Quotations and Sayings: What do they teach us about life?

Often, quotations or proverbs often can teach us some lesson of life, and these writings can be used to develop our discussion and language skills. Share one proverb or quotation (either from your native language or one translated into English), explain its meaning, and discuss how it relates to life or your own experience.

Here's one:

"Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage."

To me, having and demonstrating courage----especially moral  courage---in the face of life's greatest challenges can define who we are. For example, it takes a lot of courage to tell the truth and be honest in all our doings with others. In fact, honesty and courage are at the center of one's value system. If a person has the courage to tell the truth, then you will always be able to trust that person in their work and study. As a result, our opportunities will expand.

Now, share a quotation or saying that you like and explain it to the rest of our readers.

Best,

Randall

Health Care: A government or private section issue?

Many countries around the world are facing a health care crisis. The United States is one of them. Many people feel that having health care is a right of every citizen and that the government should pay for it. Others are very worried about how the government will pay for it in the long run and to what extent individual tax payers will be burdened with the cost in the future. What is your opinion on this? What is the role of government in providing health care? Should the government stay out of the issue and let private companies deal with the issue.

Share your ideas.

Randall

Culture Shock or Re-entry Shock: Which is more difficult?

What do you think is more challenging: going overseas to live in a new country (possible culture shock) OR returning back to your home country after being abroad for some time (re-entry shock)? What have been your experiences in this regard? Are there situations in which a student might find it more challenging to return to his/her home country, especially when the freedom(s) they enjoyed overseas is not the same when they return home? Share your ideas on this topic. I have also create a Web page on the topic:

-  http://www.tips4students.com/culture.htm

Randall

The Winter Olympics

The Winter Olympics has just concluded in Canada this week, and many inspiring events and human stories took place during the games. If you have the ability to compete at the Olympics, in which event would you participate and why? Do you know anyone personally who has been a part of the Games? If so, what did they learn from the experience?

A number of years ago, I had the famous short track speed skater, Yang Yang, from China, in my English class in Salt Lake City around the time of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. A wonderful student and person.

Share your thoughts on this topic.

Randall