Quote of the week.

“All I ask is one thing: Please do not be cynical. I hate cynicism—it’s my least favorite quality. It doesn’t lead anywhere. Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get. But if you work really hard and you’re kind, amazing things will happen.” —Conan O’ Brien

Thesis statements.

Models:

• Though the empirical and mystical are often thought to be polar opposites, Sir Isaac Newton’s tireless exploration of varied subjects revealed that they were inseparable parts of his quest for greater truth in the universe, the legacy of which blazed the trail for future generations.
• Despite Mother Teresa’s actions of inspiring and creating faith in millions around the world, her own personal legacy was one of irony and doubt.
  

Thesis Statement checklist:

• Does the thesis statement answer a how or why question?

• Is it debatable?
• Do it connect to the theme? (Keep in mind the above examples are from last year, the theme of which was "The Individual in History: Actions & Legacies.)
  
• Is it specific enough?
• Can it be well proven with evidence?

Coming-of-death musing.

According to The Death Clock, I am going to die at the age of 74 on Sunday, September 19, 2055. I was able to stave it off 15 years simply by changing my "Mode" from "Pessimistic" to "Normal."

The Year in Language.

Check out this New York Times article on new words and phrases coined in 2009: "The Buzzwords of 2009."