What do you hope to transform in the world? Why?

    I used to think that when I grew up, I wanted to change the world. Make it better. Somehow do good, and improve the lives of people. But now, I don't even want to focus on this world anymore. I think humanity should start focusing on the next one.

    This planet is home to almost 7.5 billion people. So imagine what would happen if this planet were at risk. Where would 7.5 billion people go? This is why I am interested in possibly terraforming a second planet. Perhaps make it a safe haven for some future generation. Because in the case that Earth should fall, shouldn't those people have a chance? So, when I grow up, I don't necessarily want to transform this world. I want to transform the next one.

 

COURAGE

Who is one of the most courageous people you know? Either today, or the past.

I feel as though when people ask this question, most of the answers they get back are people like, Abraham Lincon, Martin Liuther King Jr, or Sacajawea. And although these people accomplished incredible things, I think that there are still many others who's achievements have gone unnoticed. Think of all the people whose bravery shaped the America we know today. Think of all the men and women who deserve credit for their courage.

Well today, I'm going to talk about a man name Frederick Douglass. He is relatively well known, but I argue that his accomplishments should be more well known. Born into slavery, Douglass risked everything to escape. Later he discovered his talent. Frederick had a gift for public speaking. His booming voice projected meaningful messages to the crowds about the horrors of slavery and need for freedom. A loyal abolitionist, Douglass helped the movement by spreading the atrocities of slavery, and pleading from the heart. He used his own experiences to paint a vivid picture for the people he addressed: Slavery is unjust.

But Frederick's voice and speeches came with a price. Not everyone he spoke with supported his movement. He was continuously hounded by slavery enthusiasts, resulted in his beating and capture on multiple occasions. Not only was Frederick at risk himself, but his five children and wife were as well.

Despite this, Douglass believed in justice, and he believed that the African Americans should be free. And so Frederick beat down the obstacles that hindered him, and his actions changed the way Americans live.

RAFT

Civil War RAFT Creative Writing Assignment

I am writing from the perspective of a Black Union Soldier to his children at the time of the Civil War.


Dear Jeremiah and Harriet,

      I am writing to you from the folds of my bedroll. Once soft, it is now crusted and yellow, crackling against my skin. The night is silent, almost eerie, c'ept for the raucous cries of the wounded, agonizing in the pale moonlight. I feel more at risk sitting hear amongst the bitter cold and disease, the charging through the battlefield in my tattered shreds. I hope this letter finds you well and safe, far away from this blasted war. I don't believe in all of this bloodshed. But I do believe in Lincon, and the pride of the North. I believe that thy Lord will look down upon our battles, and will shine His light on the blackened hearts of the confederates. Don't hold grudges against your countrymen, they too will see the light, and accept our equality. They have become our sworn enemies, but one day, they will be our brethren once more. Too many brave men have perished on this very Earth for there to be any other outcome.
      Stay strong, and pray for peace. I will come home to you again.

                Jonathon Berkely