Ideal Transformation

Hey Readers! Today I am writing about what is it I hope to transform in the world, and why.

Although there are many issues in the world that need to resolved, I find that one of the biggest issues is hunger. In order to feed everyone on earth, it is necessary that we find a sustainable way to produce food. With greenhouse gas emissions at a dangerous high and pollutants trapping heat, time is running out. Earth is estimated to warm up by 3℃ within a small time frame, which means that important foods, such as corn, will be nearly impossible to grow. Many people in several different countries already struggle to find food, and with climate change, major improvements need to be made. With this said, my only concern isn't hunger, its global warming. There is still hope that conditions can be improved, but if action isn't taken immediately, there will be serious consequences. In order to feed the planet, new ways of growing food need to be instated. Hydroponics allow for 10x the crop yield per acre. This would vastly improve the efficiency of farming, while eliminating machines completely, and creating jobs (manufacturing). Electric cars are slowly making their rise, but with oil prices low, companies such as Tesla have had troubles making gains. If we can find a sustainable way to feed the planet while reducing our emissions, there is hope that life can go on in a normal and healthy fashion.

The New Kid by Murray Heyert

Dear younger Marty,

           As I write to you today, I recount a memory that I simply cannot forget. I have several mixed emotions about this event, so I must tell. One afternoon, I raced past the dentist's office, past the new paint smell, the place where the new kid lived, the garlic smell from an Italian movie. I reached the door, waited for mother, and threw on my white sneakers. I then ran past all of the familiar scents again, but reached the ball game too late. All the players were out on the field, ready for the game and waiting for Eddie Deakes to chalk a base against the curb. I felt defeated; there was no way I was going to play ball. If I had made it on time, maybe I would have fit in.
          I begged and begged to be chosen, but not one person would take a chance on me. I racked my mind for ways to play. That's when I saw the kid, and the whole day changed. I thought that if another would join the game, then the teams would be equal. The new kid sat on his steps, eating rye bread covered in apple sauce, wearing boy scout pants. "He'll do good enough," I thought, and I raced over to his porch. At first he was dismissive, saying he had to go to the store, but he eventually caved in. It took some convincing to make Gelberg and Eddie take in the new kid and I. I ended up on Gelberg's team, but neither really wanted me. When it came my time to catch, I missed the ball and screwed up the play. I wished to fit in, to feel wanted, but I had messed up, and that was it. When it came time for the new kid to catch, he ran from the ball, and I took it as a chance to feel better about myself. I said "he's scared of the ball!" and "he's a yellow belly!" over and over again, feeling better about my mistakes as I yelled. My intentions looked great in my mind, but my words made the biggest mistake. The new kid slumped, and felt miserable. I took this as a chance to beat him up, and I can only say how much I regret doing that. For a young boy like you, fitting in was my goal. I wanted to be seen as a 'cool person,' but I never knew how. When the new kid came along, I took my chance to pick on him as the others had picked on me. Looking back on that day, I can only regret those things I said.
           I can only hope that when my son hears this story, he learns that bullying can only lead to harm. Being a popular person shouldn't define who one is, its the personality that really matters. I hope that my mistakes will teach my son to be the better person, and to always rise above. If I could go back, I would have never done what I did. It was nice writing to you, and I wish you a great childhood.

Sincerely, 

Older Marty.

General Lee's Horse - Life on the Battlefield

Hey! Today our class is working on a RAFT Civil War Letter.

Dear General Lee,

Today is April 9th, 1865, which marks the last day of the war. Life on the battle field surely hasn't been easy, but I will continue to be with the South. With you as my rider, I have protected you, and kept you safe. The sounds around me boomed like falling mountains, but I learned to block them out and keep persisting. I must say, watching you lead the South has been a great experience. Despite the fallen soldiers and gore on the battlefield, I have enjoyed prancing around with you as orders are barked out. I have definitely learned that together we make a great team, and I wouldn't be the same without you.
We have seen a great deal, and witnessed a few courageous wins. I do miss my lady friend, Travelerella, but luckily we will be reunited soon. Perhaps my favorite battle we fought was the First Battle of Lexington, which truly set the tone for the war. With a fresh win, I happily galloped to where you led me. I will miss being your main homie, and I hope that you will take me out often so we can remain close. A bond like ours is irreplaceable, please don't leave me in the barn forever.
I can't thank you enough for the experiences we both have endured, and I hope to go on another journey with you another time.