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Is It Ever Okay to Be a Quitter?

I realized, its okay to be a quitter, sometimes. Under certain circumstances, it is okay. If you are doing something very bad like drugs or gangs, its okay to be a quitter. I think it was okay for Jonathan to quit the war because he was only a child, and hadn't realized the truth of war. But, if its something thats going to actually help you and benefit others, then its not very good to be a quitter. Its acceptable, but it'd be better if you didn't. But, if it is in a cituation that invloves getting hurt, physically or emotionally, then it would be better if you were a quitter. Perhaps, even the world's greatest leaders were quitters at one point.

Is it ever okay to be a quitter?

I think being a quitter is never okay. Sometimes being a quitter effects you. For example, if you were almost done with school but quit, your future will be effected. Jonathan never gave up in The Fighting Ground. At first he was alienated but when the soldiers knew he had escaped the Hessians, they gave him special attention. He didn't give up on his dream of becoming a soldier. From being able to escape the Hessians and all that he has been through in fighting, he would be considered a soldier. His feelings of being a soldier may not be as strong as they were before but he has accomplished that dream. Many people who give up on their dreams are not happy for whatever it is they are doing now. Those who didn't give up probably achieved their goal or goals and are happier than those who quit. I believe that quitting is just a sign that you are not working hard enough for your goal or your just not wanting to go through the work to be able to achieve in the whatever it is you want to achieve in. Truly, quitting is something unacceptable that most people do and must overcome the feeling of wanting to give up.

Is it ever okay to be a quiter?

I realized that it is sometimes okay to be a quitter. It usually depends on the situation. For example, it is not acceptable to quit on something like your hope and dreams. However, on a situation that may risk your life, it is a good idea to quit. Usually, people take this the wrong way and quit when things get tough. What they don't realize is that one can learn from things that happen in their lives. That is not a good time to quit. In The Fighting Ground, Jonathan escaped with the little boy in his arms, he had no idea of where he was going but he did not give up. "He kept walking, cradling the boy in his arms. His muscles ached but he continued" (page 127) He ended up finding the corporal who promises to help him. Either way, I truly believe that it is sometimes okay to be a quitter.

Under What Circumstances is Betrayal Forgiven or Excused?

In most communities and to the general public betrayal is unaccepted and is never forgotten. For many it is hard to get by the past when it is thrown at you all the time and is the reason for your set-back. However, sometimes betrayal can be seen as an act of good, for the "greater good". You can never lose focus of what's more important and what needs to be done. In the Corporal's situation he was right to murder the little boy's parents. He could not put aside the importance of his country for the little boy's upbringing nor his future without parental impact. Somewhere though this can be seen as an act of bravery or an act of heartlessness. In Jonathan's case it is heartlessness. Jonathan could only see through this point of view because he
wasn't habituated to dilemmas nor sacrificing for the "greater good". However, the Corporal wasn't actually betraying anyone because he wasn't bound to one's trust nor was involved with the Tories. He just felt a sense of distraught for having to murder the little boy's parents. It was Jonathan that had felt the betrayal due to his lack of warfare experience.
Another example of betrayal that can be taken from Fighting Ground is the little boy's parents. The Corporal claimed that they were Tories disguised as civilians. Their betrayal to their country was unspeakable. I can understand that they probably betrayed their nation due to fear of survival but even after that how could you live with yourself after knowing that you were the cause of your country's loss or destruction? That you were the cause and reason for the deaths of your country's residents. Betrayal of this kind is not only seen as an unthinkable crime, but may taunt those for the rest of their lives haunting them with the fact that they were disloyal to their motherland.
Finally, the type of betrayal that is accepted in my opinion is the one that is told for the good of one's benefit. Not many see this and are as open to what isn't seen or given. Meaning, sometimes you might betray a loved one to protect them but end up being seen as the nemesis. It may be for their protection but you know that it was out of the good of your heart. Betrayal is one of those deeds you wish you're never put in a situation with where it is your only option.The truth is there's always another option. Many wish not to see them, many don't. The Tories sought the easy way out which never ends good and the Corporal did not see another way to end his dilemma. There is always different views of situations and you can understand Jonathan's due to him not being used to these conflicts. Although, does it mean that betrayal can be accepted if it was done with good intentions? Well, how can that be when the Tories betrayed their countries only to survive and due to fear which is an innocent intention but was still unacceptable? Betrayal is still a topic that can be debated in many ways. However, my theory is that it can be accepted if you not only did it with good intentions but were doing it for the good of others not yourself. Otherwise it is seen as a selfish need not something done for the "greater good". Perhaps it is being debated all around the world but not with the same view. What about you?

When is betrayal acceptable?

I believe that betrayal is acceptable in certain circumstances. Generally, if I have an agreement with someone, and that person breaks the agreement, then I am justified in breaking my end of the bargain, too. It's not a matter of two wrongs making a right. When the other person knowingly violates my trust, I no longer feel bound by the old agreement. By betraying me, the other person has nullified that agreement.
In the case of The Fighting Ground, on page 102, Jonathan realizes,"he could, he knew simply walk away and be free. He could stay and be their prisoner. Or-he realized with a quickening sense of dread-he could do what any true soldier would do. He could kill them." This is not actually a betrayal because Jonathan wasn't actually the Hessians' friend. But as the Hessians had begun to trust him, it is a betrayal of trust. This is acceptable because Jonathan is a soldier. He is at war and it is a matter of life and death. I think that if your life is at risk and you have a good cause, betrayal can be acceptable, depending on the circumstances. Truly, this is when betrayal is acceptable.
~ Diana 705

Is it ever ok to be a quitter?

I've thought about this question a lot. At first my( and probably a lot of people's)first instinct was of course not! After rethinking the question, I realized something. Sometimes things are better off quitting. What do I mean? Well what about smoking? As we all know, if someone starts smoking, they have to quit as soon as possible. Or else it badly damages your lungs. It can cause cancer. It can even cause death. If it was never ok to be a quitter then who knows how bad the population will drop. Thousands of people die every year because of smoking. We don't want that to be millions. The same goes for stealing, bullying and every other thing people were better off not doing. These are the times when you should definitely quit something. Everything else that includes the benefit of yourself or others should always be continued.

Is it ever OK to be a quitter?

I realized that often people quite when they are in a tough situation.Quitting does no good to you or anybody. A quitter to me is like a loser. When people quite it tell me that they have no brain and can't think of a way to finish off what their doing, which is upset. Even if it is difficult, try your best on it. Never quit until you have give your BEST effort and sometime you might get lucky. Sometime people say bad stuff to let you quite and they say that they don't need you. If they think that, they are totally wrong!Maybe after you quite they might realized that it is hard to loses a person(especially in a sport game). In the novel, The Fighting Ground, Johnathan ran away from the Hessian and was safely found by the Corporal and his men. a day ago Jonathan is a risk-taker and a minute later he is a quitter. this can be seen on pg121 " ' i want to go home'. "Even if he is tried and can't do anythings he still have to help the Corporal fight the Hessian because he is acceptable as a member of his army. This can be seen on pg 123" 'We're going to finish this first ' he said ' And you're going to help. You're needed.' " Truly, quitting are not a way to improve yourselves.

Is it ever okay to be a quitter?

I have noticed that in life it is never okay to be a quitter. This is because without determination you can never succeed. When you truly want something you have to work for it without giving up.Sometimes you may say to yourself, "It's not worth it, I quit!"But even when you feel undetermined and hopeless you cant quit under any circumstances. In the long run all of your sacrifices and time will be worth it. You will become a successful person as long as you don't quit when things become get tough and you feel that all of your work wont be worth the sacrifice. In addition, all of the great things big and small that we have have been made from people who don't give up. They strive for what they believe in. They are accomplished people , not quitters and this is what I think that we should all be. In the novel, The Fighting Ground, the protagonist, Jonathan, is faced with many hurdles that force him to either be a quitter or an accomplished person . Throughout the story he decides to face all of the obstacles that stand in his way. Even though he has a few weak moments such as on pg 86 in which it states, " Jonathan jumped up crying and pleading 'Don't kill me please!''' He still managed to be a hero in the end. He was determined and had good intentions. An example of when he was a hero was on page 127 when he , " Kept walking cradling the boy in his arms. His muscles ached but he continued," this is because he wanted to find the Corporal and most of all help the vulnerable young boy. So, I truly believe that it is never okay to be a quitter.

Betrayal: When Is it okay?

When is Betrayal okay? Is it ever okay? In my opinion betrayal is never okay. When someone gets betrayed they feel disappointed and sorry that they ever trusted that person. No one knows until that moment that they have gotten betrayed. Betrayal is unexpected and harsh. You shouldn't wish or want anyone to get betrayed. Jonathan didn't betray the little boy in his time of need. He brang him back to the tavern where they feed him and went back for the 'expected killers of the little boys parents'. On the way Jonathan suspected that the Corpal killed the little boy parents after he knew exactly where the vacant house was located.Right there and than Jonathan felt betrayed.It was a shock to know what the Corpal had done. As you can see betrayal is not a nice thing and I truly think betrayal is never okay.
~Ashley Gittens 7-5~

Is it ever Ok to be a quitter?

I believe if your in a certian situation it depends weither you should be a quitter or not. At this point Jonathan is giving up on the Hessian soldiers meaning he is a quitter. Now he has returned in the hands of the Corpal, sad thing is he has just found out that the Hessian soldiers were not the ones who killed the little boys parents it happened to be the corpal. Now Jonathan doesn't know what to do and if he wanted to he could be a quitter. Then aqain a war hero is not a quitter, so Jonathan may not want to be a war hero after all. We will just have to wait and see.

Betrayal: When Is It Okay To Do It?

I believe it is never okay to do betrayal. Betrayal is a selfish, and a manipulative task that I believe it is unworthy of any body's valuable time. When someone betrays another person, I'm guessing that the person who is being betrayed feels hurt and thought he/she shouldn't have ever trusted that person. When a person has a cold enough heart to do something like betrayal that person is breaking the delicate string of trust with the other person. Betrayal can be range from telling someone another person's tiny little secret to stealing from your mom's purse. It hurts and it shouldn't be done by anyone.

is it ok to be a quiter?

is it ok to be a quiter? It is so much more easier to say i quit or i give up rather than Im going to do it or I did it! When you quit on things your left with yourself doing nothing. Jonathan has been trying and trying to help himself, aswell as the little boy. When Jonathan had the chance to kill the Hessians, he quit. Now Jonathan did quit but now when you quit upon somthing you just opened a door for someone else. The corporal now knows where the house is and is going to kill the soldiers. If Jonathan was to kill the Hessians, Where would he be? He'd be on his way home because theres nothing left for the corporal to take credit upon. Truly, When you quit, and just give up you open a door for someone else to take upon that chance you had. So in my opinion it is not ok to quit.

Is It Ever Okay To Be A Quitter???

It is sometimes okay to be a quitter. It depends on what you are doing. For example, if you are in a sport team and you don't play it very well, you are going to be embarrassed and embarrass the team. Sometimes your teammates start to tell you bad stuff. In my soccer team, a new kid got in the soccer team. The kid didn't know how to play. So my teammates started to tell him bad stuff. They told him that he sucks, to quit soccer for life. That is exactly what he did, he decided to quit the team. In those situations, you should quit. Another example, when you are doing a school project and having trouble, you shouldn't quit. You should ask one of your parents to help you and they will, unless they are busy and can't. You have to try your hardest to accomplish the thing you are having trouble with. Truly, sometimes it is okay to be a quitter.

Betrayal? Should you do that?

Betrayal is the most selfish, egoist, and dumbest action anyone could ever do. Would you go against your friends, parents or teachers? Why do people betray each other so much? This question makes you think. Since the war began, no one was trustworthy. You could not tell anyone anything. Soldiers, Corporals, even leaders betrayed others in order to live and stay safe.
Betrayal is a VERY selfish act for me. Many people are very jealous and full of hate that betrayal is what they do for fun. They go around not listening to their loved ones and doing things they should not be doing. They try to twist every word you say and tell everyone the "horrible" things you said. Betrayal makes enemies, it makes hate and it makes people filled with negative emotions.
Jonathan felt like the corporal betrayed him and the little boy when he killed the little boy's parents. His excuse was that the parents were soldiers. Jonathan did not want to believe it. All this time he thought it was, just maybe, the Hessian's who killed the boy's parents.
Betrayal should be stopped for good. Why do people do it?No one can answer that question....

Elise Helou
705

Is it o.k to be a quiter?

Something I learned is that it's not really o.k to be a quiter.Sometimes you just don't believe in yourself and quit.In the book,The Fighting Ground,Jonathan doesn't give up on the little boy. As well, he did give up on killing the Hessians.He thought he could of had done it, but then he quit. So i think SOMETIMES it is o.k to be a quiter,but never quit on your dreams or stop facing your fears.If you do then you'll always be a quiter!

How Much Would You Risk For a Stranger?Why or Why not?

Jonathan definitely sympathizes the little boy. He understands how it must be hard to live without your parents and seeing them die in front of you. Not everyday do you find someone going way out of their way to help a little boy, especially not in New York. We simply ignore and carry on with our lives. However, I would certainly consider helping that little boy. When my parents and I see the homeless, I usually insist on giving money to them. No one is so heartless that they see someone in trouble and ignore. If you cannot help your own kind then what use are you of. Though that is one's opinion. Unfortunately, there is sometimes a limit that you can put yourself to. Though it depends on one's character. Jonathan has seen and gone through the feeling of missing and grieving for your family. Although, he can only imagine what it feels like to know that their not there for you anymore and won't be able to assure nor comfort you. I am sensitive towards these situations. Sometimes I feel I could do much more for the unemployed and homeless however I'm merely just a kid. Jonathan was determined to help the boy. How could he just notice him and carry on, leaving the boy to die? No! " More than once did he stagger, but did not fall." " He held the boy again. Holding him tightly though his arms ached." He was even tired but did not stop. Jonathan is more courageous than I could ever be but I know I would do anything I could to help one in need. Truly, it is true what they say " It depends on one's character and sometimes upbringing."

How Much Would You Risk for a Stranger?

I found it interesting that Jonathan would risk so much, for someone he barely knew. Honestly, I wouldn't risk very much for a stranger. But, if it were only a child, who couldn't take care of themselves, I would risk up to a certain limit. If it involves death, then I wouldn't be able to risk it. But Jonothan could."He picked the boy up again. Holding him tightly, though his arms ached, he began to move cautiosly towards the light." That's an example of how much he risked. The light could have belonged to Hessians. But he kept going anyways. Truly, Jonathan would risk more than me, for a stanger.

How much would you risk for a stranger?

This question made me think a lot. I would help a stranger only a little and if they really need it. Think about it, if that were you, you probably would need help too. You don't have to be messed up by seeing them that they need help and just walk away. For example, in the book Jonathan saw the little boy and decided to help him. He was all by himself without his parents. His parents were assassinated by the Hessians that caught Jonathan. Jonathan didn't have to help the little boy. He had enough problems of his own. Jonathan decided to help him. I would've done the same thing. Truly, I would risk only a little for a stranger.

How much would you risk for a stranger?

I noticed that Jonathan is risking a lot for little boy that he just met. Jonathan's life is already in danger, why should he risk it over a boy that is not even related to him? I would not risk anything for a stranger, especially if its going to put my life in danger. If I was in Jonathan's place, I would just leave the little boy with the Hessians and run away. He is already captured by them, he should not be wasting time trying to figure out how to save the little boy. Jonathan also buried the little boy's parents. I think that is more than enough. Overall, I don't think I would risk much for a stranger ever in my life.

How much would you risk for a stranger?

I noticed that Jonathan risked his life to help the little boy. Jonathan didn't need to help him at all; he had enough troubles of his own. As described on page 108, "more than once he staggered, but did not fall. Several times he put the boy down to rest." In this way, Jonathan risked his life and freedom in order to save the little boy. This made me wonder how much I would risk for a stranger. Under normal circumstances, I probably wouldn't risk myself for a complete stranger, unless I thought I had a good reason to and I believed the cause was right. However, extreme circumstances such as war, poverty or crisis do sometimes bring out an unusual kind of cooperation in people. Although I haven't experienced this, I believe it's true from what I know of history. Even though I don't know for sure, I think that everyone, including me, has the potential to sacrifice themselves for others, given the right circumstances. Truly, this is what I believe about my own ability to risk my life for a stranger.

Are Boys Expected To Deal With Tradgies Beacause They Are Boys?

I completely disagree with this statement. The biggest difference in this world I believe is male and female. How we handle things is one of are biggest differences. Handling tragedies has a big impact on a persons life while men will keep it bottle up, we women will talk to our friends and family to try to deal with the problem. I guess you can say women are social than men and would not avoid the situation. People don't realize that tragedies are horrific and can really disturb ones' view of the world. A person's gender has nothing to do with how they deal with problems in their lives. It has to do with the way you deal with their problems at hand. It has to do with the type of person you are male or female. Perhaps people let gender confuse them because male or female one's personality whether they are social or anti-social does not impact how they deal with tragedies

How Much Would I Risk For A Stranger?

I wouldn't risk anything for a stranger. I wouldnt risk my life for someone i never knew. What if that stranger is a criminal? What now? Its always good to keep away from strangers. Unless it was someone much younger than me i would help but, if it was an adult i wouldn't. Ever heard of the saying," dont talk to stangers." Jonathan is helping a young boy, i think thats ok because he's much older nd the child is much younger. " He showed me where his parents were as they layed dead." The boy was lonely and so small. He was a baby in jonathan's opinion. Why not help him? If it was a young man than my thoughts would be different. Truly, Strangers aren't nogotiable unless you think they can't harm you.

How much would you risk for a stranger?

I'll bet that no one who risk for a stranger. Even if "someone" do,they will risk not much. It will be better to risk for someone you know. If you risk for someone you don't know, your life will change completely. You don't know the person very well, instead of helping them you risk your own life and change it into a disaster because sometime starenger can be bad. As for me, I'll never help someone who is unknown to me even if they are helpless or poor(sometime people pretend to be). In the novel The Fighting Ground, Jonathan met a helpless boy. The boy is a stranger to Jonathan. Instead of leaving it to die, Jonathan help the boy instead. Would you care or even mind if you found a little boy's parent dead? Well Johnathan do and I will too. This can be seen on pg 92 "he dug more and more furiously as the ground began to give away. And the little boy watched" would you bothered to ask where a stranger is form? I wouldn't but Jonathan will. He is curious about where and why the boy is alone? this can be seen on pg 80" he thought of the little boy. Who was he? what was he doing there? where was his rest of his family?" i think Johnathan might never realized the little boy might cause trouble for him when he reach back home. Do you think you should risk for a stranger?

Are boys expected to deal with tragedies better because they are boys?

I believe that this statement is a false comment. In this world, girls are always on top of it all. Smarter, Prettier, Mature, and more careful of their surroundings. We know when to talk and we know when to hush up. WE ALSO KNOW WHEN TO CRY AND WHEN TO SPEAK UP.
Believe it or not, but my family and I have gone through many tough times. When I come to school with all the excitement in my mind getting ready to explode, I start thinking of my experiences and what my parents have done to keep me safe. Unlike girls, SOME boys don't care when other people do nice and kind things for them (I did say some).
To me, boys and girls are VERY different. They talk different, act different, and take tragedies in different matters. Boys look at girls and think we are weak, selfish, and immature. They also think that we care only about nail polish, clothing, and boys. They shouldn't be judging.
We tend to deal with bad moments better because we control ourselves. We do cry but that doesn't mean you don't. Every boy at least cries 7 times a month. Don't nodd your head and say you dont cry cause this shows that you do cry. Crying is the way girls handle it and smashing walls and objects to the ground are the ways boys handle it.


DONT WORRY, SOME DAY GIRLS ARE GOING TO RULE THE WORLD. MAYBE THEY WILL TEACH YOU SOME MANNERS.

Elise Helou
705

How Much would you risk for a stranger ?

I've noticed that Jonathan is risking a lot of things for a little boy he just met. " He picked up the boy again holding him tightly though his arm ached..." I believe that's something you do out of niceness, but then Jonathan is thinking about killing the Hessian soldiers because he is assuming that the Hessian soldiers killed the little boys parents. I'm not sure if others would be in the position of Jonathan because if you think about it, why help a stranger ? , especially if the stranger hasn't told you their name & doesn't even answer you. Jonathan abseloutly knows nothing about this little boy because he never replys to the questions Jonathan has for him.

How much would you risk for a stranger?

I have realized that I wouldn't risk anything for a stranger,unless I see that the stranger is completely helpless or needy.In the book THE FIGHTING GROUND Jonathan found a little helpless, dirty, lonesome and scared boy in the the shed of a vaccant house around where the three Hessians has taken him. His parents where no where in sight and Jonathan felt pity for the boy and decided to help. When I walk around or go driving I see alot of homeless people who ask for money or food. Most people are scared of them and ignore them as well as I.But when you watch T.V and see a helpless child your instinct is to help.Even if you don't know them .Just as Jonathan did. We could just ignore people in their time of need. Jonathan didnt ignore the little boy.Just for helping the boy Jonathan risked his chance to escape and kill the Hessians.A lot of people in the world won't have enogh courage to do what Jonathan did.He went all out and risked it all. I truly believe that I personaly won't risk as much for a stranger.

~Ashley Gittens 7-5~

How Much Would I Risk for a Stranger?

I am not to sure how much I would risk for a stranger. It all depends on how much I trust them. If the person acts as if I could trust them, then I could risk more for them. I know I can risk things for my family because I can trust them. Although, Jonathan did trust the Hessians when he jumped out, screamed," Don't shoot!," and surrendered . It was a risky move, especially since the Hessians didn't even know he was there until he came out of hiding. When I look at someone, I want to have a good look at them because if they look shady or like their hiding something, I can't risk trusting them. However, as long as I can really trust, I risk more things for them. That is how much I can risk for a stranger.

How much would I risk for a stranger

I've noticed that people would risk plenty for a stranger. I potentially am not one of those people. It is not that I hate helping people. It's just that no one knows how much you can trust a stranger. Actually, it all depends on the favor. If they need directions or something like that I would not mind helping, but if they ask to borrow something all bets are off. For all we know this guy could be an FBI most wanted criminal. Or it could also be a saint who does everything he can for the benefits of others. Either way, there is no way of telling the two apart. He could also be an excellent liar.

How much would you risk for a stranger?

I realized that for a stranger I would not risk my live or anything of mine.Which that leads to if the stranger needs help then i'll probably risk something for that person. At the end you never know if he will hurt you or kill you, so might as well not try risking for a stranger!In the book THE FIGHTING GROUND, Jonathan{main character} helps this little boy he finds. Then goes off into the forest at night to save his and the little boy's life. He risked gettin cought or his life. Thats why i think you shouldn't really help a stranger or risk anything for him unless you have a reason!

Your Parents Want What's Best For You

I agree with this statement. Your parents really just want to see you become a successful person in the future. Therefore, they try to give you the best that they can. However sometimes, they may be overprotective. If you really tried to figure out why they can be overprotective is because they just want to protect you. In return, I think one should appreciate for what your parents have given you. They give you food, shelter, education, and love (which is the most important thing). I don't understand why some people are not grateful for the parents they have. They really try to give you everything one needs and wants. Unfortunately, they can't make that come true. They know what is best for you and I believe that one should listen to the advice they give you. I truly believe that your parents want what is best for you.

Jonathan has evolved as a result of the war

I believe that at this point of the story, Jonathan has already evolved as a result of the war, and he is certain to evolve further. In the beginning of the story, Jonathan dreams about the glories of war, while his father fears it. "But as Jonathan resumed his tasks, his mind turned to the uniforms, the New Jersey uniforms (page 5)." As the story goes on, however, Jonathan realizes the brutality of war and soon his heroic dreams are replaced by the most intense fear he has ever experienced. As Jonathan is captured by the Hessians, he is unknowingly already in the process of change. "He knew they had been beaten. It had been so confused, so wrongly done, it was a wonder that they had even stood and fought at all. It seemed so stupid now (page 67)." In the brief time between his dreams of glory and his capture, Jonathan has developed a healthy skepticism about war, and is begining to understand that there is an important difference between fantasy and reality. If he gets another chance to make a similar choice, there is little doubt that he will go through a more mature decision making process. This is a vital step in the evolution of any human being, and Jonathan is no exception.
~Diana 705

Your parents want whats best for you

I agree that any parent would want whats best for you.I know that my parents only dream for a good future that will eventually become mine.Jonathan has experienced the feeling of being overprotected by his parents.I have just like we all do.Jonathan's father had warned him not to go to war and so has his mother.Although Jonathan was warned,he did not listen.He was being protected by his parents at that time.When Jonathan went to war and ran,he only dreamed of being protected again by his parents at his safe home.Although we all get mad at our parents,we love them for all that they have done for us and how much they care about us.They teach the right way to live and though they may be strict,demanding,and bossy they only do these kinds of crazy things for your safety and for whats best for you.

I agree with this statement for many reasons. Your parents should be loving and caring and just because what they do seems unfair when really it's not. I believe that when a child says " I hate you" or Get out of my life" the child is not thinking about their mother or father's feelings and are just acting selfishly. Children's parents are not trying to hurt them the want to protect then with all their strength. " Don't you dare by god don't you dare go" on page 5 this is what Jonathan Father said. Though Jonathan kept running and pretended not to even hear his Father's ominous words. Now Jonathan is paying the consequences. I wonder if Jonathan ever thought of what running away did to his parents. So next time if your parents say "no" to something think about if they really are being unfair or are they trying to protect you?

Your parents want whats best for you.

I agree with the statement that your parents want whats best for you. At the begginning of the story Johnathan was told by his father to not go to war. "Dont you dare think of that." When Jonathan's father askes johnathan to go to the store that is what he says when jonathan began to sprint. Jonathans father didnt want Jonathan to be hurt and loose his life. Jonathans father was recently hurt in war aswell which made he think he didnt want his son to feel the same pain as he did. As you can see your parents are always thinking about you and whats best for you. Ever got grounded for a bad test grade? Thats just one little thing you can use as an example. They dont want you to get another bad test grade. Your parents truly want and kncow whats best for you.

Your parents want whats best for you.

This statement is true, my parents trust me and allow me to go out some places occassionally but I have my limits because they know whats best for me and they try their hardest to protect me. Also, parents want whats best for you because they want you to have a good life and make sure you don't mess up. Parents want you to learn to make good choices so you wont see yourself in a bad situation, for example Jonathan's father said no for Jonathan to go out to war because Jonathan is WAY too young for war. Since Jonathan's father was once in the war he knows how bad things get out there. Jonathan refused what he's father's descision was and being careless he went out to war. Now he's in a big mess and is having a lot of trouble getting out of it. He has seen and experienced things a 13 year old boy wouldn't plan on seeing or experiencing. Maybe next time Jonathan will follow what he's father says because like I said before parents want whats best for you.

your life has been planned out with a purpose. your choices are inconsequential

you have only one life, and with it you do what you would like to do. but all of the choices you make all have a bad side and may not sometimes. if you always choose the correct way of life your choice might not be that inconsequential. it might just be a good choice to make for your only life that you have and will ever have. so if it is planned out  as so far where you are in life, then it wont be it. always remember that your life has been planned out with a purpose. your choice is inconsequential!

Your Parents Want What's Best For You

I've noticed over the past few years of living that parents want what's best for their children. No matter how much you whine because they didn't get you an Xbox for Christmas or because they won't give you a raise in your allowance, it's true. Trying to tell this to a kid under 8 would probably be impossible unless you're a licensed sociologist. The truth is that every parent's goal is to raise their children to be more successful than themselves. Everything a parent does for their child is for the better. Well, hopefully everything a parent does for their child is for the better. So the next time you're parents do something you think is "totally unfair" look at it from their point of view and stop being such a whiner before you're parents actually make a decision you won't like that isn't for the best. You might learn something. I know I have. Ugh I miss my t.v.

What happens in a few minutes could have results that last a lifetime

I found it interesting that something that happens in a few minutes, could have results that could last a lifetime. Being Jonathan, he could express this very well. "Lets be quick about it,' the Corporal called," it says in the book. In just a few minutes, they decided on a descision that would have results lasting a lifetime. Going to war, people getting killed, results in lifetime pain. Jonathan had a twisted perception of war. In only about an hour, his view changed completely. "He jumped up. 'Don't shoot!' he cried," it says on page 59. About an hour ago, he would have never done that. After seeing the truth of war, he made decisions he would have never thought of. Truly, war can happen in just an hour, and leave results that last a lifetime.

Your parents want what's best for you.

Taking over the world!!
Mom and dad are the people that love you the most. They are the people that guide you to success and want the best for you. Does ones feeling for their parents disappear when something that they don't like occurs? Many kids can not stand not getting there way. They feel frustrated and have a lot of negative energy that they can not turn positive. Every Child has at least said"I hate you" or "Why do you hate me so much?"to their parents. It is very normal to feel this way. Many parents install their children in many activities for their fun. They sacrifice their lives to make their children happy and most important safe. I realize that my parents work very hard to make me and my younger brother happy.
I read this very fascinating story on the internet. It caught my eye and I am sure it will catch your eye."There was a mother that raised her son alone. Her son was in a accident and lost one of his eyes.(He was only 3 years old)At the hospital, she realized she could not loose him. She went to the doctor and told him"give him my eye" The doctor looked at her and said"Are you sure?" She nodded. When the child got older, he got ashamed of having a mother with no eyeball. When he played with his friends, he told them he did not know her.And when he talked to her,he treated her like a dog.He did not know that his other eyeball was hers. With no empathy he yelled at her when she spoke to his friends. One day, when he was visiting his mother, a neighbor heard him knocking on her door and handed him a letter. The boy looked at the old man and then opened the letter.It said:
"Dear Son,I loved you more than I loved my eye. For these past years you were ashamed of me because of my eye. I should tell you that when you were a small boy, you were in a car accident and lost one of your eye balls. My heart would not live like this if you did not see correctly ,so I risked my life for yours. I did not have anything against you, but I felt like you hated me.You never came to realize that the eye you have was mine and how much I loved you and missed. "
A lot of people dont realize that their parents have risked everything they had for them. You're parents mistakes are you're lessons. Your parents want you to be successful and happy with what you have. Do you ever think of what youre parents might feel like when they do something for you and you dont like it? Well you should.Cursing,fussing,and talking back is always the way teenagers or little kids take. Thats not the way to solving it. Always listen to you're parents, they are you're guides to the real world.
Think about the things that your parents have done for you. Even if it was something small or big. Even if you don't like what they want for you, you should still try it. They KNOW and WANT what is best for you


by Elise Helou
7-5

Your parents want whats best for you.

Your Parents Want Whats Best For You.

I noticed that usually your parents do stuff for you. For example, sometimes they put you in some sort of program that helps you improve in your classes. They might put you without telling you. Sometimes you don't want to go to that program. Well' they are doing the best for you. Sometimes you might not realize that. They don't want you to go through the troubles they have gone through. Your parents want you to become more smarter. Another example is going to the school. Some kids don't like getting up for school but your parents force you to go so that you can learn more and more. On page 6 in the book of The Fighting Ground, it says," God-don't you go beyond." Jonathan's father tells him not to go to the war but Jonathan ignores him. Later on when he was at the battlefield, he started to regret his decision. Your parents tell you something for a good reason. Later on when you get older, you will appreciate your parents on what they did for you. Truly, your parents do want what's best for you.

What happens in a few minutes could have results that last a lifetime

I noticed that life is very valuable and that we should treasure it treat it like it is important. While Jonathan was on the battlefield his life became the only important thing on his mind.He didn't care about the flag ,cannons the dresses or parades, the few minutes (11 min)was the scariest and most terrifying minutes of his life.One can die or be killed in a split second.We can get injured and be paralyzed in a split second also.Although we can heal and go on within our life sometimes it permanent, meaning its never going to go away.Jonathan realized how important it is to think before acting.I truly think Jonathan will make wiser decisions that won't cost him his life in the near future.

~Ashley Gittens 7-5~

What happens in a few minutes could have results that last a lifetime.

I realized that some decisions you might make can change your life forever. This example is exaggerated but it relates to it: for instance you might choose to kill, the effect is that everyone is going to look for you to take you to prison and you won't live with the frustration. Yet Jonathan told to himself"'Do it !' he told himself. 'Go and fight'"(pg.10) This decision marked his life by deciding to go to war not knowing the risks he would face, the hurdles and the adrenaline he would feel, the carnage he would be face to face with and the rivals he would be fighting with for his live.Perhaps you might think of your decisions one more time unless you want to end up in a situation like the one Jonathan is in. Do you agree?
7-5 Melissa Atlixqueno

Your parents want whats best for you.

I notice that often parents try to do a lot of stuff that will help their child in the future. Sometime your parent do things that often you don't like. All parent have a reason for not doing stuff you want to do. Usually those reason are experience from your parent when they are your age doing the stuff you want to do. They don't want you get into the same trouble they got into. Your parent might do something that you don't like but it is very good to you and you don't know. for For example, school; sometime no one like to go to school but your parent force you to go. it is not for their goods, it for your goods. When you start to grow up you might start to notice that the things your parent did was a good thing and you might do to your child. This statement relate to the story, The Fighting Ground. When the bell rang it symbolize war and that what Jonathan is thinking. Jonathan's father, who has been in the war and badly hurt should never sent Jonathan home at all. He knew that Jonathan want to go to war badly and might go off to war by himself but he have full trust in him that he will returned home safely. Although he trust in him he still got a bad feeling so he give Jonathan a warning. This can be seen on pg 6 " ' don't you-by God-don't you go beyond.' " Unfortunate Jonathan disobey his father's comment and put himself into a dangerous risk by going to war. What do you think about this statement?

Yor Parents Want Whats Best For You

I have realized over the years that our parents only want whats best for us. We often don't realize this because we think that it is irritating and unnecessary. But they are actually trying to protect us from the dangers of the world and sometimes even from ourselves. For example when your mother says "you cant go out alone", or "study for that test"you may not realize it but in a way she is protecting you. This is because if you leave your home without being accompanied by an adult you may be kidnapped, or gravely hurt. There have been many incidents in which children leave their homes alone and never come back. You may me thinking "That cant happen to me", but the truth is that it has happened to kids just like you. Also when they tell you to study in your head you may think "I don't want to study its just a waste of my valuable time", actually your parents know that its not. They understand that in the long run it will pay off and you will become successful if you put effort into your work. Last my main point is that your parents have been around much longer than you, and they have been through your experiences. They have made the same mistakes that you make and they are just trying to protect there little "snuggle buns" or "pooky bear" because you mean the world to them and they would be deviststated if something happens to you. So the next time your parents tell you to do something remember that they truly just want the best for you because they love and care for you.

Can Jonathan be considered a war hero?

Has Jonathan Become a Risk-Taker and Communicator Throughout this Entire Journey? Do These Characteristics Classify Him as a Successful War Hero?

Unknowingly, Jonathan has become a risk-taker and a thorough communicator. He has taken many risks and has communicated with many to understand his complex position. For example, before going to war with the Hessians or even leaving town with the Corporal and his men; Jonathan left for war without telling his family and disobeying his father's commands. His father had made it pretty clear that he did not want Jonathan in the war or anywhere near it. Another risk Jonathan took was pretending he knew how to shoot a gun and could do it hastily. Putting on that show could get him in further trouble, such as what if on the battlefield he just froze or was to slow loading the gun. Lastly, the most important risk Jonathan had taken was risking his life. Unaware of what he was risking Jonathan went through with it all. Unfortunately, he had come face to face with this deathly risk on the battlefield. That is when you began to notice that Jonathan's behavior was changing.
Jonathan had just finished fighting the Hessians but could not find his fellow soldiers. The only thoughts that crowded his mind was " Did they retreat and abandon me? or Did they all die in the battle or get captured?". All of a sudden he heard some Hessians and hid. However, fate had something else stored for him. Jonathan disclosed his hiding position by surrendering, hoping they wouldn't kill him knowing he was only a kid. He began to communicate with the Hessian soldiers, especially the youngest one. He felt he could trust him, but exactly how much could he? After all the boy was a Hessian. They exchanged words trying to understand.
" 'Soldat'. The young Hessian soldier said pointing to himself. Jonathan repeated,'Soldat'. He then understood.... Soldier. He had become what he had wanted, a 'Soldier'."
He used communication to benefit him and took many risks by surrendering and going through with this even when he was unsure, and unaware of what was happening. There had been many times where he felt like quiting but it wouldn't be the brave nor right thing to do, now. After all he had to go through with it if he came this far. Indeed these decisions and moments make a war hero in progress. What do you think?

Jonathan is a RiskTaker

For me, Jonathan is a risktaker. On the chapters we read today, he was hiding from the Hessian sldiers on the woods. There were three soldiers on different directions. The soldiers started to tak to each other. Jonathan didn't understand anything about what were they saying. He tried to escape but the soldiers had him surrounded. Then on page 60 it says," Jonathan crouched low to the ground, certain the Hessians knew exactly where he was and that they were only deciding what to do with him. The young soldier spoke again, but Jonathan understood. He jumped up. "Don't shoot!" he cried." He took a big risk by jumping up and telling them not to shoot. Truly, for me that would be a risktaker.

Is Jonathan knowledgeable enough to realize that he could be a war hero?

Sometimes, we use the word knowledge to mean that we have some information. But is Jonathan realizing that so far he could be a war hero if he defines the meaning of a war hero. A war hero is a hero which is believed that did something in honor or command as a true man. A citation that proves that in this part Jonathan was not being knowledgeable is, "Jonathan jumped up and cried , dont shoot , dont kill me". "Within moments they had stepped out onto the raod". "Jonathan realized that it was the same ground where the fighting had occured"."They had been beaten". So is Jonathan really a knowledgeable man or child?

Jonathan is Reflective

I have noticed that through this one day period, Jonathan is becoming more reflective upon his actions.He has realized that's his fathers words had meaning .He told him that the battlefield is no place for a 13 year old boy, and that there was a good possibility that he could be killed or hurt.Jonathan also realizes his imagination took over common sense , Jonathan knew that the war envoled fighting and shooting, but all he could think about was "Flags,cannons ...........drums dress parades."While at the battlefield Jonathan was terrified.He heard shooting, screaming and words he couldn't comprehend. The stepped in a dead mans blood that was all over his shoe.I truly think that Jonathan has gotten more reflective through the war.
~Ashley G. 705~

Jonathan is Reflective.

Knowledgeable? Are Jonathans descisions knowledgeable choices?

Knowledgeable or not?

A war hero is a person thats actions take them as far as they can imagine. A war hero is a person that is trusted and honored with much responsibility. A war hero is a person that not only is looked up too but also learns from his and others mistakes. Is Jonathan a war hero? He might be cowardly, frightened, and confused about his decision to be a soldier, but he never quit, or said i cant do this. He has shown tears and fantasies of him with his family back in his small wooden home, but it never said he did not want to be a soldier anymore. When Jonathan was captured by the Germans, he was so scared that he wet his pants. The Germans were trying to order him to do certain things, alas Jonathan could not understand a word. "Soldat", Jonathan repeated, nodding to show he understood."Soldier" he said more slowly in reply.(pg.63)
Finally, Jonathan got a word. all he had to do now was figure out everything else the German soldiers were saying to him. I was surprised when Jonathan said soldier. He did not doubt himself . He knew he could understand, but only when he thought about is. Those who doubt there abilities don't have any.

Written by Elise Helou
7-5

Communcators: is Jonathan one?

A communicated is a person who will communicate with the people around him or her without holding back.On page 63 it clearly says " 'Sodalt ' " Jonathan repeated nodding to show that he understood 'soldier' he said more slowly. On this page Jonathan is clearly trying to talk with the young Hessian soldier and the soldier is cooperating. He wants to get to know the soldier get to know him but languid barrier is to big to break but they are trying. Indeed Jonathan is a friendly person that wants to communicate with people inorder to save his own life.

Is Jonathan a Risk Taker?

I realized that Jonathan often takes the role of a risk taker. Ever since the beginning of the story Jonathan has followed his heart. The first sign that I noticed was that Jonathan made his own decision to go to war. He had been told by his father that war was a dangerous place that wasn't fit for a boy. He also said that he might be killed by the vicious Hessians. But, Jonathan ignored his advice and he took the risk of being killed. (This is shown on page ten in which it is states, "He meant to go and fight".) Also, due to his decision to battle the Hessians Jonathan was putting himself at stake. Even though this is mainly physically Jonathan could be hurt mentally. This is because once he sees the carnage the image will haunt him forever. Another way that Jonathan has shown that he is a risk taker is that when he was hiding from the Hessian soldiers he decided to alert them when ,"He jumped up and said Don't shoot".(pg 59). Jonathan most likely knew that they might be startled and this would cause them to shoot but he wanted to take a risk instead of being a small child who is always hiding. So I truly believe that Jonathan shows the characteristic of a risk taker.

Jonathan is a risk-taker. Can this make him a War Hero?

Jonathan is defintely a risk-taker. Can this make him a War Hero? In my opinion i think it can. "'Do it' he told himself 'go and fight.'" This to me already make him a war hero because he's taking part in war. "He jumped up 'dont shoot me!' he cried." Jumping up infront of 3 soldiers definetly makes him a risk taker. This occured right after the war ended. Johnathan went to war and faught for his country which makes him a hero. He was able to stand up to his enimies and fight making him a risk taking war hero.

Is Jonathan a war hero?

Some of the IB Learner Profile traits are more useful for war heroes than others. For example, the sense of caring for your fellow soldiers, of taking risks, of inquiring and being reflective about the enemy's position and thinking--these are some of the traits that many war heroes have in common. On the other hand, unless one is a high raking officer, a war hero doesn't necessarily have to be a deep thinker, an expert communicator or especially knowledgeable about the world.
In my opinion, I don't think that Jonathan is a war hero. He doesn't have the bravery or the sense of pride that a war hero should have. Jonathanis not really fighting for the freedom of his country; he is fighting for his own glory, in pursuit of a grand adventure. "Oh Lord, he said to himself, make it a battle. With armies, big ones, and cannons and flags and drums and dress parades! Oh he could, would fight. Good as his older brother. Maybe as good as his pa. Better, maybe (pg 9)." But after only eleven minutes of battle, Jonathan confronts the true meaning of war and is terrified at what he sees. He surrenders himself to the Hessians, thinking he is going to die, and regrets that he didn't listen to his father. These are my reasons why Jonathan is not a war hero.
~ Diana 705

Does this trait, thinkers make Jonathan a War Hero?

I realize that Jonathan has been thinking throughout the time he was with the Hessian. Every hero have to understand about what is their opponent's plan and what are they are talking about. In order to do it they have to think. Even if they talk different language try your best to understand it and this is what Jonathan is doing. Jonathan is trying his best to understand every single word the Hessian is saying. this can be seen on pg 66 " hoping to hear words that would make some scene but very few." If Jonathan could understand them, it will be a big help for the army Jonathan was in.

Does bully cause Alienation?

Well from my point of view, i realized that bully does cause alienation. Think about when you are bully, you are sad when you got bully and do you want that to happen to you. Of course you don't. Not only bully cause alienation, not speaking to other also cause that to happen. When Jonathan was with the soldiers, the soldiers will not even speak a word to him. This can been seen on page 12,"they paid no mind to Jonathan." Jonathan never realized that he can't be in the army when he can't work with others and he and the others soldiers can't do teamwork. If i were Jonathan i will not work with the others soldiers even if i really want to go to war.
10/27/09
by danny890

Are teenages being influenced by troubled adults?

Yes, some teenagers are being influenced by troubled adults. While planning to ambush the British one of Jonathan's acquaintance/solider, shot a bullet through the roof causing the action to make a loud BOOM! The Corpal had to remind the solider that they were in middle of planning an attack,but not in a nice way."Damn you! Do want to get caught".The soldier replied "It was a joke."In this situation Jonathan witnessing all this commotion got him scared.The solider could have blown the whole attack with that one dumb joke he made.If the Corpal hadn't said anything Jonathan would have tried to fit in and maybe tried it.
~Ashley Gittens~ 7-5

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Do people take life for granted?

Do people take life for granted?
This made me think of how everyday people put themselves in precarious situations. Everyday people are caught driving drunk or playing with fire. They increase their risks of getting hurt when they start being unhealthy or do other appalling things such as drugs or just by smoking. When one tells them how bad it will do to them and they choose to ignore us and just wants to live life the way they want to. Most of the time, people put themselves in danger and don't even realize it. For example, by simply trying out a new trick on a skateboard or bike, one can hurt themself and die. Many put themselves in so much hazardous situations and it makes me wonder, why do we even do such things? So, I truly believe that people take lkife for granted.

How is War a Way to Settle in Agreement if it Only Brings More Bloodshed and Unsettlement? How Can Something so Violent Bring Ease and Treaty?

War is mistaken as a battle for freedom and peace as it is just a horrifying battle. Many have lost their lives in war that it just creates more hatred in their loved one's hearts. War isn't a way to settle in agreement. Our government thinks it is however it isn't. Sometimes it is necessary to go to war but only if we are sure it cannot be settled through conversation. For example, back during the American Revolution it was necessary to go to war. Although the colonists didn't notice that this decision would show up as an opportunity to go to war. Young boys began to think that being in the war was an offer you couldn't resist whereas others didn't want. Jonathan felt like those who thought it was an irresistible offer. His friends and him would day-dream about being a soldier and wearing that uniform. Jonathan and those young fellows thought it was about the marches and parades, not war strategies or bloodshed. In this case something so violent as war brought freedom but in every dilemma that crosses someones way will it succeed or worsen the situation? Indeed, war has a positive and negative to it just like everything does. From my point of view war is not the perfect nor the right way to succeed in a situation, given Jonathan's position as a young thirteen yr old boy who has now joined the army.

Is One's Life worth Fighting For?

I say yes, it is. When your fighting for something, it can be as important as a lot of things. You can fight for honor or even tradition. However, when one's life is involved, you need to give it your all. This is best shown during ''The Fighting Ground.'' When Johnathan is at the tavern on page 19, the tavern keeper askes that he bring the gun. "Have I got your word that you'll bring it back?" said the tavern keeper. ''Yes sir" Johnathan replies. "Your honor as a man?" "Yes sir." Johnathan is now fighting for the tavern's keeper and his honor. Although, I believe a life is way more than honor because you can bring honor back, but not lives.

Does Our Universe Revolve Around Life and Death?

Does our universe revolve around life and death, no one knows the answer to this question. It all has to do with ones perspective on the world. Though it is something everybody has on their minds. Every one is thinking if there going to life to see another day. In the book The Fighting Ground page 7, Jonathan's dad doesn't want Jonathan to go to war in fear that he might not come back. Jonathan is not worrying about that in the moments notice. Death is always on someones mind beacause no one wants to be toally vanquished from this world. Death is truly scary but I think it's better to life in the moment and not let that one thing effect your lives.

Are people taking life for granted? That is the question. Some people say this is true. I am one of those people. "To take life for granted is to take life away." This is a quote told by Rolf Potts. This quote may be true. It means that if you don't take something seriously, you may as well take it away. I think that the majority of people in any group take life for granted. It is not that they do it on purpose. They just don't realize how important life really is. The question, "Are people taking life for granted," reminds me of a movie series called "Saw." The movie is about a crazed sociopath called Jigsaw. He kidnaps people who take life for granted and puts them through fatal challenges. Even though this movie is rated R, it still tells us that his opinion is that people who take life for granted don't deserve to live at all.

Are Teens Today feeling Alienation & Isolation?

A question I have is Are teens today feeling alienated or isolation? I noticed during lunch there are many people around and they all fit into their little groups. Most teens don't fit into a certian group. Or maybe when your in " grounded " and have to stay home in your room you feel alienated. I know the feeling of isolation because when a friend is mad at you and another friend takes sides your left alone when your actually not alone but since they are leaving you out your feeling a type of way which is called isolation. I truely feel teens are feeling isolation but I'm not really sure about alienation.

Are We Taking Life For Granted

Life and Death

A question that I have is, "Are people taking life for granted?" In my opinion people are taking life for granted. We don't take time to cherish the little moments in life. We think that we will live forever. But the truth is that we might not be here tomorrow, or the next day, or the day after that. I believe that instead of wasting precious time we should, "Live every moment like it is our last." This is because we don't know if it really is our last. Also, I know from a personal experience that we shouldn't believe that our loved ones will be with us forever. My experience was that my uncle whom I loved dearly died in a tragic accident. What happened is to remain unstated. When this happened I was about nine years old. I deeply and truly loved my uncle but my mother and I lived in Florida at the time. Hence,we very rarely saw him. When this tragedy occurred it opened my eyes and I realized that I had taken him for granted. The thought of him leaving us never crossed my mind, but now this experience has taught me that we have to try to spend as much time with our family as possible. I am bringing up this story because it is an example of a real life story in which a person has taken some body's life for granted.

“One cannot buy, rent or hire more time. The supply of time is totally inelastic. No matter how high the demand, the supply will not go up. There is no price for it. Time is totally perishable and cannot be stored. Yesterday's time is gone forever, and will never come back. Time is always in short supply. There is no substitute for time. Everything requires time. All work takes place in, and uses up time. Yet most people take for granted this unique, irreplaceable and necessary resource.”Peter F. Drucker quotes (American Educator and Writer, b.1909)

This quote relates to the topic "Are we taking life for granted". Mr. Drucker explains how time is something we cannot get back. This relates to the topic because time like death is irreplaceable. We may not realize this but often we are blinded by our surroundings and we do not notice that instead of going on the computer and IMing we could be spending time with someone we love and do not pay enough attention to.
Last, we do not notice how we take ourselves for granted. Quickly think about when was the last time you told yourself " Life is short so I should enjoy it, take risks, and follow my heart." You probably though back to many months or years ago. Well this is our mistake. We don't think about the present, we are always focusing on the future. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it is not always a good thing. In my opinion we should live in the spur of the moment so that we can live life to the fullest. Life is unpredictable, and you will never know exactly when yours will stop. Perhaps my opinion differs from yours but I truly believe that we are taking life for granted.

~Stacy Fernandez 705

Quotes

"we only have one life, and one opportunity to live it. We should embrace it so that later in life we don't have any regrets."
~Stacy Fernandez
“When something does not insist on being noticed, when we aren't grabbed by the collar or struck on the skull by a presence or an event, we take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude”Cynthia Ozick quotes
“To think creatively, we must be able to look afresh at what we normally take for granted.”George Kneller quotes

Does a person's decision affect his or her fate?

I found this question interesting because it is a question I ask myself often. In my experience, it is quite clear that our decisions affect our fates. In fact, as George Elliot said, "The strongest principle of growth lies in human choices."All the choices a person makes will affect his or her life sooner or later, in ways great and small. Some choices might be life changing, while others are ordinary day-to-day decisions. For example, in the book, "The Fighting Ground," Jonathan decides to go to war. His moment of decision is captured in the following passage (page 10):
"And even as he stood there, unsure what to do, the bell resumed its vibrant call. He could go home or to the tavern...'Do it!' he told himself. 'Go and fight.' "
I think that this is a life changing decision for Jonathan, and I predict that his opinions about war and life will be changed forever because of the choice he has made. Although our own choices are rarely as dramatic as the example shown above, they may still affect our fates in dramatic ways.
~Diana 705

Does Ones Surroundings Influence Them to Go To War?

Does ones surroundings influence them to go to war? I think that ones surroudings does influence them on war. Lets use Johnathan as an example. In the story Johnathan heard the bell and this made him think even more about going to war. "Even as he stood there, the bell resumed its call."(page 10) Another reason why I think that ones surrounds affect them is because Johnathan had his father, cousin, and brother recently in war and his brother and cousin are still in war. This made him think that why should'nt I join? He was only thirteen and knew how to hold a gun. In school im in the a/t class. In New York people don't think of war as a good thing. I learned about war and all the deaths in war and i think that i would never want to be a soldier. This is due to my surroundings. Im influenced to be a wealthy careful person. I think That ones surroundings truly influences them to go to war.

Luan Kaliqani

Is War Worth Fighting For?

Is war worth fighting for? For me, it is not worth it. Some people agree or disagree with me. In the book, The Fighting Ground, the protagonist named Jonathan decides to go to war even though his father tells him to not to. On page 10, he tells himself, Go, go and fight. If I were him I wouldn't have gone to the war. Even his dad told him not to. Also what about if you end up being killed, you wouldn't see your family again. Truly, you have to think about the consequences before you do the thing that you want to.



Cesar Cruz 705

WHAT IS LIFE?

What is life? Does this sound like a strange question to you? Of course we all know what is meant by the word "life", but how would you define it? Do all living things move? Do they all eat and breathe? Even though we all seem to know what is meant by saying something is "alive", it's not very easy to describe what "life" is. It's almost as hard as descriebing where life came from. Even the biologists have a tough time describing what life is! But after many years of studying living things, from the mold on your old tuna sandwich to monkeys in the rainforest, biologists have determined that all living things do share some things in common: 1 is Living things need to take in energy 2 is Living things get rid of waste3 is Living things grow and develop4 is Living things respond to their environment5 is Living things reproduce and pass their traits onto their offspring6 is Over time, living things evolve in response to their environment.

CAN ONE SIMPLE CHOICE CHANGE YOUR LIFE?

Can one simple choice change your life? Of cource one simple choice can change your life. Everyone makes choices and mostly all of them are life changing. For instance, if you choose to study on a test you will most of the time do well. If you choose not to study for that test you will do poorly. You will either end up with a bad grade or a good grade. It also shows that choices can change your life in the book, The Fighting Ground. This was stated on pg 9 where Jonathan said, "Do it" he told himself "Go and fight". This is when Jonathan chose to go to war. This will definetly change his life. He could even die from that little choice that he made. This is a simple choice can truly change your life.

KISHAN THAKURDIN

Would one risk their life for his/her country?

Think about it. There are many consequences. You should value every second you live. It would be great to fight for your country, but greater to be alive. When Jonathon said: "Go and fight"(pg.10)he did not think of the risks he was taking. He was not thinking about what might happen. He was thinking about the uniforms, the fame and the glory. Not once did he ask himself:"What if I never see my family again?" If I was Jonathon, I would listen to my dad and stay out of trouble...

Elise Helou 705

Does war bring more war than peace?

Does war bring more war than peace?

Does war bring mor war than peace? A way to answer this statement is by looking in the book, "The Fighting Ground". In this book, it can be proven when it says, "The Corporal is fond of killing." This means thant if he likes to kill members of the British Army, they would want to kill members of the American Army. Which means that more war will keep going on, if war continues in a Circle of Hatred. I believe the only way to bring peace is not through war but through treaties and sharing lands and resources. Probably, people will understand that war does not bring peace, but it does bring more war.