This post is about a very precious book, I shall reveal the title at the end <3
I hesitate to call this book a biography, because it reads like a novel. Each character in this book is growing and becomes real. Each one I felt like I knew personally. They weren't like characters you read about in a traditional biography, they were dynamic and likeable (or dislikeable if they were a villain!)
Some examples are John Calhoun; the sensitive, caring, and intense thinker, Henry Clay the charismatic, ambitious, friendly and funny guy, Daniel Webster the loyal friend and outdoorsy one, Andrew Jackson, the handsome popular war leader, with a temper that men flee with, Martin Van Buren the scheming "sly fox" who controls a political machines. The bad guys, although they may appear to triumph at first corruption ultimately will be their downfall. I shall not say which of these characters I mentioned is a bad guy, for spoilers. Each character though, has his flaws and his strengths. Not even the hero is perfect, each one has a fault. They do though (some of them) repent of the fault, and grow.
The locations were described as though I was there. The Senate chamber, the frontier, and Fort Hill plantation came alive right before my eyes. I could close my eyes and be there.
The emotions I felt with the characters. I felt happiness, anger, sadness, and excitement.
This book starts out on the frontier, a young boy named John Calhoun grows up and is largely self-taught. John can't get into Yale at first because of his lack of education, but then after intense studying is able. John defies all odds and gets an education. He falls in love with a girl named Floride, and later marries her. John is elected as a state Representative in South Carolina. Later John is elected to the US House of Representatives, and plays a major part in encouraging Americans to go to war with England (the War of 1812.) John becomes Secretary of War under James Monroe. Also, John Calhoun is elected Vice President, under JQA and Andrew Jackson. Andrew Jackson has spies in the White House to spy on his enemies. Andrew also, has an intense hatred for John Calhoun, and Secretary of State Martin Van Buren... jealous of Calhoun plots against him. A bill is passed, the Tariff of Abominations a controversial bill that charged a 50%-100% tax on foreign made goods. The South is outraged, and Jackson is promoting the bill. Calhoun, believes this bill to be unconstitutional and encourages South Carolina to nullify the law. When Jackson hears about Calhoun's doing, he attempts to murder him. Jackson (this isn't mentioned but, he actually had a secretary in his secret cabinet control the media) played public opinion against Calhoun. Calhoun, scared for his life returns to South Carolina, on his way back he contracts a illness...he brushes off at the time but the illness is tuberculosis, which will come back to haunt him. Calhoun resigns being Vice President, and returns as a Senator to Washington. In Washington many men who claimed to be John's "friend" openly agreed with Andrew Jackson to murder Calhoun. Heartbroken, Calhoun sinks into a bitterness because of his tuberculosis and his so called "friends" betraying him.
Calhoun's true friends gather around him and convince him to get out of his bitterness. Calhoun grows out of his bitterness, and never enters it again. Calhoun loves his plantation Fort Hill, and reading the book the author describes the plantation to make you feel there. I've never been to Fort Hill, but its my favorite place on earth :) the way the author paints its image in your mind.
Senator Calhoun becomes Secretary of State to John Tyler. Eccentric Tyler is distracted by political issues at his wedding, so Calhoun comforts the new First Lady and makes her feel at ease in Washington.
Calhoun is reelected to the Senate, but isn't very happy about it. His tuberculosis was drastic weakening him. More then anything Calhoun wanted to retire, but didn't because he felt somebody corrupt will take his place.
Calhoun returns to Washington, and is immediately bedridden. Calhoun laying in bed, has a beautiful flashback scene. By far, the best flashback in literature that I have read, he was picturing young Floride, his children, his plantation... as well as other events.
Calhoun's political opponent, and dear friend Daniel Webster comes to visit him. Webster confides in him, that he is nervous about a speech he has to deliver. Calhoun would love to be there, but was afraid he may not live. Webster while making his speech doesn't notice Calhoun slowly entering the chamber. Calhoun tried to interupt, but was too weak. Finally Calhoun lets Webster know. Webster gets emotional, and very touched his friend would be there for him.
Calhoun never left a will because he spent his time "making his peace with God" The book says his spiritual doubts were resolved, and Calhoun places his trust in God.
Calhoun dies of tuberculosis at the age of 68 on March 31 1850.
Completely at peace and ease.
There is so much more to the book!
My favorite scene was the Andrew Jackson- John Calhoun stand off. Calhoun risked his life, and his career to go against the popular wind. I also loved the flashback scene, and the Fort Hill scenes Calhoun also stood up against political corruption, and made a choice to stay pure.
The name is John C. Calhoun: American Portrait.
This book inspired me to become a better person, I always was a "good girl" but Calhoun inspired me to stand for being pure, to not be ashamed of my love of intense discussions and politics. He also inspired me to continue pursuing my dreams even when trials come. John C. Calhoun, was a character who I could relate to, he reminded me of myself. Other characters such as Daniel Webster, Henry Clay and others reminded me of dear friends of mine. Also, the beautiful descriptions of people and places just captured my heart like I can't explain <3
Even if you don't like history, and if you don't like Calhoun trust me you will just the literary quality and dramatic story in this unique book you will fall in love with.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Friday, February 3, 2012
Courageous
Movie Title: Courageous
Rating: D- (or F)
Overall, the plot line of fathers trying to be better fathers was very good. But many of the issues presented were much deeper and more complex then the movie made them out to be. Parts of the movie dragged on slowly, and the acting could have been worked on (especially the running scene)
Also, I know at least six movies that kill off characters named Emily, silly concern but that is starting to be stereotyped, and is rather annoying. Why not give the characters different names? There are plenty of girl names out there.
I know many of my friends love this movie, but I didn't really get into it.
Rating: D- (or F)
Overall, the plot line of fathers trying to be better fathers was very good. But many of the issues presented were much deeper and more complex then the movie made them out to be. Parts of the movie dragged on slowly, and the acting could have been worked on (especially the running scene)
Also, I know at least six movies that kill off characters named Emily, silly concern but that is starting to be stereotyped, and is rather annoying. Why not give the characters different names? There are plenty of girl names out there.
I know many of my friends love this movie, but I didn't really get into it.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Nullification (Under counstruction)
Today I shall address the issue of nullification.
In James Madison's "Kentucky Resolution" he states; "a nullification of the act is the rightful remedy: that every State has a natural right in cases not within the compact."
Nullification (Aka: State Interposition) tells the states that they don't have to follow unconstitutional laws. All the states' have to do if they believe the government is over stepping its grounds, is declare the law nullified.
The founding fathers wisely set our nation with a system of checks and balances. Sometimes, when one party has a super-majority, they can get things through that further their party's agenda. Through nullification, people who do not believe in the agenda can---through their legislator nullify the law.
I'm now going to say something that may sound very controversial, but I'll explain for I reached the conclusion; The states' formed the Federal government.
The people set up states, and the states not the people voted on independence and the Constitution.
It would have been hard to go to.... South Carolina lets say, and ask every single citizen "Do you like the constitution?" Instead Congressmen spoke for South Carolina. When I say "spoke for" I'm not applying that the spoke for every person. A representative, can't represent all the people...but he can represent his ideas.
The Tenth amendment, gives states the power to self-govern.
Nullification, is a compromise between secession and submission, as my history book put it.
Secession, is completely leaving the nation. Becoming a sovereign nation.
Submission, is following the government, no matter what.
In John C. Calhoun's "Discourse" he put that we are a Federal government, not a nation. A nation, all the states are united and must follow the federal government. A federal republic doesn't have to submit.
The states' who created the government, shouldn't have to submit to their creation, while it is doing something unconstitutional.
People may argue nullification is anarchy, but nullification does have some Biblical root.
The Bible teaches man is basically evil, and prone to do wrong. Nullification acknowledges man's sinful behavior, to enforce laws contradictory to what we hold dear. Through nullification, we won't be forced to follow what we don't believe in.
Naturally when one follows something he doesn't believe in, he will not do it with his whole heart.
True, nullification can be taken to an extreme. But it is a safe and peaceful way to ensure the liberty of the citizens against a big government.
In James Madison's "Kentucky Resolution" he states; "a nullification of the act is the rightful remedy: that every State has a natural right in cases not within the compact."
Nullification (Aka: State Interposition) tells the states that they don't have to follow unconstitutional laws. All the states' have to do if they believe the government is over stepping its grounds, is declare the law nullified.
The founding fathers wisely set our nation with a system of checks and balances. Sometimes, when one party has a super-majority, they can get things through that further their party's agenda. Through nullification, people who do not believe in the agenda can---through their legislator nullify the law.
I'm now going to say something that may sound very controversial, but I'll explain for I reached the conclusion; The states' formed the Federal government.
The people set up states, and the states not the people voted on independence and the Constitution.
It would have been hard to go to.... South Carolina lets say, and ask every single citizen "Do you like the constitution?" Instead Congressmen spoke for South Carolina. When I say "spoke for" I'm not applying that the spoke for every person. A representative, can't represent all the people...but he can represent his ideas.
The Tenth amendment, gives states the power to self-govern.
Nullification, is a compromise between secession and submission, as my history book put it.
Secession, is completely leaving the nation. Becoming a sovereign nation.
Submission, is following the government, no matter what.
In John C. Calhoun's "Discourse" he put that we are a Federal government, not a nation. A nation, all the states are united and must follow the federal government. A federal republic doesn't have to submit.
The states' who created the government, shouldn't have to submit to their creation, while it is doing something unconstitutional.
People may argue nullification is anarchy, but nullification does have some Biblical root.
The Bible teaches man is basically evil, and prone to do wrong. Nullification acknowledges man's sinful behavior, to enforce laws contradictory to what we hold dear. Through nullification, we won't be forced to follow what we don't believe in.
Naturally when one follows something he doesn't believe in, he will not do it with his whole heart.
True, nullification can be taken to an extreme. But it is a safe and peaceful way to ensure the liberty of the citizens against a big government.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
IGovern- How it changed me.
I've been an Incumbent of IGovern East, for two years. It has been a blessing and shaped me in so many ways.
Socially: I've met the most amazing people ever, words alone can't explain. So many dear friendships, that I never want to lose. I can't imagine a gathering this large of people who are just so---indescribable :)
Politically: My opinions became better grounded. The first year- I was Senate Minority Leader. The first day, so many people tried to lobby for one bill or another, but I learned how to speak up, and not to say "yes" to every proposial.
As a Vice Presidential nominee this year, I again was confronted with many different bills, I made a decision, a very hard one at that; not to vote for a popular national park bill...because of what Jim DeMint said, and my own convictions. I was one of four Senators speaking against it, it was a lost cause and made many people annoyed. Thankfully, a fellow Senator worked out a compromise. But from that moment I saw what Senators have to do, isn't always easy.
Spirituality: Well, It really was moving. I can't explain anything like it. The speakers really touched me, and the songs----I never raised my hands in worship; but at IGovern, I did. The counselors were a blessing, as each of them had to be some of the most encouraging people I've ever met; So were the students!
Overroll: My first year, I was the idealistic young Senate Minority Leader, full of ideas, and worried of causing waves, but I did a few times. This year, I was a Vice- Presidential nominee, I thought (as I did last year) very deeply into issues, but the difference, I was more cautious about turning in FEC forms, and I really felt like I put to practice, the lessons I learned as Senate Minority Leader at camp.
Socially: I've met the most amazing people ever, words alone can't explain. So many dear friendships, that I never want to lose. I can't imagine a gathering this large of people who are just so---indescribable :)
Politically: My opinions became better grounded. The first year- I was Senate Minority Leader. The first day, so many people tried to lobby for one bill or another, but I learned how to speak up, and not to say "yes" to every proposial.
As a Vice Presidential nominee this year, I again was confronted with many different bills, I made a decision, a very hard one at that; not to vote for a popular national park bill...because of what Jim DeMint said, and my own convictions. I was one of four Senators speaking against it, it was a lost cause and made many people annoyed. Thankfully, a fellow Senator worked out a compromise. But from that moment I saw what Senators have to do, isn't always easy.
Spirituality: Well, It really was moving. I can't explain anything like it. The speakers really touched me, and the songs----I never raised my hands in worship; but at IGovern, I did. The counselors were a blessing, as each of them had to be some of the most encouraging people I've ever met; So were the students!
Overroll: My first year, I was the idealistic young Senate Minority Leader, full of ideas, and worried of causing waves, but I did a few times. This year, I was a Vice- Presidential nominee, I thought (as I did last year) very deeply into issues, but the difference, I was more cautious about turning in FEC forms, and I really felt like I put to practice, the lessons I learned as Senate Minority Leader at camp.
Monday, June 13, 2011
IGovern
I came back from IGovern 2011. It was very fun!
I got to be a Senator (Horray for the Senate!!! :)) and campaigned for Vice President with Jake. (Side note: campaigning is exhausting!!) We won the Gold primary, and there even was a mock attack at IGovern (Great acting guys!). We went to Washington, DC and John Thune waved and smiled at us. We heard a Congressman and Senator Jim DeMint from South Carolina speak. I got a picture with DeMint, he is amazing. We went outside and had a picture with General Dempsey. We met with a Democrat Sen. Brown....who looked like Rand Paul! I thought he was. We went to the Senate gallery and sat by the statue of John C. Calhoun, where we had a perfect view of the tv.
We got free truffles at Godiva's in Union station with a special card.
We had a Presidential debate which was amazing, and a press conference.
At the gala, there was a test for Gold, they made all the bad guys endorse us...
We didn't win the general election, because of a third party. But every other year the oppisite party wins...its a pattern ;)
I met so many amazing people again this year (yes, even my friends in other parties lol xD), and it was a blessing.
I got to be a Senator (Horray for the Senate!!! :)) and campaigned for Vice President with Jake. (Side note: campaigning is exhausting!!) We won the Gold primary, and there even was a mock attack at IGovern (Great acting guys!). We went to Washington, DC and John Thune waved and smiled at us. We heard a Congressman and Senator Jim DeMint from South Carolina speak. I got a picture with DeMint, he is amazing. We went outside and had a picture with General Dempsey. We met with a Democrat Sen. Brown....who looked like Rand Paul! I thought he was. We went to the Senate gallery and sat by the statue of John C. Calhoun, where we had a perfect view of the tv.
We got free truffles at Godiva's in Union station with a special card.
We had a Presidential debate which was amazing, and a press conference.
At the gala, there was a test for Gold, they made all the bad guys endorse us...
We didn't win the general election, because of a third party. But every other year the oppisite party wins...its a pattern ;)
I met so many amazing people again this year (yes, even my friends in other parties lol xD), and it was a blessing.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Just some thoughts
It is a beautiful day out! :)
I don't really have much to post.....
I went to chapel today. I'm also very excited about camp next Sunday :) It will be awesome :)
I don't really have much to post.....
I went to chapel today. I'm also very excited about camp next Sunday :) It will be awesome :)
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