So - if you want to actually be able to read the text, you'll have to click the image. Even then, it's still small. My apologies...
A collage of images created in a caffeinated state while comfortably basking in the sun at Caffetto.
I intended for this to be a visual argument, but in essence, I think it's become an essay since it's not terribly persuasive. In composing this piece, I have to admit to frustration and confusion. Is Word my only option for constructing an artistic/visual work? I have no idea. And then, is taking a screen shot my only hope for publication? I used crude methods to get to this final destination and feel very limited in my ability to be creative considering my writing tools. All this technology, and I don't know what to do with it. When choosing images, I kept in mind emotional impact as well as coherence. I'm sure that I probably wasn't supposed to include any text in my visual assignment but I did anyway. I feel as if each of the characteristics (salience, organization, coherence, etc) were limited due to my composing in Word. The presentation would have been strengthened by larger images, perhaps a different format, pictoral graphics, as well as my own photography. I struggled with these issues in my media analysis post for Rick Beach as well.
As many of you know, I see my life drifting away from the intended path. While I believe passionately in education and know exactly what I'm capable of (i.e. giving 150% to the kids and surviving as an outstanding teacher), I don't think I want that for my life. I know what it takes to be one of those teachers that stands out from the crowd. I'm not a good balancer, as I have extremely high expectations for myself. What's the point in doing anything if you don't do it well? I don't want to be a mediocre teacher. There are enough of those out there. I don't doubt that I can do it - the question is - do I want to? In my dream world, I'm seeking growth, change, and connection.
If I get brave and go to Boikarabelo, perhaps I'll have another opportunity at creating a visual argument. Then I could showcase my own pictures.
There are 1.2 million AIDS orphans living in South Africa. Boikarabelo, founded by Marion and Con Cloete in 1990, is dedicated to improving the lives of the economically challenged, especially children who have been orphaned by or exposed to HIV/AIDS. Using the traditional African village (and its inherent ubuntu values of cooperation and joint responsibility) as a model, the community works together to break the cycle of poverty and bring hope, safety, education and sustainable growth to all residents. The community includes an orphanage, school, village, medical clinic and organic farm. Your donation will help Boikarabelo and its residents work together to feed themselves, educate themselves and to better themselves.
For more information go to www.boikarabelo.org
