#onceuponablog

[mysticsandmatter]

2009 - 2018: From Innocent Koi Pond to Public Cesspool.

[mybooknerdlife]

The Book Thief

This book! I am in awe. I absolutely love it when a book starts out mellow and it slowly seduces you. Without realizing it, you are a part of the story. At first I was having trouble getting used to the story being narrated by Death, rather than one of the characters. But the words and the feeling of this story are very artistic; maybe that's what held me. Before I knew it, I was living the story and it was breaking my heart. It brings out the true meaning of the ironic expression "terribly beautiful". Because it really is both terrible and beautiful at the same time. Liesel lives through so much tragedy and poverty. Yet through it all she finds beauty and the love of life in the smallest things. I loved her ability to see things with her heart, and how she was content with so little. Her relationships frustrated me because of how distant she remained. She loved so deeply yet remained aloof. (which is the heart breaking part.) Her love of words and desperate need of books, which drove her to steal, is mostly likely why I so easily "became" her. In her defense, her thievery did not make her a criminal morally. But I will refrain from explaining any further; if you must know more, READ THE BOOK! ;) The book is full of rough characters but her mother would have to be my least favorite. Rudy, the charming and mischievous next door neighbor boy who silently loves Liesel, is definitely one of my favorites! I think the roughness of all the characters results from the hard times they live in under Hitler. Because of this, Liesel's story stands out even more beautifully. Liesel and her family commit a major crime by hiding Max, a running Jew, in their basement. For years he hides in the basement losing his sanity from not being able to see the outside world. But because of the endearing girl who lived upstairs, the confining life in the basement was worth it. The friendship between Max and Liesel is very touching. Both of them suffer from nightmares because of death and tragedy in their past. The similar suffering forms a strong bond between them, and they spend many nights in the basement, writing and reading for hours. When Max finally moves on he leaves behind a roughly handmade book for Liesel. This story of love, friendship, loyalty and gut wrenching war does not disappoint! Another intriguing thing about this book is that its main language is German. With my first language being a dialect of German, often the English translations were not necessary. My favorite kind of book is one with a story about books! Thank you, Markus Zusak, for this extraordinary book! ************************************** "I opened a book and in I strode. Now nobody can find me. I've left my chair, my house, my road, My town and my world behind me. I'm wearing the cloak, I've slipped on the ring, I've swallowed the magic potion. I've fought with the dragon, dined with the King; And swam in a bottomless ocean. I opened a book and made some friends . I shared their tears and laughter And followed their roads with its bumps and bends To the happily ever after. I finished my book and out I came. The cloak can no longer hide me. My chair and my house are just the same, But I have a book inside me." ~by Julia Donaldson

[tvotony-blog]

Resolution: Be Better than Before

At the start of 2013, I began to fill a jar with a good memory whenever the chance occurred. I was never able to fill the jar, but as I'm opening each one, I'm realizing how blessed of the wonderful moments that has happened to me, and the people I shared them with. 2013 was a great year, and I accomplished many. Failure was inevitable, but there's always room to grow. 2014 will be a big year and I'm looking forward to the exciting rewards and challenges to come.

A few remarks included:

Starting off the morning instead of the afternoon, everyday of the week. I am proud of myself for this.

Productivity. Earning my recognition on the Dean's Honor List and a temporary assignment at DreamWorks.

Helping myself to help others, to influence another.

Remaining in touch with old friends.

Budgeting time and money.

Traveling.

Being happy by simply smiling.

This year, I will try my best to reach most (all) of these resolutions:

Continue with last year's resolutions

Embrace change

Don't be afraid to say "No"

Land a professional internship/J-O-B

Finalize academic goals upon (2014/2015) Graduation

Dedicate time for community service

Gain weight

[tvotony-blog]

Grades after Finals

Grades don’t define who you are, but the moment when you find out you were a few points away from an A is the worst feeling! The difference between an A and an A- or an A- and B+ is a significant difference with Fullerton’s grading scale. This happens every time with me, just my luck.

Nonetheless, I am satisfied with my grades. It was a busy and productive semester, but it was a great way to start senior year.

[tvotony-blog]

The mash up I was thinking of doing and I find Sam's rendition! This is amazing.

[tvotony-blog]

Truth.

If you don’t work to improve yourself everyday then you are wasting your life.

[tvotony-blog]

Mistake #10: Failing to energize those around you

Although you may sometimes think there is a lack of talent in your networks, this is never the case. It is your sole responsibility to inspire, encourage and drive those around you to success. Failing to do so only confirms that you fall victim to that which you accuse others of. Change and greatness can be sparked everywhere, but bring it upon yourself to trigger it.

[tvotony-blog]

Brushing up.

This summer, I'm re-organizing my entire resume, cover letter, and portfolio to solely demonstrate public relations, marketing, and other applicable skills. I wasn't able to get the two main internships that I wanted this summer and that's okay. I guess they weren't a good fit for me but that gives me time to focus and brush up primarily in my field rather than general media experience. I used to think whatever opportunity arises, you should take it. I no longer think that's the case. I've turned down interviews for "internships" I don't quite see to be an invaluable experience for me personally. I really evaluate and see what it can do for me and what I can give. It may be a loss to give up an such an opportunity but focus on what you want rather than always what they set for you. I haven't had much hands-on public relations experience than in a classroom setting. I really want that true professional learning experience and be able to observe its functions in a business environment.

I realized I'm very picky with internships and I became skeptical of unpaid internships after hearing stories of being used as "free" labor. I'm going to try nevertheless and if it doesn't meet my expectations, I'll determine from there on out. I'll give a shot at it and see where it takes me or better yet where I'll take it. Sometimes you have to try and not have the internship satisfy you because you make the best out of what you get. Play hard, work harder. Have some fun, but stay motivated and work diligently.