The Blog-a-day Challenge

Official Start Time: 9:10 p.m.
Date: 10/31/08
Official End Time: 11:10 p.m.

It finally comes and I cannot find the write words to start the progress report that will reflect all the hard work I have put into the month of October. A lot of material was covered in those 30 days. Each entry took at least an hour to write and captured things that I wish I could share more easily with friends, teachers, and family. A lot of work however still needs to be done, but with the right direction I should have no problem accomplishing my goals.

I remember starting this idea, this experiment in the last few days of September. My goal was to capture something great and wonderful through my writing. To watch myself grow overtime and evolve into the person I hope to one day be. A lot of blogs represent highlights of my day through the words, actions, and motives of those who are close and those who are far away. These blogs allow me to express my beliefs and share with the world things that I hold to be true. Things that I do not expect to "be standards for others to follow but as melodys that sooth my soul throughout my journey in life."

China has definitely been a major factor in the person I am today. Since going to my trip I have learned many new things and came to realize things I only wish I could have came to realize earlier. China hasn't been able to change me completely, but it has shown me the level of commitment I possess when I truly love something.

My trip to China taught me to prepare for the worst. That as a diabetic I need to think proactively and not forget that my health comes first. After my trip I learned that life has so many things to offer. Traveling the world and working with great people makes my future seem brighter, but not if I have no control over the things in my life today. I need to live in reality and focus on the issues: diabetes, school, and experience; that will later allow me to enjoy all the great things life has to offer.

Looking back at the havoc I caused while on my trip, I feel guilty and obligated to work off every hour I can to insure Steve and his idea a bright future. The guy had quit his job after being offered the ultimatum of either canceling the trip or being fired. They warned him of all the things that could go wrong and yet he still went through with it. He took a risk that would determine if his dreams were pure or false ambitions. I let him down. The news of me getting sick tainted his chances of future cultural exchanges as future participants will look not at the benefits of such cultural exchange programs but the dangers they will face with such an experience.

I cannot just brush off my shoulders and expect a clean slate to whip away the damage that was done. I need to do something to prove that me getting sick was not in vein. That it was an experience I needed to face. That I needed to hit the brick walls face first if I wanted to do something great and wonderful. The people: Steve, Snow, Ms. V, and all my friends can never be properly reimbursed but at least I can make a difference and help them whatever way I can. Building the website, working countless hours, and earning back the reputation I think I once had will hopefully mend the broken limb I left in China.

Life however is good. If we are alive, we can continue to do the things we love. Along with the things we are obligated to do. No one is given a burden that they cannot bare, but a burden that they must learn to live with. To prove that they will not be knocked down. That they are more than the body you see in front of them. They are a living, breathing individual with dreams, hopes, fears, and doubts like the rest of us. They are human.

This is what my journey thus far has captured. The hopes, fears, dreams, and doubts that not only consume my life but consume the life of hundreds. That whether you are a 16 year old boy typing away his life in the corner of his living room or a 60 year old man working into the wee hours of the night to insure his dreams a brighter future; you are a human who should be judged on the actions you are making today for the future you want tomorrow.

Quotes and Analysis

I finally do finish my homework around 3 am and wake up the next day for the same routine that is wearing me down little by little. (10/1/08)

Purpose and collaboration is all it will take to take the world we have in front us and remodel it so that future generations can continue breaking down the brick walls that stand in the way of good students on the road towards a better tomorrow. (10/2/08)

Either way I go I have to understand that hard work, doubts, and ambition is needed if you want to succeed. (10/3/08)

If we are determined we would fight to the final hour to give this dream only a few more minutes on this Earth. (10/4/08)

We cannot control the world in front us and must learn to accept and adapt to the changes it may throw our way. (10/5/08)

Doing a blog a day seems pretty easy but often I find myself coming down to the last minute of the day trying to achieve my goal of doing a blog a day. (10/6/08)

The bond we shared as a team and the cheer we gave before we embarked the CT Expo was enough for me to do the work all over again and see that bond between such a diverse group of friends. (10/7/08)

Chances are the more things you share with the person, the easier it is to talk to them. (10/8/08)

This idea could help establish a connection of educators in both China and the US who feel that the use of technology could provide students with real world opportunities essential to a balanced and complete educational process for tomorrows leaders and citizens. (10/9/08)

The advice could be great and yet we are so stubborn that we would rather hit the wall face first instead of just swallowing our pride and taking their advice. (10/10/08)

Instead of pointing out the evil in our world; instead of assuming that there is little hope for our plant; instead of expecting change; we should be doing the exact opposite. (10/11/08)

We are all capable of being independent, but sometimes it helps to know that there is someone out there who is willing to listen and act as a sound board after a long day at work. (10/12/08)

A tomorrow where our children can live in a world that reflects a lifestyle that would be everything we could have ever wanted. (10/13/08)

The exhaustion and desperation we are confronted with at these moments is often what makes us crack underneath the pressure. (10/14/08)

We have confidence in our potential and believe that fulfilling our dreams is only a matter of time. (10/15/08)

A focal point for new and past participants to blog, post, and remember the time they spent on the trip of a lifetime. (10/16/08)

There's nothing greater in the world than to find people who you can connect with so much that you can talk to them for hours and never run out of things to say. (10/17/08)

We wanted people to know about all the great things we wanted to do in China and how this movement is a dynamic force worth caring about. (10/18/08)

I love my life and don't regret any major decisions I have made thus far but sometime I wonder if things would be different if I wasn't so concerned with controlling everything in my life. (10/19/08)

We must remember that when we truly love something and wish for it to succeed, we must accept the good time and hard times that may come our way. (10/20/08)

Breaking the mold and accepting new ideas will help pave the way for a world where we don't judge a man by the color of his skin, the language he speaks, or the beliefs he holds but by the actions he commits and the words he expresses. (10/21/08)

Intelligence is what makes us human, but it is not what makes us a person with dreams and values. (10/22/08)

That tells us we haven't killed you yet because we know that you can make it. (10/23/08)

And finally, that we are all capable, no matter our race, religion, intelligence, or financial status to do something great and wonderful. (10/24/08)

At the same time we can have our cake and eat it too. (10/25/08)

That we shouldn't focus on all the reasons not to do something but the one or two reasons we should. (10/26/08)

We've put a lot of hard work into this project and I can't wait to see how far we will go while teaching the course. (10/27/08)

That we live in a world were the internet can bring together people from all parts of the globe and have them work together to do something great and wonderful. (10/28/08)

I will continue to move forward ready for the brick walls I might hit along the way. (10/29/08)

My life leads into many tangents and it often involves prioritizing, making the tough decisions that will insure us a better tomorrow. (10/30/08)

I felt that these lines captured best my entries and serves as a window as to what awaits me in next month's entries. I can't wait and hope to address some of the issues that stand in my way and the goals I have left to accomplish. All in good time.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 10:20 p.m.
Date: 10/30/08
Official End Time: 10:56 p.m.

Its the night before Halloween and the night prior to the end of the month. For me that means, "Did I meet my goals for this month? If so, why? If not, why didn't I meet my goals." I have to do this along with a progress report at the end of each month to insure that I stay on track with my goals and make the proper commitments to achieve the picture I am shooting for.

A lot of things fall under this list of things I should have done this month besides what I am doing on the site. My life leads into many tangents and it often involves prioritizing, making the tough decisions that will insure us a better tomorrow. All these things may not affect me today, but will affect me as time goes on. It might be a paper today, but tomorrow it will be a project, an essay, a decision that will determine what you one day are capable of doing in life. If I make a commitment, I need to follow through with it. I need to prove that there's a reason why I took on such a responsibility.

Things I've done and the goals I need to meet:

374+ Members on the site, should have 400+ members on the site by 11/1/108~I blame Livemocha seeing as I can't get into my account and attract new members . . . however I will find a solution soon and meet this goal as best I can.

A blog each and every day~Done pretty well even though I came down to the last few seconds in the last couple of entries. Still a great reflection of my state of mind throughout this experience.

Building the community on the website through pictures, videos, groups, etc~I've done well and am comfortable with putting myself out on the website to all the people not forgetting the reason I do the things I do

Maintain good grades in school~I'm doing well in school, but I can definitely do better. I need to learn better time management. One that doesn't involve going to sleep as soon as I get home from school and then going to bed late. Creating a cycle in which I feel inhibits my full potential.

Work with Education Connection~This one can go either way as I have been negligent with my responsibilities, helping build the Alice course, but am currently helping them out with the release of the Scratch After School Program.

Learning Chinese~I can't remember the last time I complete a lesson on Livemocha which goes to show why I can't speak or read Chinese yet. I want to speak Chinese because it would be a great thing to put on a resume and a great thing to have when working with a community like this. I could help both English and chinese members interact.

Following through on all of the above~All these ideas are fueled by different things. I need to cover all field if I want these things to become a reality and give off the best results. I have to make sure I'm also going in the right direction. That I'm doing the things that will help insure me the results I want.


I need direction that will help me make sure that I accomplish the things I set my mind to. It's hard staying on top on all these things and not getting distracted along the way. The epiphanies are great, but the work is where it really matters. Hopefully I can meet the bar and not fail where I have worked so hard.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 9:25 p.m.
Date: 10/29/08
Official End Time: 11:05 p.m.

The last few days have been great in terms of what's getting done on the site, but not everyone sees it this way. I've been working hard trying to build the community on the website: adding pictures, making videos, groups, and trying to spread the good word. I do all this to give back to Steve, a guy who gave me the opportunity to see China, and for old friends who I would love to one day bring to America. I put in countless hours doing all these things not looking for recognition but results. I hope that at the end of doing my blogs for a whole year I can look back with a smile at all the great things I've done and all the great things yet to happen. The money, the support, and the follow through is what stands in not only my way but in everyone's way who hopes to participate in future cultural exchange programs. These programs are great, but expensive. No one can really afford to give $2700 each time they want to participate. Parents, friends, and co-workers often have to collect all they have just to send one person on the trip of a lifetime. Is it all worth it? Are the $2700 really worth the 2 weeks and the experience you hope to gain. I think so but a solution needs to be found. There needs to be an easier way for people to participate without having to break the bank and sacrifice something else in their lives.

I believe that we should be able to have our cake and eat it too. That life shouldn't be about compromise but opportunity. That an experience like this should be made available to both US and Chinese students. It doesn't even matter what part of the world you are from, it matters the type of person you are. If you are a good student who dreams badly of a better life than you should be given the chance. The chance to succeed and travel a world with so many things left to show you.

If I want this dream to come true then it's up to me to come up with the idea and follow through on it. I can't expect anyone else to bring to life this idea nor can I expect it to just magically happen. If I really want this then I must be determined and prove that I deserve it. Even if that means working late.

But am I living in the moment? Am I really doing something that has potential or am I blind to the hours I am wasting that could have been used on better things. Things that concern me today and will determine where I am able to go in the years to come. I believe that I am conscious of these things. That I do do my best in school and always try to put my best foot forward. There's always room for improvement but I do not think that that should be a reason to punish me for trying my best when trying to juggle both my dreams and the future that awaits me.

I will try my best and try to make time for the things that matter most. I will stay determined and diligent; trying to juggle two things that consume so much of my life. And I will not forget the reason why I do things. My motives will remain pure and open to the big picture. I will continue to remember why this idea is so important. The people it will affect; the impact is will have; and the paths it can blaze for future generations. Not all our ideas affect the world but those we hold close affect the people we hold close. Our idea thus spread and before you know it a project that started with 3 friends can explode and involve a community of people eager to make your dream a reality. Seeing that happens makes every lost hour of sleep seem like nothing.

I will continue to move forward ready for the brick walls I might hit along the way.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 11:27 p.m.
Date: 10/28/08
Official End Time: 11:42 p.m.

Today was a weird yet moving day. I had awoken up late and was unable to go to school. As I sat in bed I was horrified to hear my mother's lecture on how I have changed for the worst and how my bad habits will one day come back to bite me. I eventually did wake up and faced the lecture that awaited me. This however was the note that moved my day.

I went on my computer and decided to check my email, visit the site, etc. I got the information I needed and started to work on the the site. As I was working I started to think back at the night before and the last couple of nights and the things I have done in the last couple of days. I started visiting some of the other social networks I often go to and came to the conclusion that is what has consumed my life. That this website, this world, this community I am helping build has become a frame in my everyday life.

It has motivated me to go after the things I want. To work hard if I expect results. And that I am not the only one who is playing this game. That we live in a world were the internet can bring together people from all parts of the globe and have them work together to do something great and wonderful. That technology and education are two things with similarities so shocking that it's a surprise when you hear of a school that rejects such ideas.



Videos, picture, and blogs have molded our world and will continue to mold our world as the years go on. Technology has created a situation where not one person can tell you what they expect the world will be like in 10 or 20 years from now. All this information however needs help. Help to maintain pure and help to remain alive. It needs the help of each and everyone of us who enjoy the service that it provides.

I've said in the past that I have a strong passion for education and innovation in the 21st century. That I love my job as an intern at Education Connection. Where as an intern at Education Connection I help create online courses for students interested in innovation and 21st Century Skills. And that since participating in the 2008 Summer Camp Experience, I have been driven to spread new opportunities to China and its students through the use of the Ningxia Dragon Student Ambassador Website.

These reasons and the epiphany that I came across today make me see more and more why I would want to take a field in education rather than endocrinology. This decision however cannot be made out of one day's excitement. The decision should be made after some heavy thinking in which I have weighed the pros and cons to both sides. I'm sure that in the end I will make the right choice and do what's best.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 7:00 p.m.
Date: 10/27/08
Official End Time: 9:00 p.m.

Election day is coming up next Tuesday and along with it the birth of the Scratch Moodle Course at North End Middle School!!! I'm so excited. I finally get the chance to teach the course I have worked so hard to bring to life. I'll be accompanied by my friend Norbert who helped build the course and a group of 4 teachers who will be teaching the course. We're expecting 70+ students and I'm not sure how we will divide the class amongst the 6 people who will be helping out.

If things go to plan, I think Norbert and I should be in charge of one of the classes. I hope that this is the case and that we can work hard with these students and meet our goal of having them use Scratch. This will be the first time the course is piloted as an after-school program and will hopefully give off the desire results. We've put a lot of hard work into this project and I can't wait to see how far we will go while teaching the course.



There are still some logistics that need to be taken of before we can insure us participating in the course. For instance, we need to figure out how Norbert and I will get to North End and back the day we will be teaching. Additionally, we need to get Scratch on all the computers and provide the students with the pdf we created so that they're all well equipped and ready to learn. Besides that I think we can some great stuff with this project and many other projects we hope to develop in the upcoming months.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 10:30 p.m.
Date: 10/26/08
Official End Time: 11:30 p.m.

I always write in my blogs about what I think is coming next and what I should do to steer myself in the right direction. What I should do to insure success, often overlooking the thought process that comes with the experience.

The experience you gain through the different roads you take in life will give you all the answers you could have asked for. The brick walls you hit along the way and the epiphanies you will encounter make the experience that much better. We cannot control everything that life throws at us. We must learn to adapt and survive. To grow with the challenges and learn something new with each endeavor.

We must remember to take into consideration the time we have now and the time we will have in the future. That while we are young, the world is our oyster. And anything we set our minds to is possible. As we get older our schedule shrinks. We have less time to do the things we love and make us happy. My philosophy is to always make time for these things. The fears, doubts, and concerns will always be there and shouldn't prevent us from doing the things that make life worth living. That there is still a chance to have fun and give back to a community that has given us so much.

Randy Pausch's Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dreams


The lecture was great and really made some great points that I think you can only learn after years of experience and hard work.

The education we provide our students with will ultimately predict where we see ourselves in 5, 10, 20 years from now. The role that teachers play in the development of our communities is crucial to the future we will have. Their students will be the people who will one day run this country and represent it in a global economy. It thus makes perfect sense to be the best teacher you can be. To inspire your students to shoot for the stars. To encourage them to take on every challenge that comes their way. That even if they fail, they can rest assured that they tried their best.

Schools all over America are being closed down because the students aren't meeting proficiency. The logic is why invest money on a school that has no future instead of investing it in a school that does. I am shocked when I see a school being closed done because of this issue. Teachers are fired and replaced with "instructors" that can get the job done and help the students meet proficiency on their exams. But with what purpose?

These instructors do nothing to prepare our students for a changing world. They prepare them for the world that exists within our school system. A world that runs on a systematic schedule versus a world that demands the best students. The most earnest and well qualified people that they can find. Closing down these schools doesn't address the issues facing our students. It only pushes students to give up knowing that their school is next on the list to be closed down.

The solution is to encourage and push our students onto bigger and better things. To not hold over their heads the idea of an exam they must pass if they want to graduate, but the idea that what they do today will reflect where they are 5, 10, 20 years from now. The karma will take care of itself and the result will be students, teachers, and educators who are driven to set the stage for future students and build upon a community where we look upon what we have done well and how we can make it better.

That's the thing. This is the way that I think our lives should be lived. That we shouldn't focus on all the reasons not to do something but the one or two reasons we should. All things in life have their good sides and their sides. Their purpose is to educate and set the stage for future movements. The karma will take care of itself. The students we motivate to take on such responsibilities will be the fruit of our labor. Getting those letters, emails, and visits from our students is what makes it all worth it. Hearing their stories and seeing what they are doing today is what makes the fears, doubts, and concerns all seem like ants at our picnic.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 11:05 p.m.
Date: 10/25/08
Official End Time: 11:30 p.m.

This idea has been in the back of my head for a long time and I decided that now was the write time to write about it and see if I could map out a possible solution. Growing up in a family that lived off the bare necessities, I always dreamed of a better life. One where I didn't have to worry about the bills, rent, and putting my kids through college. My parents have always taught me to work hard in life and that to remember that we should grow up to be active members in our community; not forgetting our roots and the road we traveled to get where we stand today.

Money has never been and hopefully never will be something that I put too much value on. I usually try to avoid the conflict and thirst that consumes man in his mission of making it rich. When it comes to splitting the bill or deciding who owes who, I usually take the high road and pay my half or a little more just to avoid the confrontation that money often brings up. This doesn't mean that I'm some sucker when it comes to dealing with money; I just don't like the conflict that money can bring between friends.

Looking back at the life I have lived, I am conflicted with weighing which lifestyle would suite me better; the life of a rich man or the life of man who enjoys the simple pleasures in life. Which of the two lifestyles insure happiness, stability, and allows me to not lose the values I believe in?

On one side the life of a rich man would provide me with the stability and financial ability to do whatever I please. I could drive a great car, ensure a better future for my children, and not have a care in the world in terms of money. I could travel to anywhere in the world and see things that most people only read of in books and see on TV. With all this however comes some drawbacks. To start my life wouldn't be the same one I grew up with. The memories of everyday leaving to school and having my parents wish me a good day would be replaced by telling my children that I wish I could be there, but work has prevented me from doing so. I wouldn't have the time to insure that they grew up to be great people, with values that they would pass onto their children. And finally, I wouldn't be able to grow with my children as I see them move onto bigger and better things. I would be lost in my work and for some reason or another, not have the ability to remind them to give back to the world that has given them so much.

On the other side the life of a man who enjoys the simple pleasures in life would allows me to live a life without fears or restrictions. I would be my own man. I could focus on the details that matter most. I wouldn't have to worry about answering to someone and could really give back to my community. I could watch my children grow and see them experience all the things I once had to go through. I could teach them right from wrong, and remind them to give back to a world that has given them so much. Enjoying the simple pleasures doesn't necessarily mean you're all set. The bills, rent, and fears will continue to stand in your way. Our efforts maybe in vein. And the values we imagine passing onto our kids might just not seep through. We might be lost in a world that lacks to see the big picture. A world of its own that lives in a time so simple and happy that we are ignorant of the dynamic planet that surrounds us.

Both lifestyles share more and more in common than you would think. In both situation there are advantages and disadvantages. Neither lifestyle insure a pleasant tomorrow. Both can turn in negative directions. And both can limit us from doing the things we thought would have made us happy. At the same time we can have our cake and eat it too. Both roads can bring us unlimited happiness. Both roads can help us give back to our community. And both roads can help us leave our mark on this Earth through our work. It all comes down to making the decision that works for you.

In my case it is a choice between becoming an endocrinologist vs a teacher/professor in education. Both roads can lead to success while both roads can lead to dissatisfaction. What I should keep in mind is that we can have our cake and eat too. That neither decisions restricts us from doing certain things, but enables us to do bigger and better things.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 4:33 p.m.
Date: 10/24/08
Official End Time: 5:28 p.m.

What Matters To You? was a competition held on Youtube by Vancouver Film School in which they asked for people who were interested in attending Vancouver Film School to submit a video that answers the question: What Matters To You? The top 3 contestants are guaranteed a full tuition scholarship to Vancouver Film School and the program of their choice.

The winning videos were fantastic and answered a great question that I think a lot of us should answer when we wish to define who we are and what makes us unique. What makes us stand out amongst the crowd. And what people can expect from us in the years to come.

Below is the video of the contestant who i think did the best and has inspired me in a lot of my blog posts.




I really can't imagine trying to answer a question like this. It is very broad and at the same time very important. The answer you give should reflect what you believe in. The answer should come from the deepest bowels of your soul. It should prove that you are more than just a number. That you are a person with hopes, dreams, and fears that will bring great change and growth if you give it time.

The video and message help me prove my point that the journey is greater than the destination. That anything worth accomplishing takes hard work and determination. It will take hitting a few brick walls. And it will take creativity, incentive, and a passion not found in accomplishing easier goals. Of course there are doubts and fears but isn't it all worth it just to see the fruit of our labor. To experience a journey that make us a better person. That tells us we haven't killed you yet because we know that you can make it. That you're closer than you think and it's only a matter of diligence. That is what makes us people. The ability to dream and pursue these dreams although there is a high possibility that we may fail.

What I like about this video and some of the other video submitted for the competition where the students ability to address such a large topic in such a creative way. The video does not limit itself to the question being asks and makes a point that he will one day do something great and wonderful. That this thing that inspires him to take it above and beyond is what will prove that their investment was not in vein. And finally, that we are all capable, no matter our race, religion, intelligence, or financial status to do something great and wonderful.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 10:20 p.m.
Date: 10/23/08
Official End Time: 11:30 p.m.

Today was a reassuring day that proved my point that life isn't as black and white as it seems. In our AP English class we have been getting grades not expected for an "ACE student". Our essays are being "destroyed" and our teacher has little to no experience when dealing with kids who can't get it through their head that its all about the learning process that the class is going under. That the grade you get isn't the most important thing. True it will reflect your achievement in the class, but it will not reflect the level of work you were able to accomplish nor will it reflect the type of student you are. Two very important things when it comes to facing real world scenarios.

I'll can be honest and admit that it is important to have good grades. And that it is important to prioritize. Seeing the world in this fashion nowadays isn't enough. You have to be creative. You have to be determined. And you have to stand out as a 3-d figure in a world that just keeps growing and becoming more and more dynamic. Doing the bare minimum just isn't enough anymore. If you want to succeed and go far in life you must take it upon yourself to make your dreams possible.

Anything worth accomplishing takes hard work and determination. It will take hitting a few brick walls. And it will take creativity, incentive, and a passion not found in accomplishing easier goals. Of course there are doubts and fears but isn't it all worth it just to see the fruit of our labor. To experience a journey that make us a better person. That tells us we haven't killed you yet because we know that you can make it. That you're closer than you think and it's only a matter of diligence. That is what makes us people. The ability to dream and pursue these dreams although there is a high possibility that we may fail.

Being a student in today's world isn't an easy thing. It might be easy to be a student who does not care about their education, but for those who do care it makes life only that much harder. We are preoccupied with meeting bar and preparing ourselves for the future to come. We want to get into the best schools and have the best teachers to insure the best results. Somewhere in that state of mind we forget why we are pursing such goals. Typical answers might be because we want to be rich when we are adults; we wants to be doctors, lawyers, and pharmacist but with no real reason as to why we pursue such goals.

Our incentive is what will ultimately define how far we go in life. It will determine if we get stuck hitting the brick wall or if we will learn to climb over the challenges that come our way. It is very clear to distinguish someone who is doing something that they love and really want to make difference doing versus someone who doesn't really understand why they should take on such a goal. That doesn't really understand why he/she fails and what he/she can learn from that experience.

Overall it all comes down to the learning process. We all can see the big picture and know the steps it will take to accomplish those goals. These things however are the tricks, the flash in the state of mind in which we are thinking. The fundamentals, the morals, and the understanding we are able to apply when faced with accomplishing our goals is what will determine if we succeed or fail. If we aim to succeed, but do not aim to learn then we will fail everytime. If we aim to succeed and aim to learn something along the way, then anything we set our minds to is possible.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 11:00 p.m.
Date: 10/22/08
Official End Time: 11:30 p.m.

I decided that it'd be fun to share another one of my essays; this one reflecting the theme in Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes. The book is great and really a piece that makes you think how we view not only the mentally retarded but our everyday man. I had to write in CAPT style which has to be one of the most dissatisfying ways of writing. The form of writing I learned in my AP World History course gives a great base for really intense and profound, intelligent writing. So please forgive me for the odd sentences.

Intelligence is the ability to comprehend, learn, and show the skills that one has learned. Additionally, intelligence is the one thing man has always desired because of pride, acceptance, and even fear that without it he would seem inferior. However, though intelligence is what makes us human, its level is not what makes us a person with dreams and values. Whether it is a mental retard or a rogue scholar, the level of intelligence all comes from an origin that was eager to learn and developed to fight for the righteous cause.

All creatures whether human or animal start life with the eager ambition to learn and better themselves no matter what. Neither creature has a step ahead nor do all follow the same path to their goal. As a child we are eager to learn, but also eager to please. A child is self-conscious of the acknowledgement of their progress, but also to what defines them as the person they are. In this quote Dr. Strauss tells Charlie that, “Miss Kinnian tolld him I was here bestist pupil in the Beekman School for retarted adults and I tryed the hardist because I really I wantd to lern I wantid it more even then the pepul who are smarter even then me,” (Keyes, pg3). This quote simply proves that no matter what level of intelligence you are certain aspects still define you for who you are and what drives you to be better.

As man develops he grows a purpose to his life. This purpose could have grown from something that affected that persons life to what that person realized was their calling. Furthermore, with intelligence man is equipped with the tools necessary to set those goals and the reason to complete them. At one point half through the experiment Charlie says, “I’ve got to use my knowledge and skills to work in the field of increasing human intelligence. Who is better equipped? Who has lived in both worlds?” (Keyes, pg139). With this quote it shows that intelligence sets goals and reasons, and that every sort of creature sets a goal for a certain reason. Whether Algernon to do the maze in order to eat, or Charlie to do his research in an attempt to save himself. All creatures have a reason to their goals.

As man fights the continuous battle to achieve his goals, he grows attached and devoted to the one thing that can change his life. For Charlie it was his intelligence and as he said toward the end of his experiment, “I’m not going to give up my intelligence without a struggle,” (Keyes, pg175) shows the pursuit and work Charlie has put to achieve his goals, and how he will never stop to protect the thing he treasured most. This common factor is what makes us a human, but also a person with dreams and values.

In conclusion, intelligence is what makes us human, but it is not what makes us a person with dreams and values. What makes man a person is the drive to achieve intelligence and is best displayed in this quote, “Anyways thats why Im gone keep trying to get smart so I can have that feeling agen. Its good to know things and be smart and I wish I new evrything in the whole world,” (Keyes, pg216). Intelligence is only a number and it is not factor into what makes us into the person we are.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 11:00 p.m.
Date: 10/21/08
Official End Time: 11:30 p.m.

A few weeks ago we were given the assignment of writing an essay about the English-only movement and what its affect would be on people in America today. The idea of making English the only spoken language in America baffled me. I felt that the idea neglected the civil rights of the people. That English is not the only language spoken in the world. Languages like Chines, Spanish, and Hindi consume more than 2/3 of the Earth's population.

What right do we have to say that if you're an American you should only speak English? How do we expect to compete in a global economy when we deny the language of our competitors? The ideas just doesn't make sense. It seems like there would be more pain than gain if the English-only Movement were to go through.

In an ideal world, we would able to accept each others faults. We would not discriminate each other by the color of our skin, the language we speak, or the beliefs we hold. Living in the 21st century means being open to new ideas. Conservatism can only take you so far. Breaking the mold and accepting new ideas will help pave the way for a world where we don't judge a man by the color of his skin, the language he speaks, or the beliefs he holds but by the actions he commits and the words eh expresses.

Below is my essay on the topic and I hope you can give me your feedback as to why or why not he English-only movement should come into play.


America is known across the globe as “the melting pot”; a combination of a wide variety of cultures that works off their differences to make America as powerful as it is today. In America we emphasize equality across all citizens and are careful not to insult the views and beliefs of others. The respect we have for the culture of others is key to America’s success. Movements like the English-only movement contradict the belief of equality that serves as America’s foundation. The English-only movement thus poses a threat to the civil rights, educational opportunities, and free speech of the individual.

As an American citizen, we are all created equal and are endowed with unalienable rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as it says in the Declaration of Independence. The English-only movement poses a threat to the civil rights of the American citizen. As American citizens, we should be free to speak the language we are most comfortable with. Speaking in our native tongue does not conflict with the civil rights of our fellow man. On the contrary, it spreads awareness of the different cultures and lifestyles that exist in America. The English-only movement would not promote national unity, but ironically cause conflict between the clashing of two or more cultures. The respect for people of different languages and cultures is something that the English-only movement does not promote, thus conflicting with the civil rights of the American citizen.

By promoting movements like the English-only movement, we are hindering the educational opportunities we provide to our students. Students that do not primarily speak English would be expected to understand and perform like any other student at their grade level. The English-only movement makes it that much harder for a student who does not speak English to compete and excel academically. How are we expected to compete in a global economy if we reject the languages of the people who we wish to conduct business with? The opportunities we are providing our students with are even further limited to only the countries that primarily speak English. The English-only movement thus inhibits the academic advancement of many language minority children.

The free speech of the individual would be at risk if something like the English-only movements were to come into play. As Americans we are granted freedom of speech under the first amendment. Freedom of speech allows us as Americans to speak our minds without any sort of censorship or limitations. The English-only movement goes against the American citizen’s right to freedom of speech under the first amendment and the definition of what it means to be an American. The connection that language serves between parents and their children is fundamental in the development of the child. The English-only movement would thus prevent parents from transmitting to their children the complex set of values, beliefs, wisdom, and understanding that provides the foundation for their children’s learning.

In conclusion, movements like the English-only movement contradict the belief of equality that serves as America’s foundation. In America we emphasize equality across all citizens and are careful not to insult the views and beliefs of others. The respect we have for the culture of others is key to America’s success. . The English-only movement thus poses a threat to the civil rights, educational opportunities, and free speech of the individual.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 11:00 p.m.
Date: 10/20/08
Official End Time: 11:30 p.m.

Organization is key to the success of any project. With good organization it is easier to complete long and complex projects. It also makes it easier to explain to other the purpose of your project and what you hope to gain from it. The steps necessary for developing your project and making it a reality is always the hardest part of the experience. We get lost in the work load, the doubts, and the fears that hold us back. Consistency and determination however make it easier to stay on tasks and not forget the reason we took on the responsibility.

Our motives should remain pure and open to the big picture. We should remember why this idea matters so much to us. The people it will affect; the impact is will have; and the paths it can blaze for future generations. Not all our ideas affect the world but those we hold close affect the people we hold close. Our idea thus spread and before you know it a project that started with 3 friends can explode and involve a community of people eager to make your dream a reality. Seeing that happens makes every lost hour of sleep seem like nothing.

Overall being organized makes it easier to meet our goals. With the proper organization, we can avoid passing up on certain opportunities and forgetting when the deadline was. It saves us the trouble of cramming everything into an awkward package to avoid being late or not doing the work whatsoever. With the right kind of organization, it is easier to produce your best work without the hassle or stress that comes along with waiting for things to come together.

Consistency and determination are also elements that we must embrace in order to achieve our goals. It might not be the most exciting thing to think about, but if we remain consistent with our work it is easier to stay on task. You won't have to worry about running late and not meeting the goals you intended. Being consistent makes sure you accomplish what needs to be done for that given day.

We are all human and it is understandable that sometimes things in our lives hold us back from living to our fullest potentials. School, family, friends, or even work can make it hard to concentrate and do the things that matter the most to us right now. We may often have doubts that make us question our reason for taking on such a responsibility and even worse is it still worth it.

Is it still worth all the long hours; the lack of sleep; and the headaches we get from thinking about the responsibility we have on our shoulders. Its easy to give up but who will then take our place? What about the people who would've had a better life if our ideas had become a reality?

We must remember that when we truly love something and wish for it to succeed, we must accept the good time and hard times that may come our way. We have to accept that it will take time for us to enjoy the fruit of our labor. That there will be brick walls we face along the way. And that it is all about the journey not the end results.
The experience and lessons learned as we try to do the impossible are what make the long hours, lack of sleep and headaches worth it just to see the impact our project had on those we love so much.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 10:50 pm
Date: 10/19//08
Official End Time: 11:36 pm

Today must have been one of my most productive days. I was able to get down to business and finish some work that was long overdue. Everyday I have something due or something to address before I can go to bed. It's great but sometimes I wish I had a free day just to catch up. I want to stay on top of everything but I eventually need to prioritize and give up on certain things in my life. I can't remember the last time I watched TV (not like there's anything good on) or the last time I really sat down and talked to someone without thinking or mentioning my life after China.

I love my life and don't regret any major decisions I have made thus far but sometime I wonder if things would be different if I wasn't so concerned with controlling everything in my life. Sure, I can kick back and neglect doing something, but my conscious won't let me live with myself. It has this ability to make realize that what I just did will come back to haunt me sooner than I think.

The work load however will only continue to grow as time goes on. College, work, and family will continue to play a bigger role in our lives and there isn't much we can do about it. All we can do is learn to adapt and confront each challenge with a positive state of mind. Adapting doesn't necessarily mean to accept things the way they are. Adapting means meeting the bar, accepting the challenge, and then redefine the challenges we face. Paving a new path for future generations to follow.

Its all worth it just to see the fruit of our labor. The brick walls we confront along the way are there to prove how much we really want something to happen. If we are determined, we can accomplish anything. We can conquer mountain and revolutionize the world we have in front of us. All in good time.

Until then it's just a matter of patience and diligence. We have to learn to adapt to the changes we face and learn to never accept things the way they are but the way they should be.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 9:46 pm
Date: 10/18/08
Official End Time: 10:46 pm

Today was a happy day as life started to come together after working hard for almost a week. The battle isn't over yet but I feel it is time to reflect and look back at the change the Ningxia Dragon Student Ambassador Website has undergone.

I remember really working on the site and trying to spread the word about the site in early August. When we first started we had about 111 members and had a hard time just get people to sign up. We needed people to sign up on the site so that a community could be created that would help sponsor future trips and projects promoted by Ningxia Dragon Student Ambassadors. Our hope was to make it easier for student, teachers, and educators to take advantages of the services we were trying to provide. We wanted people to know about all the great things we wanted to do in China and how this movement is a dynamic force worth caring about.

Into the school year the site continued to grow little by little. At times it seemed like it wouldn't move at all. We had to make a switch from our usual summer schedule to our school routine. It was harder to stay in touch. Everyday we tried to stay in touch with the chinese students we met on our trip and introduce new people to the community we were creating. As we got closer to school however, it got harder and harder to do the things we loved so much.

The first month of school really hit us hard and proved how determined we were to make our dreams a reality. A lot of arguments arose from the issue. Some felt they were doing more work than others. Others felt that all this arguing wasn't worth working this hard. And some just didn't care. In the end it should all be about the big picture. We shouldn't kill ourselves over trivial matters. Nor should our egos, doubts, or fears come in the way of doing something we promised to do.

Towards the end of September to early October was when the site and my involvement with the site really exploded. I began to do a blog a day as a way of keeping the site alive. Additionally, I went on other social networks like Livemocha to learn Chinese and see if i could spread the word about our site to Chinese students who might be interested with the services we are providing. Its the middle of October and we finally reacher 309+ members; jumping almost 200 members in the course of a few months. We still have a long way to go to reach our goal of 1000 members by December 31, 2008.

I have high hopes for the site but know that if I want the site to continue to do well I must continue to give the 110% I am giving now. I must also be realistic and aware of the time I have left to do all the things I planned to do such a long time ago.

I think we can do it, do you?

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 7:42 pm
Date: 10/17/08
Official End Time: 10:04 pm

Yesterday was doom's day and I failed to meet many of the goals that I wanted to achieve that day. I did get some things done and other things started to make it easier for me to finish. However there is still a lot that needs to be done. Time is all I need and something that I can never get enough of. If I do not finish these things tonight or early Saturday morning I will have let down not just myself, but others who are depending on the work I am doing.

I want to make sure that I finish the most important things tonight. Today's entry will not be like my previous entries. The fire, passion, and determination that I always try to include in my entries will be missing in today's entry. I will have to take the high road and talk about something I can write out quickly and easily. I will talk about my love for history, specifically world history, and how it has helped me become a better students.

History has always been that course I understood and did well in. I was able to understand the material and pass the exams with ease. It wasn't till I was a freshman in high school that I learned that history like all subjects in life should be done with a purpose; not in a mechanical fashion that requires steps, but no thinking what so ever. History just like other subjects is a dynamic living thing that if you want to understand you should see it from all points of view. The readings should serve as a reference and not the only source of your information.

AP World History has thus far been my favorite history course. I took it as a sophomore and immediately fell in love with the course. We had a great book by Sterns and a great instructor that motivated us to be the best students we could be. The work load was heavy, but I didn't mind. Reading ten pages a night was like reading a chapter in your favorite book.

Our instructor for the course was a man by the name of Mr. Butler. Mr. Butler wasn't like other teachers I had in the past. This guy knew his stuff and had a level of modesty that you didn't expect from your everyday teacher. He did his job, but didn't just stop there. You could ask him for help and he wouldn't rest until he was sure you were ready for the challenges ahead. Everyone loved him and was sad to see him go.

Never before was there a teacher that I was able to connect with so much. Everyday I would address him by Mr. Butler; never mister, something typically said to most teachers in today's educational system. Mr. Butler had a passion for the world around him. He did his thesis on Waterbury and its transformation from an manufacturing economy to a service economy. I could talk to him for hours about any history topic and new that he was giving him his undivided attention. There's nothing greater in the world than to find people who you can connect with so much that you can talk to them for hours and never run out of things to say.

I can't really distinguish which eras in world history were my favorite. The classical period was know for the greatest empires ever built such as those in Han China and Rome. The postclassical period was just as captivating. The developments of Mesoamerican people really made me see that history like all things in life should be done with a purpose. Advancements are made by those who see their environment as a multidimensional figure and not some 2-d shape drawn on a piece of paper. The Middle Ages, the spread of imperialism, and the movements made in modern history all have significance in today's world and still need to be look back on as a reminder of how things were done in the past and how they should be done today.

The history and culture of the following groups of people had to be the most influential factors on the world we have today.

China has one of the longest and most dynamic cultures of all time. The dynasties, civil war, reforms, and technological advancements qualify it to be a global power back then and today. Their ability to refuse the affects of cultural diffusion and still make such major advancements is remarkable and shocking for a time where the introduction of new ideas were made through cultural diffusion.

The Aztecs, Incas, and Mayan covered all of Mesoamerica and are known for their rich culture, political structures, and for being the first groups of people who fell because of outside forces that they had no control over versus the betrayal of the people; a major reason for decline in past cultures.

The Mongols are notorious for their ability to dominate as a nomadic group throughout history. The Mongols continued to dominate even after the lost of strong leaders. They were able to maintain the unity and structure of a sedentary group of people even in the face of adversity.

The Umayyads vs. Abbasids has to be one of most prolong strifes in history. The division and complexity of their history as a group of people still stands today. They brought riches to the Middle East and the northern part of Africa that desperately needed money to stand.

Finally the Bedouins helped provide the premise for the Africa that was going to take shape in the few centuries to come. The tongue they used to speak served as a root for future African tribes to communicate and established the idea that as a united force they are stronger than as a divided force driven to warfare.

There are other cultures, events, and groups of people that I could have mentioned, but time is of the essence. The post might seem a little choppy but in my opinion was more direct and free in comparison to some of my other entries. Wish me luck!

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 5:00 pm
Date: 10/16/08
Official End Time: 7:00 pm

Today I have a lot on my plate to take care of. Its been a pretty hectic month thus far and a lot of my work comes down to the work I do tonight and the work I complete prior to the end of this month. I've had time to do the work, but never really took out the time necessary to produce a finished product worth presenting. Now I don't really have a choice nor the time to wait and produce my best work. I just have to finish and stay on track with the timeline I have set for myself.

Its amazing how quickly the days have gone by since my trip to China. It seems like only yesterday that I was on the tour bus, going from city-to-city, experiencing China day by day. Everyday was something different. One day we would be visiting a museum while another day we might be climbing a mountain. The people, the food, the environment made this trip unforgettable.

Coming back to America apparently wasn't enough to close the chapters that China covered. Instead a whole new series came to life that would keep the passion flowing. Movements were being made and the spirt of the site has been kept alive ever since. It serves as a hub for past cultural exchange and future cultural exchanges to come. A focal point for new and past participants to blog, post, and remember the time they spent on the trip of a lifetime.

It's been 3 months and the movements continue to take way. The site has exploded and new members are coming in day by day. The hard work we'll need is all worth if it means providing members the chance to change the community around them using the experience they gained as a participant to a cultural exchange to China or the United States.

Only 5+ Hours left till Dooms Day

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 9:27 pm
Date: 10/15/08
Official End Time: 11:27 pm

The time frame that I think my mind and the mind set of others at my age is at is one that believes we can conquer mountains. We are indestructible and can take whatever challenge that comes our ways. We have no fears nor doubts that stand in our way. We are indifferent to any sort of adversity and represent the embodiment of the perfect student, son, and employee.

Our hopes and dreams no longer seem as far-fetched. We have confidence in our potential and believe that fulfilling our dreams is only a matter of time. Time that will come our way as we get older and life continues to go on. The optimism in our way of life is what makes the impossible seem possible. It is what allows us to be creative. To take a risk and do something that might not work out. Finding a way and proving that we can take the challenges they throw at us is what proves that we can handle it and we're ready for the world ahead.

Sometimes however we bite off more than we can chew. We try to challenge a force in our life that has no equal. We come face to face with reality and the optimism we once had is now replaced with doubts. We doubt our abilities and feel that our potential is limited. Our Achilles Heel has been exposed and the armor that once protected us has been stripped away. We have failed; ashamed to admit that optimistic spirit has been crushed. However there is still a chance to find a solution that proves we were not defeated. We must prove that we are stronger than they thought. That we still stand ready to take the next punch and prove that we will succeed.

Success isn't always what we expect it to be. If you fail, redefine your definition of success. Failing doesn't mean having gained nothing and lost everything. Failing teaches you what to do better the next time around. We don't always have a second chance, but we will have another chance to take on a new challenge in our lives. Each endeavor builds on the past and shows us that we can make it. That our dreams can become realities. And that representing the embodiment of the perfect student, son, and employee shouldn't be our only goal in life.

No matter what road we chose on our journey through life, we all have the came chance of being successful. We don't all have to be the best student, child, or employee to be successful. We can leave our mark in ways never thought before. It's all about the road to success. The people we met, the experience we gained, and the milestones we accomplished all make life worth living. Life isn't just a static world with one solution; it is a dynamic world that has different roads to happiness.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 10:00 pm
Date: 10/14/08
Official End Time: 11:11 pm

Today I am exhausted. I didn't get a chance to go to bed last night due to a project for a friend, homework for my brother, and other obligations that I have to address as soon as possible. Life only seems to get harder and harder as the days continue to fly by. The pile of things to do only continues to increase and along with it the comments of the surveyors. They are the ones who remind you that you are killing yourself. That your bad habits are gonna catch up to you. And usually try to make you think that they are right and are concerned with your well being.

Most of the time, they do care about your well being. They want to see you go far in life. And wouldn't wish you any harm that they wouldn't wish upon themselves. People like these are the ones who stick by us when the going gets tough. They remind us that we are not alone. That they are with us fighting this demon that has consumed our life.

Reaching our limits is where the doubts and scar begin to take shape. The exhaustion and desperation we are confronted with at these moments is often what makes us crack underneath the pressure. If there were only an easier solution. One that we had not seen before. But life isn't that easy. The answers to our problems do not just come out of thin air. We must be persistent and innovative if we want to find the solution to the problem we are dealing with.

In the long run being persistent pays off. Seeing the work we were able to accomplish proves that we were able to do it. The work might have been exhausting and the long hours we could have used to do something else will never be retrieved. Seeing the fruit of our labor is what makes it all worth it. The long hours we put into, the sleep we missed out on, and the fears we had are all justified once we achieve what we once thought was impossible.

Hopefully the brick walls that confront us along the way do not discourage us from doing something we know will pay off in the long run.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 8:30 pm
Date: 10/13/08
Official End Time: 11:58 pm

The lifestyle we enjoy today has come a long way since the dawn of time and the existence of man. Ever since we have walked this Earth, we have been driven to live a better life. One that does not require us to adapt and survive to the times but instead rise above and live in a golden era. Our dreams and hopes would become realities in such a paradise. Our fears and doubts wouldn't stand a chance in such a marvelous place. We have come far but our dreams and hopes still need a way to go before they can coexist amongst us. While our fears and doubts continue to hold us back and make the necessary steps for a better tomorrow. A tomorrow where our children can live in a world that reflects a lifestyle that would be everything we could have ever wanted.

The future we want for our children is one that reflect the paradise we have been driven to experience for such a long time. A lifestyle where they could have everything that we wish we could have had at their age. As our world continues to grow and become more dynamic in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math; the list continues to grow. Our everyday concerns no longer exist, allowing the common man to create and think of a better world for his children to live in.

A world where money doesn't stand in the way of good students. Where we are all equal. And where our views no longer conflict.

A world that brings people together instead of pushing them away. Where our race, religious views, or gender doesn't determine how far we can go.

A world where we are all open and willing to share. Willing to break down the blockades that have held us back for such a long time.

A world that is ready for change and embraces it. Where we are willing to take the risks that people in the past haven't.

A world were the common man can dream and hope for a better tomorrow.

A world that I would one day want my children to live in.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 2:00 am
Date: 10/12/08
Official End Time: 3:04 am

Today I was talking with a friend after seeing a show on MTV that frustrated me. Today's media focuses a lot on the concerns and interest of the consumer; sex, drugs, and violence. The media has such a powerful influence on today's youth and has the ability to inform its viewers with information they would have otherwise disregarded. Not enough however is being done to put today's youth on the right track and prevent them from experiencing things typically seen on shows like Maury, Jerry Springer, and so forth. The shows are ideally meant to set an example that viewers would not want to experience, but does the exact opposite. The message is often misinterpreted and makes light of an epidemic that is consuming our nation. We however can not not blame the media, but the morals that our youths are being sent out with into the world. More needs to be done at home to insure a better future for the people that will one day lead this planet. We need to be more open with ourselves and others; fearing not rejection but not answering the questions that could determine the person we will be 5, 10, 15, 20 years from now.

Being open doesn't necessarily mean sharing every thought or idea that comes into your head. If it was like that, we would've all have gone crazy by now. Being open just means not being afraid to ask questions and provide honest answers with the goal of learning something that will set us off better on in life. Sharing isn't always an easy thing. We may be embarrassed to share our experience or ask the questions that could ultimately solve the problem. Being open and willing to share your experience can save you time and pain that make us later regret not asking for the help we needed.

I think that being open with your parents, friends, and coworkers would be a solution to many of life's problems. Teenage pregnancy, drug abuse, and violence are all common factors in today's world. The rise of these issues is something that must be addressed not only by the schools and movements of special interests group, but by parents, friends, and coworkers who want a better life for you, your children, and this planet. Speaking from a first hand experience and telling the person that the questions or thoughts they are having are perfectly natural for their age are steps that can make talking about such important issues easier. We are all capable of being independent, but sometimes it helps to know that there is someone out there who is willing to listen and act as a sound board after a long day at work.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 1:41 am
Date: 10/11/08
Official End Time: 4:00 am

The world we live in is often seen as a dark, deceiving place that leaves little hope for future generations. Oh to often we focus on the negative things consuming our planet. We see evil and point it out as if that would make it go away. There will always be evil in this world. It is what allows the good things in our world to exist. Instead of pointing out the evil in our world; instead of assuming that there is little hope for our plant; instead of expecting change; we should be doing the exact opposite. We should look at the world not for all the negative things it has but the positive things we can do with it.

Greater challenges have consumed our world in the past and as a group of people we have risen to the occasion and stood for what we believe is right. So why stop now? Why throw in the towel and expect things to just get better? Real change and real advancements take hard work and determination. We all may have doubts, fears, and even questions that prevent us from taking the first step for a better tomorrow. But if we want to live in a better world, if we want our children to live in a better world, then we must start today. We must take the first step of many steps that will lead us to a world where fear, doubts, and questions do not inspire misconceptions of a world that holds so many opportunities.

We can all contribute to this movement. Embedded in our souls as humans is this ability to dream and wish for something better; a better economy, a better environment, a better tomorrow. You don't have to be a doctor, lawyer or politician to make a difference. It's possible to do something great and wonderful simply through the words and actions you take to make that dream possible. Each and everyone us has the ability to lead, create, and demonstrate to others that life isn't as bad as it seems. That there is still a reason to go on and fight for a better tomorrow.

The fear will always be there. The doubts will always be there. The questions will always be there. Change will always be there. As long as we continue to believe, change will continue to exist. Change and our desire for change is what will make our world a better place. Being optimistic and seeing the world as a land of opportunity and not a waste land is what will determine where we see ourselves 5, 10, 15. 20 years from now.

The misconceptions about our world often influence the way we see this planet and the future that lays ahead. Our doubts and fears often blur the image of what we really plan to do with our world. These things however should not define the type of people, the type of actions, and the types of dreams we have for our world and the future that awaits it.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 1:10 am
Date: 10/10/08
Official End Time: 2:30 am

Something that I have noticed more and more in my personality and in the personality of others is how stubborn we can be. We're open minded to new ideas and will usually take the advice of others as long as we have nothing against that person or the advice they provide us with. However, when we do not see eye-to-eye with that person, taking their advice can be that much harder. The advice could be great and yet we are so stubborn that we would rather hit the wall face first instead of just swallowing our pride and taking their advice. Deciding is always the hardest part and where we must reconsider our reason why or why not to accept their advice.

Accepting their advice can be seen as a form of submission. We do not want the person to think they are superior or have an advantage over us. So we argue with everything they have to say. We go above and beyond just to prove they were wrong and we were right. What sucks is when we fail. Our head falls down in shame and we pray that the other person won't rub it in our face. If they do rub it in our face, the hatred only grows. We become blinded with the hatred we now hold for this person. Like a wounded animal we resent the person and which makes it even harder for us to move on.

With time things may change. Hitting your head against the wall enough times can send a message that its about time we swallow our pride and accept the advice of others. Its a hard thing to accept, but doing so could save us time that we would have lost otherwise through our blind rage. Swallowing our pride can mean admitting we are wrong and accepting our faults; something that we must all learn to eventually do.

No one expects us to be perfect but aware of what we are doing wrong. Making the same mistake twice or three times in a row should ring a bell that we need help addressing the issue. Our pride however tells us just keep trying; that eventually we will get it right. Admitting we have a problem could again save us plenty of time but our pride stands in the way of us accepting that. We are determined to prove that we are independent and can handle the situation all on our own.

Our emotions should not come first yet they tend to get the best of us. We are all human and it is perfectly fine to feel the way we do. It is what makes us human and allows us to reason. Overall we must learn to see both sides of the matter at hand and accept our faults. Doing this may involve swallowing our pride, admitting we were wrong, and learning that if we want to function in this world we have to accept the advice of others.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 1:24 am
Date: 10/9/08
Official End Time: 3:41 am

Today was another great day with high hopes for better days yet to come. China is playing a role more and more in my everyday life. I hope that one day I can help Steve bring opportunities to China that we are just starting to embrace here in America. The work we are doing is really something great and wonderful that I hope brings new opportunities to students all across China.

Since going to China and really engulfing myself in this social network and several other social networks created by Ning I have found a new understanding of how technology can really mold the world around us. After going to China, I came back with a new understanding of the culture which motivated me to take what I had learned and apply it one step further. I decided to join Steve as a team player in the growth of the Ningxia Dragon Student Ambassador Website to help spread new opportunities to students all across China.

The idea is to integrate technology along with project-based educational programs that will help provide students in both the US and China with the opportunity to collaborate and establish social connections via the internet and social networks such as Ning. This idea could help establish a connection of educators in both China and the US who feel that the use of technology could provide students with real world opportunities essential to a balanced and complete educational process for tomorrows leaders and citizens.

The challenge we face with promoting an idea so rich and powerful is support. The average Chinese family could not afford to participate in such cultural exchange and even more so for families in the United States facing hard times with our current economy. Financial support would make it easier for deserving students to take part in such exchanges and become leaders in their communities. Movements are being made and it will only take purpose and collaboration to break down the brick walls that stand in our way.

Going to China made me realize how dynamic the students and education has become. Everyday students are becoming leaders and setting the model for future students to follow. I feel that the students listed below would benefit most from what we plan to do in China due to their leadership and dynamic spirit for seeking change.

Snow- I met Snow while in Yinchuan and was captivated by the leadership she took into insuring my health when I got sick in China. Snow represented our interpreter in the hospital and took care of me throughout my stay in China. She was responsible for my well being and I could not have asked for a more responsible, determined, and caring individual.

Lane-I recently met Lane and have since then been shocked with her willingness to make our dream for China possible. Having really no connection to the website besides the information I have provided her with, Lane has taken it upon herself to tell every teacher, student, and friend she feels would be a great addition to the site and bring us one step closer to making our dream a reality.

China has given me the opportunity to meet new people and really work on issues that could affect hundreds. It's a challenge we face with the number of members needed to be added to the site and the community we must build, but worth every moment knowing that what we are doing will one day make life better for a Chinese or American student somewhere on the map.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 3:05 pm
Date: 10/8/08
Official End Time: 4:27 pm

Meeting new people is always exciting. The first few minutes you share with them has to be the most exhilarating part. Maybe its just the age or the mind state, but everytime I meet new people I'm not sure how to present myself. I want to seem as natural as possible and someone they would want to be friends with. It really takes a few minutes before you establish the connection. Overtime however the connection is strengthened and we are able to share fond memories as if we knew each other like old friends do.

Through my personal experience I can say that making new friends can be an intimidating process. Often we are conflicted between taking the risk of talking to the person and not establishing the connection we had in mind. Taking the first step is always the hardest. Approaching the person is just as hard. Finally, introducing yourself and starting a conversation is where the real pressure comes into play. Taking these risks is totally worth it if you establish a strong connection and make a new friend that you might not have had otherwise.

Once the connection is establish it is up to you to keep it strong. Having interesting topics to talk about and being a little weird can always be helpful tools to keep a connection going. You want the connection to seem as easy as possible and not a seminar. (I feel I do that a lot) The topic doesn't necessarily matter as long as the attention of the person stays in touch. When things look like they are heading south it might be smart to switch the subject and bring up something that causes the other person to laugh.

Chances are the more things you share with the person, the easier it is to talk to them. Asking questions can take some of the pressure off of you and allow you to find out more about the interest your friend-to-be might have. Of course there will be those awkward moments of silence, but overtime the connection will be so strong that you can find a new subject to laugh about.

My best advice would be to mingle. Enter the conversation with an unbiased mind and show confidence. Prove to your friend that you are an open-minded person who has a dynamic character. My formula for success is not the only one but the one that works for me. If you feel more comfortable making new friends in a different way then I think you should pursue it to you hearts content.

Its always fun to meet new people and experience something new ad intriguing.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 12:20 am
Date: 10/7/08
Official End Time: 1:48 am

So today I felt that I should reflect on some of the positive things I have currently in my life and why all these things make going on everyday that much sweeter.

Since sophomore year I have been fortunate to meet a lot of great people and do a lot of great things. I have grown closer to the friends I already have and the friends I have made since then. With each endeavor I have evolved as a person and smile everytime I look back at my past encounters. Of course there were brick walls along the way that made me wish I had done things differently, but fate is something you cannot control. The things that happened happened for a reason and should leave us with a new understanding of what to do different the next time.

I remember the year I spent doing the ITR&D course and all the hard work I did for my class. The long hours all paid off in the end when we took the elevator up to the expo hall. There were 13 of us in that small elevator and we were ecstatic. The bond we shared as a team and the cheer we gave before we embarked the CT Expo was enough for me to do the work all over again and see that bond between such a diverse group of friends. Since then my classmate and I have a new understanding for who we are and what opportunities lay ahead for us. I learned through that experience and future experiences that it is all about the big picture. That our opinions should not get in the way of the production of something great. We are all capable of revolutionizing the world in front us, but not without the help of others.

The work I did and have done for Education Connection is another feat that I feel took a lot of determination and motivation. Getting the job was simply a matter of contacting someone with an idea that I thought would be great if they could help me bring to life. I never really expected a response; it was more of a suggestion. The course of events that soon came to follow is what made me realize how much I love the job I have at Education Connection. My colleagues were a group of educators and visionaries that saw the dynamic world we have in front of us the same way I do. They taught me that having an idea isn't enough; that results are what matters. The follow through and time we put into making sure these ideas come to life is where we prove how much we care.

China of course was another major milestone that made me the man I am today. China was a real wake up call. It gave me a taste of the opportunities that life has to over. It allowed me to see the culture of such a rich group of people and experience something that few Westerners ever have the chance to experience. It also gave me some brick walls that I needed to hit face-first if I wanted to do something great and wonderful. Looking back at all the things that went well and all the things I wish could have went better, I was able to realize some major changes I have to make about myself if I want to even make it to the future.

(I'll list these points with some in depth reason in a future entry . . . probably in the progress report for this month)

Overall life has been pretty good to me thus far. I wake up everyday, excited to see what adventures await. Sure there are moments where I might get sad, angry, and regret decision that I have made in the past but I must live in the present. Life has always been tough, but that isn't enough of a reason to look at it in such a pessimistic way. We should embrace the things we have and work together to make life even better.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 12:46 am
Date: 10/6/08
Official End Time: 1:36 am

I felt that I needed to reflect on the progress of my experiment thus far and express what hopes I have for the future through doing this experiment.

Looking back at my previous entries I noticed that I write a lot. With each entry I feel like I am writing an essay and am producing some of my best work. Other times however I am just blabbing on about the small details in my life. Either way I feel that I am really doing something great with each entry and am glad to see the way I express myself. It brings a sense of achievement when I go back and read the thoughts, feelings, and ideas that have just came out of my mind.

I also noticed how much time and effort it takes to do something that you really care about. Doing a blog a day seems pretty easy but often I find myself coming down to the last minute of the day trying to achieve my goal of doing a blog a day. Something that I might get back to doing is writing the blog around midnight of the day that it is due. It eliminate the worry of not being able to complete the blog and gives me more time to produce a better piece of work.

Things that I hope to gain from this experiment would be a timeline that I could look back on from the day I started to the day I ended. I hope that after doing 365+ entries that I can really look back at the person I once was and what new exciting things can come out of the person I hope to be. Additionally, I hope that through this experiment I can decide to do something great in my life and really make a difference.

I think I will do a progress report at the end of each month. In each progress report I hope to give a better reflection of how I feel about my writing, insert quotes that I feel capture the message I was trying to send, and provide myself with goals that I hope to accomplish through future entries. This progress report obviously doesn't cover enough time for me to really reflect but in the future expect a more in depth analysis of the experiment I am doing.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 11:00 pm
Date: 10/5/08
Official End Time: 11:59 pm

A side-note for most of my entries. I typically write about topics that I feel were the highlight of my day and gave me a new understanding for the world and the people around us. Whenever I have a day with less excitement I may find myself talking about less interesting things, but the quality I can insure you will get better with time.

Today I want to write about maturing and what prioritizing can mean as you get older.

As a child we are given opportunities to grow and develop in a world that has so many opportunities to offer. We are young and full of energy. Our parents lecture us with how we have to work hard and grow up to be functioning members in our communities. It may not seem like it but we are being groomed for a better life since the day we are born.

It isn't till we have really gone out into the world that we realize what life has awaiting for us. As a child we are indifferent, almost innocent to the malice that consumes our planet. Our minds are untainted and we are able to see everyone as equals. As we get older however something happens to the child that was once so innocent and open-minded. We are subjective to the decisions we make and almost ignorant of the opportunities we reject. Opportunities to make friends, to be a better person, and to make the decisions that matter most.

Lost time can never be recovered and what we do with the time we have now will determine what we can do with the time we may have in the future. Maturing and prioritizing the things we have in our lives are decisions that come all on there own. We cannot control the fate we have but can definitely make the right decisions to insure a better life. Making these decisions can result in the lost of friends, love ones, and things that we feel make us the people we are.

It is difficult to accept these changes but if we want to move on; it is a decision we have to make. The ends however justify the means as Machiavelli once said. We cannot control the world in front us and must learn to accept and adapt to the changes it may throw our way. The purpose that we have with our decisions is what ultimately affects the world around us and will determine the type of people we grow up to be.

Not all of us are meant to be doctors, lawyers, or politicians that remodel the social structure of our planet. Maturing and prioritizing the things we have in our lives are decisions that come all on there own. We cannot control the fate we have but can definitely make the right decisions to insure a better life. A better life for our children and a better life for those who are still so innocent to the changing world we are living in.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 10:21 am
Date: 10/4/08
Official End Time: 11: 59 am

Today I wanted to do an interesting piece about commitment and determination. How long should we be wiling to hold onto an idea or a person before we lose everything? I can only provide my honest opinion with this issue and wish to know what your take is on the issue?

With experience and time we come to a point in our lives where we find something that we truly love. It can be a person or an idea that we feel we are incomplete without. There is a passion, a fire that is found deep inside our soul and it is driven to do the best to keep this dream going. It becomes almost second-nature and if anyone where to ask us why we feel so passionate about this person or idea we leave them speechless with our response. How much we are willing to sacrifice for this person or idea is where we prove how much we care.

The drive we have to keep this person or idea alive is where our determination comes into question. When faced with adversity we can simply give up and turn our backs on the love we once had for this dream. If we are determined we would fight to the final hour to give this dream only a few more minutes on this Earth. We are lost to the idea of having to go on after our dreams have been crushed and our souls have been put to rest. However there is no remedy to pacify the pain of losing those we hold close and it is only with time that we can learn how to live our lives again.

The motives we have for this dream are pure and become a part of us as the years go on. Speaking about the issue almost becomes as easy as breathing. No one can persuade us to think differently of what we believe is so pure and honest in our world. Religion, relatives, and relationships all hold a special place in our soul and mind. The motives blend into each other and we are unclear between what motives are more important than the others. Often we get lost in the crossfire and hurt those we did not mean to hurt.

The people, money, and time we are willing to sacrifice for this dream often leaves us with more sorrow then we would have intended. We threw away our life savings and shut the door on our friends all for the chance of making this dream a reality. We become blind to the world around us and refuse to listen to the rhyme or reason of others. We hit the wall face-first and lose the things we hold dearest before we realize what we could have if we only were more open to the ideas of others.

Waking up the next day however is unimaginable. It is impossible to go on with our day when we no longer have the foundation to our soul. Life almost seems worthless but all good things must come to an end. We must learn that things happen for a reason and that we must continue to go on. Once we accept this, we are able to pacify the pain in our soul and teach others that life isn't always about superficial things, but giving back to the world that our children will one day live in.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 10:08 pm
Date: 10/3/08
Official End Time: 11:51 pm

Usually I do my blog post around midnight or later on the day they are due. Yesterday (earlier today) however I found it impossible to do a blog. I had a great subject, but last night it was like I had writer's block; I just couldn't get the words out.

So the event that I was gonna write about yesterday takes place 26 hours ago, where I find myself in my old middle school serving as a translator for a close relative. While at the meeting the school's principal starts addressing the parents about the community that the school represents and how with their help remodeling the school to the needs of the students should be no problem.

While listening to his lecture I was finding it difficult to not burst out of my seat and share my experience and opinion with working as a driving force through education. Eventually I was spotted by a former teacher during the meeting and was asked so many question about what I had been up to after graduating middle school. When I told them about Education Connection, China, and all the plans I have for the future they were shocked. Never before had an alumni came back and shared success stories like the ones I told that night. I was asked to come back and talk to future graduating classes, telling them to stay on the right track if they wanted to be successful in the future.

Leaving that meeting I was moved by the words of my former teachers and shocked at the urges I had to share my experience when the subject of a community in education came up. The fork in the road that I have described in the past presented itself to me again on the ride home and the course of direction seemed a little easier to choose from. Making a difference in education through implementing innovation and 21st century skills seemed more and more tempting as I got closer and closer to our destination.

The words of my parents made choosing a little awkward though as they engulfed me with the tales of college life for them while they were training to become doctors. The studying, doubts, and determination they showed really made me question if I could meet up to their standards. My mother of course had the closing statement which gave me doubts more than motivation. She told me that if I wanted to succeed and become a great doctor that I should start now, and read as many books about medicine and science so that when I do find myself in college, I have a heads up for what's yet to come.

That was a great piece of advice, but something about that message brewed fear in my soul. Maybe its the unknown, but I often question how I would face reality when confronted with such a threat? But it all leads back to my point that I must remain a well rounded person, prepared for whatever the world may throw at me. Either way I go I have to understand that hard work, doubts, and ambition is needed if you want to succeed.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

Official Start Time: 12:36 am
Date: 10/2/08
Official End Time: 2:31 am

Today I was able to finish my homework super early. I didn't have much but was stunned at all the free time I had after getting done what matters most. With that free time I was able to relax and at the same time take a closer look at the website we share and the technological world we have in front of us.

When you visit our website you are greeted with the home page and a few picture and some information about who we are. There's a lot of stuff to see on the front page. What catches my eye first would have to be the tab to the right that tells you the latest activity on the site. Through that tab I can see who might have left me a comment, if a new video was added, or a new addition to the site. The layout of the site seems to have been updated with a lot of new information that makes it easier for the user to get the information they might be looking for.

Looking at my page I noticed that my picture now stands in the top left corner with my caption to the right. Underneath that is a list of the things I have been doing recently along with a short bio underneath. When you look to the left there is a list of all the elements to your profile that provides you with information about blog posts, discussions, events, groups, photos, photo albums, and videos that you may have created or been affiliated with.

The friend's tab has also been revamped. When you click on the tab it'll tell you who your friends are and friend request that you might have sent out. Everything has a value on the site and provides options to see not just your information but everyones. Everything has a picture assigned to it as well. Overall the site has become more attractive to the eye and easier for the user to access the information they might be looking for.

The Ning network is famous for this kind of work. Using the Ning platform, a person can create their own social network that can then be link to other social networks creating a growing community of people who may share similar interest. Ning now a days is used to create communities that act together towards a cause that they believe is worth fighting for.

This idea of people coming together through social networks and organizing themselves in response to a cause they believe is worth fighting for is amazing. The technology and opportunities we have in todays world and age are making it easier and easier to remodel the world in front of us. Things like getting the news, buying gifts, and staying in touch with friends can be done from the comfort of your own home for almost little to nothing. The biggest movements are the ones being done through education and the idea that books and an instructor are not the only tools a student in todays world should be equipped with. 21st century skills are being implemented more and more in today's curriculum. The response is students who are more aware of the opportunities available and what they can do make to their dreams a reality.

The morals and incentives behind these movements are as pure as the morals and incentives of the teachers that taught us from the book. Through the internet and its open-sources, students can be exposed to an education that isn't confined to the 4 walls of the classroom, but to the power of the technology being used. Purpose and collaboration is all it will take to take the world we have in front us and remodel it so that future generations can continue breaking down the brick walls that stand in the way of good students on the road towards a better tomorrow.

Sincerely, Hector Guzman

So right there is a pretty good overview of my feeling towards technology and the great things being done using technology through education. The world in front of us is changing dramatically and will be even more dynamic within the years to come. Purpose and collaboration is all it will take to take the world we have in front of us and remodel whatever way we please.