Edgar Alan Poe Essays - Never Bet The Devil Your Head, The Black Cat

Edgar Alan Poe Edgar Allan Poe is perhaps the best-known American Romantic who worked in the Gothic mode. His stories explore the darker side of the Romantic imagination, dealing with the grotesque, the supernatural, and the horrifying. He defined the form of the American short story. As one might expect, Poe himself eschewed conventional morality, which he believed stems from man's attempts to dictate the purposes of God. Poe saw God more as process than purpose. He believed that moralists derive their beliefs, and thus, the resultant behavioral patterns, from a priori knowledge. In Eureka, we find that Poe shunned such artifices of mind, systems which, he professed, have no basis in reality. Yet Poe employed in his writing the diction of the moral tome, which causes confusion for readers immersed in this tradition. Daniel Hoffman reiterates Allan Tate's position that, aside from his atavistic employment of moral terminology, Poe writes as though "Christianity had never been invented." (Hoffman 171) Poe did offer to posterity one tale with a moral. Written in 1841 at the dawn of Poe's most creative period, Poe delivers to his readers a satirical spoof, a literary Bronx cheer to writers of moralistic fiction, and to critics who expressed disapprobation at finding no discernible moral in his works. The tale "Never Bet the Devil Your Head: A Tale with a Moral" presents Poe's "way of staying execution" (Poe 487) for his transgressions against the didactics. The story's main character is Toby Dammit, who from infanthood, had been flogged left-handed, which since the world revolves right to left, causes evil propensities to be driven home rather than driven out. The narrator relates that by the age of seven months, Toby was chasing down and kissing the female babies, that by eight months he had flatly refused to sign the Temperance Pledge, and that by the end of his first year, he'd taken to "wearing moustaches, but had contracted a propensity for cursing and swearing, and for backing his assertions with bets." (Poe 488) As Toby reaches manhood, the narrator finally accepts that his young friend is incorrigible. By this time, Toby utters scarcely a sentence without oaths, his favorite of which is to bet the devil his head that he can accomplish whatever challenge lies before him. One day as the narrator accompanies Toby Dammit on a route which requires the crossing of a covered bridge, Toby bets the devil his head that he can leap over a bridge stile, pigeon winging as he performs the feat. Unexpectedly a "little lame old gentleman of venerable aspect" (Poe 491) interrupts with an emphatic "ahem" to take Toby up on his bet. The elderly gentleman wears a "a full suit of black, but his shirt was perfectly clean and the collar turned very neatly down over a white cravat." Oddly, his eyes are "carefully rolled up into the top of his head," and he wears a black silk apron. (491) After he takes charge of Toby, allowing him a running start, the elderly interloper takes his position just behind the stile. The narrator awaits the gentleman's "One--two--three--and--away," when Toby initiates his running leap. To all appearances, the young reprobate is destined to clear the stile easily, pigeon-winging as he flies, when abruptly his progress is arrested, and the luckless Toby falls flat on his back on his side of the stile. The elderly gentleman is indistinctly seen wrapping a bulky object in his apron, and taking his leave of them. When the narrator throws open an adjacent window, he sees that Toby has been deprived of his head by a sharp, heretofore unnoticed cross-support located directly above the stile. Stated so that the targets of Poe's ridicule cannot miss it, the moral of his tale is the title of the story. Yet the moral of the tale is not its theme. Poe purposes ridicule of those who presume to judge him, and of their small-mindedness. This ridicule is his theme. His rendering of this riotous spoof illustrates that Poe believed he had more important things to do than pass moral judgment in his tales. Poe instead opted to depict what occurred to him as the natural order of man's behavior, rather than to engage in baseless speculation concerning what God intended for the individual. Appropriately, Poe asks, "if we cannot comprehend God in his visible works, how then in his inconceivable thoughts, that call the works into being! If we cannot understand him in his objective creatures, how then in his substantive moods and phases of creation"? (Poe 280-81) Instead,

Moderation as Method of Maintenance to Mental Health

Moderation as Method of Maintenance to Mental Health Free Online Research Papers Moderation as Method of Maintenance to Mental Health Early American society viewed the moderation of passion as necessary to maintain physical and mental health. Unbridled emotions were seen as the source of sickness and the driving force behind crime. Both gender roles had an expectation of rationality, of emotional control, though the patriarchal system of the time rested on men being the more rational. Men carried on their shoulders the pressures of familial success; a ‘man’ was the head of the household, he held authority over his wife and his children. He had a duty to maintain this authority, and custom allowed him to use violence to such ends. He also had a responsibility to provide for his family, and to be a successful member of the community. When men could not control their emotions or fulfill their societal duties, ‘intimate violence’ was the result. Masculine intimate violence was the result of society’s unreasonable expectations and overwhelming pressures. Males were not men unless they had status within the community, but everyone in the community cannot have status. Those males that failed were pushed toward unbridled violence as the only outlet for their ‘masculine primitive’ which normally would’ve been expressed through patriarchal control or economic competition. What then, of unbridled violence between the master and the slave, since the master exerts both patriarchal control, and is engaged in economic competition? Such violence was necessary to maintain patriarchal control; the ‘masculine primitive’ manifesting its desire for survival. It is ironic that the driving force behind capitalism, the ‘masculine primitive’, undermines its society both socially and culturally through undesirable and uncivilized crime. The ‘masculine primitive’, without whic h capitalism could not exist, traps capitalism’s adherents into writing off a portion of the population as unproductive. This hurts efficiency, one of capitalism’s main goals. Capitalism and early American social values contributed to intimate violence as the repressed expression of the ‘masculine primitive’. Research Papers on Moderation as Method of Maintenance to Mental HealthInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married MalesEffects of Television Violence on ChildrenRelationship between Media Coverage and Social andCapital PunishmentQuebec and CanadaThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug UseAssess the importance of Nationalism 1815-1850 EuropeThe Effects of Illegal Immigration19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraCanaanite Influence on the Early Israelite Religion

Case Study (Tyco International LTD) - Easy Work

(Tyco International LTD) - Easy Work - Case Study Example within the multi-step income statement such as extraordinary activities demonstrate lack of transparency in business reporting and this justifies prohibition of IFRS for the presentation of extraordinary activities within the income statement. Tyco is characterized by acquisitions which aim at diversifying globally which has made it to have a highly decentralized structure. The working culture of the organization is motivated by the pursuit for continual growth and development. The company has many divisions which report to the head office. The decentralization within the company has led to the need for each of its divisions reporting their own financial statements separately. The senior management is the corporate office has led to aggressive reporting of financial statements by the company’s divisions through the high targets that they are expected to meet. Capitalization is the conversion of income into the value that the property that raised the income is estimated to be worthy. Capitalization also refers to the estimation of the present value of income for future earnings or payments. The $200 cash collection from the dealers of Tyco’s ADT subsidiary should be recorded as operating income. The operating income of a company must be included in its financial statement to enable accurate determination of the earnings of the company in relation to its expenses (Roxas 56). The $200 that was paid to the dealers as a growth bones would be equated to the same amount of income from the dealers if it is not capitalized and thus lead to an overall balancing of the financial statement. The fraud that Tyco was involved in led to an exaggeration of its operating income. The $1.76 billion should be recorded within its multi-step income statement as sales returns under the sales revenue of the operating section instead of categorizing this amount as gains from discontinued operations. This is because the IPO which generated the amount is a sale of one of the

Econ Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 7

Econ - Essay Example n, Jagdish Bhagwati conveys both the India and china’s remarkable upturn of GDP in late 1980s and early 1990s, which resulted from the abolition of trade barriers. This illustrates how trade liberalization usually does to the global states’ economies owing to its free interaction characteristic besides thriving trade across their boundaries. Jagdish Bhagwati believes the remedy to the current global economic crises only rests in adopting trade liberalization or free trade rather than the present protectionism (Bhagwati 38). Jagdish Bhagwati refutes â€Å"Section 24 allowance† orâ€Å"allowance for Preferential Free Trade Agreements (FTA)† which the current US regime is applying besides other global states (Bhagwati 20). Since it yields to numerous economical predicaments presently faced by the global states’ besides posing the issue of economic unpredictability. This is evident in the incumbent US regime where the president Obama prefers protectionism approach and seems to forget its grievous impacts on economy notably in 1930s (Bhagwati 78). Jagdish Bhagwati does not approve the utilization of Preferential Free Trade Agreements (FTA) as a remedy to the present challenges. This is because he refers to the approach as an effective and malicious approach meant to undermine free trade or its liberalization. Therefore, Preferential Free Trade Agreements (FTA) normally erects barriers that prevent the flourishing of economy not only for US but also for other global states (Bhagwati

Chronic Urinary Tract Infections Treatment Case Nursing Essay

Chronic Urinary Tract Infections Treatment Case Nursing Essay RP, a 72-year-old Caucasian female, was brought to the emergency room (E.R) from Hillcrest Adult Foster Care via ambulance. Preadmission report to F-300 stated that she came to E.R confused, lethargic and weak, complaining of acute pain upon urination. She also urinated small amounts ( Upon arrival to F-300 RPs labs revealed significantly lowered thyroid stimulation hormone (TSH), a lowered red blood cell (RBC) count, along with decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit (HH). Her white blood (WBC) count was elevated, as expected with a urinary tract infection (UTI). Primary Diagnosis and Priority Secondary diagnosis The primary medical diagnosis was chronic urinary tract infections, with a secondary diagnosis of hypothyroidism. Patient History RP has a history of chronic UTIs, hypothyroidism, chronic kidney disease (stage III), and chronic anemia. She has several admissions the past few months related mainly to UTIs and dehydration. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY/ETILOGY OF THE PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS AND PRIORITY SECONDARY DIAGNOSIS UTIs are the results of infection, mainly from bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites. This leads to a condition referred to as cystitis (inflammation of the bladder). Most common of the UTIs are from infection known as infectious cystitis. A bacterium, the most common cause of infectious cystitis, is from the external urethra, this spreads inwards to the bladder (distal to proximal). Once a bacterium migrates to the bladder and starts the process of growing, it can migrate to other parts of the body (Ignatavicius Workman, 2006). UTIs present with symptoms that include frequency, urgency, retention, burning, foul odor, and incontinence. According to Wikipedia, four stages must be met in order for bacteria to grow. These include an infectious agent, one that must be able to grow, multiply and enter the body. Once we have the agent, the bacteria must find a portal of entry, (how it enters the body). Once in the body it needs an adequate reservoir, a place where organisms can thrive and multiply and the susceptibility of host, how bacteria affects the body after entry. Determents include age, overall health and other co-morbidities of the host and the susceptibility to pathogens. Most UTIs first grow in the perineal area due to irritation; in RPs case this may have been caused by lack of personal hygiene due to being overly fatigued, brought on by her hypothyroidism. Minton (2009) stated, Thyroid is the most important hormone in the body. Because it stimulates the production of cellular energy, production of all other hormones will be negatively impacted when thyroid hormone levels are less than optimal. Every aspect of health is affected by low thyroid function. Hypothyroidism is signaled by fatigue and loss of energy. According to textbook, hypothyroidism is the result of decreased metabolism from low levels of thyroid hormones (THs). Low levels of THs may be a result of several different reasons: thyroid cells may fail to produce sufficient amounts, or the cells themselves are damaged. The patient may not be ingesting enough of the substances needed to make THs, especially iodide and tyrosine. Low levels of THs affect most tissue and organs causing decreased cellular energy. The patient could become confused, lethargic, and have slowing of intellectual functions. ACTUAL OR POTENTIAL IMPACT OF RELEVANT MEDICAL HISTORY ON THE PRIMARY DIAGNOSIS AND PRIORITY SECONDARY DIAGNOSIS RP has a history of chronic UTIs that has caused numerous admits to the hospital over the last few months. UTIs that are left untreated may and can cause damage to the kidneys and start the process of renal failure. Chronic infection of the kidneys causes scar tissue, which decreases the function of the renal system. With renal failure, the body cannot rid itself of certain toxins that may contribute to UTIs. Chronic UTIs may lead to chronic pyelonephritis, repeated upper tract infection of bacteria that migrates from the bladder superior (toward the kidney) to the kidneys. RPs diagnosis of chronic renal failure may be heightened by the chronic UTIs. Hypothyroidism and anemia, that cause fatigue and loss of energy, will discourage you from providing adequate hygiene. This encourages bacterial growth, which may start the chain of events leading up to a UTI. RP resides at an extended care facility that may not have adequate staff to assure that she receives the necessary amounts of iodide and tyrosine needed stimulate TH production. She is also very confused which would decrease her understanding of the importance of proper nutritional intake. MEDICAL MANAGEMENT: CHRONIC URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS And Hypothyroidism A urine sample must be obtained either by a clean catch method or if client unable, by straight catheter method. A catheter method was used on RP, due to her confusion and retention. Urinalysis testing for leukocyte esterase (n=negative) and nitrate (n=none), along with a WBC (n= 0-4) are specifically for diagnosis of a UTIs (Mosbys 2006). Normal urine should appear clear with a yellow tint present (Mosbys 2006). A noticeable smell should not be present in uninfected urine; RPs urine had a pungent odor noted. RPs leukocyte esterase was 3+ and her nitrate was positive. WBCs were to numerous to count. These results determined that RP did have a UTI. Blood work was noted that RPs thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) was 0.05 (n=2-10). This confirmed the diagnosis of hypothyroidism. NURSING MANAGEMENT: URINARY TRACT INFECTION Recommended textbook intervention is to monitor for signs of UTIs. This includes, but not limited to: frequency, urgency, dysuria, incontinence, pyuria. In some older adults the only sign may be an increase in mental confusion or frequent, unexplained falls. RP was on Q-4 hour vital sign assessment, paying close attention to any increase in temperature and/or heart rate. The patient remained afebrile throughout admission. Heart rate remained between 80-90 beats per minute. Respiratory rate remained between 16-20 breaths per minute. Due to her confusion, bed alarms and padded side rails were used. She had a high fall risk assessment; therefore fall risk precautions were implemented upon admission. She was placed on strict intake and output (IO), and her fluids were monitored. She was instructed to drink required amount of fluid per day (1500ml). Staff member offered bedside commode every two hours to encouraging voiding. She and family members were informed as to the importance of RP to remain dry. This will limit the environmental factors needed for bacterial growth. RN (preceptor) communicated with adult foster care on the needs of the client after discharge. Lab results were also monitored closely for any change that would indicate worsening infection. PHARMACOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT: URINARY TRACT INFECTION AND HYPOTHYROIDISM Textbook recommends medications that treat bacteria and the promotion of client comfort. Cure is dependent on the antibiotic level achieved in the urine. Long-term antibiotic therapy is recommended for chronic UTIs (Ignatavicius Workman, 2006). RP received, via intravenous therapy (IV), Azactam (antibiotic) per Dr. order, to treat her infection. Paroxetine mesylate (antianxiety agent, antidepressant) 30 mg by mouth daily, used to decrease anxiety. Also given Levothyroxine (hormone) as a thyroid supplement. PROVIDER AND MANAGER ROLE: NURSING CARE PLAN Priority Nursing Diagnosis P Impaired urinary elimination R Incontinence due to urinary tract infection C Acute lower tract pain 7/10 upon urination, Priority Patient Goal The patient will be able to state absence of pain or excessive urination by discharge AEB: Pain upon urination 0/10, Decreased urge to void, Empting bladder completely Three Priority Nursing Interventions The nurse will monitor patient for incomplete emptying of bladder by using bladder scan post void. The nurse will encourage patient to drink water at each meal. The nurse will instruct patient on the signs and symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Evaluation of Progress toward Patient Goal The patient was able to recite some signs of UTIs to nurse. She recognized pain on urination and foul odor as signs of an infection. The patient was reluctant to drink water at any one time. She continued to have incontinent periods, but this was less frequent on day of discharge. The patient partially met the goals put forth for her. PROVIDER AND MANAGER ROLE Member of the discipline and the Role of the Multi-Disciplinary Team As a member of the discipline I was inclined to have verbal interactions with the ER staff before RP had arrived to F-300. Consulted with housekeeping to assure the RPs room was cleaned and ready for admission. Ward clerk assured that tests were ordered. Dietician was consulted to help with nutritional needs. Discharged planner made transportation arrangement to return patient to long care facility. Social worker discussed local community resources of support with the family. Provider of Care Role As provider of care for this patient, I kept this patient cleaned and dry when incontinent. I utilized the fall risk precautions to provided safety. Implemented steps to encourage patient to accept and understand a bladder training routine. Monitored patient labs and reported abnormal results to the doctor. Manager of Care Role As manager of care I evaluated the client for her fall risk and implemented fall risk precautions. Delegated the placement of bed alarms and tabs to the LPN assigned to us. My preceptor and I discussed the possible ways to teach client prevention of developing UTIs. Collaborated with nursing home staff on ways to improve clients care at extended care facility. Growth in the Manager of Care Role In completing these tasks I was able to see the complete picture of the patient. I was educated on the disease process and the effect other co-morbidities had on providing an environment that encourages an infection. In caring for RP I was able to developed and strengthen my delegating skills, learning to rely on others and not solely on myself.

Legal Studies – the Family Law Amendment (Shared Responsibility) Act 2006

The Family Law Amendment (Shared Responsibility) Act 2006 commenced on the first of July 2006 assists in the way that separating parents resolve their disputes involving the best interests of their children. This law is still taking time to make an effect on divorcing and separating parents, as sources show that shared custody arrangements or 50:50 joint custody makes little effect on the children involved in these situations. This was achieved through a major study conducted by Bruce Smyth and Bryan Rodgers who showed that children in shared care are no worse off or no better than those who see the other parent every second weekend for example [Source E]. The aim of the legislation was to change the past 1995 reforms as they failed to achieve the desired impact of separating couples [source A]. The act was created also to encourage parents to share the parenting of their children by allowing them to have equal time with both mother and father and also for the major decisions and responsibilities of the children to be distributed evenly. The law was changed because of the various groups who protested against the past regulations the law provided. The changes included the terminology, facilitation of shared parenting time and the concept that the separated parents both retain parental responsibility [Source A]. The new family law process outlined in the Every Picture Tells a Story report also creates an emphasis on parents coming to agreements in a ‘parenting plan’. There was also a proposal to create a ‘Family Tribunal’, which was where the separating parents could work their issues with consultation and counseling without the invasive use of the courts. The government also put forward $400 million to be spent on 65 family relationship centres for counseling couples [Source B]. Groups who have been against the Family Law Amendment are law academics, judges, women’s legal services, and single mother groups, [source D] because of the issue of abuse from their spouses after the separation. The act sets out that parents are to share the responsibility of the children between them, with the exclusion of abusive spouses. This therefore results in parents having to consult each other about their children’s education, religious and cultural upbringing, health, change of name, and also place of residence [Source A]. Also included in the act is that counseling would be offered to parents in assisting them to reach an agreement between both parties, and child support doesn’t have to be given until six weeks after the parents have separated. The Act only previously allowing grandparents contact through applications however rights have been elevated and the relationship between the children and grandparents are taken directly into consideration when making the arrangements in the parenting plan. The presumption of equal shared responsibility in the amendment means that both parents have an equal role in making decisions about the major choices involving the children; for example what school they will attend. The presumption however does not apply to a parent who has engaged in any abuse, violence or neglect towards the child, and was not included in the previous Act. With this the Act strives to provide the parents with equal shared responsibility which means the child spends a reasonably even amount of time with each parent (if it is in the best interest of the child). The main issue of the legislation is the increase in funding necessary for the Act to go ahead, as the proposals put forward for the committee, family centres, and other programs require a great deal of money to be established. Tax payers are forced to contribute more so that these can be provided, however in saying this establishing the inquisitorial tribunal creates a more level playing field for separating partners, particularly if one party cannot afford private legal representation [Source A]. In excluding legal representation, which is what happens in this process, creates a lesser need for lawyers to be involved in family matters, therefore those representing families will no longer be needed. According to the National Association of Community Legal Centres they suggest that the new family law and processes â€Å"may be harmful to children† [Source B]. Compulsory mediation may force separated parents to communicate and associate with their former abusive partners, who may blackmail or force that parent to agree to an arrangement that benefits the abuser. This leads to a lifetime of fear and anticipation of more abusive from the former partner. According to the legislation, if a report or suspicion of abuse has arisen, the mediation will not go forward nor will it agree to unsafe parenting arrangements. While some children benefit from the equal shared parenting arrangements, it doesn’t mean that some are better or worse off than others. Joint physical custody has been found to be workable only in a minority of separations where parents have freely chosen the arrangement. The cases in which the shared parenting has generally worked is when there is no record of abuse or conflict and when there is commitment from both parents. [Source C]. Throughout this whole process the mediation is voluntary, and can stop at any time as the couples wish. The parties have access to legal advice, either during the mediation or before signing any mediated agreement [Source B]. There are many financial problems with this Act, as separated parents have to pay for the children independently and cannot find stability with their finances in order to pay for schooling, health and so forth. There is also the major issue that is domestic violence. The Act reinforced a fine for making false allegations about abuse and therefore some parents were pressured into making parental agreements that involved the abuser. This also made some victims too scared to tell courts about abuse or violence directed at their children [Source F]. This law is affective, however could be revised in order to benefit the parents. The financial problems that are caused by this law are unavoidable for some families, as one parent or both may struggle to afford to make ends meet. The court could evaluate each parent’s financial status and the ability of them to be economically safe in order to enable them to be able to raise the children effectively. However in saying this, the court should not take children off one parent if they are not capable to pay for the child, especially if the other parent is reportedly an abuser. Abusive parents should be constantly monitored whilst mediating with the other parent (if the victim wants mediation) and the child should have a say in which parent they think is able to look after them. Abusive spouses should not be allowed any contact with the victim while proceedings are happening, so that they do not coerce the other parent into an unfair parenting agreement. The abused parent should also be supervised during this period so that it is seen that they are not influenced or blackmailed by the abuser. The Act should focus more on the child’s need than the parents. While both parents have equal shared responsibility, the child should be involved in the parenting agreements and have a fair say in what happens to them. It is argued that the Act focuses more on the parent’s rights than the children’s needs, and that the reforms favor fathers more than mothers [Source F]. In conclusion, it is believed that the Act is not effective however has improved the rights of equal responsibility between parents. It is said that shared care is proving successful for many parents, [Source E] however parents are the only beneficiaries from this because the arrangement aids them more than the child, as the Act is more in the parents favor than the children’s. The Act should be revaluated so that it is beneficial to all parties.

Widowhood Case Study

A quick review of the case study suggests the following central issues: The impact that a chronic illness has on a marital relationship, and the burdens of taking care of the spouse, the initial stages of grief and bereavement after their passing, the transition from having a long term partner, to widowhood, and the likely outcomes that the subject will experience during her transition from married, to widowhood, to single-hood. Impact of Chronic Illness on Marital Relationships Chronic illness in anyone family can have many impacts, not only on the person who is ill, but on the family and care givers as well. More importantly, it can affect children and spouses’ emotionally and physically. In Clara’s case, there is a very high possibility that her relationship with her husband experienced a considerable change in relationship and sexual satisfaction. There have been studies done in the past that state, â€Å"Although spouses of chronic pain patients showed no more physical symptoms than spouses of diabetics, they reported significantly more pain symptoms that were related to elevated levels of depressed mood. † (Herta Florb, 2002) The depression felt because of her husbands chronic illness, is likely the reason why she pulled away from her family, and friends. She likely did not want them to see her in that state, and wanted them to think that she was strong, and could handle it. However, other parts of the studies have indicated that â€Å"not only is chronic pain associated with problems in the marital relationship but heightened distress and physical symptoms in spouses as well. † (Herta Florb, 2002) The effects are not so much the reality of a chronic pain problem, but instead a manner for paitents and spouses to cope with the situation. Burdens of care giving and the initial stages of grief and bereavement This leads us to the topic of the burden of caregiving. There is a large impact on ones emotional and physical well being. Women’s greater focus on the emotional side of the caring relationship and on reaching standards of what they consider good care, †¦this is â€Å"not to be confused with how much a spouse cares about her partner† (Connidis, 2010, p. 88). In the case of Clara, there is an assumption that she cared deeply for her husband, but was focused on his needs, and taking care of him, and this may have put great strain, on their marriage, because she may have felt a sense of disdain in the final days of her husbands life. Possibly blamed him for her being out of touch with her family, and friends, and not having circle of people around her to help take care of her during the initial stages of grief and bereavement once her husband passes. There are generally 5 main stages of grief that someone feels when dealing with a loss, however when going through a loss as large as that of a spouse, it is more likely that one will go through each stage in a more defined way. Shortly after the death, there is the Numbness & denial – this is the feeling of shock and disbelief. Even though in Clara’s case she knew that this day would come, she still likely will have gone through this stage. The next stage is yearning & anger – this happens when the main shock has worn off, and one would long for the lost loved one, and one may even feel a sense of anger and thinking that there could have been something more that coul dhave been done. Next comes emotional despair & sadness- this is mostly a long period of tru bereavement. The point when the reality that that person, in this case Clara’s husband is truly gone. This brings one to the reorganization stage – this is when the widow will earn how to deal with practical businss of living, without your loved one at your side. This is also when the sun may start to shine a little more each day in ones life, and also a time when outside sources of support will likely be reeived with open arms. Lastly is the stage of letting go & moving on. This is often when the sadness starts to fade into the background, and new interests take on importance. Experience of widowhood In the case of Clara, widowhood was not likely sudden, as it often is for elderly people. She acted as a caregiver for her husband who had a chronic illness, and likely was warned by doctors, family, and friends, to prepare her for his passing. Since Clara was restricted, from family and friends, by caring for her husband, she was likely the sole caregiver, her husband’s passing although saddening, may also have been seen by her as relief. â€Å"Caring for a departed spouse allows some widowed persons to anticipate their loss and to feel some relief in their death† (Connidis, 2010, p. 106). This relief may be seen as the beginning of her transition to single life. Transition into widowhood Becoming widowed can be a difficult and sometimes devastating life transition. â€Å"Because women remain much more likely than men to be widowed, widowhood is often considered a women’s issue,† (Connidis, 2010, p. 108). Based on psychological studeies that have been done, the initial stage of bereavment, can last anywhere from two to four years. This is generally seen as a period of mourning, and can be â€Å"characterized initlaly by profound psychological disorganization† (Connidis, 2010, p. 08) Often times, and possibly in Clara’s case, this is also an opportunity to rebuild relationships that may have been hindered during the state of spousal care, by leaning on family and friends during the emotional pain, grief, and loss, as well as slowly taking part in groups of people who had experienced similar transitions in their lives. A great defenition given by a widow is this: â€Å"Joan Didion (2005) describes the year after her husband’s death as one of magical thinking during which she felt invisible and understood only by others who were in the same situation. † (Connidis, 2010, P. 09) Outcomes Clara like other widows and widowers will experience a great influx of emotions and changes after the passing of her husband. Based on conversations that I personally have had with counselors who focus on loss, they encourage people to broaden their social circles again, once they have come out of the fog of the loss of their loved one. In many cases, family and â€Å"friends emerge as important network members in widowhood†¦widows are more likely than the married to consider a friend both a confidant and a companion, and friends occupy a larger portion of these networks among widowed persons. (Connidis, 2010, p. 114) As for Clara, perhaps her and her husband had children that had pulled away because of the long term illness of their dad and they may now be spending more time with their mother. If children are in the picture, Clara now has time to spend with her grandchildren perhaps. She may go out and join social groups, such as knitting circles, church groups, exercise groups for seniors, or even take on a volunteering position. These are all acts to assist her in getting out of the house. Assuming that Clara is now living in a large house all alone, perhaps she will move into a facility for seniors, where she can have her own apartment type living quarters, but also where there are activities that she can partake in with other widows, and widowers. Often when a parent becomes widowed, they will take up residence with the children; this will often be seen as â€Å"the parent helping the child out†, not the other way around. In Clara’s case, because she lives far away from her family, there is a high possibility that she will sell the home that her and her husband had resided in, and re locate so that she can be closer to her family. This will allow her to reconnect with her children, and grandchildren. This may however be a very hard move for her to endure, as she will be leaving behind friends that she may have had where her and her husband had lived. However, moving to a new place, with new people, and new activities will act as a fresh start for Clara. This could be a while new life for her to live, even at the age of 80. Many people still have lots of gumption in them, at that age, and are still looking for companionship, and to be loved. As can be found on a website for seniors, â€Å"The sex need to some people is romance, companionship, and closeness–often the need for actual sex is quite minimal. In other people the need is quite strong. When we lose our spouse, we lose our sexual partner and our feelings can be anything from the desire to shun sex for the rest of our lives to powerful needs, and anything in-between. Sexual feelings after being widowed are quite common and the feelings should not make us feel guilty† (Diehm, 2000) In closing, nothing can prepare anyone for the shock and grief of widowhood, even when we know it is impending. One of the myths of mourning is that is has an ending point, and that if we wait long enough, it will stop hurting. Unfortunately it doesn’t. As we have discussed in this paper, it is important to work through the various phases of grief and it will eventually get better, and we no longer allow it to paralyze us. The important thing is to live our lives to the fullest, and enjoy each day knowing that the person we have lost is with us in our hearts, enjoying each day that we live in their memory.