Theology 12 by Sienna Stephens

8/27/24: Reflect on how your family, community, or culture has influenced your worldview. How has your background shaped the way you think about and understand different aspects of life? Provide specific examples from your experiences.

sstephens25_3 — 2024-08-27 18:03:32 UTC

My family has included many members of the armed forces and growing up as a Gold Star Child, it impacted how I viewed the military. I have always been very grateful for the military and those who serve our country. In addition, since growing up with a single parent, I have learned the importance of independence and hardworking, instead of relying on others to get you where you want to be. Also, since I grew up as an only child and my mom was busy a lot, I was left by myself a lot which allowed me to focus on personal things and get to know myself more, developing myself on my own. Some parts of my family is very involved in their faith life which has influenced my faith life and getting myself more involved in the Church and my community. I have put my faith higher in my life and made it a top priority, including who I spend my time with. I would also say that my family has influenced other views like my political views, but also have came from many personal experiences and the people I surrounded myself with. For example, I was spending time with people who believed in certain things that were crazy and I eventually realized how crazy those beliefs were and lead me to believe the opposite that aligned with my family's political views.

9/3/24: Reflect on the following quote: “Here I am under your gaze, obliged to you, your servant” ~ Emmanuel Levinas

sstephens25_3 — 2024-09-03 18:05:22 UTC

This quote means to me in the way I am to God. He gave me a life and purpose that I may not know now, I will know in the future. He is the one he takes away my fears, pains, anxieties, and sorrows, I give my life and everything to him. This would be seen as I am a servant to him, one that can spread his message and word to others. To also spend his love and kindness to others in need and those who have not received that kind of love. I want to serve my God because he can be a servant to others as he gave miracles and his only son to the world to save them. An eye for an eye but in a good way. I learned this at a young age with growing up with a single mom, God showed his love to the two of us as he helped us keep steady and thrive for the past 17 years. Because of this, I want to follow God even it means giving up things in my life that are taking me away from God.

09/09/24 - Reflect on your future aspirations and career goals. Are they primarily motivated by your personal interests and the pursuit of self-fulfillment, or do they also include a desire to contribute to the greater good of society?

sstephens25_3 — 2024-09-09 17:58:23 UTC

For my future job, I would say it is a combination of both. For one, I love art and digital media and I want to pursue that as a career because I will feel happy and excited doing that type of work. But, at the same time, I want to work with other people and use my art talents to spread awareness to social issues that are important like human trafficking, crime, and the direction our country is going in. I want to see a better future, by using my artistic talents I can build, create, and inform using art and creativity. Aside from bringing awareness, I also would love to help different business thrive and contribute to society. This is were working together with others and building a community is important to me. I want to be able to work with others and connect with them on a more personal level. On the other hand, art is my passion, I live for anything art. I want others to experience the same love I have for it and creativity, by inspiring them to bring that color in a black and white world, in a good way.

09/16/24 - Think about an issue in our world or country that you believe is truly unjust and absolutely unacceptable — something that fuels your anger, makes you feel outraged, and leaves you demanding change. In your journal, describe this situation in detail. Why does this injustice infuriate you? How does it harm individuals or entire communities? What would need to happen to bring about the change that’s desperately needed?

sstephens25_3 — 2024-09-16 18:06:21 UTC

I think the situation with the Tailban and us pulling out of the Middle East and leaving behind soldiers and translators was unacceptable. In addition, peoples lives in the Middle East and especially for women are treated it is awful. They have no respect for others' lives and women's too. I think it is awful for what they have to go through every day and be scared for their lives if they are going to be killed or someone in their family will be. I want our government and military to protect them from the Taliban and take back their lives. I hate the Taliban so much for their cruelty and lack of empathy for human life, they take lives and individuals from their families, like they did to me. I want them to be gone and build a better place in the Middle East where its safe and you don't have to worry about being killed on the streets.

9/30/24: Think about a situation where you witnessed someone being unfairly treated or judged. How did you react? Did you feel compelled to step in, or did you stay silent? What does mercy mean to you in situations of injustice? How can we cultivate a culture of mercy in our schools and communities?

sstephens25_3 — 2024-09-30 17:57:55 UTC

Back in middle school, there was this group of boys that would always make fun of girls and made comments about us being too soft and can't do anything boys could do. I was angered by their comments and way of thinking, at the moment, but I did step in until gym class rolled around. During gym, we were assigned to play basketball, putting both girls together. Luckily for me, I was put against most of the boys that were making those comments earlier. Every chance I got, I blocked their shots, stole all the rebounds, and outran them. They were left speechless as a girl like me beat them at their own game. It was so funny and they didn't make as many comments as they did before because they knew I would step in and deal with them. Mercy means forgiving people for their actions, I do forgive those boys because they were young and probably didn't realize how those comments would affect the girls in my grade. Being able to forgive someone for their actions or words is important, as it brings unity between one another and influences a sense of community and forgiveness in our society. I think educating students on mercy and justice can help bring the idea of fairness and forgiveness to such a complex environment.

10/21/24: Think of a family member, friend, or mentor who has made a lasting impact on your life—someone you deeply admire. Write about what makes this person so special to you. What are the qualities or actions that inspire your admiration? How have they influenced your thoughts, goals, or the way you live your life?

sstephens25_3 — 2024-10-21 18:00:32 UTC

My mom has made a lasting impact on my life. She raised me as a single mother after my father was killed having to juggle parenting, work, and the weight of grief my father's death brought to her. Every day she reflects to me the power of strength and never giving up even when life throws a wicked curveball at you. It wasn't easy for her to be where she is today, it took much hard work, dedication, and love for me that helped her continue to be the person she is and the person I look up to. For me, my mom inspires me whether its in sports, school, or in my artistic pursuits to push myself and to be strong when I am out of my comfort zone. I go into everything with the same determination she taught and showed me, which pushed me to try new things and grow as a person. She has always been there and supported me no matter what and I love her so much because of that.

11/04/2024 - What aspects of today’s political climate make you feel anxious, worried, or unsettled? Consider the issues, divisions, or events that weigh on you. Why do you think these aspects affect you personally, and how do they impact your outlook on the future?

sstephens25_3 — 2024-11-04 18:58:32 UTC

I think for the political climate, how we deal with disagreements. People get so upset and then instead of having a civil and healthy conversation, people resort to yelling and taking over one another rather than staying open-minded to each others' views and takes. I see so much disagreement rather than meeting in the middle, which I find haunting. Some issues that weigh on me personally are immigration, people not pledging to the flag, and views on abortion and other issues. I think for immigration, I have seen many reports and statistics of gangs coming into America or even just illegal immigrants killing innocent Americans when it could have been prevented if we secured the border better and took higher measures to ensure the safety of Americans. I also had my dad killed by terrorism, so I am afraid and scared for others that stuff like 9/11 or just outside forces harming others knowing first-hand what it is like to live with that. That also goes hand in hand with my irritation to the people who don't pledge to the flag, because they think they are pledging to the government. When I look at that flag, I see my dad and the other fallen service members who laid down their lives to serve and protect our country and its citizens. I don't see our government, I see their sacrifice and their effort, and it makes me angry to see people not recognizing that. In addition, the arguments for abortion, say that those babies aren't human and are just clumps of cells. Why are those babies not human enough to be able to live and experience human life? It is upsetting to me and I see it as murder, people seem to be so careless about taking a life.

11/13/2024 - Think about a social issue that you believe is one of the most important facing our world today. What makes this issue stand out to you? Why do you think it needs more attention? Write about what you know regarding the causes of this issue, its impacts on people or communities, and any possible solutions you think could help address it. How does this issue relate to your own life, values, or experiences?

sstephens25_3 — 2024-12-13 19:00:02 UTC

I think one of the most important issues facing our world is the health crisis caused by junk food and its impact on obesity and overall health, especially in America. It’s everywhere whether its fast food restaurants on every corner, grocery store shelves stocked with processed snacks, and advertisements for sugary drinks or desserts on TV and social media. This issue stands out to me because it feels so deeply connected to the lives of so many people around me, including my own. It’s not just about how we eat, but how we are living and feeling. Junk food has taken over because it’s cheap, convenient, and heavily marketed in the food and marketing industry. Obesity rates in America are increasing and the rates of diseases like diabetes, heart conditions, and even mental health challenges like depression. I’ve read that obesity affects nearly 42% of adults in the U.S., and it’s heartbreaking to know that kids are being affected too. Growing up in this environment makes it so much harder to make healthy choices, even when you know better. I think solving this crisis will take big changes. First, we need better education about nutrition starting at a young age. Schools could do more to teach kids about healthy eating and even offer cooking classes. We also need to make healthy food more affordable and accessible. Imagine if fresh fruits and vegetables were just as easy to get as chips and soda. Government policies could help by providing opportunities for healthier food options instead of junk food. Companies should also be held accountable for the way they market unhealthy products, especially to children.

This issue relates to my own life because I’ve seen how hard it can be to balance a busy schedule and still make healthy choices. As someone who cares about staying fit and performing well as an athlete, I know how important good nutrition is. I've also struggled with binge eating sugar, which is not healthy for both your body and health, as it stressing out yourself mentally and physically. If we address this issue better, America will have a better chance for a better life.

12/13/24: What do you think Pope Francis means when he calls rejecting migrants a “grave sin”? Why is it important to treat migrants with love and compassion? Have you ever witnessed or experienced situations where people were treated unfairly because they were seen as “outsiders”? How did it make you feel? What can you do in your own life to help others feel welcomed and included? Write your thoughts, feelings, or any personal experiences that come to mind as you reflect on these words.

sstephens25_3 — 2024-12-13 19:04:30 UTC

When Pope Francis calls rejecting migrants a "grave sin," he emphasizes the moral and spiritual responsibility to treat every person with dignity and compassion. Migrants often leave their homes due to dire circumstances like war, poverty, or persecution, seeking safety, opportunity, and hope for a better life. Turning them away ignores their humanity and goes against the values of love, kindness, and solidarity that we should live by. Treating migrants with love and compassion is essential because they are among the most vulnerable in society. Many face unimaginable hardships, from leaving their families and homes to enduring dangerous journeys in search of safety. By offering understanding and support, we help ease their burdens and create a world where everyone has a chance to thrive. It’s heartbreaking to see someone excluded or judged simply because of where they come from or how they look. It makes me feel frustrated and sad to know that people are denied opportunities or kindness because of factors beyond their control. These moments remind me how important it is to stand up for what’s right and ensure everyone feels welcome.

In my own life, I can help by being inclusive and standing against discrimination. Simple actions, like being friendly to someone new, learning about different cultures, or speaking up when I see unfair treatment, can create a more welcoming environment. By treating everyone with compassion and understanding, we can build stronger communities and honor the values that Pope Francis speaks about.