Saturday, January 25, 2020
Causes And Effects Of Delay In Malaysian Construction Construction Essay
Causes And Effects Of Delay In Malaysian Construction Construction Essay In the construction industry, projects can be delayed among large number of causes. There are different type and categories of delays found on construction Projects. Delay has major effect on completion cost and time of construction Project. Delays can be minimized if they were identifying causes. Knowing the cause of any particular delay in a construction project would help avoiding the same. Even though with different types of studies have been carried out to identify the factors influence the causes of delays, since the problems are quite related to the studies need to focus on specific geographical area, or region in Malaysia. A major appreciation of the Malaysia construction industry is due to the growing rate of delays in project delivery. In Malaysia most public work projects, including any construction projects under government authority or under privacy are awarded on a competitive basis using the traditional approach. The consultants and contractors are engaged in separate contracts. The contractors commonly would be involved until the whole project have been completed 1.3 Aim and objective of study 1.3.1 Aim To investigate delays pertaining in construction projects in Malaysia 1.3.2 Objective To identify the major causes of delays in construction project; To identify the effects of delays in construction project; and To identify the methods of minimizing construction delays. 1.4 Background of the study Construction delay is major problems frequent occur in the construction industry. Delays adversely impact on project stakeholders including owners, design professionals, construction professionals, purchaser and others. The main objectives of construction projects are cost, time, quality and safety numerous According to Assaf, et al. (1995) mentioned the most important causes in large building construction projects in Saudi Arabia which included approval of shop drawings, delays in payment to contractors and the resulting cash problems during construction, design changes, conflict in work schedules of subcontractors, slow decision making and executive bureaucracy in owners organizations, design errors, labor shortage and inadequate labor skill. Refer to causes of delay in Saudi Arabia, the major parties to lead the delay happen which include client and contractor. Because of client always change the design of building. Besides that, late responds and poor project management team and also delay pay month payment to the contractor by client. On the other hand, contactor due to not enough worker during work progress and some argument with sub-contractor. According to Ogunlana, et al. (1996) studied the delays in building project in Thailand, as an example of problem faced by the developing economies. They concluded that the problems of the construction industry in developing economies can be nested in three layers: problem of shortages or inadequacies in industry infrastructure, mainly supply of resources; problems caused by clients and consultants; and problems caused by incompetence of contractors. Construction in Thailand because some parties fault due to project delay such as contractor consultant and. During construction stage the client because of changing certain part of design and lack of experience could not solve the problem immediately. Besides client, designer is one of the parties because of own fault which is give unclear drawing to the contractor due to lack in experience. On the hand, the other parties which is contractor because of facing in poor management team, improper planning and scheduling and also inadequacy o f site inspection. According to Chan and Kumaraswamy (1996) surveyed and classified the causes of construction delays in Hongkong as seen by clients, contractor and consultants, and examined the factors affecting productivity. The results of their research indicate that the five principal and common causes of delays are: poor site management and supervision; unforeseen ground condition; low speed of decision making involving all projects team; client initiated variations; and necessary variation of works. Construction delay in Hongkong, the parties related to delay project include client, consultants, contractor and some relevant party. Factor to related delay by client such as client frequent delay make payment to contractor and also suffer in financial problem. Besides client, designer because of lack of experience always make mistake in drawing and late process design document. On the other hand, factor to cause contractor delay project which include lack of experience in project team and also poor site management and supervisions. Other than that, material is also one of the causes. During construction stages, material shortage and material changes to cause project delay. Identified the effects of delays in construction projects have been undertaken by some researchers. According to AIbinu and Jagboro (2002),identified the six effects of delays were time overrun, cost overrun, dispute, arbitration, total abandonment, and litigation. The results of their studied about the effects of construction delays on project delivery in Nigerian construction industry, shows time overrun and cost overrun were the frequent effects of delays in construction projects. In construction industry, the effect of project delay because of time and cost overrun. In this situation, some of the faults parties need to take responsibility to pay the loss and expense to those parties suffer in damage. Several studies have been studied and recommended the methods of minimizing delays in construction projects. Nguyen, et al (2004), identified five critical success factors could be applied to reduce the effects of delays includes: competent project manager; adequate funding until project completion; multidisciplinary/competent project team; commitment to projects; and availability of resources. To minimizing the project delay during the construction stage, first of all a client needs to hire an experience project manager. Once the problem of delay happen, the project manager can solve immediately. Besides that, the project team member should communicate with other team member. Aibinu and Jagboro (2002) in their study also identified two methods to reduce or if possible eliminate time overrun were acceleration of site activities, and contingency allowance. The contractor must take full responsibility during work progress. Once contractor found out actual work progress are not similar with estimate and he must take some action to avoid the project delay such as involve some additional worker. According to Odeh and Battaineh (2002) recommended four methods includes: developing human resources in the construction industry through proper training and classification of craftsman; adopting a new approach to contract award procedure by giving less weight to prices and more weight to the capabilities and past performance of contractors; and adopting new approaches to contracting, such as design-build and construction management (CM) type of contracts. 1.5 Scope of the Study The scope of the research will focus on literature review and a questionnaire. Projects investigate in this research included school building, church, office, hospital, communication facilities and etc. The survey will conduct in Malaysia. The questionnaire survey will design based on factors identify from literature review that contributed to causes of delays, effects of delays and methods to minimize delays. A questionnaire will developed to assess the perceptions of contractors and consultants of the relative importance of the causes and the effects of construction delays. The developed survey questionnaire will distributed to the target respondent in Malaysia. 1.6 Outline methodology Stage 1: Literature review The review of literature has provided useful information based on the causes, effects, reactions and possible solution related to the issues delay project in construction industries. Stage 2: Pilot study Data collection will take the form of a structured postal questionnaire. However, an initial pilot study will be conducted to test the validity of the questionnaire through in-depth interviews with three contract manager. Stage 3: Main survey questionnaire and questionnaire go through with interview. The feedback from the pilot study should assist in finalizing the questionnaire and prepare the ground for main survey. The questions with centre around the areas mentioned in the above objectives. In order to obtain a high level of response, a multi-option format will be designed and limited to about 30 question and 10 questions which are go through with interview. Open questions are considered to be inappropriate as they would required the respondents to formulate an answer which needs lengthier input and will therefore be more difficult to analyze. Stage 4: Analyzing the postal and interview questionnaire This stage is analysis of the questionnaire to determine the level of agreement or disagreement by the respondents to each question within the questionnaire by counting the number of respondents who answer favorably or unfavorably. Besides that, analyze the questions which is done by interview to determine how the contractor to solve the delaying problem of project. Stage 5: Writing the research report The stage involves writing up the content of the dissertation and should cover the chapter proposed in the following section. Proposed contents Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Literature review Chapter 3 Research design and method of analysis Chapter 4: Analysis of the result and discussion Chapter 5: Conclusion and future study evidence
Friday, January 17, 2020
The Amish Way of Life
The Amish way of life Sherri S. Archer-Taylor ANT101: Introduction to Cultural Anthropology Instructor Jason Gonzalez December 10, 2011 The Amish way of life I. The Amish way of life has many interesting concepts and unique beliefs that set them apart from any other culture. While some may see the Amish way of life as a cult, there simplistic way of life and there family values and beliefs make them one of the strongest sects in todayââ¬â¢s society. II. The Amish primary mode of subsistence is farming. Making them Horticulturalists. The Amish are farmers first they plant several crops every year depending on the season as well as women tending to gardens, the Amish feed themselves. A. According to Donald Kraybill (2001) the Amish have always been tillers of the soil and people of the land. B. When a young Amish couple gets married they are given a parcel of land by one of the fathers. This land is given so that the couple can get a head start on taking care of themselves and earning a living. C. The Amish people today do not use many modern day agriculture implements depending on the old ways to farm and harvest crops. III. The economy of the Amish is growing more complex. Where they were once mostly self-sustaining they are now finding it necessary to make and sell durable goods to supplement their income. A. According to Dr. George Kreps (1997) Tourism has not affected the core of Amish culture but it has had several lasting impacts. Such as traffic and crowds which make the Amish people shy away from certain areas because they do not like to interact with the common folk. B. Land has been harder to purchase for expansion due to rising cost. And the soil is no longer as plentiful as it once was. C. Amish now make furniture and other wood work items, and the women sew quilts and clothing to supplement the familyââ¬â¢s income. D. Food is never sold or traded if a family can find another means of income. Food is reserved to fee the family. IV. The Beliefs and values of the Amish people are core in there society. They have been practicing these beliefs and values since the beginning of the Amish order which was sometime around the ââ¬Å"1880â⬠s. A. Holidays observed by the Amish re very religious during certain holidays the Amish people are more religious and family centered than any other culture. B. Amish people wear white clothes for a burial and they wear blue to a wedding. When a funeral occurs in the Amish culture there are no flowers, the coffin is plain wood, and there is no singing. A hymn is spoken, there are no eulogies. C. According to Charles Hurst (2010) the Amish have survived by being plain and depen ding on hardly any new technology and with limited help from outsiders. V. While the rest of the world has progressed with technology and change the Amish have also progressed with social change. A. The Amish travel still by horse and buggy only using a car to go on long important trips such as to a hospital or to see relatives in another state. B. All men in an Amish society still wear beards. C. They are still firm in there want to be separated from the world. And place important emphasis on simplicity and humility. D. They shun members who have been excommunicated E. They still use horse and plow to farm their fields. F. They have no internet or computers but they do use calculators. The Amish are simple people who live by farming, gardening, livestock and supplementing there income by wood working and quilt making. They choose to keep outsiders away from their lives. Their children are educated in a one room school house by another usually female of the sect. the young men help their father with farming and milking duties and the young women help garden with their mothers with cooking and watching their younger siblings. Some people may think they are wired or that they act like a cult but their simple way of life and there strong ties to one another has insured that the Amish will continue enduring for a long time. REFERENCES Hurst Charles M. (1998) the religion and family connection 29 (13) 19 Retrieved from http://psycnet. apa. org/? &fa=main. doiLanding&uid=1988-97583-000 Kraybill, Donald B. Pages: 423 (2001) Riddle of Amish Culture (Revised Edition) Retrieved from http://site. ebrary. com/lib/ashford/doc Dr. George Kreps (1997). The Impact of Tourism on the Amish Subculture Community Dev. J (1997) 32 (4): 354-367. doi: 10. 1093/cdj/32. 4. 354
Thursday, January 9, 2020
Christianity and Rastafarianism-a Discussion of Six...
Christianity and Rastafarianism A Discussion of Six Similarities Christianity and Rastafarianism are both rooted in Judaism and draw from the Hebrew sacred scriptures. Rastafarianism evolved as a reaction to the Christianity that was imposed upon African-American slaves and their descendents. There are several other aspects in which these two religions are similar, the purpose of this paper is to explore some of those similarities. The Christian religion began around 2000 years ago in Judea, which is now Israel. Christianity began with Jesus of Nazareth and his disciples. Jesus traveled from village to village, teaching in the synagogues, and healing those who were sick and suffering. He challenged the authorities toâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦Rastafariââ¬â¢s believe Tafari Makonnen, who was crowned Haile Selassie I, Emperor of Ethiopia on November 2nd, 1930 is the living God incarnate, called Jah. He is the black Messiah that will lead the worlds people of African origin into the Promised Land of full emanc ipation and divine justice. This is partly because of his titles King of Kings, Lord of Lords and Conquering Lion of the Tribe of Judah. These titles match those of the Messiah mentioned in the book of Revelation, in the Christian New Testament (Rastafari). Second Similarity-The Creation of the World: Just as the Christian Bible begins with, ââ¬Å"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earthâ⬠, (Holy Bible) The Holy Piby, the Rastafarian Bible, begins with, ââ¬Å"From the beginning there was God and he spake and all things were made that are madeâ⬠. Both of these sacred texts go on to state that God made man for his glory and then made woman for man, God called the man Adam and the woman Eve. (Holy Piby) Both of the sacred texts also agree that God rested on the seventh day and said that men should also use the seventh day as a day of rest. Third Similarity-Worship Practices: Christian worship centers on meetings or services held on Sunday. These services consist of Biblical readings, communion, and music either with or without instrumental accompaniment, prayer, a teaching from the Bible in the form of a sermon and a collection of tithes. Other forms of worship, such
Wednesday, January 1, 2020
The Outsourcing Trickle Essay - 1237 Words
As esteemed journalist Tom Piatak wisely puts it, ââ¬Å"The trickle of outsourcing threatens to become a flood.â⬠His words speak the truth as outsourcing has left United Statesââ¬â¢ workers jobless, and it continues to increase the unemployment rate every year. During February of 2009, American workers lost a record 651,000 jobs alone, increasing the unemployment rate to 8.1 percent, the highest it has been in 25 years (Katel). Multinational corporations, hoping to cut down costs and stay profitable in the market, outsource by exporting American jobs to third-world countries such as China and India. It may seem noble that outsourcing provides third-world countries with job opportunities, but the United Statesââ¬â¢ markets and industries are greatlyâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦Companies close down U.S. buildings and factories to reduce costs, capital gets exported abroad, and this money can no longer go towards economic expansion. These direct hits on U.S. local, state, and federal governments have detrimental effects on the economy due to fewer unemployment benefits and reduced economic expansion. On the other hand, some critics state that globalization of products ââ¬Å"are creating new markets [in India and China] for goods and services,â⬠increasing government wealth (Cooper). Unfortunately, proponents of this argument fail to recognize that globalization benefits are not trickling down to all sectors of the U.S. economy. Recent studies show that lost manufacturing jobs, the sector most affected by outsourced jobs, are replaced by lower-paying jobs in the service sector (Cooper). With these lower-paying industries, the downsized gross domestic income of America impacts the economy and shrinks government taxation. The average American is then greatly impacted because lower tax money means the government cannot provide essential benefits to people. When jobs are outsourced, the U.S. government as well as the U.S. economy greatly suffers. Outsourcing of both skilled and unskilled jobs in the U.S. has a sufficiently weakens economy due to a decrease in the consumption of goods. Once workers are unemployed, they no longer have enough money to purchase products in the market. Heidi Shierholz, a labor economist at the EconomicShow MoreRelatedUnited States Should Not Be The Best Essay1287 Words à |à 6 Pagesone percent in the United States. They have large amounts of money, why canââ¬â¢t they give any away? They use their money to boost their profits instead by underpaying employees to other countries, avoiding taxes through loopholes and tax havens and outsourcing jobs to other countries. The money they send away could be used for government funded programs like food stamps and unemployment or they could donate to food banks. There is a plethora of ways big business is damaging our own economy and it is starvingRead MoreEconomic Exchange within a Globalized World1195 Words à |à 5 PagesHowever this has not benefi ted the poor. In contrast those in poverty have either remained in poverty levels or have continued to sink further in (Globalization and the Trickle Down n.d.). This can be explained by the notion of ââ¬Å"trickle downâ⬠theory (Howard-Hassman 2005). This theory suggest that wealth should hypothetically flow or ââ¬Å"trickleâ⬠down from wealthy individuals and countries to the poor individuals and countries (Howard-Hassman 2005). However this theory does not account for corruption and theRead MoreGlobalization : As Transnational Corporations ( Mncs )1327 Words à |à 6 Pageswithout set regulatory policies to protect them. For instance, workers are subjected to unpaid overtime, toxic chemicals, and dangerous equipment. Nevertheless, some believe if the corporations acquire revenue, the money trickles down to the less economically developed. Outsourcing labor creates a relationship of mutual exploitation. The corporations secure profit off of the cheap land and labor, while the workers benefit from the money flowing into the region. Despite the low wages, long hours, andRead MoreIndia s Pharmaceutical Industry : International Trade Limits On Account Of Their Abuse Of Intellectual Property Rights858 Words à |à 4 Pagespharmaceuticals available for purchase in the United States to practically 900 plants in India, giving Indian organizations legitimacy that potential opponents are in other areas, for example, China. For Western establishments, the undisputable interest of outsourcing drug manufacturing to India is that it lowers their expenses, empowering them to protect their income in a relentlessly hard domestic environment where government healthcare regulation and increased competition have put burden on the valuing ofRead MoreIndia s Pharmaceutical Industry : India856 Words à |à 4 Pagespharmaceuticals available to be purchased in the United States to practically 900 plants in India, giving Indian organizations legitimacy that potential opponents in spots, for example, China. For Western enterprises, the undeniable fascination of outsourcing drug manufacturing to India is that it lowers their expenses, empowering them to protect their income in an inexorably troublesome domestic environment where government healthcare regulation and increased competition have put weight on the valuingRead MoreThe United States And Its Impact On Health Care1649 Words à |à 7 Pagesalike. However, instead of attacking the problems that have been plaguing the American economy, Kensian and trickle-down economics are used as a bandaid for short term economic downturns. In order for the United States to improve its economy in a dramatic, longlasting way, major issues such as excesive health care costs, reliance on foreign fossil fuels, and illegal immigration and outsourcing must be faced and solved through dynamic, innovative methods. One way to improve health care in the UnitedRead MoreAhmad Tea Company: PESTLE Analysis838 Words à |à 3 Pagesa tendency to overtax companies by the government that leads to low wages for employees in a company, taxes takes away some of the money that could have been used to pay the employees making employers not to pay good wages to their employees this trickles down to Ahmed Tea company overall poor performance. Economic-the budget for the UK government and factors such as reduction of custom duty can have an effect on Ahmed tea companys operations. Social -Ahmad Tea Company might be unable to sellRead More The Elimination of the Middle Class1256 Words à |à 6 Pagesthem. Globalization also leads to the overall improvement of the worldââ¬â¢s quality of life. As technology improves in one part of the world it spreads throughout the globe. For example, medicine advances more quickly in developed nations but then trickles down to the benefit of the rest of the world. Ecological agreements such as the reduction of greenhouse gases and air pollution are global initiatives that are only made possible through the sharing of information and technology. There is also theRead MoreCompetive Market1518 Words à |à 7 Pagesimpacts its profitability. Manufacturing firms shift their cost structure by changing the mix of variable and fixed costs. One way of doing this is by decreasing the use of permanent labor and outsourcing the work. Automation is also another technique to reduce labor. However, options such as outsourcing can have a negative effect on cost. For instance, it does not have much control over its workforce when it outsources. This means it may not be able to hike up production to meet a sudden riseRead MoreThe Shift Of Corporate Thinking : Roots And Development Of Shared Value Perspective1233 Words à |à 5 Pages1970s, the historical rupture between productivity growth and the real salaries of goods producing workers, and the transition from Fordism to Post-Fordism mode of accumulation, implied a huge challenge to corporate social thinking. The so called ââ¬Å"trickle-down effectâ⬠of economy failed in its promise of bringing prosperity for all and, conversely, the implemented structural adjustment packa ges in the 1980s triggered worst social conditions in developing economies (Stiglitz, 2002: 79-80). Corporate
Tuesday, December 24, 2019
Hawaii s Spectrum Of Ocean Recreational Activities
Snorkeling, one of the simplest of Hawaii s spectrum of ocean recreational activities could be the basis for a great family vacation in the islands! As all of us look for creative ways to stretch our vacation budgets, a closer look at this simple, inexpensive activity can provide for a vacation with memories comparable to anything your family s experienced together! Unlike scuba diving, snorkeling offers the silence for you to hear sounds emitted by fish, crustacea, and the relaxing sound of sand rubbing against sand as the upper layers move with the wave action. Prerequisites: Needless to say, you need to be able to swim to go snorkeling. That being said, the level of your aquatic ability will determine the level of snorkeling you re able to pursue. Considering that snorkeling can range from drifting on the surface in knee-deep water to descending beyond depths of sixty feet or more, snorkeling offers a range of choices from the most basic ocean experience to the exhilarating sport of free-diving. The equipment list is simple. A mask, snorkel, and a pair of fins are all you d need to embark on a series of in-water field trips to different Hawaii beaches each with it s own unique charm. Available in complete sets for under fifty dollars (there are less expensive sets that will probably be less comfortable or effective) and going up in price as the quality increases, snorkeling equipment comes in a range of style and quality commensurate with the immense popularityShow MoreRelatedAulani Marketing Report3654 Words à |à 15 Pagesamenities are fitness center, Auntyââ¬â¢s Beach House (Kidsââ¬â¢ Club) and Painted Sky (Teen Spa). 2. Vision/mission statement As a part of the Walt Disney Company, Aulani shares the same mission of the company, which is ââ¬Å"to be one of the world s leading producers and providers of entertainment and information. Using our portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services and consumer products, we seek to develop the most creative, innovative and profitable entertainment experiences andRead MoreThe Walt Disney Company Report15335 Words à |à 62 PagesMissouri animator Walt Disney created a short film entitled Alice s Wonderland under a company named Laugh-O-Gram Films which went busted * In January 1926 with the completion of the Disney studio on Hyperion Street in Hollywood , the Disney Brothers Studio s name is changed to the Walt Disney Studio. * In 1928 Disney came up with idea of a mouse character. The mouse was later renamed Mickey Mouse.At the same year,Disney s first sound film Steamboat Willie, a cartoon starring Mickey, wasRead MoreOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words à |à 656 PagesBut we cannot project this fact into a history of mobility that is one of simple continuity or gradual change. The conceptual association of mobility and modernity is not just a teleological assumption. Moving may have been one of the elemental activities of our species, along with eating and reproducing, but mass movement was a new phenomenonââ¬âas was the related ââ¬Å"massificationâ⬠of reproduction, production, trade, and transportation, as well as communication, consumption, and culture. Mass migrationRead MoreHemp Cultivation in China42289 Words à |à 170 PagesProvince, Peoples Republic of China. Journal of the International Hemp Association 2(2): 57, 60-65. This paper summarizes the history of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) cultivation and traditional use in the Tai an District of Shandong Province in the People s Republic of China, and investigates the cultivation and processing techniques currently being employed to produce hemp ribbon and hemp seed. Recent production levels and market conditions are reviewed. Comparisons with Hungarian hemp cultivation andRead MoreProject Mgmt296381 Words à |à 1186 Pages4 9.2 Building the team (.1.3) [3.5.3] [App G.2 Building teams] 9.4 Managing the team 9.3.2 Team building activities 9.2.4 Virtual teams 9.3.3.1 Team performance [9.4.2.2] 9.4.2.3 Conflict management 9.3.2.6 Recognition and awards Defining the Project 4.1 Project charter 5.1 Gather requirements 5.2 Defining scope 5.3 Creating a WBS 5.4 Tools and techniques 6.1 Define activities 9.1.2. Responsibility matrixes 10.1 Communication planning (.2.3.4) [App. G-4] Chapter 12 Outsourcing Read MoreDeveloping Management Skills404131 Words à |à 1617 PagesStrategy, and Organizational Behavior that helps you actively study and prepare material for class. Chapter-by-chapter activities, including built-in pretests and posttests, focus on what you need to learn and to review in order to succeed. Visit www.mymanagementlab.com to learn more. DEVELOPING MANAGEMENT SKILLS EIGHTH EDITION David A. Whetten BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY Kim S. Cameron UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN Prentice Hall Boston Columbus Indianapolis New York San Francisco Upper SaddleRead MoreStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words à |à 1573 Pagesand permission should be obtained from the publisher prior to any prohibited reproduction, storage in a retrieval system, or transmission in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or likewise. To obtain permission(s) to use material from this work, please submit a written request to Pearson Education, Inc., Permissions Department, One Lake Street, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458, or you may fax your request to 201-236-3290. Many of the designations by manufacturersRead MoreMarketing Management 14th Edition Test Bank Kotler Test Bank173911 Words à |à 696 Pagesconstitute the bulk of most countries production and marketing efforts. A) Durable B) Impulse C) Physical D) Luxury E) Intangible Answer: C Page Ref: 5 Objective: 2 Difficulty: Easy 6) As economies advance, a growing proportion of their activities focuses on the production of ________. A) products B) events C) experiences D) luxury goods E) services Answer: E Page Ref: 5 Objective: 2 Difficulty: Moderate 7) Car rental firms, hair dressers, and management consultants provide
Monday, December 16, 2019
A Dirty Job Chapter 24 Free Essays
string(25) " front clasp of her bra\." 24 AUDREY AND THE SQUIRREL PEOPLE Charlie could hear things scurrying under the porch as he walked to the front door of the Buddhist center, but the weight of the enormous pistol heââ¬â¢d stuck down the back of his belt reassured him, even if it was pulling his pants down a little. The front door was nearly twelve feet tall, red, with reeded glass running the length, and there were arrays of colorful Tibetan prayer wheels, like spools, on either side of the door. Charlie knew what they were because heââ¬â¢d once had a thief try to sell him some hot ones stolen from a temple. We will write a custom essay sample on A Dirty Job Chapter 24 or any similar topic only for you Order Now Charlie knew he should kick down the door, but then, it was a really big door, and although he had watched a lot of cop shows and movies where door kicking had been done, he was inexperienced himself. Another option was to pull his pistol and blast the lock off the door, but he didnââ¬â¢t know any more about lock blasting than he did door kicking, so he decided to ring the doorbell. The scurrying noises increased and he could hear heavier footsteps inside. The door swung open and the pretty brunette he knew as Elizabeth Sarkoff ââ¬â Esther Johnsonââ¬â¢s fake niece ââ¬â stood in the doorway. ââ¬Å"Why, Mr. Asher, what a pleasant surprise.â⬠It wonââ¬â¢t be for long, sister, said his inner tough guy. ââ¬Å"Mrs. Sarkoff, nice to see you. What are you doing here?â⬠ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢m the receptionist. Come in, come in.â⬠Charlie stepped into the foyer, which opened up to a staircase and had sliding double doors on either side. He could see that straight back the foyer led to a dining room with a long table, and beyond that a kitchen. The house had been restored nicely, and didnââ¬â¢t really have the appearance of a public building. The inner tough guy said, Donââ¬â¢t try to run your game on me, floozy. Iââ¬â¢ve never hit a dame before, but if I donââ¬â¢t get some straight talk quick, Iââ¬â¢m willing to give it a try, see. Charlie said, ââ¬Å"I had no idea you were a Buddhist. Thatââ¬â¢s fascinating. Howââ¬â¢s your Aunt Esther, by the way?â⬠He had her now, didnââ¬â¢t even have to slap her around. ââ¬Å"Still dead. Thanks for asking, though. What can I do for you, Mr. Asher?â⬠The sliding door to the left of them opened an inch and someone, a young manââ¬â¢s voice, said, ââ¬Å"Master, we need you.â⬠ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢ll be right there,â⬠said the alleged Mrs. Sarkoff. ââ¬Å"Master?â⬠Charlie raised an eyebrow. ââ¬Å"We hold receptionists in very high regard in the Buddhist tradition.â⬠She grinned, really big and goofy, like she didnââ¬â¢t even believe it herself. Charlie was totally charmed by the laughter and open surrender in her eyes. Trust there, with no reason for it. ââ¬Å"Good God, youââ¬â¢re a bad liar,â⬠he said. ââ¬Å"Guess you could see right through my moo-poo, huh?â⬠Big grin. ââ¬Å"So, you are?â⬠Charlie offered his hand to shake. ââ¬Å"I am the Venerable Amitabha Audrey Rinpoche.â⬠She bowed. ââ¬Å"Or just Audrey, if youââ¬â¢re in a hurry.â⬠She took two of Charlieââ¬â¢s fingers and shook them. ââ¬Å"Charlie Asher,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"So youââ¬â¢re not really Mrs. Johnsonââ¬â¢s niece.â⬠ââ¬Å"And youââ¬â¢re not really a used-clothing dealer?â⬠ââ¬Å"Well, actually ââ¬â ââ¬Å" Thatââ¬â¢s all Charlie got out. There was a crashing sound from straight ahead, glass and splintering wood. Then he saw the table go over in the next room and Minty Fresh screamed ââ¬Å"Freeze!â⬠as he leapt over the fallen table and headed toward them, gun in hand, oblivious, evidently, to the fact that he was seven feet tall and that the doorway, built in 1908, was only six feet eight inches high. ââ¬Å"Stop,â⬠Charlie shouted, about a half second too late, as Minty Fresh drove four inches of forehead into some very nicely finished oak trim above the door with a thud that shook the whole house. His feet continued on, his body swinging after, and at one point he was parallel to the floor, about six feet off the ground, when gravity decided to manifest itself. The chrome Desert Eagle clattered all the way through the foyer and hit the front door. Minty Fresh landed flat and quite unconscious on the floor between Charlie and Audrey. ââ¬Å"And this is my friend Minty Fresh,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"He doesnââ¬â¢t do this a lot.â⬠ââ¬Å"Boy, you donââ¬â¢t see that every day,â⬠said Audrey, looking down at the sleeping giant. ââ¬Å"Yeah,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t know where he found raw silk in moss green.â⬠ââ¬Å"Thatââ¬â¢s not linen?â⬠Audrey asked. ââ¬Å"No, itââ¬â¢s silk.â⬠ââ¬Å"Hmm, itââ¬â¢s so wrinkled, I thought it must be linen, or a blend.â⬠ââ¬Å"Well, I think maybe all the activity ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Yeah, I guess so.â⬠Audrey nodded, then looked at Charlie. ââ¬Å"So ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Mr. Asher.â⬠A womanââ¬â¢s voice to his right. The doors on Charlieââ¬â¢s right slid open, and an older woman stood there: Irena Posokovanovich. The last time heââ¬â¢d seen her he was sitting in the back of Riveraââ¬â¢s cruiser, in handcuffs. ââ¬Å"Mrs. Posokovâ⬠¦Mrs. Posokovano ââ¬â Irena! How are you?â⬠ââ¬Å"You werenââ¬â¢t so concerned about that yesterday.â⬠ââ¬Å"No, I was. I really was. Sorry about that.â⬠Charlie smiled, thinking it was his most charming smile. ââ¬Å"I hope you donââ¬â¢t have that pepper spray with you.â⬠ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t,â⬠Irena said. Charlie looked at Audrey. ââ¬Å"We had a little misunderstanding ââ¬â ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"I have this,â⬠Irena said, producing a stun gun from behind her back, pressing it to Charlieââ¬â¢s chest and sending a hundred and twenty-five thousand volts surging through his body. He could see animals, or animal-like creatures, dressed in period finery, approaching him as he convulsed in pain on the floor. ââ¬Å"Get them both tied up, guys,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢ll make tea.â⬠Tea?â⬠Audrey said. So, for the second time in his life, Charlie Asher found himself tied to a chair and being served a hot beverage. Audrey was bent over before him, holding a teacup, and regardless of the awkwardness or danger of the situation, Charlie found himself staring down the front of her shirt. ââ¬Å"What kind of tea?â⬠Charlie asked, buying time, noticing the cluster of tiny silk roses that perched happily at the front clasp of her bra. You read "A Dirty Job Chapter 24" in category "Essay examples" ââ¬Å"I like my tea like I like my men,â⬠Audrey said with a grin. ââ¬Å"Weak and green.â⬠Now Charlie looked into her eyes, which were smiling. ââ¬Å"Your right hand is free,â⬠she said. ââ¬Å"But we had to take your gun and your sword-cane, because those things are frowned upon.â⬠ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re the nicest captor Iââ¬â¢ve ever had,â⬠Charlie said, taking the teacup from her. ââ¬Å"What are you trying to say?â⬠said Minty Fresh. Charlie looked to his right, where Minty Fresh was tied to a chair that made him look as if heââ¬â¢d been taken hostage at a childââ¬â¢s tea party ââ¬â his knees were up near his chin and one of his wrists was taped near the floor. Someone had put a large ice pack on his head, which looked vaguely like a tam-oââ¬â¢-shanter. ââ¬Å"Nothing,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"You were a great captor, too, donââ¬â¢t get me wrong.â⬠ââ¬Å"Tea, Mr. Fresh?â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"Do you have coffee?â⬠ââ¬Å"Back in a second,â⬠Audrey said. She left the room. Theyââ¬â¢d been moved to one of the rooms off the foyer, Charlie couldnââ¬â¢t tell which. It must have been a parlor for entertaining during its day, but it had been converted into a combination office and reception room: metal desks, a computer, some filing cabinets, and an array of older oak office chairs for working and waiting. ââ¬Å"I think she likes me,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"She has you taped to a chair,â⬠Minty Fresh said, pulling at the tape around his ankles with his free hand. The ice pack fell off his head and hit the floor with a loud thump. ââ¬Å"I didnââ¬â¢t notice how attractive she was when I met her before.â⬠ââ¬Å"Would you help me get free, please?â⬠Minty said. ââ¬Å"Canââ¬â¢t,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"Tea.â⬠He held up his cup. Clicking noises by the door. They looked up as four little bipeds in silk and satin scampered into the room. One, who had the face of an iguana, the hands of a raccoon, and was dressed like a musketeer, big-feathered hat and all, drew a sword and poked Minty Fresh in the hand he was using to pull at the duct tape. ââ¬Å"Ow, dammit. Thing!â⬠ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t think he wants you to try to get loose,â⬠Charlie said. The iguana guy saluted Charlie with a flourish of his sword and pointed to the end of his snout with his free hand, as if to say, On the nose, buddy. ââ¬Å"So,â⬠Audrey said, entering the room carrying a tray with Mintyââ¬â¢s coffee, ââ¬Å"I see youââ¬â¢ve met the squirrel people.â⬠ââ¬Å"Squirrel people?â⬠Charlie asked. A little lady with a duckââ¬â¢s face and reptilian hands wearing a purple satin evening gown curtsied to Charlie, who nodded back. ââ¬Å"Thatââ¬â¢s what we call them,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"Because the first few I made had squirrel faces and hands, but then I ran out of squirrel parts and they got more baroque.â⬠ââ¬Å"Theyââ¬â¢re not creatures of the Underworld?â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"You made them?â⬠ââ¬Å"Sort of,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"Cream and sugar, Mr. Fresh?â⬠ââ¬Å"Please,â⬠Minty said. ââ¬Å"You make these monsters?â⬠All four of the little creatures turned to him at once and leaned back, as if to say, Hey, pal, who are you calling monsters. ââ¬Å"Theyââ¬â¢re not monsters, Mr. Fresh. The squirrel people are as human as you are.â⬠ââ¬Å"Yeah, except they have better fashion sense,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢m not always going to be taped to this chair, Asher,â⬠Minty said. ââ¬Å"Woman, who or what the hell are you?â⬠ââ¬Å"Be nice,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"I suppose I should explain,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"Ya think?â⬠Minty said. Audrey sat down on the floor, cross-legged, and the squirrel people gathered around her, to listen. ââ¬Å"Well, itââ¬â¢s a little embarrassing, but I guess it started when I was a kid. I sort of had this affinity for dead things.â⬠ââ¬Å"Like you liked to touch dead things?â⬠asked Minty Fresh. ââ¬Å"Get naked with them?â⬠ââ¬Å"Would you please let the lady talk,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"Bitch is a freak,â⬠Minty said. Audrey smiled. ââ¬Å"Why, yes; yes, I am, Mr. Fresh, and you are tied up in my dining room, at the mercy of any freaky thing that might occur to me.â⬠She tapped a silver demitasse spoon sheââ¬â¢d used to stir her tea on her front tooth and rolled her eyes as if imagining something delicious. ââ¬Å"Please go on,â⬠said Minty Fresh with a shudder. ââ¬Å"Sorry to interrupt.â⬠ââ¬Å"It wasnââ¬â¢t a freaky thing,â⬠Audrey said, glancing at Minty, daring him to speak up. ââ¬Å"It was just that I had an overdeveloped sense of empathy with the dying, mostly animals, but when my grandmother passed, I could feel it, from miles away. Anyway, it didnââ¬â¢t overwhelm me or anything, but when I got to college, to see if I could get a handle on it, I decided to study Eastern philosophy ââ¬â oh yeah, and fashion design.â⬠ââ¬Å"I think itââ¬â¢s important to look good when youââ¬â¢re doing the work of the dead,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"Well ââ¬â uh ââ¬â okay,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"And I was a good seamstress. I really liked making costumes. Anyway, I met and fell in love with a guy.â⬠ââ¬Å"A dead guy?â⬠Minty asked. ââ¬Å"Soon enough, Mr. Fresh. He was dead soon enough.â⬠Audrey looked down at the carpet. ââ¬Å"See, you insensitive fuck,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"You hurt her feelings.â⬠ââ¬Å"Hello, tied to a chair here,â⬠Minty said. ââ¬Å"Surrounded by little monsters, Asher. Not the insensitive one.â⬠ââ¬Å"Sorry,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"Itââ¬â¢s okay,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"His name was William ââ¬â Billy, and we were together for two years before he got sick. Weââ¬â¢d only been engaged a month when he was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. They gave him a couple of months to live. I dropped out of school and stayed with him every moment. One of the nurses from hospice knew about my Eastern studies course and recommended we talk with Dorje Rinpoche, a monk from the Tibetan Buddhist Center in Berkeley. He talked to us about Bardo Thodrol, what you know as the Tibetan Book of the Dead. He helped prepare Billy to transfer his consciousness into the next world ââ¬â into his next life. It took our focus off of the darkness and made death a natural, hopeful thing. I was with Billy when he died, and I could feel his consciousness move on ââ¬â really feel it ââ¬â Dorje Rinpoche said that I had some special talent. He thought I should study under a high lama.â⬠ââ¬Å"So you became a monk?â⬠Charlie asked. ââ¬Å"I thought a lama was just a tall sheep,â⬠said Minty Fresh. Audrey ignored him. ââ¬Å"I was heartbroken and I needed direction, so I went to Tibet and was accepted at a monastery where I studied Bardo Thodrol for twelve years under Lama Karmapa Rinpoche, the seventeenth reincarnation of the bodhisattva who had founded our school of Buddhism a thousand years ago. He taught me the art of pââ¬â¢howa ââ¬â the transference of the consciousness at the moment of death.â⬠ââ¬Å"So you could do what the monk had done for your fiancâ⬠Charlie asked. ââ¬Å"Yes. I performed pââ¬â¢howa for many of the mountain villagers. It was a sort of a specialty with me ââ¬â along with making the robes for everyone in the monastery. Lama Karmapa told me that he felt I was a very old soul, the reincarnation of a superenlightened being from many generations before. I thought perhaps he was just trying to test me, to get me to succumb to ego, but when his own death was near and he called me to perform the pââ¬â¢howa for him, I realized that this was the test, and he was trusting the transference of his own soul to me.â⬠ââ¬Å"Just so weââ¬â¢re clear,â⬠said Minty Fresh. ââ¬Å"I would not trust you with my car keys.â⬠The iguana musketeer poked Minty in the calf with his little sword and the big man yelped. ââ¬Å"See,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"When youââ¬â¢re rude it comes back on you ââ¬â like karma.â⬠Audrey smiled at Charlie, put her tea on the floor, and folded her legs into the lotus position, settling in. ââ¬Å"When the Lama passed, I saw his consciousness leave his body. Then I felt my own consciousness leave my body, and I followed the Lama into the mountains, where he showed me a small cave, buried deep beneath the snow. And in that cave was a stone box, sealed with wax and sinew. He told me that I must find the box, and then he was gone, ascended, and I found myself back in my body.â⬠ââ¬Å"Were you superenlightened then?â⬠Charlie asked. ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t even know what that is,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"The Lama was wrong about that, but something had changed me while performing the pââ¬â¢howa for him. When I came out of the room with his body, I could see a red spot glowing in people, right at their heart chakra. It was the same thing I had followed into the mountains, the undying consciousness ââ¬â I could see peopleââ¬â¢s souls. But what was more disturbing to me, I could see that the glow was absent in some people, or I couldnââ¬â¢t see it in them, or in myself. I didnââ¬â¢t know why, but I did know that I had to find that stone box. By following the exact path into the mountains that the Lama had shown me, I did. Inside was a scroll that most Buddhists thought ââ¬â still think ââ¬â was a myth: the lost chapter of the Tibetan Book of the Deadâ⬠¦It outlined two long-lost arts, the pââ¬â¢howa of forceful projection, and one I hadnââ¬â¢t even heard of, the pââ¬â¢howa of und ying. The first allows you to force a soul from one being to another, and the second allows the practitioner to prolong the transition, the bardo, between life and death indefinitely.â⬠ââ¬Å"Does that mean you could make people live forever?â⬠Charlie asked. ââ¬Å"Sort of ââ¬â more like they just stop dying. I meditated on the amazing gift Iââ¬â¢d been given for months, afraid to try to perform the rituals. But one day when I was attending the bardo of an old man who was dying of a painful stomach cancer, I could watch the suffering no longer, and I tried the pââ¬â¢howa of forceful projection. I guided his soul into the body of his newborn grandson, who I could see had no glow at his heart chakra. I could actually see the glow move across the room and the soul enter the baby. The man died in peace only seconds later. ââ¬Å"A few weeks later I was called to attend the bardo of a young boy who had taken ill and was showing all the signs of imminent death. I couldnââ¬â¢t bear to let it happen, knowing that there might be something I might be able to do, so I performed the pââ¬â¢howa of undying on him, and he didnââ¬â¢t die. In fact, he got better. I succumbed to the ego of it, then, and I started to perform the ritual on other villagers, instead of helping them on to their next life. I did five in as many months, but there was a problem. The parents of the little boy summoned me. He wasnââ¬â¢t growing ââ¬â not even his hair and nails. He was stuck at age nine. But by then the villagers were all coming to me with the dying, and word spread throughout the mountains to other villages. They lined up outside of our monastery, demanding I come see them. But I had refused to perform the ritual, realizing that I was not helping these people, but in fact freezing them in their spiritual prog ression, plus, you know, kind of freaking them out.â⬠ââ¬Å"Understandably,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"I couldnââ¬â¢t explain to my fellow monks what was happening. So I ran away in the night. I presented myself to be of service to a Buddhist center in Berkeley, and I was accepted as a monk. It was during that time that I saw, for the first time, a human soul contained in an inanimate object, when I went into a music store in the Castro. It was your music store, Mr. Fresh.â⬠ââ¬Å"I knew that was you,â⬠said Minty. ââ¬Å"I told Asher about you.â⬠ââ¬Å"He did,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"He said you were very attractive.â⬠ââ¬Å"I did not,â⬠Minty said. ââ¬Å"He did. ââ¬ËNice eyes,ââ¬â¢ he said,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"Go on.â⬠ââ¬Å"There was no mistaking it, though ââ¬â the glow in the CD ââ¬â it was exactly the same presence that I could sense in people who had a soul. Needless to say, I was freaked out.â⬠ââ¬Å"Needless to say,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"I had a similar experience.â⬠Audrey nodded. ââ¬Å"I was going to discuss all of this with my master at the center, you know, come clean about what I had learned in Tibet ââ¬â turn the scrolls over to someone who perhaps understood what was going on with the souls inside of objects, but after only a few months, word came from Tibet that I had left under suspicious circumstances. I donââ¬â¢t know what details they gave, but I was asked to leave the center.â⬠ââ¬Å"So you formed a posse of spooky animal things and moved to the Mission,â⬠said Minty Fresh. ââ¬Å"Thatââ¬â¢s nice. You can let me loose from this chair now and Iââ¬â¢ll be on my way.â⬠ââ¬Å"Fresh, will you please let Audrey finish telling her story. Iââ¬â¢m sure thereââ¬â¢s a perfectly innocent reason that she hangs out with a posse of spooky animal things.â⬠Audrey pressed on. ââ¬Å"I was able to get a job as costumer for a local theater group, and being around theater people, basically a bunch of born show-offs, can put you back into the swing of a life. I tried to forget about my practice in Tibet, and I focused on my work, trying to let my creativity drive me. I couldnââ¬â¢t afford to make full-sized costumes, so I began to create smaller versions. I bought a collection of stuffed squirrels from a secondhand store in the Mission, and used those as my first models. Later I made my models out of other taxi-dermied animal parts ââ¬â mixing and matching them, but Iââ¬â¢d already started calling them my squirrel people. A lot of them have bird feet, chicken and duck, because I could purchase them in Chinatown, along with things like turtle heads and ââ¬â well, you can buy a lot of dead-animal parts in Chinatown.â⬠ââ¬Å"Tell me about it,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"I live a block from the shark parts store. Never actually tried to build a shark from spare parts, though. Bet that would be fun.â⬠ââ¬Å"Yââ¬â¢all are twisted,â⬠Minty said. ââ¬Å"Both of you ââ¬â you know that, right? Messinââ¬â¢ with dead things and all.â⬠Charlie and Audrey each raised an eyebrow at him. A creature in a blue kimono with the face of a dog skull gave Minty the critical eye socket and would have raised an eyebrow at him if sheââ¬â¢d had one. ââ¬Å"All right, go on,â⬠Minty said, waving Audrey on with his free hand. ââ¬Å"You made your point.â⬠Audrey sighed. ââ¬Å"So I started to hit all of the secondhand stores in the City, looking for everything from buttons to hands. And at at least eight stores, I found the soul objects ââ¬â all grouped together at each store. I realized that I wasnââ¬â¢t the only one who could see them glowing red. Someone was imprisoning these souls in the objects. Thatââ¬â¢s how I came to know about you gentlemen, whatever you are. I had to get these souls out of your hands. So I bought them. I wanted them to move on to their next rebirth, but I didnââ¬â¢t know how. I thought about using the pââ¬â¢howa of forceful projection, forcing a soul into someone who I could see was soulless, but that process takes time. What would I do, tie them up? And I didnââ¬â¢t even know if it would work. After all, that method was used to force a soul from one person to another, not from an inanimate object.â⬠Charlie said, ââ¬Å"So you tried this forceful-projection thing with one of your squirrel people?â⬠ââ¬Å"Yeah, and it worked. But what I didnââ¬â¢t count on is that they became animated. She started walking around, doing things, intelligent things. Which is how they came to be these little guys youââ¬â¢ve seen today. ââ¬Å"More tea, Mr. Asher?â⬠Audrey smiled and held the teapot out to Charlie. ââ¬Å"Those things have human souls?â⬠Charlie asked. ââ¬Å"Thatââ¬â¢s heinous.â⬠ââ¬Å"Oh yeah, and itââ¬â¢s better that you have the soul imprisoned in an old pair of sneakers in your shop. Theyââ¬â¢re only in the squirrel people until I can figure how to put their souls into a person. I wanted them saved from you and your kind.â⬠ââ¬Å"Weââ¬â¢re not the bad guys. Tell her, Fresh, weââ¬â¢re not the bad guys.â⬠ââ¬Å"Weââ¬â¢re not the bad guys,â⬠Minty said. ââ¬Å"Can I get some more coffee?â⬠ââ¬Å"Weââ¬â¢re Death Merchants,â⬠Charlie said, but it came out much less cheerful-sounding than heââ¬â¢d hoped. He was very desperate for Audrey not to think of him as a bad guy. Like most Beta Males, he didnââ¬â¢t realize that being a good guy was not necessarily an attraction to women. ââ¬Å"Thatââ¬â¢s what Iââ¬â¢m saying,â⬠Audrey said, ââ¬Å"I couldnââ¬â¢t just let you guys sell the souls like so much secondhand junk.â⬠ââ¬Å"Thatââ¬â¢s how they find their next rebirth,â⬠Minty said. ââ¬Å"What?â⬠Audrey looked at Charlie for confirmation. Charlie nodded. ââ¬Å"Heââ¬â¢s right. We get the souls when someone dies, and then someone buys them and they get to their next life. Iââ¬â¢ve seen it happen.â⬠ââ¬Å"No way,â⬠Audrey said, overpouring Mintyââ¬â¢s coffee. ââ¬Å"Yep,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"We can see the red glow, but not in peopleââ¬â¢s bodies like you. Only in the objects. When someone who needs a soul comes in contact with the object, the glow goes out. The soul moves into them.â⬠ââ¬Å"I thought youââ¬â¢d trapped the souls between lives. Youââ¬â¢re not holding these souls prisoner?â⬠ââ¬Å"Nope.â⬠ââ¬Å"It wasnââ¬â¢t us after all,â⬠Minty Fresh said to Charlie. ââ¬Å"She was the one that brought all of this on.â⬠ââ¬Å"What on? What?â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"There are Forces of Darkness ââ¬â we donââ¬â¢t know what they are,â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"What weââ¬â¢ve seen are giant ravens, and these demon-like women, we call them sewer harpies because theyââ¬â¢ve come out of the storm sewers. They gain strength when they get hold of a soul vessel ââ¬â and theyââ¬â¢re getting really strong. The prophecy says they are going to rise in San Francisco and darkness will cover the world.â⬠ââ¬Å"And they are in the sewers?â⬠Audrey said. Both Death Merchants nodded. ââ¬Å"Oh no, thatââ¬â¢s how the squirrel people get around town without being seen. Iââ¬â¢ve sent them to the different stores in the City to get the souls. I must have been sending them right to these creatures. And a lot of them havenââ¬â¢t come home. I thought they just might be lost, or wandering around. They do that. They have the potential of full human consciousness, but something is lost with time out of the body. Sometimes they can get a little goofy.â⬠ââ¬Å"No kidding,â⬠said Charlie. ââ¬Å"So is that why iguana boy over there is gnawing on the light cord?â⬠ââ¬Å"Ignatius, get off there! If you electrocute yourself the only place I have to put your soul is that Cornish hen I got at the Safeway. Itââ¬â¢s still frozen and I donââ¬â¢t have any pants that will fit it.â⬠She turned to Charlie with an embarrassed smile. ââ¬Å"The things you never think youââ¬â¢ll hear yourself say.â⬠ââ¬Å"Yeah, kids, what are you gonna do?â⬠Charlie said, trying to sound easygoing. ââ¬Å"You know, one of your squirrel people shot me with a crossbow.â⬠Audrey looked distraught now. Charlie wanted to comfort her. Give her a hug. Kiss her on the top of the head and tell her that everything was all right. Maybe even get her to untie him. ââ¬Å"They did? Crossbow, oh, that would be Mr. Shelly. He was a spy or something in a former life ââ¬â had a habit of going off on his own little missions. I sent him to keep an eye on you and report back so I could figure out what you were doing. No one was supposed to get hurt. He never came home. Iââ¬â¢m really sorry.â⬠ââ¬Å"Report back?â⬠Charlie said. ââ¬Å"They can talk?â⬠ââ¬Å"Well, they donââ¬â¢t talk,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"But some of them can read and write. Mr. Shelly could actually type. Iââ¬â¢ve been working on that. I need to get them a voice box that works. I tried one out of a talking doll, but I just ended up with a ferret in a samurai outfit that cried and kept asking if it could go play in the sandbox, it was unnerving. Itââ¬â¢s a strange process, as long as thereââ¬â¢s organic parts, stuff that was once living, they knit together, they work. Muscles and tendons make their own connections. Iââ¬â¢ve been using hams for the torsos, because it gives them a lot of muscle to work with, and they smell better until the process is finished. You know, smoky. But some things are a mystery. They donââ¬â¢t grow voice boxes.â⬠ââ¬Å"They donââ¬â¢t appear to grow eyes, either,â⬠Charlie said, gesturing with his teacup at a creature whose head was an eyeless cat skull. ââ¬Å"How do they see?â⬠ââ¬Å"Got me.â⬠Audrey shrugged. ââ¬Å"It wasnââ¬â¢t in the book.â⬠ââ¬Å"Man, I know that feeling,â⬠said Minty Fresh. ââ¬Å"So Iââ¬â¢ve been experimenting with a voice box made out of catgut and cuttlebone. Weââ¬â¢ll see if the one who has it learns to talk.â⬠ââ¬Å"Why donââ¬â¢t you put the souls back in human bodies?â⬠asked Minty. ââ¬Å"I mean, you can, right?â⬠ââ¬Å"I suppose,â⬠Audrey said. ââ¬Å"But to be honest, I didnââ¬â¢t have any human corpses lying around the house. But there does have to be a piece of human being in them ââ¬â I learned that from experimenting ââ¬â a finger bone, blood, something. I got a great deal on a backbone in a junk store in the Haight and Iââ¬â¢ve been using one vertebra for each of them.â⬠ââ¬Å"So youââ¬â¢re like some monstrous reanimator,â⬠Charlie said. Then he quickly added, ââ¬Å"And I mean that in the nicest way.â⬠ââ¬Å"Thanks, Mr. Death Merchant.â⬠Audrey smiled back and went to the nearby desk for some scissors. ââ¬Å"But it looks like I need to cut you loose and hear how you guys got into your line of work. Mr. Greenstreet, could you bring us some more tea and coffee?â⬠A creature with a beaverââ¬â¢s skull for a head, wearing a fez and a red satin smoking jacket, bowed and scampered by Charlie, headed toward the kitchen. ââ¬Å"Nice jacket,â⬠Charlie said. The beaver guy gave him a thumbs-up as he passed. Lizard thumbs. How to cite A Dirty Job Chapter 24, Essay examples
Sunday, December 8, 2019
You might have heard of the story on Anne Frank, a Essay Example For Students
You might have heard of the story on Anne Frank, a Essay nd thought that it was a gulling experiences living in the attic with the fear of getting caught and put to death. Well, I know of a worse story, it is the story of a courageous adolescent and his struggle to maintain life. If you believe that Anne Franks situation was frightening, Elie Wiesel and his father struggle is far worse. In the story Night, Elie describes his experience in full detail from his life before the concentration camps to his life in the dreadful camps it self. In the first chapter of the story, Elie was a living in peace with his family and religion was a main focus in his life. He often studies the Talmud, the basic scripture of Judaism, and at night he goes to the synagogue to worship the God which he believes in profoundly. As a young child, he wanted to study cabbala but his father said he was too young. As you well, know young kids never listen to their parents and they just do whatever they want to do. Therefore, he asked a holy man called Moshe the Beadle teach him as much as he knows. As you can see, Elie is quite proud of his religion. One day the Hungarian police burst into the Jewish houses and asked all the Jews to get out of their houses to be transported in the ghettos which was built in Sighet. This was the turning point of Elies life. From this moment on, it will be a great struggle. As a religious child, he didnt worry much about the situation. He continued to pray to God and ask for help. The ghettos werent home but the Jews made the best of it and lived a normal life until deportation. Elies family got separated during the deportation. His sister and mother were taken to a different camp. While Elie and his father were taken to another. His mother and sister soon died in the concentration camp. Now begins Elie and his fathers horrible nightmare. They were taken to numerous camps. Most of the time they faced death from the crematory factories or from selection. The amount of food they were given is so little that not even an animal could survive for a long time. Most of the work they were faced required long hours of heavy lifting. But that wasnt the worst part of the camp. They had to work during the winter with little clothing on their body. I could just imagine how difficult their life was. Then every day they had to go through this thing they call a roll call thats like taking attendance. But instead of their names, they were called by the numbers they were given. Obviously, they were all treated as slaves. Every day, Elie and his dad sees people dying a slow and painful death. There was a time when Elie himself almost got selected to be put to the crematory factory, but with the stroke of luck, his dad and he managed to be saved. One day things were really bad, Elie suffered a major foot injury which required doctors assistance and a surgery. Elie was in the hospital for at least a week and if he would have stayed longer, he could have been selected. He almost lost his leg, but luckily, her didnt. The situation is really getting worse. Hes father is getting weaker and older, and Elie is suffering a worse problem. At this point of time, Elie lost faith from God. All the religious belief he had when he was younger were all lost. He no longer turn to God for help. .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c , .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .postImageUrl , .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c , .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c:hover , .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c:visited , .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c:active { border:0!important; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c:active , .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u985e0e762d4fe15af9029b4ba5202c8c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: My Darling Clementine - The Effects Of Noir Essay Just as he thought things were getting better and the Americans are finally making an advance. Once again they were asked to move to a different camp. But this was the worst of them all. Instead of being transported by a vehicle, they were forced to walk through the winter snow with no food or soup. They traveled for days and many Jews didnt make it. And the travel affected his father tremendously. Just after the journey, his father became ill .
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)