Thursday, May 7, 2020

The Body Of God s Image - 1781 Words

Most believe that they were made in God’s image, however, Sallie McFague believes that God exists not only on humanoid aspects, but also on a microscopic aspect. The body of God is the universe and everything included in it; the animals, the trees, the oceans, the bacteria. We, as human beings, are responsible to take care of the world and its environment. We need to come to the realization that we are all connected, and that everything, not just everyone, is a piece of God. So who is Sallie McFague? Well, she was born in 1933 on the 25th of May in Quincy, Massachusetts, and when she went to higher schooling she received a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Smith College in 1955. Soon after, in 1959 she married Eugene TeSelle,†¦show more content†¦level in some countries and with an equivalent value to the â€Å"Doctor of Science.† According to Wesley J. Wildman, a student at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, during her time at Yale, she was influenced by the dialectical theology of Karl Barth. This theology was Protestantism which was developed Post-WWI. Dialectical theology is characterized as a re-evaluation of the teachings of the Reformation, and it is characterized as a reaction against doctrines of 19th-century liberal theology. The theology emphasizes the role of theologian aiding the preaching of God s word, giving them the responsibility as the helper and critic of the preacher. She gained different perspectives from Karl Barth and reflected on one of her former teachers, H. Richard Niebuhr. Now, according to Wesley J. Wildman, Sallie Mcfague understood Niebuhr’s recognition of liberalism s concern for involvement, perspective, the symbolic imagination and the appearance of the emotions. The influences of these two people are major insights into the content of the McFague’s t heology which are always prevalent in her work. Sallie McFague has written many works pertaining to feminism and the problems facing the world today including poverty, increasing difference poor and rich, and ecological devastation. One of her books, The Body of God, eliminates the last traces of anthropocentricism which Sallie McFague believes has corrupted Christianity with disastrous consequences for the world and

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Effects On Sexual Relationship Health And Social Care Essay Free Essays

Globally human life is exposed to a premier threat of deathly HIV virus which have halted 35 million people to decease and 34 million were populating with HIV boulder clay 2011 HWO study, 2013. In the recent epoch, augmented figure of I.V drug users, insecure blood transfusion and multiple sex spouses are considered high hazards for HIV transmittal, on the contrary fright of stigmatisation, deficiency of credence in the community and effects on sexual relationship are some critical factors which hinder revelation of HIV position and advance rapid spreading of HIV among vulnerable people. We will write a custom essay sample on Effects On Sexual Relationship Health And Social Care Essay or any similar topic only for you Order Now Continuing the secretiveness of HIV position means endangering others life. Should the infected hazard the life of others? I assert that unwraping HIV positive position to sexual spouses and household will diminish hazard of HIV transmittal, better entree to medical intervention and increased chances of societal and moral support for the patient. Advocates argue that the foremost of import benefit of unwraping HIV position to sexual spouse and household is to cut down the hazard of HIV transmittal. Although to make up one’s mind when, to whom and how to portion the dismaying HIV positive position is hard but after the revelation sexual spouses and household members become watchful to cognize their ain HIV position. To command HIV epidemics Voluntary HIV proving and reding ( VCT ) can efficaciously cut down hazard behaviours among persons vulnerable to HIV ( WHO, 2004 ) . This is non plenty to cognize about HIV position but sharing it with sexual spouse reduces associated emphasis and alteration in behaviour. Sexual spouse become interested to cognize the different path of HIV transmittal to follow preventative schemes. Up till now despite of the singular promotion in the field of medicine no vaccinums are available for HIV. However the lone defensive tool is to affect the vulnerable population in precautional behaviour s. Research based literatures have concluded that after unwraping HIV position the most frequent preventative behaviour followed by testing is addition in the usage of rubbers ( Lauretta et al, 2010 ) . Furthermore, in the survey of Niccolai, Dorst, Myer, A ; Kissinger ( 1999, as cited in Lauretta et Al, 2010 ) it was concluded that the usage of rubber among those who have n’t unwrap their HIV position to sexual spouse was about 23 % while 73 % of sample who have disclosed their position to sexual spouse were consistent to condom usage. The above given literature evident the positive result of HIV position that supports the statement of advocates that Unwraping HIV diagnosing limits the transmittal of infection. The advocates besides claim that unwraping HIV increase the inclination towards better intervention chances. Normally in our ain cultural context after sharing any dismaying diagnosing non merely patient itself but customarily the patient close relations remain in battle to place such centre where there is easy handiness and cost effectual intervention. Furthermore others shared their experiences and battles and seems helpful in designation of different agencies to acquire rid of the disease. During my clinical rotary motion I have encountered two HIV positive immature age patients. The parents of both patients knew the diagnosing and the male parent of one patient despite of limited income shifted his boy to Aga khan university infirmary for quality intervention. Certain intervention like HAART therapy if received in initial phase can cut down the lay waste toing consequence of HIV virus. HAART therapy decreases the patterned advance of HIV to AIDS by 86 % ( sterne, 2005 ) . Early d esignation, early revelation and early entree to intervention are good for the better forecast of any disease. Instrumental, informational, emotional and fiscal advantages can be achieved to better entree to medicine through unwraping HIV position to supportive web ( Waddell A ; Messeri, 2006 ) . In the survey of Waddell A ; Messeri ( 2006 ) it was concluded that those who did non concealed their HIV positive position from any family member the average odds of intervention was 0.64 with a high support comparison to those who did non unwrap their Status the average odds of intervention was 0.21. Different researches have been conducted to happen out the effectivity of HIV forecast and function of ART Harmonizing to Oppenheim. ( 2009 ) † about 80 % of patients are now alive 10 old ages after sero-conversion † . HIV virus targets the immune system specifically on CD4 cells ( type of immune cell ) finally reduces the defensive ability of the organic structure and the rate of timeserving infection like Tuberculosis ( TB ) increases. Preventing the patient signifier these timeserving infection can better life quality of HIV persons. In 2010 among 34 million instances of HIV worldwide 1.1 million instances in sub-Saharan Africa were estimated holding HIV related TB ( Suthar et al. 2010 ) . To command the overpowering effects of HIV /AIDS revelation make it possible to entree the support commissions. There are different organisations in the universe which are working for bettering the life criterion of HIV patients for illustration Alaskan AIDS Assistance Association ( 2008 ) supply aid to 300 HIV single yearly in the signifier of money, medicine, supplying occupations, lodging, and instruction in Alaska ( USA ) . Unwraping HIV position seems helpful to acquire societal and emotional support from household. Not unwraping one ‘s HIV position is striping patient from psychological support which is possible to be achieved through revelation. Family members, friends and equal group become more sort, and credence is increased. Disclosure of HIV position to household or sexual spouse strengthen interpersonal relationship which reduces the emphasis related to the diagnosing either to unwrap or non, and every clip HIV patients think about credence in the community, rejection from the household and spouse, stigmatisation and favoritism if the people came to cognize approximately positive position. This lead towards societal isolation and finally produces bad impacts like emphasis, depression, related to maintaining the diagnosing in secrete. Harmonizing to WHO ( 2004 ) â€Å" revelation of HIV diagnosing increases societal support, credence, kindness and edifice relationship of trust among house hold members and septic individual † . These positive attacks from the household non merely cut down stress degree but besides due to the instrumental support from the household patient feels that he/she can stay in the society like others which increases their degree of self-esteem. The important others of the HIV positive patient facilitate induction and attachment to HIV intervention. Harmonizing to amy Norman ( 2006 ) Disclosure of HIV position can enable the activation of household or community support web and cut down the morbidity through better psychological direction, moreover revelation go an entry standard for many intervention plans and is important to adhere with intervention. Oppositions argue that HIV position of patient should non be disclosed because unwraping the diagnosing consequences in stigmatisation and patients feel the fright of rejection in household and community. Furthermore oppositions besides claims HIV positive patients are discriminated in the s ociety, their rights of confidentiality are violated and revelation to sexual spouse affects sexual relationship. Due to the mentioned grounds oppositions are support to maintain the diagnosing in secretiveness. Protecting others from catching disease is ethical and moral duty of every person. To diminish the opposition and increase credence of HIV positive patient, cumulative attempt are needed to convey a drastic alteration in the perceptual experience of people through verbally pass oning emotions and concerns. As a nurse it ‘s our premier duty to aware the people about HIV and alter the perceptual experience of people about HIV persons. I believe that maintaining HIV diagnosing in secrete will do its revelation more dismaying while increase figure of revelation will consequences alter in perceptual experience and the phobic disorder of the disease will be decreased. Once the position is shared with the sexual spouse does non intend that sexual activities can non be continued any longer. There are alternate preventative steps like usage of rubbers and serosorting to forestall the hazard of transmittal. In a peculiar survey HIV positive drug users after sharing their position with th eir sexual spouses were experiencing more comfy and relax with a lower anxiousness degree about transmittal ( Julianne, Daniel, Sarah A ; Tinal 2005 ) . Evidences exist that reding can assist to increase the frequence of revelation to sexual spouse. The consequence of guidance can be evaluated from a cohort surveies with the result of 56-65 % revelation rate among those who attended six reding session comparison to those who attended three Sessionss and did non unwrap their position. ( Scaly et al 2012 ) . I will reason with the statement that it is more good to unwrap the HIV position of patient to cut down the hazard of transmittal, to hold a better entree to intervention, and to acquire more moral and societal support from household comparison to its disadvantages. How to cite Effects On Sexual Relationship Health And Social Care Essay, Essay examples

Monday, April 27, 2020

What does Pip learn from his adventures Essay Example

What does Pip learn from his adventures? Paper How successful do you think Pip is in his quest to become a gentleman? What does Pip learn from his adventures? To determine how successful Pip is as a gentleman, we must firstly define what a gentleman is. A gentleman can either be socially successful, or morally successful. During his expectations, Pip changes and does many things that make him successful, and others that make him less successful as a gentleman, both morally and socially. Pips Expectations are started when he first meets Estella, the adopted daughter of Miss Havisham when Pip is a young boy. He immediately becomes attracted to Estellas charms and good looks. She does not return this admiration; she calls Pip coarse and common. In Chapter Seventeen, Pip tells Biddy that he wants to become a gentleman for Estellas sake. His expectations here are not primarily social, they are romantic. As Pips motives for being a gentleman are romance, rather than social or moral standings, we can see that to start with, Pip has got his priorities wrong, which later on will not help him to be successful Before Pip leaves his hometown, he has already become a bit of a snob; he already looks down at Joe for the way he acts, Pip tells Biddy Joe is rather backward in some things (Chapter Nineteen). We will write a custom essay sample on What does Pip learn from his adventures? specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on What does Pip learn from his adventures? specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on What does Pip learn from his adventures? specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Biddy does not feel that Pip is a gentleman, she feels that a gentleman should not be unjust, and she feels that Pip is unjust, so not a proper gentleman. Pip is treated differently before he leaves for London, Pumblechook, Trabb and other middle class residents of the town now refer to him as sir. This contributes to him becoming a snob. He feels he has power and is better than other people, and as a result he is less successful as a gentleman, as he is being immoral. When Pip arrives at London, he discovers a rather ugly, crooked, narrow and dirty city. He describes Smithfield as the shameful place seemed to stick to me (Chapter Twenty). He imagined a much grander place, the disappointment of finding what he did find made him want to get out of Smithfield as soon as possible, his snobbery shows, he only wants to be in the better areas of the city. Pip lives with his tutor, Matthew Pocket and his family in London. He spends a lot of time with Herbert Pocket, the son of his tutor. Herbert influences Pip immensely; he quotes his fathers view of a gentleman, No man who was not a true gentleman at heart, ever was, since the world began, a true gentleman in manner (Chapter Twenty-two). This is the Pockets view of what a gentleman is, and as Pip is a gentleman in manner, by their view he is in heart. Pip becomes more successful as a gentleman in London as Herbert teaches him new manners and how to act like a gentleman. He teaches him subtly, so as not to embarrass Pip. Originally, Pip was very bad mannered; in Chapter Nineteen when he first had his expectations, he pulled up grass and tore his hair. But thanks to Herbert, he is now well mannered, making him more of a gentleman socially. Pip now also speaks proper English; he uses quite complex words and pronounces them correctly, such as Memorandum (Chapter Thirty Four). Like manners, this is important for a gentleman to have, so this makes Pip more successful as a gentleman. Although Pip is better mannered and speaks better English, he is now perhaps more of a snob, as now he feels that he is a proper gentleman, so looks down on others Pip used to work as Joes apprentice in the forge full time, but since then has not worked for one day, other than trying to be a gentleman. Compared to Joe, who has worked all of his life for his family, Pip has not done much, so this makes him less of a gentleman morally. Another student with Mr. Pocket is Bentley Drummle. He is a next heir, but one to a title. Pip is jealous of Drummle after he marries Estella; he already detests him before the marriage as he feels that he is an arrogant snob. Drummle is an evil character, who when compared to Pip, makes Pip look like a very successful gentleman morally. Mrs. Pocket is fascinated by titles and is also a snob. She feels honoured to have Drummle with the Pockets. She doesnt respect Pip as much because of this, this slightly infuriates Pip and leads to his jealousy. He is less respected than Drummle, so is less of a gentleman than Drummle socially. Pip lives in Barnards Inn; this is not a very nice area of London; it is all he can afford, and when Joe visits him even he is unimpressed by Pips apartment. The fact that Pip lives in a very undesirable place shows that he is not very wealthy, and therefore not very successful as a gentleman. He still remains a snob despite living in such a humble place. When Pip first saw his lodgings, they disappointed him as he described them as a rank corner. He was unsatisfied by an apartment which one week ago would have exceeded his hopes. This shows how his expectations are growing, (also at the same the rate as his snobbery). Although Pip is becoming a snob, he still visits Wemmick, an employee of Mr Jaggers. He admires Wemmick for his home and his care of his aged parent (Chapter Twenty Five). This is one of the first times that Pip has admired someone who is of the middle class, (He has also admired Joe who is of the lower class and perhaps also Pumblechook). Pip visits Wemmicks castle quite often, showing that he is not entirely a snob, meaning that he can be successful as a gentleman. Pips snobbery increases in London; soon after he arrives, he starts to notice faults in people, e. g. Mrs Pocket and Bentley Drummle. Joe comes to pay him a visit, which is very worrying for Pip, he comments upon our worst weaknesses and meannesses (Chapter Twenty Six). The visit shows that Pip is a snob Pip is afraid that Joe will embarrass him; he doesnt want Herbert to meet Joe. When Joe arrives, he addresses Pip as sir, Pip does not stop him from calling him this, as he feels that he is Joes better. Joe leaves after a very short visit; Pip does not try and stop him from leaving, as he does not want him to stay. If I could have kept him away by paying money, I would have paid money (Chapter Twenty-Seven). Pip is rude and annoyed by the visit of a man who years before was his only friend, and the man that was Pips ri le model when growing up. As Pips snobbery increases, he becomes less of a gentleman morally. Pip has unease after Joes visit, he is not sure of his identity. He feels that he is a gentleman, but cannot identify with himself more than this. Pips unease is due to Joes visit and other problems that arise from his past. Pip not being able to identify with himself makes him less confident and less successful as a gentleman. Pip may not necessarily consider himself a gentleman all of the time, and when he pays a visit to Estella at Satis house in Chapter Twenty-Nine, he feels that he has started to slip hopelessly back into the coarse and common boy again. This is due to love, so when Pip is not vexed with Estella, he may be a gentleman again.

Thursday, March 19, 2020

A Brief Outline Of The History Of Zagig Yragerne †Gaming

A Brief Outline Of The History Of Zagig Yragerne – Gaming Free Online Research Papers A Brief Outline Of The History Of Zagig Yragerne Gaming Preface: The article is a brief historical/ contemplative piece on Zagig Yragerne and his rise to being the demigod, Zagyg. It has recently, been edited to a cleaner format and has had some new material added from the existing canon that developed since its creation. CY 295 Zagig Yragerne is born in the City of Greyhawk to the Landgraf of the Selintan (Zador Yragerne, great, great grandson of Ganz Yragerne?) and the Gynarch of Hardby (Marlana Trieste?) At this time, the city of Greyhawk is the capital (in reality more like a large town) of a land extending south from the Nyr Dyv to the Whoolly Bay. The Cairn Hills and the Mist Marshes are unclaimed wilderness, as is most of the Gnarley Forest. The true regional center of power and culture is the great City of Dyvers, capital of the newly founded Kingdom of Furyondy (CY 254.) *Most of my decision to post the birthdate of Zagig as CY 295 was based on the following: WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins, which firmly establishes the date on which the construction of Castle Greyhawk begins as CY 320 (WGR1, p.3) It goes on to note that Castle Greyhawk was occupied for less than a century (WGR1, p.2) This tends to argue for the construction to have been begun as soon as possible, given Zagigs long public residence in Castle Greyhawk. The original Campaign Guide lists the height of Zagigs temporal power as c.375 CY (WGCG p. 23) All this tends to make me believe that Zagig was a relatively young man when he began the construction of the castle. Choosing his birthdate at CY 295 gives him 25 years before construction begins and over a century of public life (well above the normal human average, but not unreasonable for a wizard of his power) because I choose the date of his disappearance as CY 409. This is more than enough time to accomplish all the other things that are attribute d to him while he was still a living mage. The Campaign Guide firmly establishes Zagigs parentage (WGCG p.23) as the rulers of Greyhawk (presumably the descendants of Ganz Yragerne,) from which he is also descended. WGR1 Greyhawk Ruins, describes the final resting place of his parents (paying special attention to the fact that his father was undoubtedly a warrior.) The names of his parents, Zador and Marlana, are my own. Although it is true that King Thrommel III of Furyondy began the construction of his new capital, Chendl, in CY 283, it was many decades before the center of influence was moved from Dyvers to the new city (finished in CY 288.) The City of Dyvers goes back to the first century, CY. It was founded on the mouth of the Velverdyva, as the seat of the Viceroyalty of Ferrond, hundreds of years before Greyhawk was even heard of, and was a great city by the time of Zagigs birth with much power and influence in the entire region. The rivalry between Dyvers and Greyhawk is reknowned. CY 308-312 Zagig attends the Academy of Art and Science in the city of Greyhawk under the tutelage of The Grey Savant (a mysterious figure who was reputedly both a wizard of awesome power and a priest of Boccob.) The Academy is a school of learning founded by The Grey Savant in CY 118 by the banks of the river Selintan. The trading village of Greyhawk slowly grew around this famed place of learning, attracting many of the most learned men and women of the Flanaess. *Given that Zagig is the son of the citys lord and was born with a brilliant mind, it is not unreasonable to assume that he would have attended the best institution of higher learning in the entire region. The Grey Savant is my own invention, and provides a logical rational for why a school of learning (what later became the Grey College) would have been founded in what amounted (at the time) to a modest trading town (although the druidical circle and the magical nature of the region would have a lot to do with this.) It also allows me to connect the influence of Boccob with Zagig very in early in his life. CY 312 Following the mysterious death of The Grey Savant, Zagig ends his formal studies at the Academy. The Academy of Art and Science is renamed the Grey College in honor of the former servant of Boccob. *Given that a figure such as the Grey Savant would probably not have encouraged many of Zagigs proclivities, I thought it appropriate that this year be a significant one. The death of the Grey Savant not only allows me to establish the Grey College as we know it today, but it also allows me to provide a reason for Zagig to get out there and see the world. CY 312-319 Zagig emerges from the city of Greyhawk as a member of the Company of Seven, a free-lance mercenary group bound on making their fortune by exploring ancient Suel and Flan ruins. Zagigs prowess with sword and affinity for Oerth history, make him a natural warrior and planner in the group. Other members of the Company go on to become important personages in the Flanaess. The legendary Keoghtom is thought to have been their leader. (Zagig achieves 8th level as a Fighter during this time.) *Following my reasoning above, and adding to it my opinion that Zagig was undoubtedly a fighter before he became a mage, I created the Company of Seven in order to give Zagig membership in a famous adventuring group, and also to provide a reason for the friendship between himself and Keoghtom (as is suggested in Keoghtoms description in the Glossography.) It allows me to give Zagig the opportunity to achieve 8th level as a fighter before the seminal CY 320. Other than Keoghtom and Zagig, I have not, as of yet, detailed any of the other 5 members of the Company of Seven. All of them would have met in the City of Greyhawk before or in CY 312 and would have gone on to become successful and famous personages (maybe even villains) Perhaps Kelanen the Sword Lord was among them (doubtful), or even the formidable wizard, Daern. Other possibilities include, Johydee, Murlynd?, Nolzur, Quall or Bucknard. I wouldnt mind (in fact, I WOULD ENCOURAGE) other of you out there to design them for us. C reate a history that connects them from their membership in the Company of Seven all the way to the present day. CY 319 The Landgraf of the Selintan, father of Zagig, dies defending the village of Kuln on the Neen against one of the many raids by lizardmen. His wife, the Gynarch of Hardby, assumes the stewardship of the Land of Greyhawk. Zagig Yragerne departs the Company of Seven and returns home. *As I noted above, Zagigs father was the Landgraf of the Selintan. By including this tragic event (which is entirely my own, but weakly suggested by his fathers youthful appearance (his body is in stasis) in the tomb under Castle Greyhawk in WGR1), Zagig is free to consider the construction of Castle Greyhawk (when that becomes important in the next few months) and to reconsider his decision to be a warrior. Sounds like a great time for some celestial intervention Ahem, Boccob? CY 319-339 By all accounts, the rulership of the Gynarch of Hardby (noted for her wisdom and great caution) is among the most peaceful (even if not the most productive) periods in Greyhawks history. *Pure conjecture and speculation on my part. It allows me to move Zagig along in his life while maintaining the opportunity of rulership. One thing is certain, the Gynarchs of Hardby, the Despotrix, are able and willing rulers. It is not inconceivable that Zagigs mother would have been successful in ruling the city in his absence. CY 320 All serious historians of the life of Zagig Yragerne, number this year as among the most important in his life. He was profoundly changed by the events of this seminal year. During the chance exploration of an old Suloise cairn, Zagig Yragerne encounters an Avatar of Boccob (or some equivalent manifestation.) Based on that experience he decides to take up the practice of magecraft. Zagigs subsequent return to the city and desire to initiate the construction of Castle Greyhawk in a remote location from the city were seen as extreme eccentricities for the young warrior lord. Work on Castle Greyhawk will continue through to the end of the century. Oh my Boccob, the first concrete date! *The date upon which the construction of Castle Greyhawk begins is firmly established by WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins as CY 320. From the Ashes, is simply incorrect, when it says that the date was CY 375. That, would have made it impossible for Zagig to inhabit the place for any significant length of time before he disappeared. Given his special relationship to Boccob, which is also firmly established in the demigods description in WGCG, it is not unreasonable to assume that it was divine intervention which made Zagig decide to build Castle Greyhawk where he did. It is also not unreasonable to assume that his decision to become a mage may have also been prompted by a divine revelation from Boccob or his other servants. Needless to say, the construction would have been a massive undertaking which could not have been completed in a single year. I would argue that it probably took decades, with Zagig coming back to the City many times in order to keep the works going. CY 321-329 Zagig Yragerne becomes apprenticed to a distant cousin, the famed Mage and Bard, Heward. Under the tutelage of Heward, Zagigs prodigious powers blossom quickly. During this time, he gains a unique understanding of magic, making him one of the first wizards in the Flanaess to posit the inherently chaotic nature of magic. Zagig travels widely in Hewards company, and is exposed to many of the wonders of the Flanaess. (He achieves 9th level as a Mage while with Heward.) *Now that we have Zagig wanting to become a mage, and given that he founded both the school and the guild of wizardry (later of course) it is necessary to find him someone under whom he has apprenticed. I would argue that it was none other than the famed Mage and Bard, Heward (who also happens to be a distant relative, according to the Glossography, p.35) As a Quasi-deity, Heward is both old enough and powerful enough to have provided Zagig with the needed training in the magical arts. I have chosen the period of apprenticeship arbitrarily, but 9 years seems reasonable. By assuming that he achieves 9th level during this time, I allow him to satisfy the Dual-classed rules that allow him to use his powers as a warrior. It is also fortunate, that Heward is such an unconventional wizard. It provides a logical reason for a lot of Zagigs interest in wild magic and his interest music, humor, and puns. All in all, Id say a pretty good match. CY 329-339 Wanderings of the Mage and Warrior, Zagig Yragerne. Zagig returns to the city of Greyhawk on many occasions, most often to maintain the works at Castle Greyhawk by infusing it with new funds. Otherwise he is seen as an accomplished, if eccentric Mage, who travels the length and breadth of the Flanaess in search of the wondrous and mysterious. He is accompanied by many of the former members of the Company of Seven. (Some of the travel is even thought to have been otherworldly.) *Having left the company of Heward, this decade allows the Mage, Zagig some time to go off and see more of the world. Of course it is entirely conjecture on my part, but serves to flesh out and fill in the gaps in his story. From time to time, he is in the company of some of the members of the Company of Seven. Many interesting things would have happened to Zagig during this decade in his life. CY 339 Upon the death of the Gynarch of Hardby, Zagig Yragerne becomes titular ruler of the Land of Greyhawk, Landgraf of the Selintan, and Despot of Hardby. By all accounts, this initiates a period which historians refer to as the Greyhawk Renaissance. Not only does the city flourish from Zagigs generous rule, but many of the neighboring states of the Flanaess gain indepedence during the next few decades, making the Flanaess a brighter more hope-filled place. It is during this time, from a seemingly inexhaustible source of funds, that Zagig Yragerne begins the construction of most of what we know as modern Greyhawk. (Due to his interest in secular affairs, Zagigs progress as a mage is slow and steady.) Zagig becomes well known for putting magic to practical use. *Although the date is my conjecture, the reality of this event is not in doubt. At some point, Zagig inherited the rulership of the Land of Greyhawk. I happen to argue that it happened upon the death of his mother in CY 339. The World of Greyhawk Campaign guide, the City of Greyhawk boxed set, and WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins, all clearly establish both the rulership of Zagig and the effectiveness of that rule. The term Greyhawk Renaissance is mine, but clearly describes the period for what it was. During his rule, Zagig builds most of the city (and its walls, etc.) as we have come to know it today (via the City of Greyhawk, boxed set.) And surely, it is not naive to assume that some of this was accomplished by magic. The next few decades were probably the most fascinating in all of Greyhawk history. So rarely have so many notables been at one place at the same time. CY 351 Despite some resistance to his unorthodox methods, Zagig Yragerne becomes President of the Society of Magi in Greyhawk for the first time. He goes on to make it the dominant gathering of Wizards in the whole of the central Flanaess, surpassing the significant influence of the Conclave Arcanum in the City of Dyvers and the Sagacious Society of the Kingdom of Nyrond. Zagig is unanimously re-elected to this post for the next 29 years. *Both the date and the events are my conjecture, but are quite reasonable things to assume, given the current relative importance of the City of Greyhawks wizards. The Sagacious Society is real enough (WGR4 Marklands) while the Conclave Arcanum is my own creation. CY 356 A year notable for the establishment of the Kingdom of Nyrond, where Zagig had seemed to have played an important diplomatic role. *Although the date is real enough, Zagig Yragernes participation in these events is pure speculation. But such things would add to his reputation. CY 372 Zagig founds the University of Magical Arts in Greyhawk, one of the first establishments in the Flanaess dedicated to the instruction of Magic on an institutional basis. Over the last two centuries, many of the greatest practioners of magecraft have been credited with training at this college of Magic. *Although Zagig, undoubtedly did this (as is mentioned in the City of Greyhawk, boxed set) the year is my own conjecture. But, I thought it significant that it be founded before the Mages Guild. After all, until the practice and training of magicians is institutionalized, how can one create a guild for them? CY 375-395 During this period, Zagig Yragernes (already an Archmage) magical theories become extremely controversial and are met with laughing disregard by some and keen interest by a very select few. His theories are dubbed wild magic by his opponents in the Society of the Magi. Tension in the Society of Magi builds between the proponents of magical specialization (in the various schools) and the proponents of a more generalized scope of magical understanding. Zagigs theories are marginalized by the ensuing debate. By CY 380, Zagig withdraws his candidacy for the Presidency of the Society, never to submit it again. *I had to lay a foundation for his reputed madness, and here it is. None of this is official, of course, but it seems to be the most logical progression of events toward such an end. Zagigs interest in so-called wild magic probably dubbed him as a loon by many of the more orthodox members of the Society of Magi. We are, after all, talking about men and women who couldnt care less if your the Lord of the city or not magic is magic, and right is right. Zagigs opponents probably spread the rumor that he was mad in order to weaken his reputation. Of course, given that Zagig had such a great sense of humor, what did he care if he was dubbed the Mad Archmage. CY 393 Zagig founds the Guild of Wizardry in the City of Greyhawk. The City of Greyhawk had long fostered many societies for the practioners of magecraft (The Society of Magi is a notable and enduring example,) but in CY 393, Zagig Yragerne made available a considerable endowment for the construction of a Mages Guildhall open to all comers. He felt that a less politicized institution, separate from the Society and the Univerisity, and dedicated solely to the concerns of all mages, would be a fitting legacy to the Art. Indeed, the Mages Guildhall of Greyhawk is an architectural and magical wonder, rivaling the Sorcerers Nexus in Rel Astra, the Tower of Silence outside of Niole Dra, and even the wondrous Zashassar of Ekbir. *The City of Greyhawk boxed set (FFF) firmly establishes this date as CY 393. Following along my argument above, I tried to provide a logical reason why Zagig would found the guild and there it is. The locales mentioned above are not TSRs, but my own, so they havent been detailed anywhere. I can provide strong rationales for both their names and their locations as I have already sketched them out, but not fully detailed them. If anyone expresses an interest I could send in what I have, as these things are easy to incorporate in anyones campaign. I just threw them in from my own stuff as interesting tidbits, to make the history sound more authentic. CY 395 On the celebration of his great centennial, Zagig announces his intention to retreat from public life by relinquishing the daily rulership of the Land of Greyhawk to an appointed trusteeship, the Directing Oligarchy. One of their number is elected Lord Mayor and has the power to act in Zagigs name. Zagig spends less and less time in the city itself, preferring to remain in Castle Greyhawk, north of the city in the Cairn Hills. *Assuming that Zagig Yragerne was born on CY 295, then in CY 395, he would have been a hundred years old (although the World of Greyhawk campaign guide implies that he certainly didnt look a hundred.) The manner in which he withdraws from public life is my own idea. It allows him to cease being active ruler of the City of Greyhawk and its lands AND it gives us a pretext to site the institution of the Directing Oligarchy. Yet, the generally intent echoes that of the history, namely his progressive seclusion from society. CY 395-409 During this period, the last in his public life, the Lord of Castle Greyhawk is seen with less and less frequency. It is presumed that his seeming madness (propaganda spread by members of the Directing Oligarchy and certain opponents in the Society of the Magi) has taken him. The number of his proclamations and edicts fall to less than one a year. *This is conjecture on my part, but is strongly implied by the first campaign guide, wherein it describes the last period of his life as one is which he is seen with less frequency and is believed to be falling into madness. I, of course, assert (as is implied in WGR1 Greyhawk Ruins) that his madness was nothing of the sort, but merely the perspective of someone who had grander objectives in mind than those around him. CY 409 Death of Zagig Yragerne. In this year, the servants of Castle Greyhawk, were released from service, in connection with the disappearance of their master. When none of the missives sent by the Directing Oligarchy were responded to, Zagig Yragerne was presumed dead. It came to no ones surprise to hear of his death, for the man was believed to be well over a hundred years old already (114 to be exact.) Zagig Yragernes last testament was read before a grieving crowd of old men on the Processional. Since Zagig designated no heir, the City and Lands of Greyhawk were continued to be ruled in his name by the Directing Oligarchy of Greyhawk. In reality, Zagig Yragerne had finally decided to severe all ties with the secular world, in order to travel and pursue his arcane research without interruption. Some well placed magic, fostered the belief that Castle Greyhawk was haunted, so the city abandoned all interest in the place. Zagig allowed the keep to fall into disrepair, while he and his closest retainers moved underground to continue their work. *The World of Greyhawk Campaign Guide (p. 23-25) implies that Zagig simply vanished after many years of rulership. His motivation for doing this is implied in WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins. I have arbitrarily chosen this year to be CY 409 which agrees well with WGR1s assumption that the Castle was occupied for less than a century. It is quite reasonable to assume that the city would have thought him dead after so long and productive a life, so they would have made his death official. The fact that he moved his work underground is clearly established in WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins as is the fact that numerous friends and retainers went with him. CY 409-505 During this long period in Zagig Yragernes life, the so-called Mad Archmage, conducted tremendous amounts of magical research. He traveled extensively, including to worlds such as Krynn and Abeir-Toril, and extra-planar. He met with only a very few close friends, who kept the secret of his continuing existence. He was kept from Nerulls grasp by many rejuvenating magics, but Zagig sought a more permanent solution *This simply provides an explanation for the long gap between Zagigs disappearance, in the year I have arbitrarily chosen as CY 409 and his ascension to godhood in CY 505. WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins implies that Zagig did much traveling, particularly to other worlds, so none of this is unreasonable. Given that he was not as yet, immortal, Zagig no doubt used the conventional potions and elixirs that other powerful wizards use in order to extend their lives. Presumably, it was during this time that he discovered the method by which he would capture the nine demigods, and by which he would make himself immortal. A lot of the interesting accomplishments under Castle Greyhawk (described in WGR1) were probably also achieved during this time. CY 498 The City of Greyhawk is proclaimed a Free and Independent City. For most of the previous 80 years, power in the City was simply transferred from one power hungry insider to the next as designated by the original council who took over from Zagig, resulting in a highly insular attitude by which the city lost most of its territories and wealth. In CY 498, a group of leading citizens demanded equal representation on the council, citing the last wishes of Zagig Yragerne. In order to staunch an open rebellion, all concerned agreed to draft a new Charter. The Lord Mayor of the city is hereafter chosen by the Directing Oligarchy in a semi-democratic manner by the various members (in theory) of the trade unions, guilds, and other important societies. * The WGCG (p. 25) names CY 498 the year in which the City of Greyhawk was proclaimed Free and Independent. It also implies the ensuing decline in the city from the time of Zagigs rule. Im just providing a reasonable context under which such a proclamation would have occurred. CY 505 Year of the Ascension. It is in this year, that Zagig Yragerne,(age 210) former ruler of the city of Greyhawk, Archmage of Castle Greyhawk, and servant of Boccob, achieves immortality. Through an arcane process, and with the assistance of many notable personages, including the deity St. Cuthbert of the Cudgel, Zagig Yragerne finally achieves the object of a century long research project. He entraps nine of the most powerful demigods on Oerth, using their combined power in an apparatus of arcane manufacture by which he cuts a piece of the Obelisk (which controls something called the Earth Stone.) These artifacts, buried deep under the lowest dungeons of Castle Greyhawk, are a mystery even to most deities. Using the power of the Obelisk, Zagig opened a nexus between his spirit and the Planes of Power. And so, by the wishes of Boccob, Zagig transforms himself into a demigod. (Notably, he is the last to do so in recent Greyhawk history. Iuz accomplished this only years before him in an entirely different manner while Mayaheine has only recently appeared from another world where Pelor is worshipped.) *The year of Zagigs ascension is firmly established in Iuz the Evil, as CY 505. This year must coincide with the same year in which Iuz disappears. From the Ashes gives this year as CY 507, while WGR4, Marklands gives this year as CY 503. Given that Iuz the Evil is the primary source book about Iuz, it is safest to assume that it is the correct source, giving the year of Zagigs ascension as CY 505. Iuz the Evil also reveals that Zagig (it incorrectly refers to him as Zagyg, but that is only a trifling mistake) was assisted in this matter by the deity St. Cuthbert, his relative and mentor Heward, his old friend Keoghtom, and the two individuals Murlynd, the Paladin and Kelanen, the Prince of Swords. Murlynds presence here is paradoxical, because it is implied that he was a member of the original adventuring party that included Tenser, Bigby, and Lord Robilar. Tenser wasnt even born in CY 505 and Lord Robilar certainly wasnt. What was Murlynd doing there in Castle Greyhawk (c.505 CY), if in fact he is the same person mentioned in WG6, Isle of the Ape? Either he is not the same person, or some explanation is necessary. I am also suspicious of Kelanens presence in this matter, it seems contrary to his nature to have been so involved. The process by which Zagig achieves godhood is established in WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins, as are the existence of the Obelisk and the Earth Stone. Given that the original campaign book stated that Zagig captured nine DEMIGODS, and it is safe to assume that given Iuz was one of the captured, then he must have been a demigod BEFORE Zagyg. The From the Ashes sourcebook which introduces the demigodess, Mayaheine, explicitly indicates that Pelor brought her to Oerth (from an alternate prime where Pelor is worshipped) and that she is not a native. CY 505-585 Zagyg, the Demigod acts as the servant of Boccob. While it is true that Boccob is a largely uncaring god when it comes to the daily mundane existence of mortals, it is not true that he has no interest in any of the affairs of Oerth. When his All-Seeing Eye turns to the Prime, it is his servant, Zagyg that makes Boccobs will known. Many of the most important events of the last century have involved Zagyg, both directly and indirectly. Through Boccob, time is no barrier to Zagyg, so he has appeared, paradoxically in periods of Oerths past before he was born! (This part truly annoys the sages who try to prove a connection between he and Zagig Yragerne.) He makes his role in these matters unmemorable to say the least. He has also allowed the recent (CY 550+) exploration of Castle Greyhawk (up to a point.) Some rare and sucessful few, (Tenser is a good example) have met with his favor and know something of the secrets that lay buried beneath the place. *Given that Zagig ascended in CY 505 and that the timeline stops at CY 585, this fact is implicit. The City of Greyhawk sourcebook also implies that exploration of the Castle Greyhawk is fairly recent, which would make Tenser, Lord Robilar, and Co. among the first to do so, probably in CY 550s and 560s. CY 554 Zagyg (concealing himself as Zagig Yragerne) meets individually with Leomund, Serten, The Black One of the Valley of the Mage, and Tuerny (all notable mages of great power.) He proposes the formation of the Ring of Five, a conclave dedicated to the unlimited research of magic, concentrating on using the Obelisk to create new and as yet unheard of effects. Each member has left a representative, an apprentice, deep in the recesses of Castle Greyhawk. The results of this fairly recent union are a tale for another time *Although the date is my suggestion, this fact is established in the WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins sourcebook. It lists the membership of the Ring of Five as Zagig, Leomund, Serten, the Black One, and of all people Melf! I must ascribe this error to mild carelessness on the part of the designers of that work, but Melf is certainly not a candidate for membership to this group. Both, the From the Ashes sourcebook and the Artifact of Evil novel by Gygax, imply that Melf is an elven fighter/mage from Celene. He is neither powerful enough nor aligned properly to be a fitting member of the Ring of Five. I therefore substituted the personage, Tuerny, who would seem to have both the alignment and proper background (namely none) to be made a member of the group. Other than Zagig and the Black One, none of these personages is described officially, even though their names have been attached to certain famous spells and items. I have my own ideas and suggestions, of course, and would be glad to make thos e available. CY 570 The Prisoners of Castle Greyhawk are loosed by Lord Robilar, although some evidence exists to suggest that the demigod, Iuz may have simultaneous escaped under his own power. Apparently these events did not concern Zagyg, (despite the damage to many of his dungeons from the ensuing battle between Tenser, Bigby, Riggby, Robilar, Quij, Neb Retnar, and Iuz.) although he was undoubtedly aware of the occurrence. Apparently the Obelisk was able draw upon its own power to shield itself from the prying eyes of the loosed demigods. Fortunately, they wanted nothing more than to escape as soon as they could. It has been whispered by some in the Guild of Wizardry that one of the demigods may still be down there. Perhaps he/she/it was trapped in their chamber by the collapsing rubble, or perhaps they have remained by choice, even so it has been 15 years since the release of the prisoners, so who is to say. *The first fact (and date) is clearly established in the first campaign guide. The second (about Iuz) is implied in WGR1, Greyhawk Ruins. The battle and its participants, is described in WGR5, Iuz the Evil and is implied in many other source material. As far as the names of the demigods are concerned, other than Iuz, I only know that the demigod Wastri, was definitely among them. Im looking desperately for where I read this, since it was many years ago. I suggest that Rudd and Zuoken were also among the prisoners, but as for the others, who is to say. I have my own theories of course CY 585 The current plans and activities of Zagyg are unknown, save of course, to the All-Seeing One, Boccob. It is presumed that he is working on certain projects relating to the dissemination of otherworldly magics (particularly those of a group calling themselves the Red Wizards of Tay, Hay or something to that effect.) Conflicts between Zagyg and the servant of another power of Magic, Azuth have been noted by many of Boccobs priests. Where this may lead is anyones guess. But these, of course, are matters for those who live in the heavens Suggestions on the Ring of Five: Zagig Yragerne; CN; Human male Wiz28+ ? Leomund; NG; Human male Wiz24? The Black One; NE(N); Human male Wiz20+ Serten; LN(LE); Human male Wiz26? Tuerny; CE (CN); Human male Wiz21? *Zagig is really the demigod Zagyg who can cast any spell (LVL 1-9) at will, with magic use equivalent to a 28th Level Mage. Addendum: Return of the Eight: by Roger E Moore – Tuerny has become a Nalfashnee Demon, and retains all his previous spellcasting abilities. Crypt of Lyzandred: by Sean K Reynolds: (excerpted): In 305 CY, led by a crafty young wizard of the Landgrafdom of Selintan, they navigated his riddles and defeated many of his guardians. Intrigued by the group, Lyzandred was delighted when they actually reached the outer chamber of his inner sanctum The lich conversed with them through a projected image before dismissing all save the wizard, whom he saw as having great potential. The mage was Zagig Yragerne. Lyzandred told Zagig of his personal quest, the construction of the labyrinth, and the wonders of the demiplane. The young mage stayed with the lich for a short time and learned much, ally asking to leave and practice what he had been taught Over time, Lyzandred watched Zagig gather knowledge and power, use that power to build a small town into a bustling city, and construct a strange multi-dimensional castle on a nearby hill. Unfortunately, the demiplane had planted the seed of insanity in Zagig: his behavior became more and mo re erratic. Fearing the damage his student could cause, Lyzandred contacted Zagig, imploring him to examine what he was doing and understand how he was a threat to all that he created. As with Lyzandred so long before, Zagig’s thoughts clarified and he saw what he was becoming. He chose to leave his city and wander the planes, and that was the last day he was seen on Oerth as a mortal man. *I could see this fitting in one of two ways: One if Zagyg’s birthdate was bumped to about CY 285, at which point he’d be 20 years old upon his arrival in the crypts. Two, if we bump up the time from 305 to 315, which would work just fine as he was with the Company of Seven at that time. Either would work but I favor the latter. 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Monday, March 2, 2020

No More Used Cars

No More Used Cars No More Used Cars No More Used Cars By Maeve Maddox Time was, a car that no longer belonged to its original owner was a used car. Clothing that had changed hands was second-hand clothing or, in a family, hand me downs. Not anymore. Apparently, in our consumer society, thrift is still practiced, but admitting to it is not cool. Old clothes are now sold in consignment shops, not second-hand stores. Used cars are advertised as previously owned. but now even that euphemism may be on its way out. This week I received an advertising mailer offering deals on reprocessed cars. At first I thought the printer had made a mistake for repossessed. Apparently the company sending the mailer anticipated such a reaction because a definition was thoughtfully provided: Reprocessed Vehicle (noun) A late model pre-owned vehicle that has undergone a 27-point interior and exterior mechanical and safety inspection and conditioning and has been warranted for reliability. British writer David Rowan offers several more euphemisms for the embarrassing word used : pre-enjoyed, previously cared for, and experienced. Rowan has gathered a fascinating list of very scary euphemisms from serious news stories. Many of the expressions are U.S. coinages. The Pentagon seems to be an especially prolific contributor to the class of words that fall upon the facts like soft snow, blurring the outlines and covering up all the details. See how close you can come to what these euphemisms are supposed to mean. fiscal underachiever HRP immediate permanent incapacitation NBC suit real-time precipitation situation sidewalk counseling toy soldier urban camping welcome station wildlife conservation park Check your answers against Rowans list (Update: link no longer online). Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Expressions category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:What is the Difference Between "These" and "Those"?The Six Spellings of "Long E"20 Names of Body Parts and Elements and Their Figurative Meanings

Saturday, February 15, 2020

CVS Caremark ratio analysis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

CVS Caremark ratio analysis - Assignment Example The company is therefore focused in the reinvention of pharmacy and the provision of highly innovated solutions that improve the well-being of the customers. The company also has a strategic plan to offer high quality health care service at an affordable cost, to cater for the needs of people with different financial background. The company has also implemented a health care program for the members of staff. The program involves free health care services to the employees. The program also constitutes the employee motivation strategy for the company. The company has more than 7,300 pharmacy stores spread across the United States. The accounting standards The International accounting standards and the general accounting principles have established rules and regulations governing the accounting practices in organizations. These rules and regulations are intended to guide the organization’s management team into practicing the generally accepted accounting methods. The company†™s financial statements reflect a commitment by the company to following the standards set by the international accounting standards. Such standards include the guide to revenue recognition, the concept of consistency, the concept of materiality and earnings management. The accounting standards state that revenue is â€Å"the gross inflow of economic benefits during the period arising in the course of the ordinary activities of an entity when those inflows result in increases in equity, other than increases relating to contributions from equity participants.† According to IAS 18, revenue is supposed to be recognized exclusively under the following criteria: when a business unit has completed the transfer of ownership of goods; when a business has ceased exercising applicable managerial authorities and has given up any form of control over the goods; when the amount of the expected revenue can be determined with consistency; when it is certain that financial inflows resultin g from a certain business transaction will be directed to an entity; and when expenditures and costs related to a business transaction can be measured with consistency (Oppermann, 2009). On the other hand, revenues obtained through the provision of services should be recognized â€Å"where the outcome of a transaction involving the rendering of services can be estimated reliably, associated revenue should be recognized by reference to the stage of completion of the transaction at the end of the reporting period. The importance of distinguishing between the terms in financial reporting is to facilitate the provision of reliable material information to the users of financial statement. After a keen evaluation of the company’s financial statements, it has been proven that the accounting standards have been given first priority. The company has strictly followed the rules guiding the revenue recognition when preparing the income statement. The concept of consistency is an accoun ting term that states, similar items in a financial statement should receive similar treatment. For instance, item X in the current financial period should be treated the same as item X in the subsequent financial periods (Oppermann, 2009). CVS Company has considered this concept during the financial statement preparation. To illustrate further, for the two financial periods under consideration, the account receivables have been given a similar treatment. That is, they have been recognized as assets. The concept of materiality states that a financial state

Sunday, February 2, 2020

The current strengths and weaknesses of sterling Essay

The current strengths and weaknesses of sterling - Essay Example The latter part of the essay deals with some measures that the bank of England could adopt so as to be able to resolve the particular problem that the United Kingdom is facing due to its weak currency. The value of the currency is important for any country because it determines, as Vlaar (2007) states, the position of the country in the world market. The exchange rate (the ratio between the local and foreign currencies) takes into account the present value of the currency of a particular country and ascertains the differences with respect to other currencies. This comparison is necessary because this way the effect of the exchange rates on the import and the export growth can be studied. Exchange rates are a critical determinant of the success of countries in terms of economic development. The impacts of the exchange rate on the Gross Domestic Products (GDP) are far reaching and so it is pertinent to study the values of currencies with respect to other currencies. In this paper, I would focus on the current value of sterling, the currency of the United Kingdom, and compare it to the values of the other major currencies thereby determining its strengths and weaknesses. For the purpose of research I have analyzed a few literature reviews. From the study of the value of sterling in the past two to three years one fact that is quite evident is that the value of sterling has been falling continuously. Although there have been minor deviances from the overall downward trend, for instance the value of the pound sterling rose by one penny against the Euro in February 2009, the value of pound has fallen by 16% with respect to the American Dollar and by 21% with respect to the Euro since early 2008, as Hyde (2010) states. There was a point in September 2009 according to Steiner et al. (2009) when the value of the sterling was even less than 1 â‚ ¬. The rate at which the sterling was exchanged to the Euro was just 0.99. The falling