Collide Issue 22 by Kaitlin Schluter

collide For students, by students | November 2014 | Issue 22

20 THINGS TO KNOW IN YOUR 20s tips for trying times HERE COMES THE GROOM

seeking a Christ-centered partnership

WOMEN OBJECTIFYING WOMEN the counteraction of feminist objectives

THE FINE LINE

between first amendment rights & fighting words: social media usage & impact

editor's note: stay connected with your university’s student news

Reflecting on 22

hough it is not yet Thanksgiving, nearing closer to the end of 2014 enables one to look back and think about what to be thankful for (or unthankful, if that’s the case). As for me,

Rights and Fighting Words” (6). As a generation that feeds off

I am thankful for the opportunity to continue working with Collide, having been able to increase my caffeine threshold and most definitely thankful that “Friends” is coming to Netflix in January.

This may also be the time for reflecting on the past year with fondness or disillusionment, depending on your outlook. In between studying for midterms, pushing the snooze button for those extra five glorious minutes of sleep and initiating impromptu heart-to-heart coffee dates with friends, it’s coming to that point of the year, I feel, when we can look back and evaluate the people we’ve become, and what has influenced these identities. This 22nd issue is not themed; however, I do see a connection between many of the stories. What a lot of them have in common is their reflection upon ourselves and the trending topics that impress us as a generation of not-quite-adultbut-still-paying-ourown-bills college kids. The way we communicate has changed over time, as emphasized in “First Amendment

instant gratification via instant posting and virtually guaranteed anonymity with each post, the issue of free expression is called into question. Gone are the days of metalheadluvr and mrsryangosling428 owning up to the identities behind their controversial online comments. Social media also have enabled us to disseminate information that much faster, both the news to know and the news I’d rather not know (like the boyfriend of Honey Boo-Boo’s mom turning out to be a sex offender). Collide also addresses issues pertaining to female objectification (“Objectification of Women by Women,” 14), outward appearances (“Cutting Edge of Image Ideals,” 20) and recent developments in the political world (“Why Students (should) <3 politics,” 22),because these are relevant either

to what we are or should be concerned about. And if you have managed to go through college at a private Christian university without encountering the subject of marriage in any conversation, a) I ask how that’s even possible, and b) Collide’s “Here Comes the Groom”(28) will fill you in on some of the details. But let not your hearts be troubled – Issue 22 has all the feel-good stuff too. Although being in one’s 20s may seem to call for knowing all the ins and outs of life, “20 Things to Know in Your 20s” (26) points out just a few that would be beneficial to know. This is also the prime time to learn more about your fellow “Humans of the Zu” (12) as well as not-so-local world changers (“TED Talks worth talking about,” 4). While it’s our job to share these stories with you, it’s up to you to decide what to do with them. Perhaps you too will see this issue as a mirror, revealing and magnifying the topics pertinent to the people who are feeling 22, give or take (yes, I realize I again referenced Taylor Swift in my second editorial).

collide

Issue 22 • November 2014

staff

• • editor in chief Caitlin Trude cmtrude11@apu.edu art director Chrissie Cheng ccheng12@apu.edu copy editor Katie Brown kgbrown11@apu.edu online editor Paige Smith pnsmith11@apu.edu business manager Blake Standal bstandal12@apu.edu faculty adviser Kyle Huckins khuckins@apu.edu contributing Kimberlee Buck writers Josh Contreras Camille Garcia Kayla Johnston Bianca Ontiveros Krista Rhoades Jasmine Rodgers Arianna Ruvalcaba Yvette Tostado Nick Perez Kelyn Struiksma

mission statement Collide is a publication of The Clause, a multi-media student voice of undergraduate Azusa Pacific University. Our stories seek to bring people together on our pages while our ideas collide and stories impact readers. We provide narratives, inquires and dialogue in a Christian academic setting that values individual’s stories as well as community concerns. Our writers are student-journalists interested in crafting articles that connect with readers and challenge them to grow as people and reporters. Printed by Evoke Collide, winner of Evangelical Press Assosciation’s Award of Excellence (First Place), 2014

collide advertising Mail to: Azusa Pacific University P.O. Box 9521 - Unit #5165 Azusa, CA 91702-9521 E-mail: clauseads@gmail.com All checks made payable to: Azusa Pacific University, The Clause

Our office is located to the left of Cougar’s Den Cafe.

website: www.theclause.org/collide

facebook: facebook.com/apucollide

twitter & instagram: @apucollide

Editor-In-Chief, Caitlin Trude www.theclause.org/collide • 1

Coffee and Conversation With MARCIA BERRY

CONTENTS 6 14

20 24

The Fine Line

Yik-Yak and freedom of speech - this is what you need to know.

Objectification of women by women Understanding How the Self-Exploitation of Women Counteracts Feminist Objectives.

The cutting edge of image ideals A Look into What Constitutes “Looking Good.”

John Muir: A remembrance

Taking a look at APU’s exhibition on John Muir and his accomplishments.

Here Comes the Groom

Seeking a fulfillment of partnership in Christ and matrimony.

SHORTS

TED Talks Worth Talking About Find out about three important ted talks.

Asexual Awareness Week Learn about asexuality and its awareness week from Oct. 26 - Nov. 1

Opposing iews on Feminism Find out one man’s view and one woman’s view on feminism.

Why Students Should <3 Politics We’ve in college, a huge generation, and have the right. So why not?

Things to Know 26 20 in Your 20s

Coffee & Conversation Did you know your Communication Studies teacher was a mime?

11 As told by...

Attempting to ‘gram by the only person who doesn’t have one.

12 Humans of the Zu Get to know the people of the Zu.

30 P.O.V.

Fashion as propoganda. Do you dig it?

There’s a reason being 20 is so hard. It’s because you don’t know these tips!

Berry (on right) and her mime troupe window.

THE USUAL

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARCIA BERRY

FEATURES

Q: How did you get into miming? A: I was a junior at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, and I had seen mime performed … and I was fascinated by it. Now, my roommate and I went over, we heard about a class being offered – a special topics class – so we went over, not sure if we can get in or whatever, and we got into the class and had him for one or two semesters... I joined Youth With A Mission, and they needed someone to start a mime troupe to go to the Montreal Olympics way back, and so I went to Holland to start a mime troupe for them. As it turned out, I did not perform at the Montreal Olympics, but we started performing after that. Two young men joined me eventually, and so I did mime full-time for about five years and lived in Holland, and we trained and we performed around there and then we performed in Germany, England and actually went down in Australia and New Zealand and did workshops on mime down there. Q: What type of performances did you do for miming? Was there a specific theme that you had for each of them? A: Yes, it just developed over time. Audiences can’t take silence for very long because it just bothers

by CAMILLE GARCIA

efore becoming a professor at APU, Dr. Marcia Berry was trained in the miming style of Marcel Marceau and toured Europe, using miming as an evangelistic tool. Collide sat with Dr. Berry as she reminisced about performing with her mime troupe Window and shared her most memorable moments in the art of miming.

them … We did ours in silence because it was easier and cheaper, and you only had to walk around with a bag of ballet shoes, makeup and your mime costume, so [you] could just carry it with you. We built the show together in bits and pieces because the audience couldn’t stand a long time. So when we were in the clubs, we would do a piece where one of my mime partners pretended to be someone searching for truth, and I played Satan. Q: What was your most memorable show or moment you had when you mimed? A: There was a show we did in New Zealand… We were on this amazing stage and the lights were wonderful, and it was just a very exciting time. That one was exciting in terms of place and being able to do it, but it was also really thrilling on the streets when people would stop and watch. … We also did a tour in England for about a month and we did a lot of schools there and at least, that time over 30 years ago, they still had religious education, so some of the drama teachers would bring us in because we were religious education, and we performed at one school, and we never required money – we never asked for money. But the next

day they came and brought us a bag of ... English coins; the kids had taken up an offering the next day with milk money and given it to us, and so we had these coins for parking for part of the time we were in England, so that was really precious. Q: Do you mime today? A: I don’t do a lot of it anymore beIn Szeto’s dressing room for “Thumbelina” at cause it requires much physical the Falcon Theater in so Burbank. training, but I had done it for so long that my body hasn’t forgotten it. … Dr. David Weeks, the dean of the Honors College, asked me if I would mime at the opening kickoff this year. He said, “You need to bring the fun to this.” I started playing with [the audience] to help them relax and kind of warm up the audience, … then I took all the honors faculty and posed them for a faculty picture – a silly picture. We did it very quickly; mime never lasts very long, and so I played with the audience for five to seven minutes until they started laughing, and then I posed them for the picture. And then I ran out, washed off my face and came back and talked about public speaking. My joke with it was that you may be the only honors students who have a mime for their public speaking teacher; I mean the irony of that is just way too much fun.

COVER PHOTO BY CHRISSIE CHENG 2 • collide • November 2014

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Talks worth talking about

asexual awareness week bykrista kristarhoAdes rhoAdes by

BY YVETTE TOSTADO

n Oct. 6, some LGBTQ+ students and alumni came out, either publicly or anonymously, on APU’s “Door of Discussion,” the panels of wood next to the post office on the side of the wall surrounding the Seven Palms lawn. One student who posted on this door came out as asexual, a much less-known sexual orientation. Some students may remember hearing the word in a high school biology class, but it means something much different in this context. This term in relation to human sexuality may seem taboo to some. In 2010, a student at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas realized this and founded Asexuality Awareness Week. This year, AAW took place Oct. 26Nov. 1. Many who identify as asexual use the term “ace” and for that reason use the ace of spades as their symbol. The asexual flag consists of black, gray, white and purple. Black represents asexuality, gray represents the “gray area” between sexual and asexual feelings, white represents sexuality and purple represents community.

>> THE VOICE BEHIND BEYONCÉ’S “FLAWLESS” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie can do the same things as men, such as become the CEO of a company. She goes into depth into how the world is ruled by men politically and economically. She also talks about how women are expected to look and act a certain way because it is the way the world or men see them. According to Adichie, wearing heels and makeup promotes a stereotypical image of a woman. She embraces equality for men and women and focuses on how to raise children with that mindset. She believes a feminist can be a man or woman who acknowledges inequality and fixes it.

Zak Ebrahim is the son of ElSayyod Nosair, an Egyptian-born American terrorist charged in the assassination of Rabbi Meir Kahane. Nosair was convicted for involvement in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing as well as carrying firearms and explosives. Ebrahim explains in his TED Talk about growing up around his dad, moving around and getting older and realizing what his father and his uncles were doing.

Ebrahim decided to challenge himself during his college life by becoming friends with a Jewish student and working with gay performers at Busch Gardens. With time, Ebrahim changed his name to end any kind of connection with his father. Instead of following in his dad’s footsteps, he chose to go a different way and help victims of terrorism. He chose a path of peace rather than committing hate crimes. He states, “I am not my father.” With that, he encourages people to be good to others without

>> “MY PHILOSOPHY FOR A HAPPY LIFE” Sam Berns Sam Berns was a 17-year-old boy who participated in usual activities such as marching band, like an average high school kid. Unfortunately, he could not do everything most of his peers could do because there was something holding him back. Berns had progeria, an extremely rare genetic disorder with symptoms resembling aging, but at a faster pace. As of May 2014, 114 children around the world were known to have it. In this TED talk, Berns explains that even though he has this rare disorder, he is living a very happy life. 4 • collide • November 2014

His philosophy contains four simple points: 1. Be OK with what you ultimately can’t do, because there is so much you can do. 2. Surround yourself with people you want to be around. 3. Keep moving forward. 4. Never miss a party if you can help it. Unfortunately, Berns did not get to accomplish his dream of studying biology in college as he died in early January this year. But he made the best of his life, and that is what he encouraged many to do.

what is asexuality?

INFOGRAPHIC: KRISTA RHOADES

>> “I AM THE SON OF A TERRORIST” Zak Ebrahim

PHOTO CREDIT: (TOP TO BOTTOM) URBANGIDI.COM, TED@NYC CONFERENCE FLICKR, TIMESOFISRAEL.ORG

You may have wondered about the person speaking in Beyoncé’s song, “Flawless.” Meet Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, a Nigerian writer who educates people worldwide about feminism. According to Google, feminism is the advocacy of women’s rights on the grounds of political, social and economic equality to men. In Adichie’s TED Talk, she explains how 52 percent of the world’s population is female, yet in some countries, women are not being recognized as strong human beings who

The standard definition of asexuality is the lack of sexual attraction to anyone. This does not, however, negate the ability to feel romantic or aesthetic attraction. There are also aromantics, who do not feel romantic attraction. Some asexuals are also aromantic, while some are not. Some aromantics are also asexual, but again, some are not. Many non-aromantic asexuals still desire to be in relationships and identify with a romantic orientation, such as: homoromantic, biromantic and hetromantic, and so forth. For this reason, many asexuals use two identifiers which are completely separate from each other: sexual and romantic. There are also those who identify as gray-asexual and

A chart of the Ace Spectrum: the different posibilities for asexuals, demisexuals, and allosexuals. demisexual. “Gray-aces” do not, for the most part, feel sexual attraction. Demisexuals do not feel sexual attraction toward most people, but may after forming a very close bond with someone, usually during a romantic relationship. Allosexuals refer to anyone who does experience sexual attraction.

History and Science

In 1948 and 1953, Dr. Alfred Kinsey, a psychologist, conducted surveys in an attempt to chart a person’s sexuality. People were rated on a 0-6 scale, 0 representing exclusive heterosexuality and six representing exclusive homosexuality with the rest of the results ranging in the bisexuality realm. Some people, however, did not fall on this scale and were rated as an X, which scientists now know to mean asexuality. In the 1948 survey which entirely consisted of adult males, 1.5 percent were reported in the X category. In his follow-up survey of both adult males and females in 1953, 19 percent of females and 1-4 percent of men were reported in the X category. According to many current research

studies, people will first experience sexual attraction by the age of 10, with a standard deviation of three years. While these studies estimate that around 1 percent of the population is asexual, many researchers believe the number is actually higher and that with more awareness and acceptance will come more accurate statistics. Since this is still a new topic to many people, there is not an abundance of studies and information. However, this is changing with more awareness, and is gaining the attention of more researchers.

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the fine line between first amendmEnt rights & fighting words 6 • collide • November 2014

BY KIMBERLEE BUCK

PAINTING: “SCENE AT THE SIGNING OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES” BY HOWARD CHANDLER CHRISTY. GRAPHIC BY CHRISSIE CHENG

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PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISSIE CHENG

social media

usage & impact

n Nov. 5, 2013, the social media application Yik Yak hit the dorms and apartments of 200-plus college campuses and universities across the U.S. Some students feel the negative use of the app is crossing the fine line between First Amendment rights and causing harm to others. “APU students are being affected by the negative posts on the app by the app serving as a distraction from studies, a privacy violator, rumor fabricator, as well as a reputation killer,” junior political science major Paul Konadu said. “I’ve heard a lot

8 • collide • November 2014

of negative things about this app and how it has ruined people’s reputations as well [as] intruded on their personal lives.” According to the First Amendment, individuals have a right to freedom of speech, religion, press, peaceably assemble and petition government for a redress of grievances. But the amendment does not protect fighting words or obscenity, according to U.S. judicial rulings. Fighting words can be defined as those causing a breach of peace. Obscenity is defined as any word or expression that can be seen as offensive or otherwise indecent. This type of language may be considered an invasion of privacy. “The kind of things that are said on this app are defaming people or damaging their reputation and the right to safety

when people use information or send messages that threaten the security and safety of other people or even of the nation,” said Bala Musa, chairman and professor of APU’s Department of Communication Studies. “So there is a very thin line there in terms of this freedom we have given to us through the First Amendment to provide democracy and free speech and dialogue, but anytime we are exercising that, we have to realize that there are rights that people are entitled to.” In other countries, there may not be any governmental laws that dictate freedom of speech. In the U. S., the government would have a hard time banning various applications such as Yik Yak, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram because of the First Amendment environment. “In South Korea, just as other countries, we have a huge impact of

want to control what things either should be on or censored for the sake of their own good.” Media in other countries are sometimes used as a way or means of expression without government interference, causing the government to be on the defensive side about the information made public. “How social media is used in this country is highly diffused and very much permeated a culture, but because there … [is] already freedom of expression, people don’t feel like they need to use social media as an underground means of communication in order to avoid government suppression because there isn’t as much of a threat,” Musa said. A feature that makes the Yik Yak application different from other social media sites is its ability to allow students to send and receive anonymous

“So there is a very thin line there in terms of this freedom we have given to us through the First Amendment to provide democracy and free speech and dialogue, but anytime we are exercising that, we have to realize that there are rights that people are entitled to.”

-- BALA MUSA

department of communication studies chair & professor social media on the ways people form their thoughts and perception[s],” South Korean junior psychology major Myunghee Gina Shin said. “Therefore, it would be ideal for us to handle it in the most strict manner, yet it always faces difficulties since people with power control social media, and

messages from people around them. No sign-in or profile is required to use it. The app also has an interactive map that allows people to see where messages are sent from. According to Yik Yak’s Facebook page, its mission is to “create a feed of

what people are saying, thinking and doing around you.” Here are some of the behaviors students agree not to partake in when they download the app: 1. Defamation, abuse, harassment, stalking, threatening or otherwise violating the legal rights (such as rights of privacy and publicity) of others. 2. Using racially or ethnically offensive language. 3. Discussing or inciting illegal activity. If users are caught in violation of any of the examples listed, they are subject to account termination, reporting to law enforcement or having their submissions removed without knowing the reasoning behind it. “The app used to be fun, but now students are using it to make offensive comments and talk about other students and teachers,” junior graphic design major Gabrielle Rodriguez said. “I think it could really cause some problems because people started describing the person they ‘yakked’ about. It makes it easier for others to know who they’re talking about and jump in on the bullying. It really defeats the whole purpose of the app being for anonymous use with a bully-free environment.” According to the company’s website: “Yik Yak may report to law enforcement authorities any actions that may be illegal, and any reports it receives of such conduct. When legally required or at Yik Yak’s discretion, Yik Yak will cooperate with law enforcement agencies in any investigation of alleged illegal activity on the services or on the Internet.” Given the difficulties of trying to block or stop students from downloading the app, APU administrators are instead choosing to provide informational discussions on the potentially destructive uses of Yik Yak.

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Tune in every Sunday at 7pm

for Homework Happy Hour with Matt Ross

for an hour of music, giveaways, interviews and more! (This show is not proven to increase productivity levels)

10 • collide • November 2014

#INSTAGRAM As told by

PHOTO CREDIT: @ELLENDEGENERES TWITTER

We know you put that essay or group project off until the last minute, so we created a show for you!

Katie Brown

Who kno ws nothi ng about in stagram ...but first, let me take selfie. OK, got it. Now what? For the first time, I ventured into the foreign and confusing world of Instagram and attempted to gain an understanding of the popular app that so many of my friends cherish. I opened the app and logged into Collide’s account. There were several icons around the side of the feed. I tried the compass-looking one first, but that took me to something called the “Explore” page. I decided it was best to leave the exploring to Dora and try another button. Next I tried the little cartoon bubble icon with a heart inside it, but that only showed me who had liked our other pictures. Undeterred, I hit the square button, and that took me to our profile page. I tried several options there, but I could not find out how to post. I clicked a tiny sun icon in the upper righthand corner and found the option for the help center. I went to the “Basics” option. The information about how to post a picture was excessively detailed and not very helpful. I decided to wing it. I tapped the little house and hoped for the best. It was then I noticed a tiny box in the upper right-hand corner. I crossed my fingers and tapped it. Finally, I found what I needed! It said I could send my photo from here. Surely this was the last step! I went to the “send photo” option. I hit the gallery icon and found my picture. Once I selected it, I was greeted with a fancy setup. There were lines that showed me the rule of thirds. How high-tech! I decided my left eye would

be a good focal point, and I lined it up with the crossing lines. The next screen held the infamous “filters” I had heard about. I found 20 options for filters! I had no idea that there were so many, and I did not know what to choose. I clicked through some of them to test them before I decided. A word of caution: Do not use “Amaro” if you are in front of a white wall, unless you want to become invisible. The darker filters brought out more contrast, so I liked those better. I eventually decided to go with “LO-FI” as my choice. Yes, done! Or not. When I hit “Next,” I was instructed to write a caption for my photo. So this is where hashtags come into play! I decided to use three hashtags for my picture: “#astoldby,” “#instaconfusion” and “#deerinheadlights.” Surely now it was done! Wrong. I could not believe it, but it said I had to choose who I wanted to see it. I thought Instagram was just published without much discretion, but apparently not. I asked a friend, who informed me that I could send it to all our followers by hitting the “Followers” option. That made more sense, so I did that. I hit “Share” and thus my first Instagram post was complete! It only took me a half hour, so basically it was a complete success. I can’t say I will be rushing to download the app anytime soon, but at least I can now write “working knowledge of Instagram” on my resume.

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Humans of the

Connor Nielson, sophomore sociology major, head of the HUB bike repair shop on campus Q: Do you own a lot of bikes? C: I own like six or seven bikes. I have a road bike, a commuting bike, a mountain bike, a BMX bike and then I used to ride bike taxis, like pedicabs.

Venturing through the concrete jungle to hear your stories. By Arianna Ruvalcaba & Chrissie Cheng

Q: Do you have names for your bikes? C: I have one bike made in Italy and I named it Frito. I don’t know why; it just sounded right. And then the bike I commute to work on, I named it The Workhorse. And I have a mountain bike named The Beast because I crash on it all the time and it doesn’t break.

2 3

Paul Garcia, Facilities Management Q: What’s the craziest part about working in facilities? P: When things overflow. I’ll leave it at that.

Michael Escalera, sophomore commercial music major and Conner Brown, sophomore undeclared major Q: Do you remember the exact moment you met? M: Like in sixth grade. I don’t remember the exact moment, but he had really long hair. I did, too. Q: So what’s changed from then to now? M: The hair. Q: What’s your favorite thing about each other? C: He’s a nice, honest guy who’s really dedicated and motivated. He always likes to lift people up, and he’s just a really good friend. M: I’ve never had someone that’s my age or older, so if I want to talk to someone about something and, you know, they’ll understand what I’m talking about, I’ll go to him. His family’s my family.

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Jonathan and Maria Pirir, APU grandparents Q: Why are you at Azusa Pacific today? J: I have a grandson at APU. He’s in men’s choir, so that’s why we are here. Q: What are some good memories you have with your grandson? J: Some memories are when she [Maria] took care of him when he was little and when I would give him rides to junior high and high school. Q: Where did your grandson get his talent? J: I play the piano a little and his father sings, and now he plays guitar and sings. Danika Degroot, sophomore nursing major Q: Did you have a specific moment while shadowing at the hospital that made you want to choose studying nursing? D: The first time I sat in on a surgery. I sat in on a C-section and that honestly was the coolest thing I’ve ever seen. I don’t know why, just the fact that she reached in and just pulled out a baby!

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CELEBRITY PHOTOS BY CREATIVE COMMONS PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISSIE CHENG

Objectification of Women By Women By Bianca Ontiveros

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understanding

how the self-exploitation of women counteracts

16 • collide • November 2014

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISSIE CHENG

feminist objectives

uke Bryan’s “Country Girl” video shows women dancing provocatively for a music video audition. The video switches scenes to Bryan singing these lyrics: “Get up on the hood of my daddy’s tractor, up on the toolbox, it don’t matter, down on the tailgate, girl, I can’t wait to watch you do your thing. … Aw, country girl, shake it for me. Girl, shake it for me, girl, shake it for me.” These lyrics have something in common with those by Lil’ Wayne’s “Lollipop” single from 2008. He rapped, “She licked me like a lollipop,” and although the genres are completely different, they both objectify women. Misogyny has been criticized in pop culture due to lyrics, music videos, movies, television shows, advertisements and more. The female body is exploited as a sexual object for others’ pleasure and is frequently pacified with the statement “sex sells.” Some women have spoken out against this “tradition” through feminism, using their voices to declare that women be treated fairly. Yet other women have attempted to beat men to the punch by exploiting themselves and their fellow females. Their efforts could be based on good intentions, but there has been opposition to the idea that women objectifying themselves is acceptable. “Women Who Objectify Other Women: The Vicious Circle of Objectification?” is the title of a study done by Peter Strelan and Duane Hargreaves published in Sex Roles: A Journal of Research, which gives evidence for the negative effects of this type of objectification. “Women objectify other women more than they objectify themselves, which suggests that, in relative terms, women place greater importance on other women’s appearances than they do on their own,” the study says. “That is, the practice of objectification of others may possibly lead others, particularly women, to internalize appearance standards for themselves, thereby increasing self-objectification.” Seeing graphs, theories and hypotheses fleshed out helps form a

foundation to the concept that wom- source of such perceived pressure is en do objectify women. However, the evaluation by men,” said Strelan and voices of everyday women speaking on Hargreaves. “Accordingly, we found the prevalence of this problem seem to that men objectify women more than be missing. they objectify other men. In addition, “Although it is important to have and also consistent with objectification conversations about how men (and theory, we found that men objectify essentially, the male-dominated and women more than women objectify male-driven society we live in) objec- other women.” tify women, I also think it is important The argument could be made that to not overlook how women can and it’s just a double standard; if men are have been objectifying other women, praised for their sexual conquests, whether intentional or not,” Elayna then women should be able to express Ah Puck, senior sociology major said. themselves as sexual beings. There are “Actually, I feel that women objectify- studies and articles that claim some ing other women is more detrimental women, in trying to earn respect in a because its oppressiveness is more male-dominated society, decide to play masked.” nontraditional roles that turn their Nicki Minaj’s “Anaconda” speaks bodies into objects of desire. vividly about sexual experiences with “These artists use their fashion men and dedicating the song to all her sensibility, lyrics and image content in “b----es with a fat a--.” Miley Cyrus has the media to either differentiate from, been seen on stage slapping women’s or subvert the male-enforced sexual behinds. Beyoncé and Ciara dance roles females are expected to play in provocatively, almost like strippers, hip-hop culture,” said Theresa Renee to perform for men in music videos. White in her article “Female Sexuality There are countless examples of wom- in Hip-Hop Culture” in the Journal of en widely acknowlBlack Studies. edged for their talent S o m e putting themselves women believe and others on display “I feel that women that recognizobjectifying other women is for recognition. ing themselves Ah Puck used more detrimental because as sexual beMeghan Trainor’s its oppressiveness is more ings or flauntsong “All About That ing their bodmasked.” Bass” as an example ies is a positive of women focusing action for the - Elayna Ah Puck, on their bodies as a Senior Sociology Major feminist moveway to appeal to men, ment. Columonly continuing the bia Journalcycle of objectificaism Review tion. “Self-love and self-acceptance recently published an article on Playcan’t be any more clear than when boy, a magazine often considered she says, ‘Every inch of you is perfect pornography, that quoted one of its from the bottom to the top,’ right? No. senior vice presidents as saying his In her lyrics, self-esteem and worth company wanted to be “inclusive” and becomes synonymous with physical “pro-women.” appearance, and it ultimately implies Lisa Nena, a second-year APU that females should find acceptance graduate student in the college counin themselves through the way males seling and student development masperceive them,” she said. ter’s program and graduate assistant Although it seems obvious that for the Women’s Resource Center, many women are focused on their said: “I think whenever you objectify a bodies as objects, the article published human being you are harming yourself in the journal Sex Roles reveals that and the person you are objectifying. women still do not objectify women to Where does it end? It might seem easthe extent that men do. ier to give in and just be what people “A central tenet of objectification want you to be but it’s a lonely road. theory is that women are the main It’s hard as it is to find a sense of self targets of sociocultural pressure to at- in this chaotic world. It takes courage tain an idealized body, and a primary to be yourself.”

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PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISSIE CHENG

I am a feminist. I am a man. By Josh Contreras

n the culture that we exist in today, (straight, white) men often find themselves at the top of the human food chain. We as men have grown accustomed to the hierarchy established within our nation because it usually benefits us. However, by simply enjoying the spoils of our male-dominated society, I say that this is a great injustice first to women, but also to yourself as a man. For this very reason, despite the fact that I am a man, I am a feminist. First, feminism is not man-hating. Feminism is not when a woman pushes beyond the goal of gender equality and for the supremacy of the female gender. A feminist is, however, as critically acclaimed author and women’s rights activist Chimamanda Adiche pointed out, “anyone who believes in the social, political and economic equality of the sexes.” If you believe both men and women should be treated equally in societal issues, if you believe women should have the same political opportunities and rights as men, and if you believe women should receive equal monetary compensation, then whether you know it or not, you too are a feminist. In Emma Watson’s U.N. speech, she said: “If men don’t have to be aggressive in order to be accepted, women won’t feel compelled to be submissive. If men don’t have to control, then women don’t have to feel controlled.” Gender equality is not just a woman’s issue, but also a man’s. Globally, men are expected to assume positions of power and women are to concern themselves with being submissive. 18 • collide • November 2014

There are some issues within American culture that need to not only be addressed but transformed in every way with regard to gender equality. Gender roles and expectations have dangerous and negative effects on both men and women. For men, American culture facilitates an expectation that they are to repress emotions and foster aggressive behaviors, both of which have negative effects on their mental health. For women, society expects them to be submissive, silent and sexual playthings. Secondly, on average, women receive less pay than men. The American Association of University Women reported that in 2013, women who were working full-time within the United States earned 78 percent of what men were paid on average. Thirdly, our culture facilitates objectifying women, with some even saying that victims of rape were “asking for it” or too “scantily dressed.” According to the World Health Organization, women are five times more likely than men to be a victim of inter-relationship violence. A survey in 2011 by the United States Department of Justice found nearly one out of every five U.S. women reported having been raped or sexually assaulted. The American Psychological Association’s Dawn Szymanski, a counseling professor from the University of Tennessee, studied the sexual objectification of women and found that 94 percent of undergraduate women have experienced unwanted sexual comments or actions directed at them. Fourthly, there is the labeling issue, specifically the labels “slut” and “bossy”

placed on women. Women are told that they are not to be sexual in the way that men are, lest they be deemed “sluts,” “whores” or “trash.” Yet, our society encourages them to present themselves before men in a sexual manner. This is not the same for men, as they are often praised for the greater number of sexual experiences they have. According to Lifetime TV’s “Ban Bossy” campaign, by middle school, girls are less interested in leadership than boys due to the fear of being labeled “bossy.” Men and young boys also fall victim to the alpha-male stereotype. If a man does not express typical alpha-male behavior, he is often considered less of a man. Lastly, consider childbearing and marital expectations placed on women. If a woman desires to have a child, it is often considered the end of her career. In addition, our culture often looks down on couples where men choose to assume the role of a stay-at-home parent and women the bread-winner. American family culture is plagued with the notion that men have to make more money than women while simultaneously having to provide for their families. Now that a few of the injustices dealing with gender inequality have been identified, there are a few things you can do. First, educate yourself on issues related to gender equality. Second, speak up about what you know with others. Third, identify any misogynistic behavior in your life, verbally admit to this behavior, then cut it out. Lastly, remember that any human being who comes into contact with you deserves your respect just as you deserve that person’s in return.

I am neither a feminist, nor an anti-feminist. By Kelyn Struiksma

omen nowadays seem neither to associate with being a feminist nor an anti-feminist, for the connotations that arise with having the label. If a woman identifies herself as a feminist, she is seen as a powerful, controlling, man-hating, independent woman. On the other hand, if a woman doesn’t identify with being a feminist, then she is seen as a passive enabler, permitting such gender inequality to happen to fellow females. Realistically, neither label is an accurate portrayal of ideals and frankly, the word “feminism” constantly brings up a debate that never quite seems to be resolved. In September, actress Emma Watson, recently named U.N. Woman Goodwill Ambassador, gave a speech regarding gender equality at the launching event for “HeForShe,” a British feminism campaign. During her speech, Watson proposed the idea of how the issue of gender equality should not be distinguished by two conflicting perspectives, but rather should be understood as a spectrum. The only way to truly face gender inequality is to move forward – both men and women – with mutual respect. Respect should and will be given if respect is received. It is my request that we, together, as a culture move away from letting stereotypes dominate and explain one’s views on this feminism spectrum. Similarly, women need to not disrespect others – both men and other women – in their attempts for equality recognition. “We should stop defining each other by what we are not and start defining ourselves by who we are,” Watson said.

I could not agree more with what Watson is proposing in the attempts to understand and pursue gender equality. When I take into consider what Watson is suggesting, the Christian perspective that has been overlooked in the past is now becoming the framework for this argument. It is necessary to be reminded that as human beings, we were created by God in his image, both male and female, according to Genesis 1:27. Men and women were created different. That’s not to say that one gender is better than the other, but that together, both genders mark the completion and fulfillment of creation. It needs to be acceptable that women and men operate differently, but the same basic principles of civility and respect should be given to both, in order that we can work together and become the body of Christ. Women can’t expect to be treated exactly as men, because females are naturally different. However, women can expect to be treated with dignity and have the same opportunities to have a voice and place in society. Proverbs 31 gives a great perspective on what it means to be a woman. It highlights how women are eager, hard workers who are equipped, skilled, smart, compassionate and capable of great accomplishment. Women are part of God’s creation and must be recognized. We also need to acknowledge that we are all called to various vocations in life. Women, without a doubt, should have the opportunity and choice to work and thrive in any environment they should choose, but all too often, women who fit the stereotype of working at home and cooking meals

every night are belittled. In the hope and protests for stereotypes of women to be broken, there seems to be an increasing disrespect for the other women who not only choose such a lifestyle, but feel called to such work. I am not saying that all women need to be homemakers and raising children. I am just suggesting that those who lean more toward the feminist side of spectrum need to acknowledge and show respect for the women who choose not to work professionally. “Biblical feminism, as I understand it – and to be honest, feminism in general – is the movement and the conviction that all human beings need to be treated with dignity,” Dr. Kathryn Smith, APU professor of biblical studies, said in a recent interview with The Clause. “All human beings need to have a voice. All human beings need to have enfranchisement in our society. That means that a feminist will also advocate for people of color or people who are being oppressed, whatever their gender is.” This issue of feminism needs to be addressed, as does society’s limitations on men, races, age groups and cultures. We need to respect one another, not diminish, neglect or ignore one another’s voices, ambitions or calling. I am neither a feminist nor an anti-feminist, but rather, I fall in the middle of the spectrum. I am constantly trying to make sense of the best way to approach this sensitive and pervasive issue, especially as a woman about to enter the workforce. I believe that more than discussing and debating, we as Christians need to act and demand respect and opportunities for both men and women to succeed. www.theclause.org/collide • 19

the cutting edge of image ideals by caitlin trude

mage may not be everything, but throughout history and around the world, maintaining a good one has certainly always been a high priority. In early October, NPR released a study by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery revealing that the number of cosmetic surgeries performed in Brazil in 2013 surpassed that of the United States. As of 2013, approximately 74.2 plastic surgery procedures were performed per 10,000 Brazilians, compared with 45.9 of 10,000 Americans, according to the study. “While in the U.S., people may hide that they have had plastic surgery like it’s something shameful, in Brazil they flaunt it,” NPR reporter Lourdes Garcia-Navarro wrote. “The attitude is that having work done shows you care about yourself – and it’s a status symbol.” Contrary to the common misconception that cosmetic surgery is predominantly female-oriented, men have increasingly become valued customers of the cosmetic surgery industry. According to the Financial Times, more than 180,000 Brazilian men have cosmetic surgery each year. In fact, the same report found that the number of women who choose to have cosmetic surgery in their 50s has gradually decreased in the last 30 years, whereas men have recently displayed higher interest in it when approaching their mid-30s or 40s.

“Anyone that says looks don’t count is lying. Of course they do. Even babies go to the attractive face. It’s the way humans work.” -- Joan Rivers

Closer to home, men are not exempt from the unending road to achieving “perfection.” The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reported that between 1997 and 2012, the number of male cosmetic surgeries increased by over 106 percent. While many women may claim to modify their bodies via cosmetic surgery for beauty’s own sake, Dr. Douglas Steinbrech, a plastic surgeon, told Business Insider that men tend to get the surgery for work-related reasons. “Men get surgery as a key tool to help them succeed,” Steinbrech said. “In a marketplace where looking fit, younger and more masculine is imperative, the better you look, the better your chances of ascending the corporate ladder.” Dr. Kathryn Ecklund, interim chairwoman of APU’s Department of Psychology, would agree with this assertion, and stated that research has proven that those deemed “more attractive” than the average person generally have more success career-wise and in other social situations. “People who are perceived or meet the standards for attractive [looks] tend to make more money, tend to have more privilege and more opportunities than people who are not considered attractive,” Ecklund said. “And despite the fact the size of the average American is growing, there’s still size bias, bias against people who are large-sized in the workforce.” When it comes to the “cutting edge” of aesthetic standards, not all cultures or time periods have

“If all the people in Hollywood who have had plastic surgery, if they went on vacation, there wouldn’t be a person left in town.” -- Michael Jackson

Odd beauty regimens around the world • Leg-lengthening surgery, developed by Dr. Gavriil A. Ilizarov in Russia in 1951, involves the reconstruction of limbs by inserting rods into the surgically cut bones • In the U.S., chemical peel, botox, breast augmentation and liposuction procedures remain some of the most common cosmetic surgery practices • The Guardian cited Iran as having the highest number of nose surgeries performed in the world, with girls as young as 14 undergoing rhinoplasty procedures • In West Africa, Mauritanians view being overweight as equating to wealth and status. Although one of the poorest nations in the world, girls and young women may be force-fed to gain weight and appear more attractive to prospective husbands • Popularized in the Song Dynasty in 10th century China, having bound feet indicated status among women • Germany’s beer baths are said to have health benefits for beer connoisseurs and teetotalers alike, including B vitamins that improve skin elasticity

been intent on going under the knife as a means of achieving a more desirable look. In the 10th century, groups of upper-class Chinese women practiced “foot binding,” involving the reshaping of the foot to a drastically smaller size, a practice which did not end until the early 1920s. In the aristocratic days, a wider girth and fairer skin tone indicated wealth, affluence and a life of leisure rather than one of hard labor. Even America’s forefathers were known for powdering and wearing their wigs as to appear older (and therefore wiser), which may seem a somewhat comical concept now in a culture where age-defying methods are the norm. “Basically what cultural psychology research has shown about what is considered attractive is that there’s certain things that tend to replicate universally,” Ecklund said, citing facial symmetry, clear complexion, and facial features that tend to be “normative” within certain people groups as main indicators for what constitutes attractiveness. “People whose facial features are outside of the typical for that group tend to not be viewed as attractively as ones that are more within the average.” Although the beauty regimens will continue to change over time and from culture to culture, one factor that will remain consistent throughout the course of history is each society’s endless pursuit of achieving the ideal, but ultimately unattainable “perfect” image.

According to the ASAPS, the following procedures were performed on U.S. patients in 2013: rhinoplasty: 147,996

breast augmentation: 313,327 Abdominoplasty: 160,077 liposuction: 363,912

“I’m no natural beauty. If I’m gonna have any looks at all, I’m gonna have to create them.”

-- Dolly Parton

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www.theclause.org/collide • 21

PHOTO CREDIT: CREATIVE COMMONS

WHY STUDENTS [SHOULD] <3 POLITICS By Paige Smith

ecently on Fox News, there was a news segment featuring Kimberly Guilfoyle, who explained why young women should not vote and “go back to Tinder.” Her reasoning was that they are uneducated, uninformed and do not have enough life experience. Ashley Spillane, Rock The Vote president, said just the opposite in an interview with HuffPost Live. “Almost everything I watch is about how young people aren’t participating or shouldn’t participate, and that’s just crazy,” she said. “We should be encouraging everyone in this country to have their voice heard and to cast a ballot, regardless of what position they take on a certain issue.”

IT’S A RIGHT As soon as people turn 18, they are able to vote. It is a duty and a right to be informed and vote on issues going on in the county, state and country. The issues that are being voted upon are essential and when society just complains about the issues going on, it is the time and opportunity to help make the change that they want to see in the world and our country, say political scientists.

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WE’RE THE MILLENNIAL VOTERS

Tired of being out of the loop?

According to the Center for American Progress, “The millennial generation is the largest (95 million compared to 78 million Baby Boomers), most diverse and most progressive in American history.” This shows just how important it is that this generation knows its worth and the importance to be informed of what is going on around it and what its members are voting for, rather than just coloring in a dot or pressing a button.

WE’RE IN COLLEGE If this isn’t obvious already, college students are constantly learning. There are many issues that the college-age generation is passionate about; however, according to Spillane in the same interview, while students may be passionate about their causes, they may lack faith in government to act on their behalf. This generation has the opportunity to be a part of this country’s history. This generation can be a difference-maker, the change it wishes to see in the world, pundits assert. While there is much more information left unsaid, be sure to check out the online exclusive at theclause.org/collide for the full article.

Stay current by watching APU Capture they have all the local, national and global news you need. http://www.youtube.com/CaptureAPU www.theclause.org/collide • 23

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISSIE CHENG

The John Muir Centennial Remembrance, honoring Muir’s 100-year anniversary of his life and work with Yosemite.

John Muir: A Remembrance

By Nick Perez

heodore “Teddy” Roosevelt may be known for his contributions to the national parks system during his presidency, but many people may not be as familiar with John Muir’s involvement with the Yosemite and Sequoia national parks in California. John Muir preserved the 1,190 squaremile Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Mountains in the late 19th century. In celebration of Muir’s life and legacy, Azusa Pacific University is hosting a special collection exhibit in Darling Library honoring 24 • collide • November 2014

the 100-year anniversary of his life and commemorating his work with Yosemite. In the library’s Rotunda, APU Libraries Special Collections hosted an opening reception for the “John Muir: A Centennial Remembrance, 1914-2014,” on Oct. 15, when guest curator Dennis Kruska gave a lecture about the life of Muir. Kruska is a former engineer, local historian, rare books collector and expert on Muir’s life. Muir sparked Kruska’s interest at a young age when he walked into a bookstore and found some of the envi-

ronmentalist’s writings. At that moment, Kruska fell in love with hiking and nature parks. Muir “did all these things I wish I could do because, you know, I was still in school, [but] it inspired me to continue reading his books, and then when I finally graduated from school I went on my first great Sierra trip,” Kriska said. While Azusa Pacific holds many of Muir’s works, APU Libraries partnered with Kruska, who provided the rest of the items for the exhibit. While Kruska was the

primary curator for the exhibition, Luba Zakharov, an associate professor, librarian and curator of special collections and rare books, also curated the show. “We not only want to show what we have and who we partner with, but actually show people primary sources [that] they can use in scholarship because you are here as academics now - you are all freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors to study,” Zakharov said. “We have resources, primary material, handwritten letters ... that you can used in your research and study at the university.” APU seeks to promote and create an environment where students can examine original works of such authors as Muir and C.S. Lewis. However, the curators did not expect John Muir to be as popular as some other figures. “A lot of people thought he [Muir] was going to speak today,” Kruska said. “He may not be as well known [as we thought].” One of Muir’s accomplishments was his founding of Yosemite Park in 1890. During that time, Muir also started the Sierra Club and became its first president.

“I think it’s amazing how one man fought to preserve something I truly, deeply care about.” -- Ashley Tafoya Resident Advisor in Alosta Place Muir began a friendship with President Teddy Roosevelt with their shared interest in the outdoors. That friendship would inspire Roosevelt to establish the U.S. Forest Service to protect national parks, forests and other nature-related systems. Though Muir’s life has ended, his work and writings continue to influence people today. During the opening ceremony, Kruska elaborated on how many people who work with preservation quote Muir’s writings in their arguments. Muir wrote over 300 published articles and books such as “Studies in the Sierra” and “Our National Parks.” Originally from Scotland, Muir’s family moved to Wisconsin when he was young. When Muir became of age, he settled into various cities in California. While in San Francisco, he fell in love with the nature in the surrounding areas. This led Muir to become an avid hiker.

Sophomore Kezziah Costello examines some of Muir’s original works in the Darling Library special collection exhibit.

Over the years he spent hiking, he wrote his first article about the Sierras. This story launched Muir’s successful writing career after he received critical acclaim from readers who enjoyed his metaphors about the wild. Toward the end of Muir’s life, he documented his journeys around the world in his travel diary. He died Dec. 24, 1914, before he could finish this writing. Muir was influential both during and after his lifetime. Kruska said that Muir has more landmarks and establishments named after him in California than any other person. Evidence of this is the trail bearing his name in the Sierra Mountains and John Muir High School in Pasadena. One of the ways APU students experience Muir’s legacy is through the High Sierra Program. It is just located 25 minutes from Yosemite National Park and costs the roughly the same price as studying and living on the main campus. The year-round study abroad program served approximately 95 students during the 2013-2014 school year. Junior psychology major Kaitlyn Briggs had many life-changing experiences at High Sierra, which fostered her love for the university. “The fact you could go and study in

the outdoors and be able to focus on academics, study the classics and challenge your thinking in ways you can’t get on the main campus through the professors here [is why] I want to get to know Muir more and how he affected the Yosemites,” Briggs said. High Sierra is not the only APU program located in the Sierra Mountains. Each summer, resident advisors and many staff members travel the same mountain range through the Walkabout program. Walkabout is a 10-day hike that trains 90 RAs every summer for the upcoming school year. The RAs team with a few faculty members and staff such as Jon Wallace, Woody Morwood and Alex Oh. Ashley Tafoya, an RA in Alosta Place, went to the exhibit opening to learn more about Muir. “Before today, I remember hearing his name being mentioned, but I didn’t really know anything about him, so I was interested in him because of Walkabout,” Tafoya said. “I think it’s amazing how one man fought to preserve something I truly, deeply care about.” The “John Muir: A Centennial Remembrance” exhibition will be open until Dec. 15, and attendees may view many of Muir’s works, letters and bibliographies. www.theclause.org/collide • 25

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s g n thi now S to k our difficult? in yyour 20s are skonowledge!

hy have this w d e r e nd you don’t rs o w r e v E se ine Rodge u a c e b It’s By Jasm

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Know when to send flowers

Sometimes a sympathetic text just won’t do. Birthdays, funerals, hospital recoveries, births, weddings, anniversaries or Father’s Day (seriously, switch it up a bit) are all occasions when flowers are a good choice. Remember to choose a nice arrangement and know if your recipient is allergic to any flowers.

Know how to dress appropriately

You can’t wear jeans to everything. A cocktail party, a classical music concert, a wedding, a black tie affair (obviously) and an upscale restaurant are instances when fancier dress is necessary. If your grandmother would question your outfit, then you’re probably dressing inappropriately for the occasion. Go to your room and change. Shame on you!

Know when to stop talking

There are over 7 billion people living on the same planet, but somehow you feel compelled to talk only about yourself. Unless it’s an emergency, be introspective and think about why you’re talking nonstop. Maybe you’ll realize you’ve just stuck your foot in your mouth or that nobody cares.

Know how to listen

Once you’ve stopped talking, give the other person your undivided attention. It’s guaranteed that you’ll learn something new, unless the other person’s the one who needs to listen, in which case you can keep texting.

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Know how to have a decent conversation

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Sometimes talking about selfies, “defining the relationship” recaps and GIFs can get old. Instead, opt for coffee, a night on the town, or lunch; do away with cellphones and ask personal questions instead. The phrase “talk it out” isn’t overrated.

Know when to get off social media

APU encouraged unplugging as a spiritual discipline a few weeks ago and maybe some of you did it, but I’m guessing some of you did not — myself included. Whether it’s for a class or personal enjoyment, the temptation of social media is omnipresent. It’s not going to be easy, but when you don’t have to be on your phone or computer, choose to meditate, cook, read or sleep instead.

Know how to cook (at least a few things)

Some of us can burn water, but cooking is not an unobtainable skill. If you learn how to cook a few good dishes — not just grilled cheese — people will respect you.

Know how to through a dinner party

Yes, it may sound old-school, but dinner parties can make your day if you put enough work into them. Have it catered or do it yourself. Breaking bread with friends once in a while is a great way to keep them.

Know how to save for retirement

According to projectonstudentdebt.com, the average student debt in public four-year institutions and private nonprofit four-year institutions in California was $20,296 in 2012. Needless to say, putting aside money for the future is imperative, especially when you’re young. For example: At 22, you start saving $40 per month. The first year you save $480. Fast-forward 40 years and your savings has grown to $19,200, and that’s not including interest. You don’t need to be Warren Buffett; you just need to save.

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Know that you should take care of yourself

Know that most suffering is optional

Know that people over 50 aren’t old

Know how to keep commitments

Even when you don’t have time to. Do classes, work and other life challenges have your energy reserves tapped out? Good, it’s time for you to fully immerse yourself in quality time — with yourself. Sleep in, or if you’re feeling more adventurous, do that thing that you’ve always wanted to do.

Too often, I hear people my age referring to people in their 50s as old. Initially I’m bothered, but then I realize that they’re not thinking about what they’re saying. Really, someone who isn’t of retirement age and generally knows more about life is old? I beg to differ. According to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, old is “[something] dating from the remote past.” The next time you fix your mouth to refer to someone over 50 as old, remember that they’re just older than you, not old.

Know that some people are ridiculous

Yes, everyone’s different, but some of us are just plain ridiculous. Those are the individuals who create drama, tension and strife where there shouldn’t be. Unless you have the time and mental capacity to deal with people who have unfathomable personalities, don’t waste your time. The sooner you find out that they’re a Pandora’s box, the more time you can spend making loyal friends.

Know when to give up on something

Working yourself to death is not the answer. Just because you have expectations doesn’t mean that they’re realistic or humanly possible to fulfill. If you’ve truly given (insert life goal here) your all, drop it and move on with your life — it may be the solution you were working so tirelessly to find.

Know that doing the right thing is hard, but thats no reason to quit In contrast with the last point, working hard can also be an indicator that you’re doing the right thing. Perhaps it’s that English class with the 12-page paper, or the relationship that gets better with every challenge you overcome together. Adversity can be Gatorade for your soul, if you take the time to work through it.

The phrase is simple enough, but it’s much harder to realize when your suffering has become voluntary. If you know that something is wrong, seek help. It’s not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength that you’re ready to move on.

It seems obvious enough, but we’ve all lapsed on that promise once or twice before. If you promise to do something, do it. No matter how inconvenient, boring or difficult the favor may be, following through with commitments and promises lets people know you’re dependable and genuine.

Know that energy drinks aren’t a food group

Seriously, they’re not good for you. Just Google the health benefits of energy drinks — oh, that’s right, there’s nothing supporting that statement.

Know when to grow up.

This is for those of you who still believe in the tooth fairy, Santa Claus and the stork. You’re welcome.

Know that you’re 1 in a million.

It’s a cliché, but literally, you’re really one in a billion. Scientifically, there’s really no one else like you and there never will be.

“Your life is big...” -Oprah

Of course, there had to be an Oprah quote. In my defense, this one is straightforward and inspiring. Often, it’s the saying “life is short” that is the most popular, but that can inadvertently turn life into a bucket list. If we think of our lives as big and vast, that leaves a lot of room for living.

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ILLUSTRATION BY ASHLEY EVANS

HERE COMES THE

Groom

BY KAYLA JOHNSTON

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SEEKING A FULFILLING PARTNERSHIP WITH CHRIST AND MATRIMONY

he spoke the words with as much devastation as one could muster: “I’m on a Pinterest break.” Anyone would empathize with her; Pinterest is something to be taken seriously. But as she continued, senior English major Sara Champlain explained that what she saw on Pinterest – overly priced wedding dresses, larger-thanlife engagement rings and beautiful women standing next to their slew of bridesmaids, all wearing matching blush-colored dresses – was damaging her current relationship with her boyfriend. “It’s encouraging me not to be content in the stage my relationship is currently in because I am so focused on wanting to be in the next season,” Champlain said. Women and men alike are constantly being saturated with messages from the media, from friendships and yes, ladies, especially from Pinterest, by this idea of the perfect wedding and the perfect marriage. Society is telling, or rather, yelling, that marriage is meant to bring happiness. It says that this “perfect” marriage consists of two people falling in love, building a family and being eternally happy together. But maybe the goal of marriage isn’t happiness at all. “The way to have a great marriage is by not focusing on marriage,” writes author and speaker Francis Chan, a longtime friend of Azusa Pacific University, in his new book “You and Me Forever: Marriage in Light of Eternity.” It’s possible we have the idea of marriage completely backward. Christ promises an abundant life, but he never promises a life of happiness. In John 10:10 (NIV), Jesus states, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” An eternally minded marriage focuses on the idea that a couple should be doing all they can to serve God together on earth in order to better each other, further the Kingdom and ultimately live in the purest form of hap-

piness in heaven, church pastors and counselors say. This kind of marriage is tough. It requires action, it requires immense sacrifice, it requires discomfort and it requires complete selflessness. In this kind of marriage, love doesn’t mean making one another happy – love means making God happy. “It’s really not just about individual fulfillment and satisfaction in the marriage. It is so much bigger than that,” said Dr. Randy Northrup, marriage and family therapist at Fellowship Monrovia Church. Marriage is a tangible example of what Christ’s love for the Church looks like. As bridegroom, Jesus gave his life for his bride, “to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word” (Ephesians 5:2526). While the Bible may not provide an exact definition of marriage or the purpose of marriage, the overarching context of Scripture points to the idea that marriage is meant to draw one another toward Christ.

of that, each spouse is granted the freedom to leave if he or she should choose to,” Champlain said. With the odds stacked against a lasting marriage, many couples are left wondering what can be done to avoid becoming another entry in the divorce statistics. “The breakdown of the family will ultimately contribute to the demise of our culture and nation, if we cannot re-establish a reverence for the way God intended it to be: a no-holds, barred commitment to the concept of loyalty, faithfulness, family, grace and permanence,” Northrup said. Additionally, both Francis and Lisa Chan agree that an eternally minded marriage limits the amount of friction in a relationship. They write that focusing on serving God leaves less time to focus on the silly arguments. “We have better things to pursue than our interests. Too much is at stake! God created us for a purpose. We can’t afford to waste our lives. We

"THE WAY TO HAVE A GREAT MARRIAGE IS BY NOT FOCUSING ON MARRIAGE." - FRANCIS CHAN

AUTHOR OF "YOU AND ME FOREVER: MARRIAGE IN LIGHT OF ETERNITY"

“You can be more effective together than apart. In a truly healthy relationship, we enable each other to accomplish more than we could have done alone. This was His plan,” Chan writes. This plan is a controversial one, and many may argue that individual happiness and fulfillment is their highest goal. The problem with a self-focused marriage, and even a self-focused life, is that rather than pointing one another to God, couples are pointing one another back to themselves, leading to pain, arguments and the rising divorce rate. “Society empowers the individuals in the relationship, rather than the couple as a unified entity, and because

can’t afford to waste our marriage by merely pursuing our own happiness,” they write. This is a lot to take in. Take a deep breath. It’s OK to be happy, and it’s OK to look at Pinterest. In fact, both of those things are great. But as the “ring by spring” buzz begins to kick in, consider the true purpose of marriage. Consider the incredible potential Christ-following couples have in serving God together. Think about the sacrifices you can make to further his Kingdom. Think about the action that God has called you to, and what that could look like as a partnership with your future spouse. Leave behind the lie that marriage is what will make you happy. www.theclause.org/collide • 29

Fashion is not only a means of expression or identity, but can also sometimes be used as a tool for greater purposes. With people like the Amish, personal expression through fashion is virtually nonexistent so as to create uniformity. Amish women wear long dresses and simple head coverings without makeup or jewelry, and men wear collared, button-down shirts and trousers held up by suspenders. However, in American popular culture, fashion is used for quite the opposite reason: to express individuality. With Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent birthday, the world saw a strange sight: hundreds of people lining up to buy clothing emblazoned with Putin in various heroic poses. The clothing was sold at several state-controlled Glavnyi Universalnyi Magazin — literally translated to “main department store” — establishments all around the country. This brings up the issue of using fashion as propaganda. Is it just fashion, or something more? First of all, I was boggled while trying to understand why Russia loves its president so much, even after the Ukraine crisis when Russia invaded and annexed an unwilling Crimea. Tension between the Ukrainian military and Russian forces led to the deaths of at least 2,500 Ukrainians, according to a senior U.N. human-rights official. Numerous politicians, including President Obama and Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott then accused President Putin of being indirectly responsible for the infamous Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 plane crash because it was most likely shot down by Russian rebels. And yet Putin’s popularity apparently has soared within his country. According to a Global Attitudes Survey held in Spring 2014 by the Pew Research Center, “Roughly eight in ten Russians (83 percent) say they have confidence in President Putin to 30 • collide • November 2014

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Fashion as Propaganda

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Muscovites Jana and Albina (R) pose with Vladimir Putin t-shirts outside the GUM department store in Moscow. do the right thing in world affairs, up from 69 percent in 2012, the last time this question was asked.” I’m not saying the clothing influenced all of Russia to begin this trend of inflated patriotism, but it has definitely helped by making it the “cool” and “hip” thing to do. In addition, designer Anastasia Zadorina and public activist Xenia Melnikova started a clothing line and initiated meet-ups where Russian citizens could trade in their Western shirts for seemingly better, more patriotic ones denouncing sanctions (economical limits that tighten restrictions on major banks and corporations) put on Russia by the U.S. and European Union in response to the Ukraine and Russia crisis. Encouraging the masses to wear this kind of clothing is equivalent to making them wear an idea or a state of mind. By making these shirts trendy, people are forced to overlook important issues and automatically side with the person distributing them. “We did that here; we did that

with Obama. ‘Change’ and all that, and that can be very powerful,” said APU global studies professor Richard Slimbach. Clothes can be used as a tool to promote political unity among a people no matter what they stand for. Who wouldn’t want a shirt with President Putin holding a puppy on it? It’s cute and funny, so the guy himself must be OK, right? “There cannot be mass consumption without conformity of thought and style: the masses must be won over (the so-called ‘bandwagon’ effect),” Slimbach said. “That’s why propaganda occupies every moment of our lives: through billboards and posters, TV commercials and online ads.” Like many forms of media, fashion can be used for a deeper purpose, a purpose beyond mere wearability. Through the people of Russia, we can gather an idea of how powerful fashion can be, even if we think of clothing as nothing more than the material used to cover our bodies.

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