Steps to christ Essay Example

Steps to christ Essay Logged So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, ay, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do. Luke 17:10 A1 Full Member posts: 107 R Inlra Quarter2U ss LESSON 12ReTormatlonHeallng Broken Relationships ? « Reply #5 on: september 14, 2013, PM ? » Wally thanks for clearing this up as I was getting a little confused. But I would still like for Ed to clarify his statements as I was not sure what he was referring to. Sunday September 15 Quote This desertion caused Paul to Judge Mark unfavorably, and even severely, for a time. We will write a custom essay sample on Steps to christ specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Steps to christ specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Steps to christ specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Barnabas, on the other hand, was inclined to excuse him because of his inexperience. He felt anxious that Mark should not abandon the ministry, for he saw in him qualifications that would fit him to be a useful worker for Christ. -Ellen G. White, The Acts of the Apostles, p. 170. Acts 1 5:39 And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; This is a difficult situation because the discussion had to do with taking Mark with them on their mission trip. As it had been noted Paul has sthrong feelings about his position and so did Barnabas. Under these circumstances it seemed as if there was o other way except for the men to separate. Ccould this situation be taken care of without the sharp contention? On the bottom of Sabbaths lesson we are reminded By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another Oohn 13:35, NKJV). Without this love, all our talk about revival and reformation will come to naught. Christians at home and at church sometimes display sthrong ideas ( both parties think they are right) about certain things and it very often can lead to sharp contention and if allowed to continue to separation. While conflict of itself is not sin the attitudes in hich we handle conflict can be sinful. How can we handle situations dealing with disagreement so that we can give glory to God? Latter Paul reaches out to Mark healing the relationship. The ministry of reconciliation is about bringing about healing and right relationships. The word reconcile mearns to change mutually or to compound a difference or to receive into favour. How can we compound a difference? Do we love only those who agree with Sundays Questions How can we learn to forgive those who have hurt or disappointed us? At the same time, why does forgiveness not always include a complete restoration of a previous elatlonsnlp? wny does It not always need These are very good questions in Mark 18:21 Peter is asking Christ about how many times he should forgive someone. Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? ill seven times? What was Christs reply? Logged Jesus looked upon the distressed and heart burdened, those whose hopes were blighted, and who with earthly Joys were seeking to quiet the longing of the soul, and He invited all to find rest in Him. {DA 328. 3} Mimi Assistant Administrator posts: 26875 www. remnant-online. org Relationships ? « Reply on: september 14, 2013, PM ? » It is in Matthew. Matthewl 8:22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Our fallen nature wants to rear up when we have sharp differences with the brethren. This is where the fruit of the Spirit comes in. In Christ, we have them and we deal with the brethren in a very different manner than if we Just want to win the argument and let our fallen natures have sway. And I can tell you, separation is quite necessary in many circumstances until these differences can be mended. Once upon a time a saint had the audacity to tell me I was not converted. Excuse e? What do you mean, I am not converted? Of course, Im converted! Well, apparently I was not acting in a manner of a converted person that day. My attitude was not consistent with the fruit of the Spirit. I stayed away from that person for quite some time. After much studying and heart searching, it dawned upon me that pride had blinded me to a bad attitude prevalent in the unconverted, so I repented and was reconverted and healed my relationship with the saint and thanked them for their painful, yet necessary rebuke. All relatlonsnlps are Important, out tnose witn tne salnts are especlally Important. They love us enough to tell us the truth. Logged Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23, 24 Richard Myers Servant posts: 33532 A glorious sunset teaches of trust and faith. Relationships ? « Reply #7 on: september 14, 2013, PM ? » Amen, Mimi! Oh, that all would be faithful with me. That happened today and I am so very thankful. I was in a wrong position with God and man, and one was so very wise in telling me so. The reproach I brought upon Jesus is something that I am so very sorry for. But, the Laodicean who refuses to acknowledge his sin, retains his sin and continues to bring reproach upon Christ, His church, and the truth. The Bible is true. Sadly too many who profess to believe it, reject it so very often. He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. Give instruction toa wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a Just man, and he will increase in learning. Proverbs 9:7-9. How is it today with you? Do you hate being taught? Do you hate being reproved? Does pride stand in the way of admitting error, a mistake, or sin? If so, the answer which is always the same is Jesus. Not a profession of faith, but the real abiding presence of Jesus in the heart. That is what the call for revival and reformation is all about, a new life in Christ Jesus. That is what this quarters lesson is all about. We need to see our need of Jesus to do any good thing. Without Jesus abiding in the heart we are what Paul describes in Romans seven. Either we believe we are alive because the commandment has not come home to our hearts or we are dead in respasses and sins attempting to keep the law without our Saviors help. Logged Im going home SOON, come along!! igina posts: 220 12ReTormatlonHeallng Broken Relationships ? « Reply on: september 15, 2013, AM ? » The nature out God does not condone sin. for it seeks out sin and devours it. Yet merciful Christ always seeks to reconcile created beings with the Father. He tried it with satan but in vain. And now He is doing it with us. He shows us how to do it by taking our very own body! We of the temple of God are building blocks f itting into the different facets therefore are different in all ways except the bond that binds us! In these differences we may err, cause others to err or others err against us. e may hurt or be hurt. The one thing we must learn to do is accept our positions. There are those gifted in resolving conflict, there are mentors in our midst, there are those who are able to nourish us with such good counsel! We should recognize all these in us and use them. To pastor Finleys question on Friday on what is ailing the church today it is Love! there is no Lob in the church that selfless love of Christ is not there in me and you! Whether in a big way or a small way we need to express this love. and nless we do revival well be far from us reformation will be but a Magee! There is no end to discovering this Love it is infinite we can never fully give it. But if we applied ourselves to giving even the smallest measure of this Love the world will know the one to whom we render service Logged A glorious sunset teaches of trust and faith.. Relationships ? « Reply on: september 15, 2013, PM ? » Amen, wigina. But, we have not this love to give. It is good to try and love your enemy, for it is a lesson in the impossible. There is only one way we can have this true love for those who despitefully use us. It is the evidence of true conversion. It is only when we are fully surrendered and self is hidden in Christ, that we have this love for others. Romans seven is the experience of all who are not in a converted state who know they cannot keep the law of God, but must to enter heaven. And. it is not salvation by works by any mearns. Keeping the law of God earns nothings. It is the fruit of salvation, not a mearns of salvation. Good fruit comes from a good tree. We are not good trees in and of ourselves. We need to die to self and become partakers of the divine nature that we may have the mind of Christ. Then, we can love as Jesus oves. It is Christ not l. When Moses near the end of his life struck the Rock, he did not have this love we speak of. No, he hated those for whom Christ died. He was angry with them. He was prlaeTul. Wltnout tnls love, we are none 0T HIS. we must De re-convertea IT we naa ever truly been converted in the past. Moses had been. He had been faithful in all of the house of the Lord. So, he understood his need of Jesus to do any good thing. He had let his mind wander away from Jesus. And, when the Spirit of God reached him, and the still small voice revealed his condemnation, it was a habit of Moses to turn to Christ. His repentance was quick and deep. When we sin, and are convicted that we have, what is our response? Do we do as did Moses? Do we fall on our faces and acknowledge our sin, or do we make excuses and think we are not under condemnation? That we may sin and escape condemnation? The wages of sin is what it always has been, death. The only way to be forgiven our sins, is to repent of our sins. And we do not have this repentance until we return to Christ. It is His grace that leads us to repentance. After almost 170 years, you would think that this gospel of grace would be well understood in the church. But, then if after almost 2,000 years the Jews had so perverted the gospel that they put to death the Son of God, why would we think we would be less prone to forget what great things God has done for us? The angels in heaven wonder at our dullness and I am sure they are surprised that any of us could be saved. But, they never tire of encouraging us to flee to Jesus. And, when one of us poor mortals does indeed cease resisting the love of our Savior, all heaven stops to rejoice. We deny Jesus His reward for all of His suffering when we sin. If we would think about that, it would encourage us to hasten to Christ the next time we sin. Or, even better, it may encourage us all to fall at the foot of cross so that we do not openly crucify our Savior again. It would be good to spend a thoughtful hour a day contemplating this great love whereby we are converted. Logged Philemon Had always wondered about the book of Philemon! Until the weeks ago I read it again and again! Many of us are employers for we at one time employ Nannies, farm hands and various other workers to do what are consideredodd Jobs what is your relationship with these people? Jesus went to them! Do we neglect them? Do we share with them? WE Need to reexamine these relationships betweenMaster and ervant at whatever level for this is part of or object lesson in the love of Christ. Angels are always ready to do Christs bidding why? is it because h He is their Master? R n Myers lc ara Relationships ? « Reply #11 on: September 16, 2013, 11:26:38 AM ? » Good point, wigina. Christ came to this Earth as an unwearied Servant of man. Ought we to emulate Him? Yes, wigina, the Lord of the universe is their Master. The question be answered is why do they choose Him as Master? I wonder if what Jesus did down here on this Earth has anything to do with their decision to serve Him as Master? Logged Relationships ? « Reply on: september 16, 2013, 03:01 PM ? » I Wonder too! I also wonder what Jesus was able to do for then when they were in the constant spotlight of the accuser!? They will tell us shortly! I certainly plan to ask or maybe I wont ask it will be shown me without asking and I will simply worship and adore!! Logged Iuliusnyar Regular Member Posts: 14 Relationships ? « Reply #13 on: September 19, 2013, 11:1 1 AM ? » Thanks a lot for the comments so far in this week lesson we are getting blessed. Jesus while being nailed on the cross said that God forgive them for they know not what they are doing. When we deserved to die eternally Jesus offered to die on our behalf to redeem us. We can only fforgive those who wrong us if Gods Holy Spirit dwells in us. lf possible please Richard postthe full lesson for this week for it helps me a lot as I prepare Tor tne class I teacn every sa Loggea Relationships ? « Reply on: september 19, 2013, PM ? » Sorry to get behind Julius, but am sitting in the ICU with my son. I will try to do some of the lessons tonight. Your prayers are appreciated. Logged Re: Third Quarter2013SDA SS LESSON 12ReformanonHealtng Broken SABBATH AFTERNOON Read for This weeks study: 2 Tim. M 1, Philem. 1:1-25, 2 cor. 10:12-15, Rom. 5+11, Matt. 18:15-17. Memory Text: For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life (Romans 5:10, NKJV). Even after Pentecost, the relationship between believers was at times strained. The New Testament records rrepeated examples of the way that church leaders and individual members dealt with such challenges. These principles are extremely valuable for the church today. They reveal the positive results that can come when we use biblical principles to deal with conflicts. In this weeks lesson we will focus on restored relationships. Great spiritual revivals In tne past Tosterea nealea relatlonsnlps. Movements 0T tne Holy splrlt Involve bringing people closer to God and to one another. They include breaking down the barriers in our relationship with God and breaking down barriers in our relationships with one another. In short, the greatest demonstration of the power of the gospel is not necessarily what the church says but how the church lives . y this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another Oohn And why is this so? Because without this love, there is no conversion. The good works seen in the Christians life does not save the sinner, it is a revelation that he is in a saved or converted condition. When a man is born of the Spirit, he has the Spirit in his heart. Therefore, he is a new creature in Christ Jesus, and all of the fruits of His Spirit are seen in the life, not one is missing. If there is a need for revival, then there is a need for conversion. No love, no conversion. No conversion, no revival. Logged Relationships ? «Reply on: september 19, 2013, PM ? » We will pray for your son our God is the greatest physician I believe he will get him ut of ICU.

Healthcare Clinical Roles and Social Identities

Healthcare Clinical Roles and Social Identities Some of the common professionals in healthcare sector include nurses, physicians and nurse practitioners. All of them play integral roles within their diverse disciplines. For instance, a nurse plays the role of a caregiver who attends to patients in a caring and passionate manner.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Healthcare: Clinical Roles and Social Identities specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More A nurse also facilitates smooth flow of communication between healthcare recipients and a medical doctor. In most cases, nurses teach patients on matters related to healthy lifestyles through client advocating and counseling sessions. The best mode for rewarding nurses lies in the provision of a well equipped nursing environment as well as decent pay. The first medical officer to be consulted by healthcare recipients is usually a primary healthcare physician. The latter is best suited in issues related to managerial care and co st requirement of medical supplies in a healthcare unit. He/she is also quite familiar with a healthcare environment sue to accessibility and ease of delivery of communication. Better remuneration is a much needed base for rewarding physicians. A nurse practitioner has an extended scope of clinical duties in various areas of practice. The latter has to be licensed by an accredited nursing body. A nurse practitioner assesses healthcare recipients who may be either in-patients or out-patients. This kind of assessment entails diagnosis and general treatment of patients. Besides, a nurse practitioner also undertakes data synthesis and analysis of patients as part and parcel of assessment. In terms of social identity, research studies have unanimously established that individuals have a certain tendency of seeking a sense of belonging in certain groups. Hence, group identity can be used by all the above disciplines to inject change more effectively. Finally, the best way I can lead, orga nize and influence a healthcare team is by sticking to the vision of the team, enhancing personal integrity as well as being solution-oriented and proactive.Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More

A Sustainable Business in Our Changing Landscape Research Paper

A Sustainable Business in Our Changing Landscape - Research Paper Example The organization has introduced various products up till now and is always on the frontline for taking advantage of all the latest technological breakthroughs that happen globally. The strategy of diversification has proven to be successful for the company, and it is evident from its continuously increasing performance. The challenging phase of the organization was when it was sued for doing unethical marketing activities – it was believed that the corporation forced its suppliers to supply the raw materials only to it. Other challenge encountered was the violation of anti-competitive strategy, and it was evident from the company’s tactics of getting monopolistic position in the market. Afterwards, the environment was becoming tougher and more competitive, and, presently, all businesses are facing rapid changes happening in the business environment. Some of the major changes, as highlighted by Witiw (2007), that are happening in the volatile environment of today are the following: global economic recession is happening at a faster pace; the economy of a country is severely impacted by the failures of the organizations, by natural disasters and terrorist attacks; top management needs the employees’ supports to enhance the performance; behaviors of the consumers are changing, and children are observed using computers and other technological gadgets at a very early stage; suppliers of the country are impacted by the production facilities transfer to China and India; natural disasters have been occurring at an increasing rate across the world; and violence is spilling from society to various schools, colleges and workplaces. Therefore, the best way of conducting business activities these days is to use the online tools so that the companies are able to respond to consumers’ demands proactively. The trend of shifting from traditional ways of running the business enterprises to online direct selling to the customers is evident – the strategies adopted by Dell, Nokia, Apple, HP and many other companies are the examples. Therefore, the best tool for Microsoft Corporation is to do e-marketing and develop good and an effective e-marketing plan. A Sustainable Business in a Changing Landscape Introduction Internet has revolutionized the way organizations do business these days and it has eased ample activities for the business. Now, businesses can do every activity with few clicks, and they just need to remain well-informed about the technological advancements that are happening these days. The organizations must design their business objectives and strategies in a way that they take advantage of amenities provided by the internet (Smith & Chaffey, 2005). Likewise, internet has opened diverse range of avenues for businesses to conduct their activities and the best opportunity given to companies is that of e-marketing (Rossi et al., 2007). In order to ensure that businesses are able to survive in such a tough and com petitive environment, they will have to develop strategies that will help them earn the customers’

The Interior Market of Dehenhams in 2014 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

The Interior Market of Dehenhams in 2014 - Essay Example Some of the notable designers include Ted Baker, Jane Packer, Erickson Beamon, Janet Reger, Matthew Williamson and Ashley Thomas among others. Based on its high investment in British design for the last 20 years, Debenhams has benefited from a stable financial position that has assisted the company in expanding to other countries. This paper discusses the direction that Debenhams interiors market is heading for 2014 with reference to its customers, products, and the retailer. The consumer In efforts to increase its sales, Debenhams has embarked on increasing the number of customers who purchases its products. Debenhams customers are individual consumers who cut across the whole family regardless of gender, age, and social status as well as foreign customers. Its main business is in clothing though they have adopted various strategies in order to successfully tap footwear industry (Data monitor, 2011). Majority of the customers are women who spend few minutes to almost the whole day i n the stores. The time spent by the customers in the store varies from one store to another depending on their purchasing power. For example, most customers who visit White rose store are middle class earners and spend less time compared to the other store in the city center. They have customer who visit their store on weekly and monthly basis but on average a customer visits the store every quarter and spends about half a day in different sections shopping. More to that, the store boost itself based on increased number of online shoppers through its website as well as their iphone application for the smart phone users and a video facility that offer online display of products, well known designers interviews and photo shoots. (Data monitor, 2011). The company controls 17 percent market share in the clothing industry in United Kingdom. (Data Monitor, 2011). However, many customers visit the stores to compare prices and may end up visiting the store several times without making a pur chase and when they does it, most probably it will be an impulse buying of another product rather that what they needed in the first place. In UK, most shoppers have changed from using traditional shopping method to the internet based shopping. Debenhams has opted to use different channels to reach its target consumers; it has convectional stores as well as online kiosks (Neolane, 2013). It also allows its customers to order products that are not available on their shelves for the same day delivery. Clients adopt shopping methods that suits them. Debenhams customers who adopt new channels are frequent and valuable than then store shoppers (Data Monitor, 2011). Most customers are embracing these changes because online channels offer convenience and are slightly cheaper. This is especially so for Debenhams since most of their customers are women who are busy with family and tight working schedule. Customers are also given ample opportunities to compare the prices of the three products that include furniture, outdoor and lighting brands. In line with this, the company has enhanced its online shop, reduced the delivery period and increased its range of products.

21st Century Situational Ethics

21st Century Situational Ethics Although the term Situational Ethics only seems to appear in Joseph Fletchers book named Situation Ethics: The New Morality in 1966, partial and similar ideas of situational ethics have been in the mind of others earlier before. Such as will be Durant Drake that published The New Morality, Emil Brunner with his published work Divine Imperative as well as Reinhold Niebuhr with his Moral Man and Immoral Society. During the same year where Fletcher published his book, John Robinson published his book named Honest to God. Although as equally popular as Fletchers book, it was Fletchers book that seemed simpler and less systematic. In 1952, The Roman Catholic Sacred Congregation of the Holy Office labeled this new principle as the new morality. Pros and cons of situational ethics Similar to other ethical principles, Situational Ethics has its pros and cons as well. To make things simple, following are the pros and cons of the Fletchers Model of Situation Ethics that is based upon Christian Love:- Advantages:- Situational Ethics is personal. Since Situational Ethics is based on the teachings that ethical decisions should be made based on flexible guidelines it demonstrates sensitivity towards circumstances, context, particularity and cultural traditions; besides, it has only a single basic principle to adhere to, love, so people can freely, easily, and creatively make their decisions in the various situations among the numerous alternatives available. Thus, this ethical theory may seem attractive to the many individualistic human beings exist in this modern era. Situational Ethics is specific. In Situational Ethics moral decisions are made on a case-by-case basis as in there is no fixed solution to various cases. Therefore, decisions made depend on the situation one is in and the solution to each situation is unique. (why is this good? Justify more) Situational Ethics about goodness. Love is supposed to be a good element and Situational Ethics teaches that right acts are those which are targeted to promote the well being of people (love). According to Situational Ethics, the well being of people can be promoted by maximizing human welfare and happiness that would be beneficial to individuals or a society. Disadvantages:- Love is vague and abstract. Although theoretically Situational Ethics is based on Christian love, but the term love in this principle does not have any definite meaning; every individual is unique by him or herself and every of them feels and interpret love in very different ways which may be due to different living environments, upbringing methods, genetics, and cultures. If everyone was to practice Situational Ethics, it might lead to confusion and therefore very inconsistent outcomes. For example, two very dissimilar decisions might be made in two very similar situations by two different people because their loves are not the same. Situational Ethics is very subjective and emotional-based. Love is a type of emotion and not some kind of reasoning element; because emotions are very individual-based, it is impossible for two persons to feel and express love in exactly the same way. It is generally agreed by ethicists that any ethical theory should be based mainly on reasons. So how can such a subjective-based Situational Ethics be tenable then in 21st century? Definitely people will involve some kind of biasness due to personal feelings when making decisions under such ethical principle; thus, fairness or justice cannot be upheld in Situational Ethics. Love by Fletcher was Self-Contradicting. According to Fletcher, he based his model upon the basic principle, love as interpreted in the new Testament of Bible, God is Love. This statement makes Situational Ethics reasonable at first glance, but actually in the very next chapter of the same Bible, there is another statement says so, This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. This latter statement is encouraging its believers to follow Divine Command Laws, is it not? Due to this, it makes Fletcher together with its Situational Ethics to be less convincing. Situational Ethics is difficult to implement. Like Act Consequentialism, Situation Ethics is not a practical ethical theory in a society as each situation is so different from another that if this system was to be implemented, then when a person faced a moral dilemma, he or she would need a considerable amount of time to consider what was the best action that could bring out the most love. Besides, it is often very difficult to determine what are the boundaries of every situation as well (like when did the situation begin and end). Furthermore, such ethical system that is so relativistic and has only one basic principle often produces very inconsistent results and thus is very challenging to be taught to the younger generations too. Situational Ethics may be misused by some in names of love. Based on Situation Ethics, any particular action does not have an inherent moral value as its good or bad depends on the results or the consequences of the action. Therefore, it seems that situation ethics allows a person to carry out acts that are normally classified as bad, such as killing and robbing, if those acts could be justified to be the expression of love by the committer. To summarize up, Situational Ethics is far too impractical in its own sense and possesses too many obvious flaws. In this 21st century where moral dilemmas simply become more and more complex, this ethical theory, if applied universally, will only produce more instability and disorder in this world. In short, it will definitely not be the best ethical principle to follow. To further advocate our standing, we have continued to do research and found out some problems and issues regarding Situational Ethics. Q: What are some of the issues or problems with Situational Ethics? Issues and Problems of Situational Ethics Is there a proper standard of value in determining the good? In the Fletcher model, moral agents are asked to calculate which action in a particular situation will produce the greatest amount of goods (love) for the greatest number of people. However, this method cannot be applied without some standards of value to aid figuring out the good and bad effects and then in balancing them; without clarifying the proper standards, what good deeds ought to be done in the situation cannot be determined. Besides, Fletcher came to say that he has said enough when he identified human welfare as the standard of value. As an example, he has substituted human welfare for pleasure as the standard of evaluation of both ends and effects, impliedly stating that human welfare is the ultimate love that can be given to other people in any situation. However, it is not clear that Fletchers appeal to human welfare will suffice. Will other religious people and atheists be convinced to follow Situational Ethics? As has been mentioned before, the main source of the theory of Situational Ethics is the Christians holy bible. Its original basic principle, love which has been interpreted by Fletcher was largely influenced by its own faith in Christianity. For example, Fletcher saw love as the Holy Spirit for himself. But what does Holy Spirit mean for other religious people? Do atheists even recognize the existence of Holy Spirit? Indeed, it is true that love exists in any society and culture and so non-Christian people can actually apply this ethical theory in their life as well; however, its Christianity origin may deter part if not all of these people from trusting in this ethical theory because it does seem to have some biasness in its interpretation of love. 3. Can people always act out of love and suppress their self-interests? This is one of the main problems that relates to the practicality of Situational Love Ethics. According to Fletcher, the love he suggested should mean the largest possible care of the well being of others; however, is it really possible for all human beings to set their self-interests aside and be as objective as possible when analyzing each situation? As mentioned, love is a kind of emotion and everyone feels and expresses it distinctively from another. The usual loves people give out are for families and friends. So what if in the specific moral dilemma context, someone a person loves a lot is involved? Can he or she really willing to sacrifice that important person for the sake of the majority and act in the most loving way? 4. Do ends always justify the means? Situational Ethics is very similar to Consequentialism in the way that both emphasize the prediction of the future and the end consequences that could happen, and then only decide on the action that could bring out the most desired outcome. As such, Situational Ethics shares the very same problem with Consequentialism as well: will any mean used to achieve the end be justifiable? In many circumstances, some living beings might need to be sacrificed for the sake of the majority. For example, in order to find out the most effective medicine to cure AIDS which affects millions of people, can scientists be allowed to use the fastest way (use selected human beings to conduct experiments) to achieve that goal? These scientists might consider that as the most loving way to act because they are trying to save millions of people in the end by merely risking a few human lives. But can this really be justifiable? 5. People prefer to have a more Secure Environment Situational Ethics consists of only one and only absolute basic principle to guide the general population; thus, it seems to abolish all the existing rules and laws that exist in every culture. If people were allowed to break the rigid rules and laws when they found that their actions could be justified in names of love (or some other absolute norms), werent those laws and rules be unenforceable anymore? This is definitely going to be a very risky ethical theory to apply because in this 21st century, where the societies and human populations are so complex, without definite laws and rules, people will only feel confused and chaos will happen everywhere. Thus, such a relativistic moral system seems not to be a better choice if compared to some other more absolutistic ethical systems. Best Ethical Principle/ System Q: What do you think would be the best ethical principle for your group to follow? A: After discussion, our group comes to agree that an ethical theory that combines the Confucius Virtue Ethics with the authors (Thiroux and Krasemann) Humanitarian Ethics will be the best for us to follow. After discussion, our group members have reached the agreement that Confucius Virtue Ethics combined with the Ethics textbooks authors Humanitarian Ethics will be the best moral system for our group to believe in and practice, mainly because of the fact that its main purpose is to create humans that implant good moral characters in themselves, or in short is to create virtuous human beings. In this 21st century, many ethicists have come to believe that humans have become more morally corrupted and morality is dying or even dead. In our modern world, people have tried to build up a moral society mainly through the act of establishing various rules and laws, but sadly that has been proven to be pretty ineffective; thus, both rule consequentialism and non-consequentialism principles will not be the best ethical principle to follow. In order to resolve this problem, Virtue Ethics is suggested to be applied universally because its main aim is to construct human beings that are truly ethical and excellent from within, not relying on outside forces such as rigid rules and laws. Virtue Ethics requires its believers to act virtuously and make it a habit; they practice what they do because they realize those acts are morally right and not because they are forced to. If everyone was to follow Virtue Ethics, then the dream of creating a moral society will be more likely to be reali zed. Humans are social beings who do not live in isolation; generally, they are dependent among each other. Thus, Virtue Ethics is advantageous as well in this case. Confucius Virtue Ethics has 4 main elements in total: De, Shu, Li and Ren, all of which are crucial to achieving social harmony. De means the virtue acts to be practiced by individuals so as to bring the great goodness to the people surrounding. Shu teaches people to reciprocate among each other, suggesting that distribution of justice is to be practiced. Li provides guidance to act appropriately in different contexts and to respect others, especially the higher authorities and therefore contributes to social stability. Lastly, Ren tries to compromise individuals interests with that of societys, in which enhances human interrelationships and promotes humane behavior; for example, it includes the Silver Rule (not to do to others what you do not wish to be done upon yourself), which can be used to test whether an action should be taken or not in any particular situation. In overall, as you can see, Confucius Virtue Ethics is very humanistic and social-based, which makes it seems very ideal in our current diversified and complex societal world. For example, if leaders in this 21st century were to follow Confucius Virtue Ethics, then their followers will be more likely to show loyalty to them because the leaders are doing right and are concerned about their respective followers instead of merely using coercive or tyranny methods. One of the basic assumptions made by Thiroux and Krasemann, the authors of our Ethics textbook that any workable ethical principle should have is to be rationally based and yet does not eliminate emotion; indeed, Confucius Virtue Ethics is one that has this characteristic. It is an undeniable fact that many moral decisions involve emotional elements, and this ethical principle tries to achieve a balance in between reason and emotion; not only that it urges people to act virtuously, but it also wants its followers to feel good about their deeds. Besides, that, Confucius Virtue Ethics also fulfills other basic assumptions made and thus really seems to be a very practical ethical principle: logically consistent, has universality, and can be taught to the younger generations. Of course, Confucius Virtue Ethics is not flawless. One of its main problems is how to define what virtue means and what does it constitute? Many people will have very different opinions about which acts can be considered as virtuous. To solve or lessen this problem, perhaps a group of experts can sit together and discuss about what should comprise virtuous acts and then make out a list of virtues (and vices) to guide the general population what they should (and should not) do. Another main problem about Confucius Virtue Ethics is that it does not really fulfill the fifth basic assumption mentioned by textbooks authors in which a workable moral system should have: ability to solve conflicts. Although Virtue Ethics can serve as a good guideline about what goodness comprises of, it does not provide instructions for us about how to set priorities when two goodness conflict and how to solve moral dilemmas properly. This is when our group members all think the authors Humanitarian Ethics with its 5 basic principles come to be useful (source: Ethics textbook by Thiroux and Krasemann):- 1. The Principle of Appreciating Human Life (primary) 2. The Principle of Doing Good and Avoid/Deter Doing Bad (primary) 3. The Principle of Fairness in Distribution (secondary) 4. The Principle of Honesty (secondary) 5. The Principle of Individual Freedom (secondary) While critically analyzing and reasoning a conflicting or complicating moral situation, it is said that the first two primary principles should be given the priority first, then only consider those in the secondary category; if the conflicting principles are in the same category (for instance in the case of mercy killing), then the individuals freedom of choice will come into play. This reasoning method is very compatible with Confucius Virtue Ethics because as can be noted, virtues can all actually be the goodness that are required in the second principle. Thus, in short, all the virtues taught in Confucius Virtue Ethics can be used by the general population as their daily-routine guidelines and when exceptional situations happen, people can use these 5 basic principles to make justifiable moral decision judgment. Hence in conclusion, our group believes that the combination of both Confucius Virtue Ethics and the authors Humanitarian Ethics is perfect because this combined version of moral system can not only fulfill all the basic assumptions for an ethical theory to be practical, but if it is implemented well, it can also create many ethical and excellent human beings that can live harmoniously with each other.

Problem Formulation and Identification Process Essay

â€Å"It doesn’t matter which side of the fence you get off on sometimes. What matters most is getting off. You cannot make progress without making decisions† (Jim Rohn). In the corporate world, leaders are faced with decisions that can make or break the organizations they represent. Several methods, consensus, brainstorming, systematic, and democratic are used in the decision making process. This paper will investigate the decision-making processes most prevalent in each team member’s organization, compare and contrast them, and will show the most favorable aspect of each style. Consensus The name of my company is Envicor. Envicor is a plastics molding company that manufactures anything that can be made of plastic. This author was recently hired as the national sales manager to oversee Envicor’s newest product line, sporting goods equipment. This author’s job is to promote the sale of portable pitching mounds to a broad range of customers. When it comes to decision making, Envicor uses the consensus method. Consensus is a process using group decision making. The input and ideas of all participants are gathered and synthesized to arrive at a final decision acceptable to all. Through consensus, the company is not only working to achieve better solutions, but also to promote the growth of community and trust. Consensus takes more time, as many resources are investigated before a decision is made. Team members become committed to the decision through consensus. The consensus method gives everyone experience with new processes of interaction and conflict resolution. For consensus to be a positive experience, the group should have 1) common values, 2) some skill in group process and conflict resolution, or a commitment to let these be facilitated,3) commitment and responsibility to the group by its members, and 4) sufficient time for everyone to participate in the process† (C.D.T. 2009). The goal of Envicor is to expand our product line to as many customers as possible. After making contact with a catalog company, a meeting is called  in order to discuss the pros and cons of including our product in the catalog. In the meetings, each person gets a chance to give his or her opinion. Once everyone has spoken, a decision is made. By using the consensus method, the group is able to come together and make a decision based on each person’s opinion. Advantages and disadvantages exist when using the consensus method of decision making.. Some examples are:Strengths:†¢Encourages cooperation instead of competition†¢Garners trust and confidence; everyone is involved in the final decision†¢Everyone agrees to the final decision no matter whether a majority, minority, or lone voiceWeaknesses†¢Lack of experience may lead to inefficient use of the method†¢Lack of control in meetings, conversation goes off topic†¢No â€Å"ownership† when decision is not correct or no consensus made (Notes on Consensus-Decision Making). Consensus seems to work well for smaller companies because it allows them to actually talk out their decisions and come together. Bigger companies might struggle with this type of decision making process because there might be too many employees and it could waste a lot of time. Brainstorming In the brainstorming model, all employees use free thinking to create ideas that will later be used as part of the project’s process. Brainstorming is useful because it allows all employees, some with extensive experience, to give their input. All members’ contributions allow them to â€Å"own† their role within the group and therefore, believe they have been a larger part of greater good. Like other decision making processes, brainstorming has advantages and disadvantages. One advantage is that all decisions are reached by consensus of the entire group. The larger the group is in a brainstorming session, the better the results will be. Everyone works from his or her strengths, weaknesses, experience, and education to find the best results for the project. Next, by making the decision a group project, everyone has a chance to  participate in the decision making process. They are able to voice their objections and give alternative suggestions. This open forum allows ideas to flow freely, and sound decisions are made quickly. A disadvantage of brainstorming is similar to one of its advantages. With more than two or three employees making a decision, the result can become a point of contention and a fight for power within the group. The more people involved in the process, the greater the propensity for debate, creating the possibility of a stalemate. Another disadvantage of brainstorming is something called group think. This occurs when one member of a group makes a statement, and the others follow along. Nothing is accomplished because only one person is making the decision with no alternate suggestions. An open dialogue does not exist; therefore, solutions to problems are not properly explored. SystematicThe systematic approach to decision-making is rational and analytical. (Concise Handbook of Management) This approach employs existing data, and the goal of the decision is the focus of the steps taken to put the decision together. This author’s organization uses the systematic approach for making most decisions. A strength of using the systematic approach is that information used to reach the final decision is based on factual data. The goal has been clearly identified; the objective(s) have been defined; the impact of not addressing the issue has been established. A weakness of systematic decision making, an example of which will be described in the following paragraphs, is that the decision can become stalled in the process. Additionally, regardless of how much research is done, if all principal stakeholders are not engaged in the process, a negative outcome is possible. Several years ago this author’s company developed a product that was designed to align with current imaging procedures. The equipment is a dual-head injector for use in CT scan. The purpose of the dual-head is to provide Radiologists with the capability of using not only contrast media for the CT exams, but also saline. Benefits of having the saline option developed as  the clinical team became more familiar with the system, but initially the service team was concerned about damage occurring to the injector head if a saline syringe was not used. At that time, without consulting other stakeholders, the service and engineering teams went to work on a solution that would prevent this issue.Several years later, as the clinical team was successfully promoting saline usage, the engineering department began shipping a cap for the saline side of the injector. Yes, the issue had been clearly identified, the objective for the project was defined, and the impact of not addressing the issue had been determined. However, because all stakeholders in the decision were not involved, and because the process took so long, the decision and resulting action became a very expensive mistake. Democratic In this participative form of the decision making process the superior(s) gives complete ownership of the decision to the subordinates (Sager 1999). The democratic decision making process allows for the employees (stakeholders) to have ownership of the decisions that are made. The majority vote wins, which can lead to fast and effective decisions concerning the stakeholders. In this decision making process the adage regarding having strength in numbers reigns true. A drawback to the democratic process can be that no one person takes responsibility for the decision if something goes wrong. It may be hard to pinpoint how the decision came to such a conclusion if it does not work out for the benefit for the stakeholders. In using the example of the Health Insurance Accountability and Portability Act (HIPPA) of 1996, a vote for change by a group of individuals affected by the way health records were handled was applauded, then when implemented, the act became more a hindrance than a solution to a problem. In the vast health systems used there was a need to implement a privacy feature to protect patients’ information, so the HIPPA regulations were signed into law in 1996. HIPPA was implemented by a democratic decision making process and became popular with health organizations such as Medicare and well known health insurance companies. Later HIPPA’s biggest fans became its biggest objectors because the law made it impossible for anyone to get  health information on the patient, including the parent(s) or guardians of minor children and the elderly, unless there was a form signed by the patient, the legal guardian, or POA. HIPPA soon became more frustrating than helpful, and the majority who voted for its implementation became the majority opposing it. So in implementing the democratic decision making process for the good of the people to whom the power is given, it must be made known that â€Å"with great power comes great responsibility (Uncle Ben, Spider Man Pt1). Contrast and ComparisonProblems and issues are generally inevitable when people are working together. Each individual decision making process can allow for better management of those situations for building a better organization. This does not mean there will be an absence of issues, but whether or not the team resolves the problem effectively. Each decision making process described above demonstrates to the reader the importance of adhering to a process that will work for each organization. The consensus method shows how the power of agreement can lead to a good decision. However, this method can be time consuming and teamwork plays a major role. Brainstorming will allow for creativity and open ideas, but can also cause conflicts and debates among the group members due to so many independent ideas being presented. In the systematic approach to decision making organization is critical. This process bases decisions on factual information. The systematic process can be costly if all members are not involved in the final decision. Democratic decisions are made based on majority input. The stakeholders are in total control of the decision making process. Speedy and effective decisions can be made; however, problems can occur because not everyone who can vote will vote. Then if a decision has a negative impact on the group it can be hard to identify the owner of the problem. The authors of this paper have investigated four types of decision making, consensus, brainstorming, systematic, and democratic. Advantages and disadvantages of each type have been presented, and finally, all were compared and contrasted with each other. References â€Å"Consensus Decision Making.† Aids Coalition to Unleash Power. Retrieved May 19, 2009. http://www.actupny.org/documents/CDdocuments/Consensus.html†Notes on Consensus-Decision Making.† Retrieved May 19, 2009. www.vernalproject.org/papers/process/ConsensNotes.pdfScott, Jonathan T. 2009, Concise Handbook of Management: A Practitioner’s ApproachChapter 17: Managerial Decision Making and Problem Solving, p131- 138retrieved 5/19/09 from http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/ehost/pdf?vid=9&hid=106&sid=f7f74d3b-190b-4f87-ae2e-438809c65b35%40sessionmgr109McConnell, C. R. (2006). Umiker’s Management Skills for the New Health Care Supervisor. Ch 25 pp.337-345. Sager, K.L., & Gastil, J.,(1999). Reaching consensus on consensus Communication Quarterly. 47(1), 67-79.

The Nightingale and the Rose

I like this story entitled The Nightingale and the Rose because the power of love shown by the nightingale is so amazing. The Nightingale willing to sacrifice himself for something he believed in, that why he had a great power to fulfill his dream to made a red rose flower for the student. The plot of the story is very simple. A young student thought that he was madly in love with the professor's daughter. He felt miserable because he could not find a single red rose in the whole garden to give to his love, and he knew that without the rose she would not agree to dance with him in the ball to be given by the prince the next day. The Nightingale overheard this and was deeply touched by what she believed was the expression of the young man's true love. So she decided to help the young man, but she was told that the only way to get a red rose in this cold winter was for her to build it out of her music and her heart's blood. The Nightingale of course also valued her life, but she was ready to lay down her own life for the happiness of the young couple. She therefore did what she was told to do. The next morning, the most beautiful red rose appeared, but the Nightingale was found dead under the rose-tree. Not knowing what it had cost to produce the rose, the student thought that he was very lucky to find this flower and he immediately plucked it and ran to the professor's daughter. The professor's daughter, however, turned him down because she had already agreed to dance with the Chamberlain's nephew who had given her precious stones. The student was very angry, so he threw the rose away and returned to his reading. This is a touching story of love, but not the love between the young student and the professor's daughter, because neither of them understood what true love is. The girl was interested only in power and money, and the young man, in what he considered practical. The only person who understood love, treasured love, and was ready to sacrifice her life for love was the Nightingale. For her love is eternal music, love is the most precious thing: even more precious than life itself, and true love is always in the giving rather than in the taking. The main theme of this story is love, in fact the young Student needs a red rose to conquer the girl he affirms he loves, even if at the end she doesn’t appreciate his act. This makes us understand two things: on the one hand, that love often brings sorrow, as happens to the tender Nightingale whose gesture of love is not understood by the silly Student. On the other hand, it is very difficult to distinguish between real, authentic love and a more superficial sentiment, and only a very sensitive person can appreciate the full value of this feeling. Besides there are other themes: ingratitude, because the Student is ungrateful towards the Nightingale, whose act of love he is too arid to grasp; generosity, because the altruist Nightingale sacrifices her life to help the Student and her sacrifice is actually wasted. As for the girl, she is not merely superficial but also vain and materialistic, as she loses all interest in the Student once she is promised something more ‘precious’ like the jewels of the Chamberlain’s nephew. This fairy tale is very incisive and, despite its apparent simplicity, leaves the reader with a clear moral message: it is important to remember that some people sometimes sacrifice their life or suffer to help others, but at the end they aren’t returned with the same emotional intensity and their actions are not even fully understood. This is a moral message that should be born clear in mind, in an age and period when most people appear to be interested only in their own welfare, without being able to look beyond their limited, subjective perspective, thus failing to see what or who is outside the borders of their very narrow egoistic world.