Night World : Dark Angel Chapter 5

Actually, it wasn't the light she noticed first. It was an eerie feeling that some†¦ presence was in her room with her. She'd had the feeling before, waking up to feel that something had just left, maybe even in the instant it had taken her to open her eyes. And that while asleep, she'd been on the verge of some great discovery about the world, something that was lost as soon as she woke. But tonight, the feeling stayed. And as she stared around the room, feeling dazed and stupid and leaden, she slowly realized that the light was wrong. She'd forgotten to close the curtains, and moonlight was streaming into the room. It had the thin blue translucence of new snow. But in one corner of Gillian's room, by the gilded Italian chest of drawers, the light seemed to have pooled. Coalesced. Concentrated. As if reflecting off a mirror. There wasn't any mirror. Gillian sat up slowly. Her sinuses were stuffed up and her eyes felt like hard-boiled eggs. She breathed through her mouth and tried to make sense of what was in the corner. It looked like †¦ a pillar. A misty pillar of light. And instead of fading as she woke up, it seemed to be getting brighter. An ache had taken hold of Gillian's throat. The light was so beautiful†¦ and almost familiar. It reminded her of the tunnel and the meadow and †¦ Oh. She knew now. It was different to be seeing this when she wasn't dead. Then, she'd accepted strange things the way you accept them in dreams, without ordinary logic or disbelief interfering. But now she stared as the light got brighter and brighter, and felt her whole skin tingling and tears pooling in her eyes. She could hardly breathe. She didn't know what to do. How do you greet an angel in the ordinary world? The light continued to get brighter, just as it had in the meadow. And now she could see the shape in it, walking toward her and rushing at the same time. Still brighter-dazzling and pulsating-until she had to shut her eyes and saw red and gold after images like shooting stars. When she squinted her eyes back open, he was there. Awe caught at Gillian's throat again. He was so beautiful that it was frightening. Face pale, with traces of the light still lingering in his features. Hair like filaments of gold. Strong shoulders, tall but graceful body, every line pure and proud and different from any human. He looked more different now than he had in the meadow. Against the drab and ordinary background of Gillian's room, he burned like a torch. Gillian slid off her bed to kneel on the floor. It was an automatic reflex. â€Å"Don't do that.† The voice was like silver fire. And then-it changed. Became somehow more ordinary, like a normal human voice. â€Å"Here, does this help?† Gillian, staring at the carpet, saw the light that was glinting off a stray safety pin fade a bit. When she tilted her eyes up, the angel looked more ordinary, too. Not as luminous. More like just an impossibly beautiful teenage guy. â€Å"I don't want to scare you,† he said. He smiled. â€Å"Yeah,† Gillian whispered. It was all she could get out. â€Å"Are you scared?† â€Å"Yeah.† The angel made a frustrated circling motion with one arm. â€Å"I can go through all the gobbledygook: be not afraid, I mean you no harm, all that-but it's such a waste of time, don't you think?† He peered at her. â€Å"Aw, come on, kid, you died earlier today. Yesterday. This isn't really all that strange in comparison. You can deal.† â€Å"Yeah.† Gillian blinked. â€Å"Yeah,† she said with more conviction, nodding. â€Å"Take a deep breath, get up-â€Å" â€Å"Yeah.† â€Å"-say something different†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Gillian got up. She perched on the edge of her bed. He was right, she could deal. So it hadn't been a dream. She had really died, and there really were angels, and now one was in the room with her, looking almost solid except at the edges. And he had come to †¦ â€Å"Why did you come here?† she said. He made a noise that, if he hadn't been an angel, Gillian would have called a snort. â€Å"You don't think I ever really left, do you?† he said chidingly. â€Å"I mean, think about it. How did you manage to recover from freezing without even needing to go to the hospital? You were in severe hypothermia, you know. The worst. You were facing pulmonary edema, ventricular fibrillation, the loss of a few of your bits†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He wiggled his fingers and waggled his feet. That was when Gillian realized he was standing several inches off the floor. â€Å"You were in bad shape, kid. But you got out of it without even frostbite.† Gillian looked down at her own ten pink fingers. They were tinglingly over-sensitive, but she didn't have even one blood blister. â€Å"You saved me.† He gave a half grin and looked sheepish. â€Å"Well, it's my job.† â€Å"To help people.† â€Å"To help you.† A barely acknowledged hope was forming in Gillian's mind. He never really left her; it was his job to help her. That sounded like†¦ Could he be †¦ Oh, God, no, it was too corny. Not to mention presumptuous. He was looking sheepish again. â€Å"Yeah. I don't know how to put it, either. But it is true, actually. Did you know that most people think they have one even when they don't? Somebody did a poll, and ‘most people have an inner certainty that there is some particular, individual spirit watching over them.' The New Agers call us spirit guides. The Hawaiians call us aumakua†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"You're a guardian angel,† Gillian whispered. â€Å"Yeah. Your guardian angel. And I'm here to help you find your heart's desire.† â€Å"I-† Gillian's throat dosed. It was too much to believe. She wasn't worthy. She should have been a better person so that she would deserve some of the happiness that suddenly spread out in front of her. But then a cold feeling of reality set in. She wasn't a better person, and although she was sure enlightenment and whatever else an angel thought your heart's desire was, was terrific, well †¦ in her case†¦ She swallowed. â€Å"Look,† she said grimly. â€Å"The things I need help with-well, they're not exactly the kinds of things angels are likely to know about.† â€Å"Heh.† He grinned. He leaned over in a position that would have unbalanced an ordinary person and waved an imaginary something over her head. â€Å"You shall go to the ball, Cinderella.† A wand. Gillian looked at him. â€Å"Now you're my fairy godmother?† â€Å"Yeah. But watch the sarcasm, kid.† He changed to a floating position, his arms clasping his knees, and looked her dead in the eye. â€Å"How about if I say I know your heart's desire is for David Blackburn to fall madly in love with you and for everyone at school to think you're totally hot?† Heat swept up Gillian's face. Her heart was beating out the slow, hard thumps of embarrassment- and excitement. When he said it out loud like that, it sounded extremely shallow†¦ and extremely, extremely desirable. â€Å"And you could help with that?† she choked out. â€Å"Believe it or not, Ripley.† â€Å"But you're an angel.† He templed his fingers. â€Å"The paths to enlightenment are many. Grasshopper. Grasshopper? Maybe I should call you Dragonfly. You are sort of iridescent. There're lots of other insects, but Dung-Beetle sounds sort of insulting. †¦Ã¢â‚¬  I've got a guardian angel who sounds like Robin Williams, Gillian thought. It was wonderful. She started to giggle uncontrollably, on the edge of tears. â€Å"Of course, there's a condition,† the angel said, dropping his fingers. He looked at her seriously. His eyes were like the violet-blue at the bottom of a flame. Gillian gulped, took a scared breath. â€Å"What?† â€Å"You have to trust me.† â€Å"That's it?† â€Å"Sometimes it won't be so easy.† â€Å"Look.† Gillian laughed, gulped again, steadied herself. She looked away from his eyes, focusing on the graceful body that was floating in midair. â€Å"Look, after all I've seen†¦ after you saved my life-and my bits †¦ how could I not trust you?† She said it again quietly. â€Å"How could I ever not trust you?† He nodded. Winked. â€Å"Okay,† he said. â€Å"Let's prove it.† â€Å"Huh?† Slowly the feeling of awed incredulity was fading. It was beginning to seem almost normal to talk to this magical being. â€Å"Let's prove it. Get some scissors.† â€Å"Scissors?† Gillian stared at the angel. He stared back. â€Å"I don't even know where any scissors are.† â€Å"Drawer to the left of the silverware drawer in the kitchen. A big sharp pair.† He grinned like Little Red Riding Hood's grandmother. Gillian wasn't afraid. She didn't decide not to be, she simply wasn't. â€Å"Okay,† she said and went down to get the scissors. The angel went with her, floating just behind her shoulder. At the bottom of the stairs were two Abyssinian cats, curled up head to toe like the Yin-Yang symbol. They were fast asleep. Gillian nudged one gently with one toe, and it opened sleepy crescents of eyes. And then it was off like a flash-both cats were. Streaking down the side hall, falling over each other, skidding on the hardwood floor. Gillian watched with her mouth open. â€Å"Balaam's ass,† the angel said wisely. â€Å"I beg your pardon?† For a moment Gillian thought she was being insulted. â€Å"I mean, animals can see us.† â€Å"But they were scared. All their fur-I've never seen them like that before.† â€Å"Well, they may not understand what I am. It happens sometimes. Come on, let's get the scissors.† Gillian stared down the side hall for a moment, then obeyed. â€Å"Now what?† she said as she brought the scissors back to her room. â€Å"Go in the bathroom.† Gillian went into the little bathroom that adjoined her bedroom and flicked on the light. She licked dry lips. â€Å"And now?† she said, trying to sound flippant. â€Å"Do I cut off a finger?† â€Å"No. Just your hair.† In the mirror over the sink, Gillian saw her own jaw drop. She couldn't see the angel, though, so she turned around. â€Å"Cut my hair? Off?† â€Å"Off. You hide behind it too much. You have to show the world that you're not hiding anymore.† â€Å"But-† Gillian raised protective hands, looking back in the mirror. She saw herself, pale, delicate boned, with eyes like wood violets-peering out from a curtain of hair. So maybe he had a point. But to go into the world naked, without anything to duck behind, with her face exposed†¦ â€Å"You said you trusted me,† the angel said quietly. Gillian chanced a look at him. His face was stem and there was something in his eyes that almost scared her. Something unknowable and cold, as if he were withdrawing from her. â€Å"It's the way to prove yourself,† he said. â€Å"It's like taking a vow. If you can do this part, you're brave enough to do what it takes to get your heart's desire.† He paused deliberately. â€Å"But, of course, if you're not brave enough, if you want me to go away †¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"No,† Gillian said. Most of what he was saying made sense, and as for what she didn't understand-well, she would have to have faith. I can do this. To show that she was serious, she took the open scissors, bracketed the pale blond curtain at a level with her ear, and squeezed them shut. Her hair just folded around the scissors. â€Å"Okay.† The angel was laughing. â€Å"Hold onto the hair at the bottom and pull. And try less hair.† He sounded like himself again: warm and teasing and loving-helpful. Gillian let out her breath, gave a wobbly smile, and devoted herself to the horrible and fascinating business of cutting off long blond chunks. When she was done, she had a silky blond cap. Short. It was shorter than Amy's hair, almost as short as J.Z. Oberlin's hair, the girl at school who worked as a model and looked like a Calvin Klein ad. It was really short. â€Å"Look in the mirror,† the angel said, although Gillian was already looking. â€Å"What do you see?† â€Å"Somebody with a bad haircut?† â€Å"Wrong. You see somebody who's brave. Strong. Out there. Unique. Individualist. And, incidentally, gorgeous.† â€Å"Oh, please.† But she did look different. Under the ragged St. Joan bob, her cheekbones seemed to stand out more; she looked older, more sophisticated. And there was color in her cheeks. â€Å"But it's still all uneven.† â€Å"We can get it smoothed out tomorrow. The important thing is that you took the first step yourself. By the way, you'd better learn to stop blushing. A girl as beautiful as you has to get used to compliments.† â€Å"You're a funny kind of angel.† â€Å"I told you, it's part of the job. Now let's see what you've got in your closet.† An hour later, Gillian was in bed again. This time, under the covers. She was tired, dazed, and very happy. â€Å"Sleep fast,† the angel said. â€Å"You've got a big day tomorrow.† â€Å"Yes. But wait.† Gillian tried to keep her eyes open. â€Å"There were some things I forgot to ask you.† â€Å"Ask.† â€Å"That crying I heard in the woods-the reason I went in. Was it a kid? And are they okay?† There was a brief pause before he answered. â€Å"That information is classified. But don't worry,† he added. â€Å"Nobody's hurt-now.† Gillian opened one eye at him, but it was dear he wasn't going to say any more. â€Å"Okay,† she said reluctantly. â€Å"And the other thing was-I still don't know what to call you.† â€Å"I told you. Angel.† Gillian smiled, and was immediately struck by a jaw-cracking yawn. â€Å"Okay. Angel.† She opened her eyes again. â€Å"Wait. One more thing†¦Ã¢â‚¬  But she couldn't think of it. There had been some other mystery she'd wanted to ask about, something that had to do with Tanya, with Tanya and blood. But she couldn't summon it up. Oh, well. She'd remember later. â€Å"I just wanted to say-thank you.† He snorted. â€Å"You can say it anytime. Get this through your head, kid: I'm not going anywhere. I'll be here tomorrow morning.† He began to hum a Blind Melon song. † I'll always be there when you wake†¦ .' Yeah, yeah, yeah.† Gillian felt warm, protected†¦ loved. She fell asleep smiling. The next morning she woke early and spent a long time in the bathroom. She came down the stairs feeling self-conscious and lightheaded-literally. With her hair gone her neck felt as if it were floating. She braced herself as she walked into the kitchen. Neither of her parents was there, even though her father was usually having breakfast by now. Instead, a girl with dark hair was sitting at the kitchen table, bent closely over a calculus textbook. â€Å"Amy!† Amy glanced up and blinked. She squinted, blinked again, then jumped up, standing an inch taller than Gillian. She moved forward, her eyes huge. Then she screamed.

Arizona Constitution

The American constitution plays a crucial role in delegating of laws in the country and it governs all citizens. On the other hand, a state’s constitution serves a similar purpose but only under the state’s jurisdiction. This constitution is the basis for other state laws including those of other sections of the state government. This implies that all the laws outlined by this constitution affect its organization, operations and maintenance. Actions carried out outside the constitutional boundaries are considered to be illegal. As such, the Arizona constitution has endeavored to effectively guide the State of Arizona by impacting on the state’s counties, schools, municipalities and corporations. This paper will discuss these distinct effects. In essence, the State of Arizona constitution sets boundaries for all laws within the state. In Article 12 of the Arizona constitution, the issue of counties has been clearly addressed. This article is detailed with guidelines regarding various aspects of counties. The county is hereby defined and its fundamental roles displayed. For instance in section 3 of this article, specifications are made on county officers, their election and term of office. A county is depicted to be inclusive of such officers like the sheriff, county attorney, treasurer, and superintendent of schools, a recorder and supervisors (Arizona State Legislature, 2007). These officers occupy these positions for a period of four years and this predicts when they cease to serve the people of Arizona. The article also specifies on the election of these officers, their qualifications, duties and powers. This ensures the effective use of the law when there are individuals or groups of people embarked on using corrupt and selfish means. Furthermore, citizens within a particular county are empowered to elect leaders of their choice and also in the enactment of county charters. Ideally, when the county’s citizens implore for the collection of taxes it must be done under the provision of the county charters. This protects citizens from unfair imposition of taxes. Municipalities are also subject to the jurisdiction of the Arizona constitution. As outlined by McClory (2001), Article 13 of the said constitutions dictates the conditions for the creation of municipalities. Section 1 of the article notes that the municipalities are not created by any special laws but by the existing legislature. The constitution mandates the minimal population for any city’s or town’s elevation into a municipality as 3,500 residents. Only then can these residents elect a board of freeholders which further develops a charter for the creation of the municipality. Again, the constitution explicitly leaves the role of enacting such crucial decisions to the citizens. Only after they have voted and a majority of the citizens having voted in favor of the charter is it passed. The Arizona constitution also gives municipalities the right to engage in business or entrepreneurial activities as stated in Article 13, section 5. This positively impacts on the municipality especially since such enterprises like garbage collection and waste disposal for all households can work positively in the municipal’s development. Apart from Municipalities, the Arizona constitution has also made provisions for other corporations. In Arizona State Legislature (2007) Article 14, Section 1 outlines a substantial definition of corporations to include associations and companies which possess powers and privileges not possessed by sole individuals or partnerships. In addition, these entities are individualized and empowered to sue others and be sued in return. This makes it simple for citizens who have qualms with such corporations to seek the intervention of the law since they are treated as such entities under the law. As constitution directs the procedures and requirements for the formation of corporations, it similarly warns that failure to incorporate these conditions will make corporations non viable and their claims inadmissible in courts. Corporations are also limited by this article in their capacity to fund political actions and endeavors. Article 15 also addresses the same issue of corporations only its concern is on public service commissions. It is in this regard that this Article establishes the Arizona Corporation Commission (Arizona Corporation Commission, 2010). As entities formed with the sole purpose of offering necessary services to citizens, the commissions perform the role of regulating and providing public utilities. The constitution also indicates that these corporations are under state regulation which aids in creating accountability and effective operations in these bodies. Finally, public education in Arizona is also another area which is strictly controlled by the Arizona constitution. This is inclusive of all types of schools be it elementary, middle or high schools. Included in this lot are also colleges and universities. In Article 11, these schools’ conduct and supervision is delegated to a board of education, superintendent of public instruction, among other governing bodies as per the law. The constitution has served citizens with low income earnings as it provides for the establishment of free schools. Furthermore, it also facilitates the acquisition of permanent state school funds which in Article 11, Section 8, should be derived from the sale of school lands, from estate shares and any bequests made to the state for educational purposes (Arizona State Legislature, 2010). Gifford and Hunter (2000) emphasize the integral role of constitutional provisions for school funding on the effectiveness of the public education system. Its impeccable endeavor to safeguard the wellbeing of the visually and hearing impaired has also ensured their appropriate treatment in their search for education.

Exercise 8: Chemical and Physical Processes of Digestion

Lab Report 8 April 15th Exercise 8: Chemical and Physical Processes of Digestion Lab Report Questions Activity 1 What is the difference between the IKI assay and Benedict’s assay? IKI assay detects the presence of starch, and the Benedict assay tests for the presence of reducing sugars as well as IKI turns blue black whereas Benedict is a bright blue that changes to green to orange to reddish brown with increasing levels of maltose What was the purpose of tubes #1 and #2? Why are they important?Because they are the controls and the controls must be prepared to provide a known standard against which all comparisons must be made. Positive controls all of the required substances are included and negative a negative result is expected validating the experiment. What effect did pH level have on the enzyme? It partially allowed the enzyme to do its job because there were positive signs of both starch and its reducing sugars. What effect did boiling and freezing have on the activity of amylase?Boiling did not allow the breakdown of starch because the reduced sugars were not present and the starch was where the freezing showed a ++ for the reducing sugars and a negative result in the starch showing that it reduced the starch. Activity 2 What was the effect of the enzyme peptidase? Why? The enzyme peptidase could not break down the starch by showing that there is positive IKI test for starch and a negative Benedict test for its reduced sugars. What is cellulose? According to your results, does salivary amylase digest cellulose?Cellulose is a polysaccharide found in plants to provide rigidity to their cell walls and salivary amylase is not able to digest it because there were no positive signs of the Benedict test which should have been positive if a breakdown did occur. What happened to the cellulose in tube #6? It was digested by the bacteria showing a very positive sign for the Benedict test. Activity 3 What is the optimal pH level for pepsin? Why do you think that is? The optimal pH for pepsin is around 2. 0 because it showed a higher optimal density showing that more BPNA has been hydrolyzed.Also the stomach is very acidic adding to the reasoning that pepsin will work well in acidic environments. How was optical density measured? What is the significance of this measurement? A spectrometer shine light through the sample and then measures how much light is absorbed. The fraction of light absorbed is expressed as the sample of optical density. The higher the optical density is greater than zero the more hydrolysis has occurred. Activity 4 Why do lipids pose special problems for digestion?Because the insolubility of the triglycerides presents a challenge because they tend to clump together leaving surface molecules exposed to lipase enzymes. How do bile salts effect lipid digestion? Bile salts are secreted into the small intestine during digestion to physically emulsify lipids. They act as a detergent separating the lipid clumps and increa se the surface area accessible to the lipase enzymes. What factors affect digestive enzymes? Some factors that affect digestive enzymes are pH and the amount of lipase and bile salts in a solution.

The Principles of Sustainable Development Research Paper

The Principles of Sustainable Development - Research Paper Example Based on this definition, we are able to see sustainable development as a system that is able to connect time and space. By thinking of the world as a system that affects space, we are able to understand that air pollution in North Africa, has the capability of affecting the quality of air found in Asia, etc. Furthermore, by thinking of the world as a system that affects time, we are able to understand that our present activities will definitely have an impact on how the future generations live (Watts, 2013). The principles of sustainable development are therefore rooted in these concepts of system thinking. Sustainable development helps us to understand the world we live in, its environment, and how our activities are able to affect the environment, and how we can handle these activities for purposes of conserving the environment (Nemeth, 2012). Based on these facts, there are seven major principles of sustainable development. One important principle is the integration of economic and environmental decisions. According to this principle, the economic decisions that are made must reflect the consequences that these decisions would have, on the environment, health and social well being of the society. This, therefore, means that any economic decision that the government enacts should not have the capability of affecting the environment. For example, there is a debate on whether the United States should drill oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Proponents argue that oil drilling would improve the economy of United States, while those against oil drilling denote that, drilling of oil would destroy the environment (Scherer, 2009).  Ã‚  

Diffrenece between FAA Regulations (FARs) and UAE GCAA Regulations Essay

Diffrenece between FAA Regulations (FARs) and UAE GCAA Regulations (CARs) - Essay Example Firstly, the certificate holders location serves as the primary contact for corresponding between the certificate holder and FAA (Flighsim Aviation Zone 2014). The regulation also specifies registration markings, the aircraft type, as well as serial numbers of all aircrafts with the authority to operate. Nonetheless, the certificate holder cannot conduct operations with aircrafts or airports that do not appear in the FAA recommended list. Moreover, the operation specifications under FAA authorize the type of operations that flight operators may engage in (Remawi 2011). The rules and regulations have provisions for authorization as well as the limitations of certain areas and routes of operations. Most important are the provisions that concerns limitations on airport operations thus recommending limits for the aircraft operators. Another operation specification under FAA rules and regulations is time limitations (Flighsim Aviation Zone 2014). There are specific requirements that limit aircraft operations to specific time frame. The time limitations concerns overhauling, checking airframes, inspection on engines, rotors, appliances, and propellers. On the other hand, the regulation has operation specifications about interline interchange of equipment. Also, important are the regulations about deviation authorization and conditions under the regulation exempts certain operations. Moreover, FAA has specific regulations about additional maintenance that the aircraft requires as well as a wet lease data or information that the regulation requires (Remawi 2011). On the other hand, the regulation recommends that the aircraft operator must check that all the items that the administrator requires are present. Therefore, FAA regulations recommend the conditions necessary for airport operations and revolve around the s afety and well-being of the flight operator and the commuters or travellers. They regulate many aircraft

Left brain vs right brain thinking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Left brain vs right brain thinking - Essay Example The left hemisphere is usually associated with symbolic processing as well as rational thinking while the right hemisphere is for art, intuition and creativity. Information from the Center for Educational Research and Innovation also points out that the left brain is verbal, logical and analytical, while the right brain is more emotional, holistic, synthesizing and visuo-spatial in its operations (Neuromyth 6, 2013). The proofs for the asymmetry of the human brain are not only scientific but also a result of a long period of study of biology and evolution. In fact, according to Hellige (1993), asymmetry in the human brain affects behavior, although, because of a lack of substantial evidence, this proof still sounds more like mere speculation. Moreover, he adds that other species of animals also have asymmetries too, thus there seems to be no reason why human beings should not exhibit the same quality. Another thing is that sometimes the theory of asymmetry is contradicted by others because it seems that differences in right and left brain functions are only pronounced in certain individuals but are weak in others. However, the fact is that individuals differ in their asymmetry or in the way the right and left hemispheres interact. Perhaps, for some it is more pronounced and for others it is not that obvious, especially among â€Å"whole-brained† people, or those with more or less balanced functioning of both brain hemispheres (Oflaz, 2011). Another reason why asymmetry is sometimes not obvious is that it gradually develops and evolves throughout one’s lifetime and throughout evolutionary history. Moreover, another reason why sometimes the differences between the two brain hemispheres are unnoticeable is that asymmetry is affected by several biological and environmental factors from the moment the brain forms in the fetal stage up to

MICROFINANCE IN DEVELOPING ECONOMIES Dissertation

MICROFINANCE IN DEVELOPING ECONOMIES - Dissertation Example However, microfinance units cannot be equally successful in all economies, became they all have different demographics and social structures. Despite the fact that many nations have seen success following the inclusion of microfinance units, it cannot be established that all emerging nations would experience a similar degree of success. This present paper will examine the scope of success of microfinance units in Saudi Arabia through an examination of the profitability and efficiency of operations of these financial units in the economy. In most of cases it is an inefficient financial system which is found to be the prime reason behind the failure of microfinance units, which is why it is necessary to examine the extent to which the financial system of a nation is capable of bearing such a responsibility, before arriving at any conclusion. This paper will conclude that Saudi Arabian banks are currently in a poor state to make the microfinance movement a success. However, if necessary measures are undertaken, the trend could be reversed. Chapter 1 – Introduction 1.1 Definition and Brief History Microfinance institutions are responsible for boosting the social status of a poorer section of a nation’s population by providing financial assistance. Their prime function, however, is that of microcredit, which involves forwarding loans on a cooperative basis to groups of people so that no single individual is liable. This helps to reduce their burden substantially (Feigenberg, Field & Pande, 2010). Their popularity among the poorer sections of society, which comprise a major part of developing economies, has even spurred normal commercial banks to adopt some of their strategies. Microfinance institutions might be owned by government bodies or non-governmental ones, and they might also be involved in tasks other than forwarding credit to poorer sections of society (Consultative Group to Assist the Poor, 2011). The concept of microfinance has spread across the globe from a small region in Bangladesh where Muhammad Yunus, an economics professor at the University of Chittagong, advanced nearly $30 to a group of poor villagers. An important term of this loan was that the entire group as a whole stood liable for the debt, so that the burden was divided equally among the individuals in the group. The initial loan helped the villagers to generate a continual flow of future income and, eventually, sustain their respective households. When Yunus noted the importance of such loans advanced on cooperative terms, he decided to popularise the concept across Bangladesh. Such a measure was understood as an important stepping stone towards poverty eradication. Yunus initiated the construction of Grameen Bank in 1983,

Race as a factor in the evaluation of the admissions process Case Study

Race as a factor in the evaluation of the admissions process - Case Study Example Race as a factor in the evaluation of the admissions’ process The moral defense of a university’s practice to incorporate race as a factor in the evaluation of the admissions’ process can be examined through the application of diversity and diversity compensation arguments. The presence of obvious group disadvantage which is experienced by members of a certain race would imply that the consideration of race as a factor in admissions is conducive to the reduction of the racial groups’ social limitations while, eliminating the aspects of historical discrimination, the prejudiced mindset of mass media, educational, occupational and residential segregation and the negative impact of the cycle of poverty. The accumulation of this aspect promotes the emergence of individual disadvantages which translates into group disadvantage. For example, research on career opportunities and housing arrangements for racial groups indicates that discrimination and stereotyping is prevalent. The presence of these elements adversely affects the ability of minority students and harms their potential for further development. Through the application of the concepts of aforementioned arguments it can be concluded that race can be justified as an element of consideration in the holistic admissions process which evaluates the individual candidate’s abilities beyond the traditional measures of admissions criteria and takes into account the significance of their life experiences.

Ebola disease Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Ebola disease - Research Paper Example It is no secret that the most recent West African outbreaks of Ebola that managed to reach the borders of United States in more than one locale (Bausch, & Schwarz, 2014). This is no small problem and people need to be aware of the truth about Ebola and how best to prevent and infection in the first place. In the end, understanding what Ebola is and where it comes from, as well as, how it manifests and how to address break-outs of such a threatening disease is essential. Ebola Virus Disease was originally discovered in Africa, specifically the Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo, in 1976. Over the course of the last 35 years fears of outbreaks have remained a major concern for agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The name Ebola was assigned the virus for the Ebola River, near the first initial outbreak. However, other subcategories of the Ebola virus have been indentified in places like, Zaire, Reston, and the Tai Forest (Nall, 2014). At least 4 of the most deadly strains are specifically found in Africa. Ebola is a from a family of diseases called Filoviridae and can manifest a number of symptoms that can be mistaken for less lethal or contagious diseases, like a common influenza (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014). The Ebola virus invades the body and will remain unnoticed during the incubation period, which can be between 2 and 21 days. Ebola manifests as a s evere, hemorrhagic fever, fatigue, muscle aches and pains, damages liver and kidneys, and impedes normal function, and severe vomiting. However, it is the bleeding that is often, both, internal and external, and can be seen exuding from the gums or in their stool samples that is unique to the virus (World Health Organization, 2014). Again, because many of the symptoms of Ebola its presence it is often mistaken for a less virulent, more common, virus. That said Ebola may go misdiagnosed until the outbreak

Domains Of Culture Essay Example for Free

Domains Of Culture Essay 1. When you think about the origins of Religion and Spirituality in American culture, a lot of different ideas, stories or parables come to mind. But one question is hardly ever asked or even thought of. Does American culture have a religion? More to the point, is there a religion that can solely be sourced to origins on American soil? The answer is yes. Both Mormonism and Scientology have roots deeply planted in American culture. However, around 25,000 Americans practice Scientology and an estimated 6. 1 Million Americans practice Mormonism. That makes up 1.8% of Americans, in addition to that most Americans dont recognize Scientology as a real religion and Mormonism falls under the Christianity branch of belief. So what ideas are truly native the country. I believe you must add Native American Spirituality to this argument as a source of religion truly sourced and founded in America as it is still practiced by a vast majority of living Native Americans. But in order to get to that we must first talk about the origins of Christianity as it stands with Americans today. 2. As it is true that Christianity is the most prevalent religion in America, It is also true that Christianity was brought to this soil with the first settlers. In England you had two choices for worship, The Roman Catholic Church and The Church of England. Both Christian churches, and theses settlers knew nothing but that so it comes to no surprise that those are the two major influences on American religion and spirituality. It should also be noted that those settlers wanted to distance themselves from Englands brand of religion so badly that the First Amendment of the Constitution explicitly lays out the separation of Church and State1. Christianity then splintered off into the various denominations that we have today, yet all of those styles still have the same foundation that can be traced back to Rome or England. Native Americans on the other hand dont have those same beliefs. While Christianity focuses on a One true Higher Power, Native Americans look more to selection of Spi ritual figures known as Deities. 3. Native American culture focuses more on the Earth, Weather, Sky and Sprits who manifest physical form as Deities. Depending on the culture these beings can be attributed to almost everything that is possible or could be possible. In most Native American Cultures there is  always one deity that creates man but, they are not always benevolent. The Abenaki and the Algonquian tribes believe that life was created out wood, stone and other earthly elements by Tabaldak so that the earth could be full. If you follow the Navajo the Earth itself was created by AsdzÄ…Ì Ã„…Ì  Nà ¡dleehà ©, she was also responsible for the stars and sky2. So who is right and who is wrong? No one can say. Most of these deities are created in myths and stories passed down from generation to generation. But the message is the same across the tribes, Give thanks for what we have for it is not always promised. Now that we have an idea as how Native American Culture sees religion, lets see if matches up with how American Culture sees it. 4. In Conclusion, we have seen how the most prevalent form of spirituality in American in not was actually brought in from England. That religion lays out the idea of a Supreme God who commands from Heaven and is omnipotent. While the Native American Culture has its religious and spiritual roots found on American soil. They champion multiple deities who are responsible everything from creation to the basic things like food and water. The one thing they both have in common is you are expected to be a good wholesome person or you will be judged for you actions. In the afterlife for the Christians or when you just so happen to come across whatever deity you have offended with the Native American Culture. So no matter what you happen to believe in remember to be a good person and be ready to be responsible for your actions. 1 United States History website, http://www.u-s-history.com/pages/h3787.html 2 Wheelwright, Mary C. (2008) [1942]. Navajo Creation Myth: The Story of the Emergence. Forgotten Books. p.17

Kilbrandon: Punitive approach to justice in Scotland.

Kilbrandon: Punitive approach to justice in Scotland. This essay will critically evaluate the Kilbrandon ethos and will examine the proposed integrative, welfare-orientated approach in the decision making concerning children and their welfare. It will also take into account the recent moves towards a more punitive approach and the response concerning this modification. The Kilbrandon Report was established in 1964 by Lord Kilbrandon. Kilbrandon reviewed the existing juvenile justice system and felt the need to implement a new innovative radical approach to help deal with the existing juvenile delinquency and school truanting in Scotland. By analysing the courts records of child offenders the aforementioned highlighted that the majority of those individuals came from unfortunate backgrounds and may possibly have experienced various situations within their young lives. (Lockyer, A. Stone, F.H. 1998) It is necessary to look at where the child centred approach arose from and what this meant for the criminal justice system as a whole. The 1908 Childrens Act (UK) was known as the first Childrens Charter in Scotland due to the impact it had and the concern it showed for childrens individual rights. As a result of this act the death sentence was abolished for children and imprisonment for children dealt with in a more acceptable manner. The separation of juvenile and adults courts was looked upon as the way forward by means of looking at childrens needs in a more specific manner, thus forming the basis of child protection. The idea behind child protection was to protect them from harm, neglect or cruelty however; this sometimes meant having to remove the child from the family home. Over the next few years there were various areas of progress which led to the evolvement of the Children and Young Persons (S) Act 1937. This act defined a child as being under the age of 14 and the crimina l responsibility age rose from seven years to eight years of age. The criminal age in Scotland has risen to 12 years of age 10 for the rest of the UK. A child aged between 14 and 17 was then known as a young person. The 1937 act saw the separation of children and young people and implemented different ways in dealing with various behaviours or offending. (Hothersall, S. 2005) The post war years saw a number of issues surface and prompted the government to take action in regards to their stance on dealing with the welfare of children and young people within society. In 1961 Lord Kilbrandon proposed to implement a new welfare based system which was produced in 1964 and which was included into legislation by 1968, this approach would take a holistic approach to those matters which caused the greatest concern of that of children and young people within society. The primary aim was to focus on children who were in need of help or care, persistent truants or beyond the control of their parents. His approach would examine how offending issues and how the lack of social education had played a vital role in juvenile offending and deviant behaviour. As a result of this the recommendation by the committee it was put forward which would form the basis of the Social Work Act 1968. Their main aim was to recognise and take responsibility for community welfare; in conjunction with this the childrens hearing system would take societys failures into consideration. (Action for children 2009) Kilbrandon based his approach upon needs not deeds and believed that those children who were brought before the justice system or who were in need of care warranted intervention and the prevention of criminalisation to avoid stigmatisation. His beliefs and principles were child centred and seen to be in the childs best interest. (Mcara, L. 2005) The main principle on which the ethos structure was based upon was by taking into regards any decision made in respects to the childrens welfare as it should be primarily based upon the best interests of the child and their overall needs. The system should not take into account what the child has done, past or present. The change to the system helped to define who was in need of compulsory measures of care regardless of whether they had been abused or had committed offences. (Muncie, J. Goldson, B. 2006) The welfare approach has the option to modify the approach in cases of serious offences. Each remedy is not always going to be the same as it is not possible due to the similar influences and demises in a childs life. The Kilbrandon philosophy unfortunately attracts high expectations and sometimes these expectations can be thwarted. Kilbrandons ethos is based on taking the childs needs into consideration and trying to work with families and agencies to give the child the care and support they need and to try and keep families together as much as possible, sometimes this option is not possible. By using the forward thinking approach in regards to preventative measures it allows the childs needs to be examined. So would introducing a more punitive system be the answer? Do children have to separate from their families to be rehabilitated and cared for? Helping with educational and behavioural problems would certainly be a challenge but would definitely help to build confidences and aid the principle of rehabilitation. Early intervention strategies could certainly prove useful in the prevention of further offending. (As cited in Croall, H. et al 2010) By introducing the new innovative system Scotland was fast becoming a country with a unique childrens hearing system in place. The childrens hearing system was put together from three carefully selected volunteer lay members and trained volunteers from all walks of life and with varying life experiences from the local community. (SCRA) The system furthermore involved the guidance of a trained individual, the Reporter who was required to give advice on procedures and legal issues concerning the hearing and oversee the overall hearing process. An important aspect when considering what decision has to be made comes from the understanding and the investigation of contributing factors leading to the childs or families problems. The panel has to consider each aspect just as important as the next and by listening to the viewpoints of others involved can help make the decision process marginally easier. As the members of the lay party are from the local community it allows their input on the decision to be taken into consideration in conjunction with the involvement of detached professionals, the childs family and the childs own rights. (SCRA) Although, Scotland has long been admired for its approach towards youth offending by working in conjunction with multi-agencies on a child centred approach its unique child welfare approach has at no time had its system reviewed. (Action for children, 2004). Times have changed and so has the challenges that children and young people face within society. Society has also seen a change in family circumstances which include divorce, single parent families, and alcohol and drug abuse problems. There are also the underlying factors to consider which may include child abuse, neglect, delinquency, truancy and poverty. As a consequence of this questions are arising as to whether the system Scotland has in place to deal with young offenders is still viable. In 2002 NCH Scotland carried out its own inquiry into Scotlands hearing system and the results were made available in 2004 for evaluation. The inquiry did however highlight the fact that the system itself was solid nevertheless; there were a number of recommendations put forward to help with certain weaknesses within the system. (Action for children, 2004). According to SACRO the childrens hearing system is not failing but they suggest however, due to the lack of resources available this is having an adverse effect on the effectiveness of the overall system. SACRO also believe that there should be a single system in place to take on a holistic overview of the issues involved instead on focusing primarily on a welfarist approach. By introducing a more effective element of restorative justice this may well assist in allowing the youth justice system to achieve this aspect of concern. (SACRO ) The perceived strengths of the Kilbrandon report includes various aspects which most individuals today would consider as expected however, there are those who may feel that the system is too soft and could be more punitive. The strengths of the report include: needs and deeds, a holistic approach, child centred and welfare focused, an informal hearing system, protection of children and young people, multi-agency working including the family where possible and dealing with care and protection issues of the children and young people. (Phillips, S. 2008) However, the report does highlight various weaknesses which include: the lack of resources available, the families lack of knowledge in relation to the system and the lack of the panels understanding of the families. Poorly trained panel members, some families not being included in the decision making, lack of social workers and also the formality of the system can be intimidating for the children and young people involved. One major concern is the fact that the system does not work successfully when it is dealing with school related issues including truanting and school refusal. An important issue that has an impact on the justice system is the financial backing as this has been said to have an adverse effect on the youth justice system. (Muncie, J. 2004) So what exactly is Justice? Justice is regarded as what has the best consequences. Created by the public and authorities it is enforceable rules and legislations, it is there to protect society by showing what is fair and what is wrong and the latter resulting in punishment. Justice itself is there to be enforced upon when groups or individuals need it to be. However, Justice for children can be looked upon as providing the opportunity of equality to help the child or young person improve their prospects in prospective safe and caring surroundings. (Goldson, B. 2008) An important issue that has become apparent over the years is the large increase of referrals in relation to care and protection cases compared to that of offending within the childrens hearing system. The NCH enquiry 2002 highlighted the need for the mainstream and preventative services to improve efficiencies and address the number of cases being sent to the childrens hearing system. (Action for children, 2004) When examining the alternative systems of dealing with young offenders in Scotland the NCH 2002 enquiry compared Scotlands system to that of England and Wales. Both of these countries are seen to have a more punitive approach when dealing with youth justice. The results indicated a higher number of young offenders detained within prison establishments, and a higher number of deterrents and confinement orders in place in relation to working towards rehabilitation in comparison with Scotland. The figures gathered indicated an overall increase of 800% of twelve to fourteen years over a ten year period due to the increase of sentences and imposition prison placed on these young people in England and Wales. However, the adverse effect of these figures is the fact that many of these young people may find themselves segregated from others, bullied or may be more likely to self-harm. The NCH looked at these figures not as a success towards offending behaviour as the recidivism rate in England and Wales was between 72/90%, but alternatively as unsuitable and an ineffective form of punitive punishment for children and young people. They believe that the more a child is punished by the justice system the more likely the chance of the child becoming further involved within the justice system itself and only adding to the likely hood of reoffending in the future. (Action for children, 2004) Implementing a more punitive approach within Scotlands youth justice system would also prove to be costly as the figures indicated that in 2002 England and Wales spent in the region of  £207 million on custodial sentences compared to that of their community based community rehabilitation programmes which cost  £76 million. The cost itself made the copying of their punitive approach an undesirable option for Scotland. (Action for children, 2004) The NCHs report in 2002 recommended that the Childrens hearing system continue to reach its full potential and by continuing to use its holistic and understanding approach when dealing with children and young people it would no doubt be more effective than introducing a more punitive approach. (Action for children, 2004) What has become clearer over the years is the matter of dealing with young people aged between 16 and 17 years of age. In 2004 Scotland introduced two pilot youth courts one in Hamilton and one in Airdrie. Their main aim was to tackle youth crime in a more effective and severe manner. The objectives included social inclusion, reduction of the offending frequency of 16 and 17 year olds and the seriousness of their crimes. A fast track procedure was put in place for those individuals appearing before the youth court. By testing the existing legislation the courts would be able to demonstrate their effectiveness and whether deemed appropriate when dealing with young offenders. Overall the prospect of youth courts looked at enhancing safety within the community and dealing with those involved in persistent offending within high crime areas. (The Scottish Government, 2006) An evaluation between June 2003 and December 2004 of Hamilton youth court recorded a total of 611 cases 402 of those cases involved young people. Airdrie youth court was evaluated between June 2004 and December 2005 and a total of 543 cases were recorded of which 341 involved young people. Those involved were aged between 16 and 17 years of age and were primarily male who were prosecuted on single occasions. (The Scottish Government, 2006) Most of those who appeared before the youth courts had low attainment levels and many admitted to drink or drug misuse. Cases brought before the youth courts included assault, possession of drugs, carrying of offensive weapons or most commonly breach of the peace. Most of the young people who appeared before the youth court were granted bail or ordained to appear before the court. Sentencing of young people included the use of electronic monitoring (tagging) as a condition of their bail release or they may have incurred a police monitored curfew. (The Scottish Government, 2006) The overall analysis of the youth court pilot scheme in Airdrie indicated that the use of community based social work disposals dropped and the execution of prison sentences rose. However, in Hamilton there was not a noticeable difference in the use of disposals highlighting the fact that community service and detention issues were better served within the youth court rather than the Sherriff court. Through the introduction of these youth courts they have proved a success when dealing with young people and they are receiving a wider range of resources and services. Nevertheless, the report has suggested that there is a need for further clarity to determine who exactly the youth courts are for. (The Scottish Government, 2006) According to Barnett 1977 the main objective in dealing with offenders should not be to punish, not even to re-educate but to repair or to compensate for the harm caused by the offence (as cited in Lockyer, A Stone, F.H 1998, p248) Believers in restorative justice consider this type of scheme useful when dealing with young offenders. By focusing on the damage the crime has caused an individual or a community it could work towards resolving and restoring the damage caused. The main aim of restorative justice is to primarily concentrate on the victim and not the offender although measures will be incorporated to aid the integration the offender back into the community. However, merging the Kilbrandon philosophy and restorative justice measures for some may raise concerns. (Lockyer, A Stone, F.H 1998) The Kilbrandon Ethos is humane and provides a caring and understanding system for those children and young people involved in it. The fact that the system helps to support the child and rehabilitate when necessary enforces the child centred approach and by comparing the system to that of the one in England and Wales can only highlight the differences in relation to recidivism. The system needs to have the funding in place to help improve the service it offers at present. By providing the family with a proper understanding of the hearing system would allow the involvement with decision making. Overall the Kilbrandon approach deems to be more effective than imposing punitive measures. By further educating and improving communication within the various agencies would help improve the decisions made and the number of cases put before the system. What also has to be addressed is the vulnerable age group of those aged 16 and 17 years. They are not seen as children or adults and so the syst em needs to take into consideration the needs of this age group and deal with the young people in an effective and efficient manner.

Telecommunications Industry Overview

Telecommunications Industry Overview Telecom Sector Global Perspective Components and factors responsible behind the growth of telecommunications industry Two major factors responsible for the growth of telecommunications industry are use of modern technology and market competition. One of the products of modern technologies is optical fibers, which are being used as a medium of data transmission instead of using coaxial or twisted pair cables. Optical fibers can carry a high volume of data and are easier to maintain and install. Use of communication satellites makes this telecommunications industry a booming industry. The use of mobile network has a crucial role behind the growth of an improved telecommunications industry. Leading companies are showing their interest to invest in this telecommunications industry. Telecommunications industry is going to be a digitized one. Use of ISDN (Inter Services Digital Network) makes this telecommunication industry a total digitalized system and eventually enhanced the speed and quality of digital communication. Economical aspect of telecommunication industry World telecom industry is taking a crucial part of world economy. The total revenue earned from this industry is 3 percent of the gross world products and is aiming at attaining more revenues. One statistical report reveals that approximately 16.9% of the world population has access to the Internet. Present market scenario of world telecom industry Over the last couple of years, world telecommunication industry has been consolidating by allowing private organizations the opportunities to run their businesses with this industry. The Government monopolies are now being privatized and consequently competition is developing. Among all, the domestic and small business markets are the hardest. Market potentiality of world telecommunication industry The world telecommunications market is expected to rise at an 11 percent compound annual growth rate at the end of year 2010. The leading telecom companies like ATT, Vodafone, Verizon, SBC Communications, Bell South, Qwest Communications are trying to take the advantage of this growth. These companies are working on telecommunication fields like broadband technologies, EDGE(Enhanced Data rates for Global Evolution) technologies, LAN-WAN inter networking, optical networking, voice over Internet protocol, wireless data service etc. Top Global Telecom Players NAME ABOUT THE COMPANY SUBSCRIBERS in millions (09) REVENUE (in US billion$) China Mobile State owned Company, one of the 2 mobile phone monopolies in China Over 508 16.115 Vodafone Group Britains largest Telecom operator Over 427 68.32 Telefà ³nica, S.A. Multinational Company with stakes in Spain, Latin America Europa. Owns the O2 Brand Over 210 72.13 Amà ©rica Mà ³vil Mexican Operator. Controlled by the worlds richest man Carlos Slim Over 201 30.2 Telenor Group The company has a strong footprint in Central and Eastern Europe and Asia with over 40,000 employees. Over 172 15.73 Deutsche Telekom AG German telecom Company. Also owns t-mobile. Over 150 82.13 China Unicom China Unicom (BVI) Limited effectively holds 40.92% of the company and China Netcom Group (BVI) Limited holds 29.49%, while the remainder is traded on the Shanghai, Hong Kong and the New York stock exchanges. Both majority shareholders are state controlled enterprises. Over 186 14.62 TeliaSonera AB Offer services in 20 markets in the Nordic and Baltic countries, the emerging markets of Eurasia, including Russia and Turkey, and in Spain. Over 150 15.04 France Tà ©là ©com S.A. It is the main telecommunication company in France, the third largest in Europe. It currently employs about 180,000 people worldwide. Over 193 68.08 Bharti Airtel One of Asias leading integrated telecom services providers with operations in 19 countries across Asia and Africa. Zain is the new acquisition. Over 124 7.254 Mergers Acquisition Mergers and acquisitions (MA) and corporate restructuring are a big part of the corporate finance world. Every day, Wall Street investment bankers arrange MA transactions, which bring separate companies together to form larger ones. When theyre not creating big companies from smaller ones, corporate finance deals do the reverse and break up companies through spinoffs, carve-outs or tracking stocks. Not surprisingly, these actions often make the news. Deals can be worth hundreds of millions, or even billions, of dollars. They can dictate the fortunes of the companies involved for years to come. For a CEO, leading an MA can represent the highlight of a whole career. And it is no wonder we hear about so many of these transactions; they happen all the time. Next time you flip open the newspapers business section, odds are good that at least one headline will announce some kind of MA transaction. Sure, MA deals grab headlines, but what does this all mean to investors? To answer this quest ion, this tutorial discusses the forces that drive companies to buy or merge with others, or to split-off or sell parts of their own businesses. Once you know the different ways in which these deals are executed, youll have a better idea of whether you should cheer or weep when a company you own buys another company or is bought by one. You will also be aware of the tax consequences for companies and for investors. Defining MA One plus one makes three: this equation is the special alchemy of a merger or an acquisition. The key principle behind buying a company is to create shareholder value over and above that of the sum of the two companies. Two companies together are more valuable than two separate companies at least, thats the reasoning behind MA. This rationale is particularly alluring to companies when times are tough. Strong companies will act to buy other companies to create a more competitive, cost-efficient company. The companies will come together hoping to gain a greater market share or to achieve greater efficiency. Because of these potential benefits, target companies will often agree to be purchased when they know they cannot survive alone. Distinction between Mergers and Acquisitions Although they are often uttered in the same breath and used as though they were synonymous, the terms merger and acquisition mean slightly different things. When one company takes over another and clearly established itself as the new owner, the purchase is called an acquisition. From a legal point of view, the target company ceases to exist, the buyer swallows the business and the buyers stock continues to be traded. In the pure sense of the term, a merger happens when two firms, often of about the same size, agree to go forward as a single new company rather than remain separately owned and operated. This kind of action is more precisely referred to as a merger of equals. Both companies stocks are surrendered and new company stock is issued in its place. For example, both Daimler-Benz and Chrysler ceased to exist when the two firms merged, and a new company, DaimlerChrysler, was created. In practice, however, actual mergers of equals dont happen very often. Usually, one company wil l buy another and, as part of the deals terms, simply allow the acquired firm to proclaim that the action is a merger of equals, even if its technically an acquisition. Being bought out often carries negative connotations, therefore, by describing the deal as a merger, deal makers and top managers try to make the takeover more palatable. A purchase deal will also be called a merger when both CEOs agree that joining together is in the best interest of both of their companies. But when the deal is unfriendly that is, when the target company does not want to be purchased it is always regarded as an acquisition. Whether a purchase is considered a merger or an acquisition really depends on whether the purchase is friendly or hostile and how it is announced. In other words, the real difference lies in how the purchase is communicated to and received by the target companys board of directors, employees and shareholders. The Deal Start with an Offer When the CEO and top managers of a company decide that they want to do a merger or acquisition, they start with a tender offer. The process typically begins with the acquiring company carefully and discreetly buying up shares in the target company, or building a position. Once the acquiring company starts to purchase shares in the open market, it is restricted to buying 5% of the total outstanding shares before it must file with the SEC. In the filing, the company must formally declare how many shares it owns and whether it intends to buy the company or keep the shares purely as an investment. Working with financial advisors and investment bankers, the acquiring company will arrive at an overall price that its willing to pay for its target in cash, shares or both. The tender offer is then frequently advertised in the business press, stating the offer price and the deadline by which the shareholders in the target company must accept (or reject) it. The Targets Response Once the tender offer has been made, the target company can do one of several things: Accept the Terms of the Offer If the target firms top managers and shareholders are happy with the terms of the transaction, they will go ahead with the deal. Attempt to Negotiate The tender offer price may not be high enough for the target companys shareholders to accept, or the specific terms of the deal may not be attractive. In a merger, there may be much at stake for the management of the target their jobs, in particular. If theyre not satisfied with the terms laid out in the tender offer, the targets management may try to work out more agreeable terms that let them keep their jobs or, even better, send them off with a nice, big compensation package. Not surprisingly, highly sought-after target companies that are the object of several bidders will have greater latitude for negotiation. Furthermore, managers have more negotiating power if they can show that they are crucial to the mergers future success. Execute a Poison Pill or Some Other Hostile Takeover Defense- A poison pill scheme can be triggered by a target company when a hostile suitor acquires a predetermined percentage of company stock. To execute its defense, the target company grants all shareholders except the acquiring company options to buy additional stock at a dramatic discount. This dilutes the acquiring companys share and intercepts its control of the company. Find a White Knight As an alternative, the target companys management may seek out a friendlier potential acquiring company, or white knight. If a white knight is found, it will offer an equal or higher price for the shares than the hostile bidder. Mergers and acquisitions can face scrutiny from regulatory bodies. For example, if the two biggest long-distance companies in the U.S., ATT and Sprint, wanted to merge, the deal would require approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC would probably regard a merger of the two giants as the creation of a monopoly or, at the very least, a threat to competition in the industry. Closing the Deal Finally, once the target company agrees to the tender offer and regulatory requirements are met, the merger deal will be executed by means of some transaction. In a merger in which one company buys another, the acquiring company will pay for the target companys shares with cash, stock or both. A cash-for-stock transaction is fairly straightforward: target company shareholders receive a cash payment for each share purchased. This transaction is treated as a taxable sale of the shares of the target company. If the transaction is made with stock instead of cash, then its not taxable. There is simply an exchange of share certificates. The desire to steer clear of the tax man explains why so many MA deals are carried out as stock-for-stock transactions. When a company is purchased with stock, new shares from the acquiring companys stock are issued directly to the target companys shareholders, or the new shares are sent to a broker who manages them for target company shareholders. The shar eholders of the target company are only taxed when they sell their new shares. When the deal is closed, investors usually receive a new stock in their portfolios the acquiring companys expanded stock. Sometimes investors will get new stock identifying a new corporate entity that is created by the MA deal. Why They Can Fail Its no secret that plenty of mergers dont work. Those who advocate mergers will argue that the merger will cut costs or boost revenues by more than enough to justify the price premium. It can sound so simple: just combine computer systems, merge a few departments, use sheer size to force down the price of supplies and the merged giant should be more profitable than its parts. In theory, 1+1 = 3 sounds great, but in practice, things can go awry. Historical trends show that roughly two thirds of big mergers will disappoint on their own terms, which means they will lose value on the stock market. The motivations that drive mergers can be flawed and efficiencies from economies of scale may prove elusive. In many cases, the problems associated with trying to make merged companies work are all too concrete. Flawed Intentions For starters, a booming stock market encourages mergers, which can spell trouble. Deals done with highly rated stock as currency are easy and cheap, but the strategic thinking behind them may be easy and cheap too. Also, mergers are often attempt to imitate: somebody else has done a big merger, which prompts other top executives to follow suit. A merger may often have more to do with glory-seeking than business strategy. The executive ego, which is boosted by buying the competition, is a major force in MA, especially when combined with the influences from the bankers, lawyers and other assorted advisers who can earn big fees from clients engaged in mergers. Most CEOs get to where they are because they want to be the biggest and the best, and many top executives get a big bonus for merger deals, no matter what happens to the share price later. On the other side of the coin, mergers can be driven by generalized fear. Globalization, the arrival of new technological developments or a fas t-changing economic landscape that makes the outlook uncertain are all factors that can create a strong incentive for defensive mergers. Sometimes the management team feels they have no choice and must acquire a rival before being acquired. The idea is that only big players will survive a more competitive world. The Obstacles to making it Work Coping with a merger can make top managers spread their time too thinly and neglect their core business, spelling doom. Too often, potential difficulties seem trivial to managers caught up in the thrill of the big deal. The chances for success are further hampered if the corporate cultures of the companies are very different. When a company is acquired, the decision is typically based on product or market synergies, but cultural differences are often ignored. Its a mistake to assume that personnel issues are easily overcome. For example, employees at a target company might be accustomed to easy access to top management, flexible work schedules or even a relaxed dress code. These aspects of a working environment may not seem significant, but if new management removes them, the result can be resentment and shrinking productivity. More insight into the failure of mergers is found in the highly acclaimed study from McKinsey, a global consultancy. The study concludes that companies often focus too intently on cutting costs following mergers, while revenues, and ultimately, profits, suffer. Merging companies can focus on integration and cost-cutting so much that they neglect day-to-day business, thereby prompting nervous customers to flee. This loss of revenue momentum is one reason so many mergers fail to create value for shareholders. But remember, not all mergers fail. Size and global reach can be advantageous, and strong managers can often squeeze greater efficiency out of badly run rivals. Nevertheless, the promises made by deal makers demand the careful scrutiny of investors. The success of mergers depends on how realistic the deal makers are and how well they can integrate two companies while maintaining day-to-day operations. Conclusion One size doesnt fit all. Many companies find that the best way to get ahead is to expand ownership boundaries through mergers and acquisitions. For others, separating the public ownership of a subsidiary or business segment offers more advantages. At least in theory, mergers create synergies and economies of scale, expanding operations and cutting costs. Investors can take comfort in the idea that a merger will deliver enhanced market power. By contrast, de-merged companies often enjoy improved operating performance thanks to redesigned management incentives. Additional capital can fund growth organically or through acquisition. Meanwhile, investors benefit from the improved information flow from de-merged companies. MA comes in all shapes and sizes, and investors need to consider the complex issues involved in MA. The most beneficial form of equity structure involves a complete analysis of the costs and benefits associated with the deals. Telecom Sector Overview INDIA Sub Base: 635.51 mn second largest market Wireless Penetration: 53.77% lowest in the world HHI Index: very high one of the most competitive market Prepaid Base: 96% one of the highest in the world Usage per sub per month: Minutes: 480 one of the highest ARPU: US$ 4.6 one of the lowest Rate per minute: US$ 0.01 one of the lowest in the world VAS:-11.6% One of the lowest Wireless Market Structure Subscriber Trends Customer Market Share (CMS) About Bharti Airtel BhartiAirtel, a leading mobile service provider in India is Bharti Enterprises flagship company. According to Forbes Global 2000 list, BhartiAirtel, Indias pioneering private telecommunication service provider is ranked no. 826. This integrated telecom service provider operates three strategic business units covering 23 telecommunication circles. These 3 strategic businesses are mobile business, enterprise business, and Airteltelemedia business. Their mobile business comprising fixed wireless and mobile services is spread over 23 telecom circles, whereas their Airteltelemedia business provides telephone and broadband services to clients in 94 cities. International and domestic long distance services and end to end telecommunication solution for companies are included in Airtel enterprise business. Brief history BhartiAirtel was established as Bharti Tele-Ventures Limited in 1985. This telecommunication company is a joint stock holding enterprise headquartered in New Delhi. BhartiAirtel, commonly called Airtel is among largest mobile service operator with a subscriber base of nearly 75 million. Airtel has a submarine cable landing station in Chennai connecting this South Indian city to Singapore. Products and services Services offered by BhartiAirtel can be classified into the following: Mobile services Based on number of customers BhartiAirtel is largest mobile service operator in India. This company offers mobile services based on GSM technology. For convenience of its customers BhartiAirtel has both pre- paid and post-paid facilities. Enterprise business BhartiAirtel provides integrated services comprising mobile, telephone, broadband, data and connectivity services internationally as well as nationally for small, medium and large scale enterprises. Its carrier service provides network connectivity through optic fiber over a distance of more than 35,000 km. BhartiAirtel is a member of South East Asia Middle East Western Europe 4 consortiums which include 15 global telecommunication service providers. AirtelTelemedia Services This Company offers high speed broadband services through landlines in 94 cities. Financials BhartiAirtel till March 2008 had assets worth US $6.61 billion. During period between April 2007 March 2008, it achieved sales amounting to US $6.61 billion and profits of US $0.94 billion. Awards and recognition BhartiAirtel was adjudged Best Carrier India at 2008 Telecom Asia. It was recognized as Best Cellular Service Provider and Best Broadband Service Provider at VD 100 awards for 2008. In 2007, BhartiAirtel won Business Leadership Award from NDTV Profit. BHARTI AIRTELS ROADMAP The management of BhartiAirtel Ltd is led by ManojKohli who planned to introduce affordability and high usage in its African portfolio which is currently a high price environment (with tariffs in some markets as high as Europe/US according to Bharti). Some of the key points about replicating Indian Wireless business model in Africa that are in favor of Airtel are, Bhartis 15-country portfolio has a population is 459m as of June 2010. Share of population living in urban areas in Africa is ~40% according to Bharti and expected to grow to 40%. This compares to 30% of Indias population living in urban areas. The youth population in Africa accounts for a fourth of the global youth and had a median age of 17-18 years. The working population is estimated to be higher than that in China and the middle class is 400m people, expected to growth to 500m. GDP growth in 27 economies in Africa is 5%+. BhartiAirtel stressed that governments had received Bharti well in Africa and that some officials stated that Bhartis plans are in-line with their own. Current Wireless penetration adjusting for Multiple SIMs is around 24%. Operators have 20MHz of 2G spectrum and 10MHz of 3G (those who do) which Bharti stated implies little room for more competitors. COMPANIES OF BHARTI ENTERPRISES BhartiAirtel: BhartiAirtel is Indias leading provider of telecommunications services. The company provides GSM mobile services across India in 23 telecom circles and broadband telephone services in 90 cities. Bharti Teletech Ltd.: Bharti TeleTech manufactures and exports world-class telecom equipment under the brand Beetel. It is the only Indian telephone company to be present in 30 countries mapping 5 continents. The companys product range include Basic Telephones, Caller ID Phones, Caller ID Boxes, Cordless Phones, 2.4 GHz Digital Cordless Phones, DECT 1.8 GHz Phones, and Set Top Boxes. Telecom Seychelles Ltd: Telecom Seychelles Ltd provides comprehensive telecom services including GSM Cellular, PSTN (Fixed Lines), Fax and Data, International Roaming, connectivity to Internet Services, Maritime Telecom Services (INMARSAT) and International Collect and Credit Card calling, in Seychelles, under the brand Airtel. BhartiTelesoft Ltd: BhartiTelesoft Ltd provides value added services and solutions to wireless and wireline carriers worldwide. BhartiTelesoft Ltd ha deployed products and solutions in 25 countries to over 100 network, and has a customer base of 150 million across 5 continents. TeleTech Services (India) Ltd: TeleTech Services (India) Ltd is a joint venture between TeleTech Holdings, Inc., worlds leading full-service provider of business process outsourcing and Bharti TeleTech Ltd. The company offers offer the entire spectrum of front-to-back-office business processes ranging from voice and non-voice customer support, back office administration (including credit and collections, account maintenance, application processing, claims processing, asset management, document management etc.), sales and marketing (including database marketing, marketing support, web sales and marketing etc.) to global customers. FieldFresh Foods Pvt Ltd: FieldFresh Foods (P) Ltd is an equal partnership venture between Bharti Enterprises and ELRo Holdings India Ltd, an investment company of the Rothschild family. The company provides premium quality fresh produce to the markets worldwide and promotes world class standards for agricultural practices, progressive farming techniques identification and adoption of appropriate technologies. Bharti Retail Pvt Ltd: Bharti Retail Pvt Ltd. is a 100% subsidiary of Bharti Enterprises. Bharti Retail is planning to launch its retail outlets in multiple consumer friendly formats in several cities across India African Telecom Sector It is one of the best penetrating opportunities for the global telecom players is the telecom market in Africa. In Asia, Europe, North America, the telecom sector is approaching a saturation point. The growth in these areas will be comparatively slower. The companies always look for the maximization of profit, whether it may be through cutting down of cost or increasing the sales. If the market reaches a saturation point then there is no opportunity to increase the sale. And if the company cannot decrease the cost then it will try either to diversify or to expand its grip in the global market. If the areas like North America, Asia and Europe are already in a saturation point then the next growing market for the global player will be Africa continent. Some of the major players in the telecom sectors of Africa are MTN, Zain, Vodacom, STC etc. Since the processes of liberalization and privatization have been taken into consideration by African countries such as Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, The Sudan, South Africa and Kenya, their telecommunication infrastructures have improved drastically. Many African governments have developed their telecommunication infrastructure by privatizing their former state-owned enterprises. So these open up the stage for global players to perform in it. Africa has become the fastest growing mobile-network market during last five years. The mobile user base has increased to more than 82 million in Africa. A survey by Ernst Young shows that between 2002-07, the industry grew by 49.3 percent as opposed to Asia which recorded a 27.4 percent growth. This reports estimate growth of the industry almost doubles that of Brazil which stood at 28 percent in the same period and is almost seven times the growth of France which grew at 7.5 percent over the same time. Even there was a report by The World Bank in which it mentioned that Afro-nations like Kenya have 95% of mobile network penetration and coverage gap of only 5%. Thus making it an attractive market to lure some of the major player from the world. Lets think a bit over this scenario. Why the Afro mobile market is developing so late and faster than any area that used to be at the same period of time. In 2004, only 6% of the African citizen owned mobile. The supply side was much higher than the demand side. And the prices dropped, but made the African mobile network market a huge potential market for the global players. They produced low cost and user-friendly phones and network plans to attract more and more customer so that the company can increase its customer base. But there some other criteria or which we also call as external environment of a company which affects a company to operate in that area. The Law of Land also affects the company to design its operation in a country. They may be the tax-policy, the FDI policy of the government, the policy regarding and regulating the telecom sectors etc. Because of these regulations, there are many Afro-nations like South Africa which hold a huge potential market. In South Africa, there are only three players in telecom network market. The heavy tax burden on both the operator and consumer is the major challenge for the industry, with an average taxation on the operators profits standing at 30%. For example, in Kenya, people pay tax of 26% on mobile communication and the operator pay the remaining 4%. The total tax paid is 30%. But still the government of these nations opines that the industry is highly profitable, despite of the fact that return on investment could be delayed due to poor infrastructure. The Afro-nation doesnt have the apt infrastructure or the geographical hindrances as well as the population is scattered. The main problem lies with the electric infrastructure. The company has to keep more than 2000 standby generators because of frequent power failure. On of the company operating in Kenya, Safaricom spends over KShs 171 million on diesels due to lack of power supply. This makes the cost of investment much high in comparison to the other area. The operating cost of the company is high in this area because of frequent power cut and even the tax rate is also high, thus bringing down the profit of the company. But it may be the future scenario of these countries which lures the global players. The company may sustain the loss in the short-run but it may earn profit in the long-run. Because the economy of Afro-nations are growing at a remarkable rate and the infrastructure are also gradually increasing. So it may in the long-run be aptly developed so as to favor the network industry. Moreover this is the entry level of the network sector in Africa as it is developing but once it get saturated the threat to entrants decreases because if they enter in to the segment, they will not find any extras to lure the customers. African Wireless Market Customer base: 36.36 Mn Perfomance Indicators: Revenue: 9,583 Mn EBITDA: 2,635 Mn Prepaid Base: 99.3% à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚  one of the highest in the world Usage per sub per month: 103 Minutes à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚  one of the lowest ARPU: ~US$ 7.4 à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚  one of the competitive market Rate per minute: ~US ¢ 7.2 à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚  one of the highest in the world VAS: ~7.9% à ¯Ã†â€™Ã‚  one of the lowest Emerging Market Characteristics in India Africa: Source: Airtel Investor Presentation Aug 2010 About Zain Zain is a Kuwait based company started under the name of Mobile Telecommunication Company (MTC) in 1983 and was later rebranded to ZAIN in 2007. Zain has present operation in 25 countries covering 17 countries in Africa and 8 countries in Middle-East, with a estimated workforce of 15000. As on February 2010, about 60% of the Zain customers are in Africa contributing only 15% to the net profit of Zain. Zain has a total of 65 million customers. Out of which 39 million customers are from Africa. The eight countries in Middle-East where Zain has it Operation are Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arab, Lebanon, Palestine and Sudan, It has its operation in Lebanon under the brand name of MTC TOUCH. The seventeen countries which comprises of the members of the Zains Operative family in Africa are Burkina Faso, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leona, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Morocco. Mr. Nabeel Bin S alamah is the CEO of the Zain Groups and Mr. Barak Al-Sabeeh is the chairman of the board of Director of the company. FINANCIAL FIGURES OF ZAIN Revenue : US$ 7.441 Billion Net Income :US$ 1.196 Billion Overview 4th largest mobile operator in the world in terms of geographic footprint, with a commercial presence in 23 countries 580 Million+ people under l

The Partner by John Grisham Essay -- The Partner by John Grisham

The Partner by John Grisham The Partner is one of John Grisham's best books by far! There was a little more description in The Partner, then in The Firm, but this one had a very slow intro. The book opened with an anonymous man living in Brazil under an unknown name. Patrick Lanigan, now known as Danilo Silva, was living a normal life, not making a big deal about the ninety million dollars he had stolen from his ex-law firm two years ago. Danilo is wanted by his ex-law firm buddies, his client from whom he stole the money, and from the FBI. The people that want him the most were the men hired by the client that lost the ninety million, and they were the ones he was afraid of. He knew if the FBI found him he’d be busted, but also safe, if the other thugs found him, he was dead, all they cared about was the money. One day while he was jogging Danilo is kidnapped and taken to a place where he is tortured with electricity and other devious objects. The FBI received a tip that Patrick Lanigan had been captured, and when the FBI found this team of hitmen, and took Patrick, he had already received burns on his skin and charred his flesh. When Danilo returns to his home town, he once again is Patrick Lanigan, and is forced to face up to all the things he has done in his past. The first thing he does is he gets himself a good lawyer, one he knew from his first life, an old buddy from college. A judge friend, the one who spoke at his funeral, also came to visit Patrick in the ho...

International Relations of Asia Essay -- Cold War Triangle Foreign Aff

International Relations of Asia STRATEGIC GEOMETRY   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  "This is the only region in the world where so many combinations and permutations of two- three and four- and even two plus four or three plus three- power games can be played on the regional chessboard with all their complexities and variations." introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The concept of strategic geometry comprises the notion that that the interactions and interconnections between a number of political actors within a particular system of international relations, either global or regional can be seen in terms of geometric patterns of strategic configurations. It can be a case of simple geometry, in which A interacts with B: but in a more complex system such as that of Asia, with the presence of more than one major actor, each with their distinct, sometimes conflicting political agendas, the interaction between A and B will be likely to affect C or influenced by C.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The concept of an international ‘system' itself implies that events are not random, and units within the system are interrelated in some patterned way. This ‘patterning' maybe envisaged or conceptualized as patterns of strategic geometry.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Any attempt to analyze the transition from a Cold War system of international relations to a post Cold War one, will incorporate an analysis of the general nature of the system itself, in this case the system of international relations in Asia; of the actors involved and their respective roles; how changes in the political environment and in specific policies of the actors shape the evolution of a new system; and finally the nature of the new system with its own actors, their new roles, and new concerns.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The concept of strategic geometry enables us to understand these changes in the political dynamics from one system to another, in our case the transition from the Cold War to the post Cold War era, by serving as an analytic tool. If we view the international relations of Asia, more and the interactions of the main actors in terms of strategic configurations and geometric patterns of alignments and oppositions, then we can assess changes in the political system over time by way of the changes in the strategic geometry. Some strategic configurations change, others remain the same, while new patterns of strategic geometry appear, as the old forms dissolve--the e... ... emerging will be permanent. According to Mandlebaum, "we have not seen the end of their rivalry." On the other hand, is the view that neither country has much the other needs, with both looking towards Japan and America for capital. Economics is the name of the game in East Asia, and Russia looks like a minor league player to Chinese, coupled with a deep level of cultural suspicion.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  On the other hand, the most crucial of the Cold War triangles, the Russia-US-China triangle seems to hold relatively little significance. However, two political games of today, might still substantiate the existence of this triangle 1.the crux of Chinese analysis-- that there is an inherent conflict between Moscow and Washington, on matters of aid and weapons build down which will provide openings for its own diplomacy 2. the weapons issue-- "the US fears China's success in skimming cream of weapons experts from Russia." The latter is a very Cold War type of concern: the issue of military strength, which continues to interlock the three major military powers.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In reference to the US-Japan-Russia triangle, the Japan-Russia part of the triangle still remains quite undeveloped.

Romanticism Poem and the Concept of Mercy

The concept of mercy can be a very hard thing for one to grasp. One may find themselves asking â€Å"Whom shall be given mercy? †, and â€Å"How much mercy should be shown? †. There is no definite answer to those questions as mercy can be shown in different ways. There are three particular works that emphasize the concept of mercy, each showing a different perspective. The three works that use very distinctive ways to show mercy are The Merchant of Venice, Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, and Verses Upon the Burning of our House.All of the themes of these works are much alike, as they all involve the comparison of mercy to a great power. However, there are a few distinctions among the works. In The Merchant of Venice, by William Shakespeare, the author uses a particular caption in the play to show how the concept of mercy should be perceived. Shakespeare shows the concepts of mercy by explaining how powerful mercy. Shakespeare shows this by stating, â€Å"It is an attribute to God himself,† (IV. i. 193) thus saying that God uses mercy and so should everyone else.In the narrative Versus Upon the Burning of our House, the author, Anne Bradstreet, talks about the merciful God, and how he has saved her from destruction. She writes about how she has become too materialistic and how her merciful God has helped her in her time of need. This can be shown when the author writes, â€Å"And to my God my heart did cry/To straighten me in my distress,† (8-9) In Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God, Jonathan Edwards writes about the Mercy of God as well. His account differs from Bradstreet’s a little, as he is talking about how God is the reason for everyone living.He says that if it were not for a merciful God, then no one would be living. This can be supported by the author stating, â€Å"It is nothing but His mere pleasure that keeps you from being this moment swallowed up in everlasting destruction,† (56) Even though these w orks have different variations of the concept of mercy, the overall theme is the power of mercy is unending. All three of these works demonstrate that mercy can be used in many different ways and different amounts. Although, as stated before, the theme is mostly the same over all the works, the tone is very different.Each of these works have their own clear-cut tones. Shakespeare takes on the tone of appreciation. While reading the passage, readers observe Shakespeare appreciating mercy and all its glory. Shakespeare writes, â€Å"It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven,† (IV. i. 185) giving the reader the illustration that mercy is very plentiful and gentle. Countless times throughout the passage Shakespeare speaks of the power of mercy and just how wonderful it is. As for Bradstreet and Edwards, they take on totally different tones. Bradstreet’s tone is thankfulness of mercy.The author comes across within the passage as being very thankful for Gods mercy and how s he would be lost without it. This can be proving by the following quote, â€Å"I blest his grace that gave and took,/That laid my goods now in the dust. † (14-15) This is a prime example of the author thanking God for having mercy and helping her rather than punishing her. Both Shakespeare and Bradstreet talk about what can happen when mercy is present. Edwards on the other hand talks about what will happen without mercy. Edwards describes violent and vivid images of destruction in his writing.All of which can happen without the mercy of God. He speaks of how you should fear the absence of mercy saying, â€Å"Your wickedness makes you as it were heavy as lead, and to tend downward with great weight and pressure towards hell; and if God should let you go, you would immediately sink and swiftly descend and plunge into the bottomless gulf†¦. † (56) Over all, mercy is said to be praised for its presence, and feared for its absence. The authors use multiple ways of sho wing their own perspective on the concept of mercy.The three authors’ uses of literary devices in their works help strongly support their ideas on the concept of mercy. For instance, Shakespeare uses a simile that compares mercy as being better than a crown for a king. He writes, â€Å"It becomes the throned monarch better than his crown. † This simile backs up the idea of mercy being powerful, and it can be the most powerful in those with the most power. Bradstreet uses an extended metaphor saying that the burning of her house is like the burning of her sins.She thanks God for saving her from her material things which she feels are a sin. Edwards uses multiple similes and metaphors showings Gods power and how everyone is doomed without him. For instance he writes, â€Å"The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much a one holds a spider or some loathsome insect over the fir, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked,† giving the reader the understanding that Go d is unbelievably greater than people. Each writer uses different literary devices to strengthen their views on the concept of mercy, and each is used in a very strategic manner.The concept of mercy can be interpreted by many different people many different ways. There is no set rules of mercy, and it is up for discussion among people. Everyone has their own ideas on how mercy is and should be. Who’s idea is right? Well, there is no incorrect or correct way to show mercy. In the three works of literature discussed above, each author has their own interpretation of the concept of mercy. Each work has a very distinctive way of proving their point, and each has a similarities and differences with the other works as to how mercy should be perceived.