that their world is horrible and want to escape work and personal problems. In addition, people are influenced easily by television and advertising where youth is portrayed as sophisticated, tranquil, and comfortable while drinking certain types of beverages and taking certain drugs. People of all ages have to find a more successful road to manage stress.”
“At the same time as researchers and the media publish information pertaining to youth abusing alcohol and drugs, these same people forget to look at the majority of criminals and their age range which is mostly between 30 and 40. The media sends the message to citizens that adolescents are doing drugs but at the same time, they continue to sell legalized drugs such as alcohol and cigarettes to young people.”
“There are many reasons that young people try alcohol and drugs. One reason is that they are bombarded with images of celebrities that take drugs and drink in excess. [Paris Hilton, Alex Rodriguez, Barry Bonds, etc.] These images influence youth because they want to be hip like these celebrities. Another reason for substance abuse is boredom; in smaller cities, there are less opportunities for young people to have fun so they turn to drugs and alcohol for entertainment.”
“Youth today is living in a world that is full of stress; being popular, looking good, loneliness and depression, homework, and part time employment are just some things that cause stress. Teenagers start to use drugs because they are facing those pressures alone and feel neglected by the lack of support and attention from their peers, parents, and teachers.”
“The effects of television and media are not considered by many parents. Information is easily accessible; good or bad. Young people do not realize that rappers in music videos or characters in movies are only figures; people playing a role. They are not real in terms of reality.”
“Celebrities are horrible role models for young people. Everyone wants to live a glamorous lifestyle full of accomplishments; yet, many of the most successful people, particularly those who are most influential, do not endorse safety, social responsibility, class, or health and wellness.”
“T.V. shows such as “TMZ” or “Extra” show many celebrities when they are at their most vulnerable point. Teenagers and young adults watch these shows and enjoy the endless antics lived by these celebrities. What we consider normal in television, especially in teenagers, is quickly becoming the norm in real life.”
“The information that the media conveys to the public has a great influence on teenagers because they adapt to the environments that the media creates for them.”
“Just like adults, teenagers want to escape reality when faced with peer pressure and stress of life. Drugs and alcohol offer an evasion of present reality. The problem is that after they feel good, they return to the realities which they were escaping and feel worse. They feel the need to drink and do more drugs to remain disassociated; and the cycle continues.”
“Even when media and Internet influence so much, we have more information about the effects of drugs and alcohol available through those same mediums. We are more aware of the effects of substance abuse in many forms than previous generations.”
Enlightening as both the article and our class discussions were this morning, I feel as though more can be done in society as a whole to promote empowerment and success in British Colombians. Young people today are faced with enormous pressures mounting from the many messages they are receiving from parents, friends, educational authorities, and society as a whole. For students who come from different cultures and countries to study are caught between two worlds, old and new, and seem to be the most isolated; yet, the most successful at staying away from substance abuse.
The importance of educating young people about the effects of substance abuse is obviously crucial to their development as a successful member of society; and therefore, should be seriously considered by all of society not simply parents, teachers, or friends. We are all responsible for the world that we are creating every minute and each one of us, in his or her way, is responsible for the many issues, problems, and tragedies that demand immediate attention, improvement, and prevention.
After the heated discussions we had this morning, I feel that youth today are aware of the dangers of substance abuse and illiteracy, and therefore, are better prepared to face the realities, both positive and negative, they will undoubtedly face outside of high school as they continue their path into adulthood. Consequently, this gives me hope that our future as a province, a country, and maybe even a world, will be filled with people who strive not only to make the right choice, but also help others do the same. After all, we are all in the same boat, right? Let’s not rock it too much.
As I was driving to work this morning, the article caught my eye and seeing as how we are studying Health and Wellness as well as Media Influences in my 11 and 12 groups, I thought I would ask my students for feedback on the article. After reading the entire article aloud, shushing giggles when reading the bits about sexual orientation and experimentation, I found that the students had a lot to say about this topic. As a teacher and observer of this fascinating age, I would like to share with you some of the responses that I received today, which I’m sure, will make both adults and parents re-evaluate the strengths and abilities that lie within today’s youth despite the incessant negative attention they are constantly fighting. I have taken bits of their conversations and written responses and am forwarding you a light compilation which has been translated from French to English.
“Teenagers and young adults turn to substance abuse because they want to reduce stress caused by today’s world. They think that their world is horrible and want to escape work and personal problems. In addition, people are influenced easily by television and advertising where youth is portrayed as sophisticated, tranquil, and comfortable while drinking certain types of beverages and taking certain drugs. People of all ages have to find a more successful road to manage stress.”
“At the same time as researchers and the media publish information pertaining to youth abusing alcohol and drugs, these same people forget to look at the majority of criminals and their age range which is mostly between 30 and 40. The media sends the message to citizens that adolescents are doing drugs but at the same time, they continue to sell legalized drugs such as alcohol and cigarettes to young people.”
“There are many reasons that young people try alcohol and drugs. One reason is that they are bombarded with images of celebrities that take drugs and drink in excess. [Paris Hilton, Alex Rodriguez, Barry Bonds, etc.] These images influence youth because they want to be hip like these celebrities. Another reason for substance abuse is boredom; in smaller cities, there are less opportunities for young people to have fun so they turn to drugs and alcohol for entertainment.”
“Youth today is living in a world that is full of stress; being popular, looking good, loneliness and depression, homework, and part time employment are just some things that cause stress. Teenagers start to use drugs because they are facing those pressures alone and feel neglected by the lack of support and attention from their peers, parents, and teachers.”
“The effects of television and media are not considered by many parents. Information is easily accessible; good or bad. Young people do not realize that rappers in music videos or characters in movies are only figures; people playing a role. They are not real in terms of reality.”
“Celebrities are horrible role models for young people. Everyone wants to live a glamorous lifestyle full of accomplishments; yet, many of the most successful people, particularly those who are most influential, do not endorse safety, social responsibility, class, or health and wellness.”
“T.V. shows such as “TMZ” or “Extra” show many celebrities when they are at their most vulnerable point. Teenagers and young adults watch these shows and enjoy the endless antics lived by these celebrities. What we consider normal in television, especially in teenagers, is quickly becoming the norm in real life.”
“The information that the media conveys to the public has a great influence on teenagers because they adapt to the environments that the media creates for them.”
“Just like adults, teenagers want to escape reality when faced with peer pressure and stress of life. Drugs and alcohol offer an evasion of present reality. The problem is that after they feel good, they return to the realities which they were escaping and feel worse. They feel the need to drink and do more drugs to remain disassociated; and the cycle continues.”
“Even when media and Internet influence so much, we have more information about the effects of drugs and alcohol available through those same mediums. We are more aware of the effects of substance abuse in many forms than previous generations.”
Enlightening as both the article and our class discussions were this morning, I feel as though more can be done in society as a whole to promote empowerment and success in British Colombians. Young people today are faced with enormous pressures mounting from the many messages they are receiving from parents, friends, educational authorities, and society as a whole. For students who come from different cultures and countries to study are caught between two worlds, old and new, and seem to be the most isolated; yet, the most successful at staying away from substance abuse.
The importance of educating young people about the effects of substance abuse is obviously crucial to their development as a successful member of society; and therefore, should be seriously considered by all of society not simply parents, teachers, or friends. We are all responsible for the world that we are creating every minute and each one of us, in his or her way, is responsible for the many issues, problems, and tragedies that demand immediate attention, improvement, and prevention.
After the heated discussions we had this morning, I feel that youth today are aware of the dangers of substance abuse and illiteracy, and therefore, are better prepared to face the realities, both positive and negative, they will undoubtedly face outside of high school as they continue their path into adulthood. Consequently, this gives me hope that our future as a province, a country, and maybe even a world, will be filled with people who strive not only to make the right choice, but also help others do the same. After all, we are all in the same boat, right? Let’s not rock it too much.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Plastic Molds
“Plastic Molds” by Monika Blichar
In a world full of insecurity that is masked with materialistic consumerism, how can a girl really know what’s going on? In today’s society, we are bombarded with images of the destined Prada, a black bag that is supposed to conceal imperfection and anxiety with lustrous leather tassels. Every day, women all over the world must be asking themselves the same time old question; what am I really supposed to do?
Each morning I get up and get ready for another day at the office, a classroom at the moment, a hub of adolescent gossip mixed with an insightful amount of pubescent boisterousness. Each day, one of these adventurous minds turns to her peer and reveals how much she would love to be a famous bombshell, a sultry celebrity, a ‘model’ for this generation. With eyes awe struck and days spent dreaming of a life where everything is possible without any effort, these young girls beg me to question what kind of example has been set that continues to persuade even the brightest youngsters that a plastic life is so desired. What has happened to appreciation, gratitude, community, and love?
Being at an age where every time I look at the sky, I wonder what, if anything, could somehow repair the damage that we’ve done not only to ourselves but to the immense beauty that is quickly disappearing from nature. They say that you can’t always get what you want; yet, I beg to differ. Why can’t we have whatever we want without having to sacrifice the best of ourselves as women and the infinite bounty that we have been so fortunate to have received from Mother Nature?
As human beings, we have all been given a grandiose set of timely gifts in life. People in all cultures have demonstrated through both time and space that all of us possesses something great to offer the world. We are able to excel in a multitude of domains the deeper our interests and minds are intrigued. Centuries of literature, art, music, and discovery have proven to us time and again that people have accomplished earth shattering discoveries driven by a sense of passion to rise above all challenges and unlock the curious mysteries lurking in their minds. Time has shown us how incredibly brilliant people; both women and men, have truly been.
For some reason, somewhere along the route to ‘the greater good’ and knowledge as power, we have eliminated the quest for truth with a false sense of self. A self that has been replaced with an image of a plastic Barbie queen strolling around the sunset in the City of Angels looking for something she can’t even express. Her eyes simply convey confusion, illusion, and worst of all, a loss of innocence combined with a yearning for some sort of explanation.
Women today are cursed with The Plastic Plague, a dismal existence ruled by inadequacy, fear, and anxiety. Not only are most women not valuing themselves as creatures who recreate life, they are attempting to counsel themselves by accepting the plastic phenomenon and succumbing to those falsehoods by destroying their own worth and flair. By definition, plastic is the term for a range of synthetic or semi synthetic materials suitable for the manufacture of industrial products. Instead of lusting after one of their inner passions; learning, creating, and loving; masses of women are falling into the pits of consumerism and advertising, surrendering to a life hunting for the synthetic replacements; a perfect bag that will match a certain sultry dress. (Lest we forget that with the dress, there also has to be the perfect shoes, the perfect make up, the perfect breasts, hair, and nails, natural or man-made.)
In a world that continues to publish images of 12 year olds looking as though they are 30 and on the verge of an orgasm, how do young women even stand a chance to succeed as more than just the stereotype of what has been plastered all over our cities like a disease. Women need to look around them and see what is going on in corporate and political offices which is not only permitting basic core values to be thrown out the window, but what continues to perpetuate the vicious cycle. Is being beautiful in stereotypical standards; having the implants, the extensions, the anorexic figure, as beautiful as having an elevating, educational, and inspiring life full of possibility and accomplishment?
Time changes everything, they say; yet one constant throughout time has been the illusion that women are subordinate to their male counterparts and so must preserve their beauty at all costs in order to attain success in which ever terms North America deems it to be. Even in an era of freedom and democracy, this relentlessly disgraceful notion continues to corrode the minds of young women to the point of discouragement, gloom, and perpetual depression. Having been able to transform the world to the state that it is today; a playground where everything is possible, what can people do to ensure we all reach our potential rather than decay mentally and physically? The first step has to be to recognize that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and that it does indeed come from the inside. Step two is to recognize that the word plastic derives from the Greek plastikos, "fit for molding," from plastos "molded." Perhaps it's time to break free from the mold?
In a world full of insecurity that is masked with materialistic consumerism, how can a girl really know what’s going on? In today’s society, we are bombarded with images of the destined Prada, a black bag that is supposed to conceal imperfection and anxiety with lustrous leather tassels. Every day, women all over the world must be asking themselves the same time old question; what am I really supposed to do?
Each morning I get up and get ready for another day at the office, a classroom at the moment, a hub of adolescent gossip mixed with an insightful amount of pubescent boisterousness. Each day, one of these adventurous minds turns to her peer and reveals how much she would love to be a famous bombshell, a sultry celebrity, a ‘model’ for this generation. With eyes awe struck and days spent dreaming of a life where everything is possible without any effort, these young girls beg me to question what kind of example has been set that continues to persuade even the brightest youngsters that a plastic life is so desired. What has happened to appreciation, gratitude, community, and love?
Being at an age where every time I look at the sky, I wonder what, if anything, could somehow repair the damage that we’ve done not only to ourselves but to the immense beauty that is quickly disappearing from nature. They say that you can’t always get what you want; yet, I beg to differ. Why can’t we have whatever we want without having to sacrifice the best of ourselves as women and the infinite bounty that we have been so fortunate to have received from Mother Nature?
As human beings, we have all been given a grandiose set of timely gifts in life. People in all cultures have demonstrated through both time and space that all of us possesses something great to offer the world. We are able to excel in a multitude of domains the deeper our interests and minds are intrigued. Centuries of literature, art, music, and discovery have proven to us time and again that people have accomplished earth shattering discoveries driven by a sense of passion to rise above all challenges and unlock the curious mysteries lurking in their minds. Time has shown us how incredibly brilliant people; both women and men, have truly been.
For some reason, somewhere along the route to ‘the greater good’ and knowledge as power, we have eliminated the quest for truth with a false sense of self. A self that has been replaced with an image of a plastic Barbie queen strolling around the sunset in the City of Angels looking for something she can’t even express. Her eyes simply convey confusion, illusion, and worst of all, a loss of innocence combined with a yearning for some sort of explanation.
Women today are cursed with The Plastic Plague, a dismal existence ruled by inadequacy, fear, and anxiety. Not only are most women not valuing themselves as creatures who recreate life, they are attempting to counsel themselves by accepting the plastic phenomenon and succumbing to those falsehoods by destroying their own worth and flair. By definition, plastic is the term for a range of synthetic or semi synthetic materials suitable for the manufacture of industrial products. Instead of lusting after one of their inner passions; learning, creating, and loving; masses of women are falling into the pits of consumerism and advertising, surrendering to a life hunting for the synthetic replacements; a perfect bag that will match a certain sultry dress. (Lest we forget that with the dress, there also has to be the perfect shoes, the perfect make up, the perfect breasts, hair, and nails, natural or man-made.)
In a world that continues to publish images of 12 year olds looking as though they are 30 and on the verge of an orgasm, how do young women even stand a chance to succeed as more than just the stereotype of what has been plastered all over our cities like a disease. Women need to look around them and see what is going on in corporate and political offices which is not only permitting basic core values to be thrown out the window, but what continues to perpetuate the vicious cycle. Is being beautiful in stereotypical standards; having the implants, the extensions, the anorexic figure, as beautiful as having an elevating, educational, and inspiring life full of possibility and accomplishment?
Time changes everything, they say; yet one constant throughout time has been the illusion that women are subordinate to their male counterparts and so must preserve their beauty at all costs in order to attain success in which ever terms North America deems it to be. Even in an era of freedom and democracy, this relentlessly disgraceful notion continues to corrode the minds of young women to the point of discouragement, gloom, and perpetual depression. Having been able to transform the world to the state that it is today; a playground where everything is possible, what can people do to ensure we all reach our potential rather than decay mentally and physically? The first step has to be to recognize that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and that it does indeed come from the inside. Step two is to recognize that the word plastic derives from the Greek plastikos, "fit for molding," from plastos "molded." Perhaps it's time to break free from the mold?
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