Research Paper Reflective Essay (5)

The research paper that I wrote for this class was by far the most complex essay I have ever drafted. Due to the complexity of the paper I believe that I was able to extend beyond certain boundaries as a writer. Boundaries I have not even approached formerly. The most important skill that I gathered from this process is skimming documents for information that pertains directly to my topic and finding good quotes and facts to include. After reviewing almost a dozen sources I found the eight that were right for me and my masterpiece. Like any essay, this research paper has become my baby. I thoroughly enjoy the creation of writing and leaving a mark on the world in a personalized way through my words and stories.

This research paper has been meaningful because I do not believe it has only affected my understanding of familial relationships in the past, but rather helps me understand the ones in the present and my future interactions on a large scale. Understanding such a crucial unit of society and how aspects of the unit have "changed" as time has progressed is very intriguing and I don't expect this to be the last time I research the topic of marriage and family. I enjoyed telling personal family stories throughout my paper and also favored the inclusion of the parable of the silverware. Marriage and family is definitely a topic that hundreds of stories can be included in, so maybe I just got lucky.

This research paper also marked the first time I have created an annotated bibliography. Although this document was not graded I know it is important for me to have the knowledge of an annotated bibliography and its importance for future courses, and possibly later on in this course. The annotated bibliography was very helpful in beginning the research process. Without the annotated bibliography I probably would have procrastinated more on this assignment and my final product would not be on the level it is now.

In conclusion, I was glad to write another research paper that can be added to my overall portfolio and I was especially impressed with the rigorous expectations that accompanied it. As a writer, I enjoy being stretched and I know it is only up from here. If I were to change anything I wish I would have used more tangible resources than primarily online sources, but the latter is just that much easier in a lengthy process like this. After all, time is money.

Research Brainstorm: Marriage Age (4)

Brainstorm:

For my research paper, I am interested in my ancestors' marriage ages in correlation with their nation's and states' averages. The narrative I want to depict, in order to hook my audience, is the story of my parent's first date. The date my dad proposed to my mom on a horse drawn carriage in downtown Atlanta with a ring and everything. From observation of marriages, divorces, and remarriages within my family I hope to be able to learn insights into what makes a marriage work. It is clear that marriage is not a walk in the park, but the happiness that is experienced throughout the journey is one I would love to tap in to.

Maybe put specific questions.

My favorite part is the phrase, "with a ring and everything." It adds voice.  So the question you are exploring is "what makes a marriage works?" and maybe "How working hard at a marriage brings joy?" Very interesting.

I agree that the question "what makes a marriage work" would be a great question

you could tie in the ages of your ancestors  to "what makes marriage work" because it seems like that might play a part  
  
     The family is ordained of God. The organization of the family is one of the main keys to happiness in this life, but many wonder why so many trials occur within our homes and between loved ones. Many families, if not all, are considered dysfunctional by one standard or another. To solve this mystery one must look at the essential factors that comprise the overall well-being of the family unit including: marriage age, divorce and remarriage, and familial religiosity.     
     A few decades ago, in 1990, a young man met a beautiful young woman at Institute, and in turn fell in love with her. She was not convinced though, and rejected his attempts of courting more than once. As a last ditch effort a bouquet of flowers were sent to her workplace; surly he would get a date now. After persuasion from coworkers, and reassurance that if given a pity date she would never have to see him again, she accepted. Realizing that this was his only chance with the woman of his dreams he determined to make it the best date ever. He planned for them to dine at the Peachtree Plaza in Atlanta, Georgia and afterwards explore the night life via horse drawn carriage. She endured the evening and when her date got down on one knee inside a horse drawn carriage with an engagement ring in hand she was absolutely stunned. "Is this real?" She asked. Mistaking her question as one concerning the authenticity of the rock the scared twenty something fumbled his words as he explained ring and rock quality. She quickly stopped him and rephrased the question, "I mean to ask, are you really asking me this question? On the first date?" Mortified, he responded, "Yes." She did not give him an answer that night. Two days later, after much prayer, in the middle of Sacrament meeting my mom leaned over to my dad's roommate and whispered, "You just lost a roommate." Then she turned to my dad and simply said, "yes." Needless to say, he did not have the strength to stand for the rest hymn. 

Come and See Analysis (3)

On Sunday afternoon, the second to last speaker, Elder David A. Bednar, gave an edifying talk on missionary work. He addressed non members and their question of why members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are so persistent in their duty to share the gospel with others. He answered this question by stating: "Our desire to share the restored gospel of Jesus Christ with you is a reflection of how important these truths are to us."

To captivate his audience he shared a story of his two sons when they were younger. After the younger son was hurt playing outside the two boys came into the house and the older one ministered to his brother. First, he scrubbed the wound with water and soap in order to cleanse it. All the while the younger boy had "cause to howl, and weep, and wail, and gnash [his] teeth." This action was then followed by excessive amounts of ointment and a great many bandages applied to the wound. The story did not stop there though. After the younger boy had been helped by his brother he ran outside with ointment and bandages for all of his friends. Not only does this story teach of the "Pay it Forward" principle, but it explains that when we experience greatness in any aspect of our life we want to share this knowledge and helpful assistance with others.

Surly this story hooked everyone from eight to eighty-eight years of age. It was humorous enough at times to cause children and parents alike to laugh. Yet, the underlying principles that were taught are ones we can carry with us day to day. The story is one that will help us remember these principles the next time we are questioned about our "duty", rather privilege, to share the gospel and influence others.