The final post

For the last few months I have been taking part in different experiences/events in order to earn my DofE award. In order to complete the criteria I needed to take part in something physical, do some form of volunteering and learn a skill as well as completing a lengthy journey (in which I have given great detail about in my previous blogposts). Each of these things have given me different but nonetheless rewarding experiences. 

Firstly I took part in 3 months of physical. For this I chose to take part in a badminton after school club every Friday for 3 months. I am not very sporty so this part of the award was quiet a stretch for me. Volunteering to go and do sports in my free time! I persevered and did it though.  Overall I actually enjoyed it, I had a great time with my friends every Friday. It turns out we are all very competitive. I also managed to make new friends, not only playing with people I knew but others too. This was especially fun as I beat some of them! I also noticed a difference in myself too. Every Friday I would leave school quiet sweaty, red and hot. However I didn't feel bad. I actually felt rather good, energised even. It made be feel better inside and I'm very glad of that. So this section actually exceeded my expectations. 

Secondly I had to take part in 3 months of volunteering. I did this at a local library in which every week I volunteered one day after school. Whilst there I learnt a lot, firstly I was taught about how to organise the library and the different protocols. Also how to use the library computers as well as the main system, this enabled me to help out people by: extending book deadlines, loaning out books and teaching them how to use the library computers. I believe I was very helpful to the people there and I had a positive impact on many members of the community. For example on one occasion a little boy asked me to help with his homework, on another I assisted a women in using a scanner in order to send off paperwork. I learnt so much during my volunteering and I think it has not only helped others around me but myself. I now understand what's it's like to sort of have a job, how to conduct myself and the tasks I would be carrying out. It was really sad after I completed my 3 months as I made great friends with many of the staff working there. However I was told I could come back whenever I wanted! 

Finally I had to learn a skill for 6 months. A very long time indeed in which I ran this blog. Every week I uploaded a new blogpost using a different style of writing or discussing the writing of others through an essay or a book review. Overall I began this blog believing it wouldn't be difficult to upload one post a week but I was so wrong. It has actually been the hardest part of the 3 sections. Finding the time to upload a piece of writing in my free time and balance everything else was difficult. Especially because of how long it took to write just one blogpost. Despite this I managed to do it. I did enjoy having a way to express myself and improve my writing not only on here but in school as well. All that I have done will definitely help me with my upcoming exams. I have enjoyed writing so much, coming up with ideas. Looking for different words or trying to add in hidden messages. Whilst it's been hard it's been so very rewarding. Having all this work to look back on. 

To conclude my DofE experience has been such a very big challenge however I have never enjoyed something so much. It's brought me closer to my friends, allowed me to learn and grow personally and intellectually. I am so proud of everything I have achieved and will look back on the whole experience with nothing but fondness. 

We may never know.

The sky was grey, murky and depressing. The mid February weather caused a great demand of winter clothes for the London people. All wrapped warm in thick, woollen scarves, chunky socks with big boots. Cuddled in long, worn coats in dark colours. Wind blew heavily around the buildings. Compressing the insides into small, safe havens of comfort. People huddled across zebra crossings, waddling on their feet waiting for the light to go red and the air polluting cars to stop. Their chatter echoing through the streets bouncing off of the crooks of alleyways. As they walked they cradled their vivaciously patterned coffee holders, warming their hands wrapped in cream mittens. Strands of hair blowing forcefully around sharp chins and square foreheads, blinding lazy eyes momentarily. 

In the midst of it all was a women, not a conforming women yet still an unnoticed  one. Her hair tied up high in a knot unlike the countless other girls who kept it stuck to their head with a hat, to protect their ears and necks from the cold. Her arms mostly bare in a boxy t-shirt, a thin silky scarf loosely hanging from her neck. Thick black tights clung to her legs, her thighs covered by a tight tartan skirt. Confidently she strutted down the curb, her height meaning she towered over most of the people around her. Still they barely glanced at her for a second. What made her so immune to people's judgey looks ? 

Perhaps it was the way she owned it. We may never know. 

Along with this girl another intriguing character followed closely behind her. A short round man, a beard that almost reached his chest decorated like a christmas tree with silver hairs. A jolly smile spread across his mouth not moving. It seemed he could be hit by a car and that smile wouldn't budge. His smile seemed to be the only thing that made him different from the rest of the people walking down the street. Other then that he was dressed almost the same as the rest of them: mucky brown work boots, a bright red hat dangling of his head with a little cotton ball attached, a thick plaid scarf strangling him and a black knee length coat hugging him tightly. Why was he so happy on a day so dreary? We may never know.

Ahead of our two characters was a young women dragging behind her a rambunctious toddler. Clearly making quite a scene. His red face streamed with tears as he screamed in words that didn't seem English. His mother clearly struggling to control him as she dragged him weakly. Her arms almost giving way. Her eyes dragged about a mile behind her, the bags dark and heavy. Her blueness of them dulled by the sky, streaky blonde hair just peaking through a beanie. A snug red coat wrapped around her but unbuttoned. Her son almost near identical to her. His blonde hair tucked in a small blue hat, a puffy red coat sticking to him uncomfortably with sweat. Although it did bring out his piercing blue eyes. Onlookers stared at the two with dismay. Obviously annoyed that the mum couldn't control her child. She felt the stares but bravely kept her head up high despite the embarrassment she felt. Why she did this? We may never know. 

At the very back of all of them walked a man. Thick black curly hair protruding from his head. His dark complexation contrasting the grey/white sky. His brown eyes darker then his very own brown mittens he was wearing. They were warm like him, they emitted a blazing heat on such an icy day. Headphones tried to flatten his curls and just about did in order to stay on his head. He bounced down the street. His head jiggling from side to side as his massive clown like feet took huge steps. His attitude separated from everyone else who could barely utter a sentence so early in the morning let alone half dance down the street to a poppy beat. He didn't care that he looked a fool in a silver puffy jacket as he sauntered through the crowd. He embodied everything a person wasn't in the morning. Peppy, happy and energised. Why did he act like this? We may never know. 

We can gain a lot from simply looking at someone but not everything. 

A speech for equality

Why we need feminism!

Feminism - the advocacy of women's rights on the ground of the equality of the sexes. 

Feminism has always been a word with a stigma behind it. It causes a lot of controversy. However I believe that it is in fact a basic human right for this word to exist. It stands for the equality of the sexes and nothing else. Throughout history it's a word that many men and women have been afraid to use yet still they found a way to incorporate it into their lives/work. Take Jane Austen, she wrote pride and prejudice in the 1800's a time in which women were married off to husbands to keep the family name going. However in the book she portrays a strong but feminine protagonist, Elizabeth. Many would say she is a feminist as she doesn't let men rule her. She says no. She picks the life she wants. Many from the time wouldn't have understood this message yet still Jane Austen was brave enough to put it out there even if it was hidden. Another example being Jane Eyre, a book about no ordinary women. She is seen as both strong and compassionate in a time where stepping out of the gender norms was forbidden. Furthermore not only did Charlotte Bronte take a risk in creating a character so different to other females in literature at the time. She also had to do it under a male pen name, Currer Bell. Simply because it was unacceptable for females to publish books. To be that educated, she did it in order to beat prejudice. Show men she was capable.

This women faced the wrath of society all to display one important message. Feminism. 

Feminism gets a lot of stigma simply because of the root of the word. Feminism- feminine- female. Such a silly reason not to support a cause. Yes I understand it can seem biased and that its cause is only for the rights of women but it's for the equality of sexes. For men's rights too. The word shouldn't matter, you don't have to call yourself a feminist. Call yourself whatever you want as long as you support and believe in the cause. That both men and women should have the same rights. Should be treated equally.   To be able to act however they want with out judgment or even wear what they want. A word is a word, it has no significance. The meaning is the only important thing. How you pronounce it isn't. 

On the other hand I do understand how some men and women alike can be against feminism, as in the past it has been portrayed as a group of angry women greedy for power. It's been said to neglect men's rights, so I can understand why some don't want to be associated with it. However I believe these people are extremely ignorant and uneducated as they have not taken the time to actually research the cause before dismissing it. The movement does have some negative sides, it has people within that support the cause in controversial ways. But don't all movements and causes? For example we have "black lives matter" in which many protest peacefully against the abuse of the police. Then you have the people who give the cause a negative name as they go around shooting innocent police officers who probably don't share the same views as other racist cops. There are ugly sides to every movement yet it's up to the individual to educate themselves on the topic before forming an opinion. 

Moreover we need feminism now note then ever, there are still over 20 nations which refuse to give women the right to a good education. Countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan, Egypt and Nepal. They refuse to give women a basic human right, to move forward with the time. That's why we need feminism to get women and girls out there learning. In some counties like Dubai where women (men too although it is less strict) are told what to wear when entering the country. It's laws like this that are preventing women from being treated equal to men. We need feminism because in countries like Ireland it's illegal to have an abortion unless the mothers life is at risk. Women can't even control their own bodies, they are not even allowed to  abort the child if they have been raped or molested. This is why we need feminism. How is it fair that women are not allowed to choose what they do with their bodies? It's complete unfair and illogical. 

Men also need feminism because for thousands of years men have been persecuted for acting feminine and not masculine. Still men aren't taken seriously and are afraid to go to the police when they are raped, abused by a partner or molested. They are seen as weak for letting these things happen to them. Yet women can potentially ruin a mans life with a false allegation of rape. Furthermore men aren't encouraged to show their more emotional sides, they have to be emotionless and calm about everything. It's seen as embarrassing to cry. To show a  tender side of yourself. This is a contributing factor as to why the rate of men suffering from a mental illness such as depression is increasing. Men are scared to talk about their feelings. Plus in custody battles women are more likely to gain custody of the child instead of the men simply because of stereotypical and traditional views of mothers looking after the child, men aren't seen as capable. 

To conclude I don't believe feminism is a negative idea. It is a movement that will hopefully have a positive outcome. Yes there is some unwanted negativity surrounding it but still all movements face criticism or bad supporters. People need to focus more on the meaning for the world instead of the actually word. It means equality of the sexes not the take over of the females. I personally think everyone should be a feminist or at least support the quality of the sexes. Yes the genders differ but we are both capable of the same thing. Men and women can be feminists. 

Writing from the past

I jutted back in pain as my lady pulled my corset tightly. My hand pressed softly against my abdomen, sucking in I panted calmly. The cool air leaving my mouth in short breaths. The crisp morn leaving a ghostly wisp behind with each breathe I took. 

"Lady Ford your uncle wishes to speak with you" announced Gregson.

"Send him forward, tell him I am not yet properly clothed. He shall have to speak to me through my screen. Thank you Gregson" I ordered.

"Yes, My Lady. As you wish" he replied.

"Mildred your suffocating me. Steady with the fastenings. I don't want to faint in front of Lord Hasting today. Oh the humiliation would sure to cause my death" I uttered worriedly. 

With a voice as dull as a haystack, Mildred replied "Yes mam, sorry mam" 

A hard yet comforting voice interrupted us as my uncle entered "Lydia, my dearest niece. Where are you?" 

"I'll be with you in a moment uncle. I'm being fitted for the ball tonight. At Duke Howard's country house in Wall-Creake." I whistled giddily.

"Yes I'm Familiar with, Duke Howard. I stayed with him and his sons whilst I was in London. A kind man, his eldest son however frolics about with whom ever he pleases. A real embarrassment to the family name" disgraced my uncle. 

"What a foul boy!" I retched.

I waltzed out from behind my screen and there before me stood my uncle. I twirled my lilac dress swaying behind me, the lace falling softly at my collarbones. The satin trim grazing the oak floors. 

"Dearest, Lydia! Oh how sweet you do look. All the boys in Wall-Creake shall fall before you tonight. None worthy of you though may I add" he smiled.

"Thank you, uncle. May I inquire as to why you have visited at such an ungodly hour? We don't normally concur until at least the mid afternoon, just before your parliament meetings" I queried.

"Can an uncle not visit his favourite niece just because he feels like it? After all you are staying in my house. I have free reign" he questioned back.  

"Please sweet uncle take no offence, it is just not the usual comings that is all." I hastened out. 

"Child do not be so concerned I was merely coming to tell you I am going on a trip. I'll be staying up at Granette house by the coast for a few weeks. I'm unsure as to my return as the business is rather unforeseeable and I have no idea of when it shall be over. Things are to stay as normal whilst I'm gone, your personal allowance shall stay the same. I wish for you to write me letters if there are any necessary update to me made"  barked my uncle. 

"Of course, Uncle Hall. No gallivanting whilst your away. I shall be on my best behaviour" I promised, making eye contact in the mirror as I examined my dress.  

"Very good,I leave the day after tomorrow.  

Now I must bid you good day. A lot of work to attend to at present" said Uncle in a more relaxed tone. 

"Yes dear uncle of course. You must be terrible busy" I replied in haste, wishing him away so I could admire my dress more privately.

After a brief scan of me he turned in a sharp twist and left the room in a march. Skipping childishly to the mirror I watched myself. The stay brown hairs framing my delicate bone structure. The purse of my pale lips as dry as a bone. The deep green of my eyes, darker then a murky lake.  I spun ever so slightly to the side. Gazing at the creases in my dress as it glided gorgeously around my figure. The glimmering bodice laying flat against my stomach and chest. The lace nibbling at my collarbone, jutting out at a sharp angle. In a few hours I would have to leave. The carriage was booked and I had never so anticipated the eventide before. Most of my life I had pondered on how fast a day went by. Now I wished it would move faster. Letting out a string breathe I hurried to my dressing table in small, willed steps. Sitting down I called for Mildred. I must look exquisite tonight. 

A few hours had past. Now late afternoon the sun had begun to sunk. The orange tones fading with the soft pink of the sky, the blue appearing in sharp flicks through out.  

"Lady Ford, I have had word that your carriage is waiting for you" announced Gregson.

"Thank you, Gregson. I shall be out in just a moment" I called. 

Staring at my reflection I couldn't help but obsess at the minor flaws of my look. My hair had fallen slightly flat, the curls laying loosely around the crown of my head. The dress had loss some spark that it had first had. Perhaps wearing it all day allowed me to get too comfortable. A heavy sigh left my chest as I made my way to the doors. 

It took and hour and a half to reach Wall-Creake and another 15 minutes to find Lord Howard's house. Upon arriving I existed the coach in haste. Already late I felt uneasy. A sticky feeling rising in my chest. I hooped up the steps entering through the front door. Greeting me was a small women, a ladies maid perhaps. Behind her was a rather official man in a uniform. I heard the chatter of guests and the clang of glass as I walked through the door. The ball was in full swing the music blaring. 

"Madam, may I take your shall." Squeaked the small women politely. 

With out an answer I began to remove my shall handing it into her old, worn hands. 

A small gesture from her told me to continue on behind her. The man stopped me and spoke. 

"Name please" 

"Lady Louise Ford of Rothen House" I answered.

"Thank you, my lady" he smiled. 

In a booming voice he shouted. "Lady Louise Ford of Rothen House" 

The music slowed down to a hum, the rusting of long coats and voluptuous gowns could be heard as many turned to look at me. I gave a brief smile before entering the room, heading straight for a table full of beverages. 

As I took a sip of the drink, the sweetness overwhelming my senses in a foul way. I pursued my lips. Gazing around the room I saw many dancing or chatting mindlessly. I searched for my friend, Lord Hasting. Yet it seemed he was not here or hadn't arrived yet. 

"Your the niece of that Snollygoster, Lord Hall." Inquired the nasal voice of young man behind me. 

A fierce look welled in my eyes. "He is not a Snollygoster. How dare you cause such offensive when you have not even yet introduced yourself, Sir" I fired. 

"I am James Howard, nephew of Duke Howard who's house you are currently in. I meant no offensive but please do answer my question" he said with such disdain and vileness. 

"I beg your pardon, Sir. I have no reason to answer such an outrageous question. I wish you a well evening" I turned on my heel moving away with haste. I went straight out of the closest door which happened to lead to a garden. I took a deep breath. Such a villain he was. James Howard. Never again would I trust such a name. I steamed. Taking breathes I stared into the dark night. The glittering stars shining down on the small pond amidst the over grown grass. 

I heard a small cough behind me. I whirled my head around. Before me stood a man of tall stature. He had broad shoulder and long, dark hair.  A sharp point for a chin, a thick crease in his forehead and eyes that shone even in the dark. 

"Sorry I was just taking in some air, I'll return inside now" I rushed.

"No, no don't leave of my account. I just overheard what that fellow in there, James Howard was saying to you. I thought you should know it's utter mullock. He's a blithering idiot and knows nothing of politics believe me" his smooth voice made the words whilst informal sound so soothing. 

Stuttering I spoke. 

"Well thank you. I know my uncle is not a bad man. He has morales and principles. I don't listen to fools. This James Howard knows nothing of my uncles politics, or of any of the bills and laws he has tried to have passed. Very uneducated for the nephew of a duke."I glanced at him before turning back to the garden. He wandered closer. 

"Your very well spoken and educated for a women you know" he laughed. 

"Being a women doesn't mean I can't be taught the same as a man" I replied. 

"Very much a thought for the future." He said. 

Curiosity seeped through my voice. 

" I hope you don't mind me asking but you know who I am because of my uncle. I have no idea who you are" I looked into his eyes. 

"I'm Duke William Moore, mam. Best friend of the so called fool." He laughed. 

I turned red.