Happiness Is....

Over the past few weeks, we've been talking about the future; specifically, where you're going and what you're going to do in the next four years. We've discussed and researched colleges and careers and the more practical side of your plans. So now, let's take a minute to get introspective about the future.
One of the things I asked you to do in your college research report was to figure out what you would bring to the college/university of your choice, and what IT would bring to YOU. One way to consider that question is to figure out what it is that makes you happy. Do you know?
I want you to think about the last time you were truly happy. Not "having fun" and not simply "satisfied" with how your life was going, but HAPPY. There is a difference, and it is important that you can identify it.
So, this week, let's talk about happiness. In your own words, define it. When was it that you felt genuinely happy? Describe it. What synonyms do you equate with happiness? Why? What does it feel like?
(400 words/55pts)

Decisions...Decisions

One of the hardest aspects about being a senior is knowing that you are mere months away from making some of the biggest decisions of your life. This week, we are going to talk about that quite a bit, but for now, I want you to think about the choices you have made and the ones still awaiting you.
How do you come to the big decisions in your life? Are you a thinker? A spontanueous decsion-maker? A fly-by-the-seat-of-your- pants kind of person? Which works best for you? What are some of the big decisions/choices you have had to make along this journey of your life so far?

Human Nature...and other Oxymorons

It is under the greatest adversity that there exists the greatest potential for doing good, both for oneself and others.
Sounds deep, right?
I'd love to take credit for such insightfulness...however, I didn't say it; His Holiness, Dalai Lama did. But, I have considered that notion for quite some time. Now, it's your turn. Do you agree or disagree? As always, it will not be good enough to simply say, "I agree" or "I disagree" and move on. Support your response with details and rationales. There is no wrong answer.
Along those lines, I would also like you to consider the following: Are people inherently good, or inherently bad? Talk a little bit about the nature of humans...and, as always, support your response.
(350-400 words/50pts)

The Last Goodbye

Well pumpkins...this is it. The moment you have been waiting for since freshmen year has finally arrived. YOU ARE A SENIOR! Before you now lies all of the hopes, dreams, possibilities and aspirations you've thought about, talked about, worried about and maybe ignored for four long years.
So, naturally, our first blog question HAS to deal with that notion.
First, how do you feel now that you are finally here? Are you hopeful, scared, anxious, impatient?
Do you feel prepared to go out and face the world and all of life's ineveitable changes?
What have you learned in the past four years about yourself? Your friends? Your family?
Are your plans for the future set, or are you still trying to figure all that stuff out?
And finally, what do you hope to get out of your last year at Oakcrest? What about out of your English class?
(400 words/50pts)