WFS 2018 2019 Yearbook

Sister + Best friend = Emily

Carefully balancing herself as she walked atop a small board at the top of our 15-20-foot
playset, Emily called out, “You coming? It's not that high up!”

“No,” I called back reminded of my fear of falling.

I turned to watch her continue walking across the narrow board and remembered all of
the crazy and fun things we had done together. Not only that but also how lucky and blessed I
was that we got along so well and that I had a sister so close to my age. Blessing me through
her amazing personality, Emily provides crazy fun, stands up for those who cannot defend
themselves, and makes everything better when we are together.

My sister Emily is one of craziest and funniest people I know. In general, she will always
make you laugh with her crazy ideas or suggestion. For instance, I remember one time, when
we were at a friend’s house and she came up with a game where we tried to not spit out our
drink while she tried to make us laugh. Also, when we would go out for breakfast, we would
always split a waffle between us, and she would end up drinking the syrup out of the jar, saying
it tasted like marshmallows. Another time, our friend’s mom asked if she wanted apple or
pecan pie, and Emily replied with “yes!” and me and the friend busted out laughing.
Additionally, on vacation one summer she went ziplining 3,000 feet in the air in Tennessee. We
also love watching really scary horror movies, like “Annabelle, Creation,” together. Whenever
you’re down she will make you laugh or brighten your day. While Emily and I are both a little
wild, we both have fun.

In addition to being funny, tiny Emily packs a punch. In fact, sometimes she overpowers
me, and I am almost three years older than her. We were at a little girl’s birthday party, and my
five-year-old sister Valerie was in line for a slip and slide and an eight-nine-year-old boy came
and shoved her out of the way to get in front of her. Emily saw and quickly but gently reminded
him that it's not okay to cut in line, and he apologized to Valerie and went to the back of the
line. Also, just using her legs, she moved a 300-pound bale of hay for us to jump on. In addition,
we were at swim a meet, competing in state. Emily was four years old, competing in the four
and under heat. She stepped up to the diving block, adjusted her feet, and when the horn

sounded, she dived into the water. When she reached the end of her 100, she looked around
only to find that she was the only one who left the wall and automatically became the fastest
four-year-old in Louisiana that year. Emily will stand up for those who can’t defend themselves,
brave what many won’t, and is as tough as nails. Although Emily may be a little small for her
age, she still has more spirit in her than people who are taller than she.

Because Emily has so much spirit, no matter where we are or what we’re doing, as long
as we’re together Emily and I will have a good time. In fact, I remember when we were young,
we would always try to ride our pet sheep, but they would always run off before we could get
to them. Also, it was raining outside and we were so bored and couldn't think of anything to do,
so she grabbed some soap and put it all over the trampoline, and we jumped and slid all
afternoon. Anytime we were at an amusement park, we would both want to ride the scariest
one ride there, and we always rode them together. Also, when we were new to swim practice,
and we didn’t know anyone there, but we still had a great time anyway because we had each
other to talk to. Subsequently, when a strange place is frightening, we have each other to count
on. Even though a new place may seem intimidating or be a stranger to us, we still end up
having a great time together.

While I was lost in thought, Emily managed to reach the end of the limited board and
began her decent toward me. While she climbed, I couldn’t help but think that even when
we’re adults and we have our own careers or children, she will always be my best friend, and I
hope to remain hers. The sound of Emily's feet hitting the ground brought me out of my
thoughts. “Come on; we should go help Mom with lunch,” I said, walking towards the house as
she followed closely behind.

Maria T.

Hello! My name is Maria. I live in New York in the country. I have a big family; in fact,
there are 10 people in my family. Their names are: Mom, Dad, Catherine, John, Peter, Natalie,
Joseph, Stephen, and Gemma. I love the summer. I love swimming. I am really looking forward
to the opening of our pool. My favorite thing to do is play my iPad. I enjoy playing Minecraft with
my brother, John. My favorite composition that I wrote this year is The Three Little Trees. I
enjoyed writing this because it was an interesting little story which had a big meaning.

The Three Wishes
Once, long, long ago there lived three little trees. They lived happily on top of a mountain
in Israel, and below them was a village. All of them had big dreams of what they wanted to be
when they grew older. The first tree wanted to hold as many priceless treasures as she could.
The second tree said she wanted to be part of a strong, mighty ship. And the third tree, who was
the youngest, said that she wanted to be the tallest tree ever so that when people glanced up to
her, they would see the sky and would think of God.
Many years later, all the trees found out that they weren’t going to get what they wanted.
Three men came over one day and chopped down all three trees as quickly as they could. The
first tree wasn’t made into a treasure chest, but was instead made into an ugly, little feeding
trough. The second tree wasn’t part of a ship, but was turned into a small boat which was never
sailed in the ocean. The third tree was made into some strong beams, and then was left in a
lumberyard. All the trees were sad. Now it seemed hopeless. They all felt that their wishes were
doomed.
One cold winter night, two people, a man and a woman, came into the stable were the
trough was. The woman had a baby that night and lay Him in the trough This was the Baby
Jesus. The first tree knew that her wish had been fulfilled because now she was holding the
greatest treasure in the whole world! The second tree which was the small boat, carried Jesus
and his disciples. The Second tree’s wish had been granted because she was carrying the
greatest king of all, the King of Heaven and Earth. The third tree was surprisingly taken out of
the lumberyard one day and was made into a cross for Jesus. When people looked up at the
cross, they saw God the tree was so happy because her wish was granted, and she was even
happier that she was so close to God.

Meridith M.

Hey, everyone! My name is Meridith, and I am 14 years old. I am a freshman, and I have
homeschooled for most of my life! I enjoy reading, singing, and sports. I love playing soccer!
When I’m not doing school, you can normally find me reading or talking with my friends. I also
love being involved with children’s ministries at my church as well as helping at Christian
camps! I chose my adoption essay because my family has adopted, and I really have a heart for
adoption.

The Impact of Adoption

Happiness coursed through her veins. This was really happening. She was going to adopt
a child. Her dream of becoming an adoptive mother was finally coming true. Before she knew it,
a small baby girl was being placed in her arms as papers were being signed. As she slowly closed
her eyes, she inwardly thanked God for the beautiful miracle of adoption.

Adoption is a miracle. From the history of adoption to the ways that it has impacted
others, adoption is a gift from God. Every child’s life is beautiful and special. Adoption has
influenced this world for the better in many wonderful ways.

Have you ever wondered about the history of adoption: when it all started, and how it
has grown throughout the years? Over just a few hundred years, numerous laws, changes, and
adoptions have taken place. From early years to present day, the history of adoption is quite
fascinating.

The idea of adoption grew out of a need to protect children. There were two eras of
early adoptions: adoptions before the 20th century, and adoptions after the adoption law in
1851 (“History of Adoption”). Adoption laws were not passed until halfway through the 19th
century (“Brief History”). In 1851, Massachusetts passed a law that protected children. The law
stated that adoption was recognized as a legal and social operation based on the child’s well-
being, and not just free labor. Before this law was passed, children were used for profit and for
free labor. Children were used for such practices because there were no laws. Many children
were given to other families because of illegitimacy, extreme cases of poverty, family
emergencies, and illness. After this law was put into practice, children were much safer than
they were before because they were placed in homes that would suit the child and not just the
family (“History of Adoption”). Thankfully, the act of adoption came into existence and helped
many children not to have to face abusive and dangerous situations. Since adoptive parents
adopted for love and not just child labor, adoption grew to be something more special and the
history became more fascinating.

Over many years, several beneficial laws were made concerning adoption. In fact, a lot
of laws have been passed that promote the welfare of children (“History of Adoption”). From

1859 to 1929, trains rolled across the country containing thousands of orphans waiting to be
adopted (“Brief History”). In 1970, adoptions reached their high when over 175,000 adoptions
took place, with 80% of adoption agencies involved. In 1996, open adoptions became legal,
giving children and adoptive parents rights to be able to see the birth parents when they
wanted (“History of Adoption”). These adoptive laws were helpful for children because they
protected them, placed them in better homes, and made them a better life. Because of these
laws, many children have benefited.

After decades of countless laws and growth, adoptions still live on today. About 95% of
adoptions today are open adoptions (“History of Adoption”). Fifty-nine percent of adoptions
happen through foster care, making it the biggest method of adoption (“Brief History”).
According to Merriamwebster.com, foster care is “a situation in which for a period of time a
child lives with and is cared for by people who are not the child's parents.” Another way
adoptions live on is through adoption agencies. According to adoptionlaws.com, “An adoption
agency is an office, a court, or another entity that is authorized under the laws or statutes of a
particular Commonwealth, a State, a Territory or a foreign country to delivery and performs
various functions aligned with adoption.” Because of the benefits of open adoptions, many
adoptive parents choose to do them. (“History of Adoption”). These are just a few ways that
adoption lives on today, and the history of it is truly amazing.

Adoption has been changed and molded into something significantly better throughout
the years. Although it is certainly not perfect yet, the laws to protect, the changes that have
taken place, and the adoptions that have happened have improved remarkably over time. The
history of adoption is quite fascinating from the start to the present.

Valerie Harper, actress, says, “However motherhood came to you, it’s a miracle” (“15
Great”). People adopt for many reasons. Some parents adopt after having unsuccessful fertility
treatments. Others just want more children. Whatever way they choose, adoption can change
the lives of families everywhere.

After years of trying to have biological children, many parents decide to adopt. Although
it may be hard to get past the feelings of grief from not being able to have their own child,

adoptive parents are happy that they made the decision to adopt. After healing from their grief,
many adoptive parents turn to adoptive agencies. However, since most agencies require that
no infertility treatments may happen when trying to adopt, these parents must almost always
be ready to stop infertility treatments. One fear that may inhibit parents to adopt is the worry
that their child will not love them as much as if they had given birth to them. However, Susan
Caughman and Isolde Motley, authors from adoptivefamilies.com, say, “All adoptive parents we
know, including those who adopted after infertility, say ‘but this is the child I was meant to
have.’” Both parents and children’s lives can be changed with one decision: adoption. Although
infertility treatments may work for some, numerous parents make the decision to adopt.

Adoptive parents can also adopt children from foster care. In fact, according to
Adoption Network Law Center, right now there are over 100,000 children able to be adopted
through the foster care system. Mary Lee, an adopted foster child, says, “It truly changed my
life. It gave me a loving forever family, a great education, an amazing career that gives my life
purpose and meaning, and survival skills for whatever life may bring” (“How Foster Care”).
Since foster children often come from bad homes, their lives can be changed when they get
adopted into a loving home. Adopting from foster care is important because it enhances the
lives of children and shows them that they are special. Foster care is one way that adoptive
parents can adopt.

Birth families can also be important in the adoption process. Many birth mothers give
their child up for adoption because it has many advantages for their child. A birth mother’s
child can have the life that she always wanted for her child, a loving family, love, and support.
Her child also can have a better education and have less of a chance of living in poverty
(“Adopting a Child”). A birth mother’s child can also have better physical health, safety, and
have more comfort or security (“The Benefits”). It can be important for a mother to know
whether her child is placed in a good home (“Adopting a Child”). A significant part of the
adoption process is the birth family.

Fleur Conkling Heyliger, poet, says, “Not flesh of my flesh, nor bone of my bone, but still
miraculously my own. Never forget for a single minute, you didn't grow under my heart but in

it” (“Adoption Poem”). From unsuccessful infertility treatments to just wanting more children,
adoptive parents can adopt for many reasons. The lives of families everywhere can be changed
through adoption.

You do not need to pray, have faith, or trust God if you want to adopt. While this may be
true for some people, lots of others have found it helpful. Completely relying on God to do His
will benefits many adoptive families. The spiritual journey of adoption includes praying, having
faith, and trusting in God.

Prayer is a key component in the spiritual journey of adoption. With prayer, the
adoption process can go smoother because the adoptive parents are relying on God. Jesus
Christ even prayed. In Luke 23:46a, when Jesus was dying on the cross for our sins, He said,
“Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit” (NASB). Peter, another great man in the Bible, also
prayed. In Acts 10:9, it says, “On the next day, as they were on their way and approaching the
city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray” (NASB).If Jesus, Son of God,
and Peter, apostle of Christ, prayed, average people should also be able to pray as well.
Therefore, prayer should be applied to adoption as well. Obviously, prayer is a part of the
spiritual journey of adoption.

Faith is also essential in the spiritual journey of adoption. Many people in the Bible
needed faith for their journeys. A great example of faith is Noah. Hebrews 11:7 says, “By faith
Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an
ark for the saving of his household” (ESV). Another example of great faith in the Bible was
Abraham. Hebrews 11:8 says, “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a
place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was
going” (ESV). Even though neither of them knew where they were going or what was going to
happen, they had the faith in God to obey him. Adoption takes great faith as well. Not knowing
whether or not the adoption will go through can be scary. Faith is key in the great spiritual
journey of adoption.

Trust is another important part of the spiritual journey of adoption. Trusting that God
will help you through the process and even afterwards is very helpful. Justin and Stacie Nails,

adoptive parents, said, “Our family has been able to see the Lord at work throughout the
adoption process. They [our kids] have seen Him answer prayers and move mountains. It has
been an amazing faith builder for them. We have had to completely rely on the sovereignty of
God throughout this journey. We are blessed that the Lord chose us for this calling” (“Trusting
God”). Trusting God through every part of the process can helpful and can bless you. A key part
of adoption is trust.

Doug Chapman, football player, says, “If you have the heart for adoption, don't let fear
stand in the way” (“Beloved Adoption”). The spiritual journey of adoption has obviously helped
many families. Surrendering their lives to God and asking that His will be done can be
comforting to Christians. Praying, having faith, and trusting in God are all parts of the great
spiritual journey of adoption.

Whether it is the first laws that were made or the spiritual journey, adoption is
something that is special and beautiful. To be able to adopt a child into your home and to love
her is truly amazing. The history, the lives changed, and the spiritual journey are all key parts of
adoption. Through many marvelous ways, adoption has influenced this world for the better.

Works Cited

"A Brief History of Adoption." A Child’s Dream, A Child's Dream, 11 Nov. 2017,
achildsdream.org/brief-history-a.

"Adopting a Child Benefits." Adoption Network, Adoption Network Law Center- Safer Than Adoption
Agencies, adoptionnetwork.com/benefits-of-adopting-a-child.

Adoption Laws, www.adoption.laws.com, adoption.laws.com/adoption-agencies.

Adoption Poem. Friends In Adoption.

"The Benefits of Adopting a Child." all4kids.org, Child Abuse Prevention, Treatment & Welfare Services |
Children's Bureau, Children’s Bureau, 7 Nov. 2017, www.all4kids.org/2016/11/15/benefits-
adopting-child/ .

The Bible. English Standard Version, Good News Publishers, 2001.

Caughman, Susan, and Isolde Motley. "Adopting After Infertility: How Do I Know It’s Right for Me?"

Adoptive Families, Adoptive Families Magazine, 2 Mar. 2018,
www.adoptivefamilies.com/how-to-adopt/deciding-to-adopt-after-infertility/ .

"Foster Care." Merriam Webster. www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foster%20care.

“15 Great Quotes About Mothers.” Adoption and Beyond, adoption-beyond.org/quotes-about-
mothers/.

“How Foster Care Changed My Life for the Better.” Babble, Disney, 18 Sept. 2017,
www.babble.com/parenting/foster-care-success-story/.

Stubbert, Sarah. “25 Beloved Adoption Quotes.” Adoption.com, 6 May 2015,
adoption.com/best-adoption-quotes.

“Trusting God’s Perfect Timing in Your Adoption.” Lifesong For Orphans, 20 Aug. 2018,
lifesong.org/2018/08/trusting-gods-perfect-timing-in-your-adoption/.

“What You Need To Know About the History of Adoption" American Adoptions - History of Adoption – A
Complete Guide to Adoption History,
www.americanadoptions.com/adoption/history-of-adoption.

Nathaniel M.

My name is Nathaniel Meyer. I am the youngest of two brothers and one sister. Me and
my closest brother in age live in New Jersey, and my oldest siblings live in Manhattan after
studying at the Kings College. On my free time I play video games with friends and hang with
them at church and speech and debate tournaments. One day I aspire to work in the medical
field. From the age of five I have been surrounded by doctors because of a lot of medial issues.
One particular medical issue has been scoliosis, and I have recently undergone surgery for this
spinal deformity. I would like to help others like me through their tough medical journeys just
as my doctors did. One doctor I have has been a role model for me, and I look forward to intern
with him in the following summer. By far my favorite assignment has been the book critique
because I enjoy discussing arts like literature and talking about their pros and cons.

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

Samuel Clemens, otherwise known as Mark Twain, wrote many books including Pudding
Head Wilson and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, released in England, June 1876 and six months
later into the United States. The book follows a young boy named Tom Sawyer and is written in
a literature fashion. This two hundred and seventy-four-page book is completely narrated from
the child's view. The tone of the book is mainly from a satirical and nostalgic point of writing as
it follows a boy coming of age. The book is almost like reading a tv show. It goes through
episode-like chapters.

Tom Sawyer was a lazy boy; however, he was very smart. The only problem was he had
a terrible work ethic. He lived in a small village in Missouri by a river. He sat by the river every
morning in the summer until someone made him whitewash a thirty-yard-long and nine-feet-
high fence. He was very discouraged and felt hopeless with his tiny work ethic.

He only wanted a way to get out of work. He first tried to buy his way. However, he
wanted his money. So as people came by, he makes it look like he was enjoying his work
greatly. As people ask him questions, he pretends to be focused and really enjoying his work.
He makes his job seem really great, and uses this to make people want his job.

Tom’s plan works, and all of his friends begin to whitewash the fence. His friends find it
so appealing, they pay him in trinkets to do his job. His plan works so well he used all the
whitewash meaning he could no longer con them. Tom had all of this free time from escaping
his work. He has time to have fun and do as he wish. Tom knows now that if he makes
something hard to get, it will make it appealing, for if it is difficult to acquire, that means it is a
challenge that others may not accomplish. Tom’s work now is a great opportunity to get paid
and to play while his friends do his job.

Tom Sawyer is a great book as it always satisfies our inure deceptiveness and want to be
above people. The main importance about this story is how it resonates with people. Being a
child, Tom goes through many things every man has, or young adult. He connects with the
reader on a very personal level. The overarching moral and theme is not quite noble, as it
mainly portrays manipulation as the way to achieve our goals. By far the most effective part of

this book is that Tom is a child and is very relatable. On the other hand, what makes this book
less effective is that Tom is very unique, which makes him original, but not as connected with
the reader as he could be. Overall this is a great piece of literature and is very entertaining no
matter your age. If you are an adult, you may have nostalgia while reading this. If you are a
child, you may connect very easily with Tom.

Sam H.

Hello! My name is Sam, and I am 16 years old; I am a sophomore, and I have been
homeschooled for most of my life. I wrestle and throw shotput and discus for my local school. I
live with my dad and mom and three sisters. I also have three dogs and four cats. I enjoy
shooting at the range, hiking, working out/power lifting, and building Legos. Some of my
favorite things are: guns, animals (dogs especially), fresh sushi, camping, and hanging out with
my friends. My favorite composition I wrote this year is about my trip to Universal Studios in
Los Angeles. It is my favorite because it allowed me to relive all of my best memories while I
was writing it.

Universal Studios

In September, I took a trip to Universal studios for my birthday. The flight over was very
uneventful, but it gave me a chance to catch up on my reading. When we got to the park the next day
after landing, there were so many shops and attractions to see and go inside of. There were rides based
around movies such as Transformers, The Mummy, and Jurassic Park. There were many TV sets as well.
We were never bored, even just walking around.

During my trip to Universal, we got to see many movie and TV sets. One of my favorite parts of
the trip was the backlot tour. On the tour we got to see a variety of movie and television show sets.
Some of the movie sets we saw were King Kong, Jaws, and even Back to the Future. On the King Kong
set, we got to experience a 3D event where it actually felt like the tram was being picked up by King
Kong. On the tour, we rode a tram that took us around all of the sets, and on some of them, we saw
some amazing fire and water effects. My trip to Universal studios was amazing and the movie and TV
sets that we saw were astounding.

One of my other favorite parts of my Universal Studios vacation was a live event called Water
World. Water World was a fun show with amazing stunts, fun water effects, and an amazing display of
pyrotechnics. Skilled jet-skiers made incredible jumps off of ramps, boats raced around after one
another, and it was all around an amazing show. Water world was one of my favorite places I have
visited in Universal.

During my trip, we visited Harry Potter World, which is an attraction based around the movies.
The park was full of amazing sights and food, and the castle looked as incredible inside as it did outside.
We got to see and go inside cool shops. There was a fun but small rollercoaster ride outside the castle,
but inside there was an incredible 3-d ride where it felt like we were flying. My trip was all around
amazing and full of fun sights.

My Universal studios trip was full of incredible sights, sounds and was just all around an amazing
time. The backlot tour, which took us around many movie and TV sets, was packed with fun and amazing
experiences. Waterworld was by far one of the most interesting and intuitive live shows I’ve seen. Harry
Potter World was astounding and surreal, and quite possibly the best attraction there. Every attraction
was fun and memorable, and I made many fond memories. Overall, this was one of the best birthdays
I’ve had.

Summer L.

My name is Summer. I am the second oldest of four sisters. I have been homeschooled
since second grade and am going into my senior year next year. If my picture was not evident
enough, I love cats. I spend most of my free time baking, reading, or crafting. At the moment,
my two favorite crafts are quilting and knitting. In the future, I would like to go to college to
study American Sign Language. I enjoy writing research papers mostly because I find
researching different topics exciting. I have chosen to include my research paper about the
history and health effects of regular and decaffeinated coffee because it was my favorite topic
to research.

Decaffeinated and Caffeinated Coffee:
Its History, Health Risks, and Health Benefits

Summer L.
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between caffeinated coffee (regular
coffee) and decaffeinated coffee (decaf coffee) in regards to health and historical backgrounds.
Regular coffee is found to affect people both positively and negatively in regard to long-term
health and should be closely monitored. In comparison, decaf coffee has very little effect on
long-term health. Additionally, because regular coffee was discovered several centuries before
decaf coffee was made, regular coffee’s history is much lengthier and has been researched
more thoroughly. Further research on the long-term health effects of the different methods of
decaffeinating coffee beans is necessary.
Keywords: caffeine, decaffeinated

Decaffeinated and Caffeinated Coffee:
Its History, Health Risks, and Health Benefits
Today, about 2.25 billion cups of coffee are consumed globally on a daily basis (Avey,
2013). Such a gigantic amount of coffee may cause people to consider how coffee has become
so popular. Throughout history, coffee has become widely consumed. Therefore, it is wise to
consider whether or not coffee is beneficial to peoples’ health as well as which circumstances
make coffee healthy or unhealthy. Additionally, people may take into consideration whether it
would be healthier for them to consume decaf or regular coffee.
Coffee beans grows on trees and are inside tiny cherry-like fruit. The beans are pulled
from the fruit and roasted. Next, the coffee beans are ground into tiny pieces, and boiling water
is poured over them, creating coffee. Just eight ounces of this beverage naturally contains
eighty to one-hundred milligrams of caffeine. This drink is extremely popular and regularly
consumed on a daily basis by most adults.
Historians are unable to pinpoint the exact origin of coffee. However, according to an
Ethiopian legend, in the Arabian Peninsula, a goat herder, named Kaldi, saw his goats frolicking,
full of energy, after consuming the red fruits that grow on coffee trees. He tried some of the
fruit and experienced a similar reaction. All of this is said to have been observed by a monk who
took some fruit back to his monastery (Avey, 2013). Although popular, no evidence to back this
legend has been found. Coffee was consumed in many different forms before people began
roasting it during the thirteenth century (Avey, 2013). It was popular in its differing forms,
however, once people began to drink it roasted, coffee gained much more popularity and was
mostly consumed mainly as a drink from that time forward. Although a popular breakfast drink
consumed daily by adults today, coffee has not been around for too many centuries.
Although coffee does not have a lengthy history, it has gained much popularity in
different cultures and regions. Coffee continued to stay inside Arabia and Africa until around
the seventeenth century when an Indian pilgrim snuck out of Mecca with fertile beans strapped
across his abdomen. Coffee then spread to Persia, Egypt, Syria, and Turkey (Avey, 2013). Before
this, coffee beans were contained geographically and, if someone wanted coffee, they had to
travel to Arabia or Africa. Eventually, coffee houses began to appear in the Near East. They

were similar to the ones now found throughout the world: places of meeting to exchange
information and to study. Before coffee houses, people would purchase coffee beans from
merchants and make coffee at their own houses. With the appearance of coffee houses,
drinking coffee had more of a social atmosphere. When coffee finally reached Europe, it was
despised by the Roman Catholic Church and called the “bitter invention of Satan” for its bitter
taste. The controversy of coffee grew so large that the pope was summoned to intervene.
Before making his decision as to whether or not to condemn coffee, Pope Clement VIII tasted it.
The pope did not condemn coffee, but, rather, he gave it papal approval. Although coffee
drinkers would have probably continued to drink coffee without the pope’s approval, having
papal approval allowed them to drink more of it with a clear conscience. For those who did not
enjoy the drink, the pope’s approval probably encouraged them to give it another try. Thus,
coffee became large in Europe, replacing wine and beer at breakfast. In America, coffee was
consumed, but most people preferred drinking tea. After the Boston Tea Party, Americans
began to drink coffee more than tea (“The History”). If they could not consume caffeine in tea,
coffee was the nearest alternative. Coffee has continued to be the preferred breakfast
beverage to this date in America. Now, from first-world countries to third-world countries,
coffee is consumed on a regular basis in many different forms.

Because of coffee’s popularity, it is important for people to take into consideration what
they are consuming on a daily basis. One component of coffee is caffeine, which is a drug.
According to Steven Meredith, a researcher in behavioral pharmacology at John Hopkins School
of Medicine, “caffeine is addictive [sic] and users can become dependent on it and find it
difficult to quit or even cut back.” Within the past decade, dependence on caffeine was named
a new mental disorder (Sagon). Like most drugs, users should be aware of how much they are
consuming and how often so that they do not become addicted. If someone does become
addicted, he should try to cut back in moderation. There are many symptoms of quitting cold
turkey, such as fatigue, mental fuzziness, and migraines (Sagon). “[More] than half of all
American adults consume more than 300 mg of caffeine everyday [sic], which makes it
America’s most popular drug.” (Helmenstine, 2017) It is not just adults who consume this mass-

produced drug. Consumers should keep watch on how much caffeine they are consuming so as
not to overdose on the drug.

Although people should be wary of caffeine when drinking coffee, it does provide many
benefits. Drinking six cups of coffee daily, whether decaffeinated or regular, is shown to lower
the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (Calderone, 2017). Additionally, regular coffee reduces
risk of inflammation and gallstones (Swartzendruber, 2018). Scientists now believe that coffee
may help prevent strokes, lower the risk of Parkinson’s, prevent dementia and lower risks of
oral cancers (Sagon). According to Susan Gapstur, PhD, and Marjorie McCullough, ScD,
researchers for the American Cancer Society, “Coffee drinking is not a cause of female breast,
pancreases [sic], and prostrate cancers, but may reduce the risk of uterine endometrium and
liver cancers” (Mendes, 2018). Coffee lowers the risk of many fatal diseases and common
ailments. These benefits should be considered by people when they are determining whether
or not they should drink decaffeinated coffee or regular coffee for their health.

While looking at all the benefits of regular coffee, people should also consider the
health risks of consuming it. Containing caffeine, a drug, is not the only risk involved. Risks of
caffeinated coffee include osteoporosis, increased blood sugar levels, dehydration and fatigue
(Swartzendruber, 2018). Anxiety, insomnia, dysphoria, seizures, and upset stomachs,
particularly in people with heartburn and acid reflux, is linked to regular coffee as well (Sagon
&“Spilling the Beans,” 2018). The World Health Organization warns, “Results from some
observational studies suggest that excess intake of caffeine may be associated with growth
restriction, reduced birth weight, preterm birth or stillbirth” (“Restricting caffeine”, 2019). With
so many risks, it is important that consumers consider their own personal health before
drinking coffee. If they have heartburn, acid reflux, diabetes, are pregnant, or are prone to
dehydration or fatigue, they should consider drinking decaffeinated coffee or another drink
that does not contain these risks. It is always necessary to remember that the amount of risk is
associated with the amount of coffee consumed. So, if people are concerned they should try to
drink less coffee which will present less risks.

Caffeinated coffee has many health benefits as well as health risks. To determine
whether or not coffee is healthy for people, they must weigh the risks and benefits in regard to
family history and personal health history and be mindful of the amount that they consume.

Decaffeinated coffee is coffee which has had most of its caffeine extracted through
varying methods. As long as at least ninety-seven percent of caffeine is removed, coffee may be
called decaf according to FDA standards (Calderone, 2017). Decaf coffee is much newer than
regular coffee. Additionally, the health risks and benefits differ from those of traditional coffee.

The history of decaffeinated coffee is not very broad, as it was made fairly recently.
Ludwig Roselius, a German coffee merchant first patented decaffeinated coffee by accident
when his shipment of coffee beans was soaked in seawater, which naturally extracted some of
the caffeine. Years later, Roselius patented the first successful method of decaffeination
(Calderone, 2017). Roselius was not the first person to discover decaffeinated coffee, however,
he was the first to successfully patent a means to decaffeinate coffee beans. Even shorter than
the history of regular coffee, decaf coffee’s history has been in motion for less than a handful of
centuries.

The method of extracting caffeine has changed over the years. The methods used in
recent years are much healthier than their historical counterparts. There are three methods of
extracting caffeine from coffee beans. All three start by steaming or soaking green, unfrosted
coffee beans. The difference in methods lies in the substance used to extract caffeine. The most
common substance used is synthetical chemicals such as ethyl acetate, which is naturally found
in some fruits, and methylene chloride, which is commonly used in industrial applications such
as adhesives, paints and pharmaceuticals (Calderone, 2017). While there is some controversy
over this method, the FDA found that the amount of synthetical chemicals are too few to
critically damage peoples’ health. The other two substances are chemical-free and are generally
accepted as healthier. Carbon dioxide is the second most used substance in decaffeinating
coffee beans. Lastly, water is also used to decaffeinate coffee beans, but, while it is the most
natural, it is also the most expensive (Calderone, 2017). Each of these new methods contain
different risks and benefits.

In general, decaffeinated coffee, regardless of the decaffeination process, does not have
many health benefits. With the removal of caffeine, it seems that the benefits are also mostly
removed. One of the only benefits of drinking decaffeinated coffee is found in drinking at least
six cups a day, which should lower risks of developing type two diabetes (Calderone, 2017). As
mentioned previously, this benefit extends to caffeinated coffee as well. Another benefit is not
having a significant amount of caffeine. By reducing the amount of caffeine, coffee producers
remove the risk of addiction to caffeine and greatly lower the risk of all symptoms connected
with caffeinated coffee. While these reduced risks do not improve health, they do make decaf
coffee a healthy alternative. Overall, decaffeinated coffee does not change peoples’ health
significantly.

Similarly, health risks of decaffeinated coffee, regardless of the process of
decaffeination, are few and far between. The first method of decaffeination used benzene,
which is linked to drowsiness, headaches, irritation of the eye, skin, and respiratory tract,
cancer, blood disorders, and fetal development issues in pregnant women (Calderone, 2017).
After these health risks were found, the method for decaffeination changed and it no longer
presents these risks. Nowadays, the only known risk is increased production of bad cholesterol
(Knowlton, 2011). However, some consumers continue to show concern for the toxic chemicals
used in some methods of decaffeination. According to the FDA, these toxins are too minuscule
to truly harm consumers. Overall, decaf coffee does not affect most peoples’ health
significantly.

Because decaffeinated coffee is fairly new, there are not many known health benefits or
risks. It is believed that decaf coffee does not affect peoples’ health in any significant way. Thus,
although it has fewer health risks than regular coffee; it is not healthier because it also does not
have all the benefits of traditional coffee.

When considering whether to drink decaf or regular coffee, people should take into
consideration their family’s health history and their own personal health history. If they are
perfectly healthy and have a good family health history, they likely don’t need to consider
drinking decaf coffee. However, if they have health issues or have a family history of health
issues, they should insure that those issues would not exacerbate with caffeinated coffee.

Additionally, coffee drinkers should consider taking a look at coffees history both decaf and
regular to familiarize themselves with one of the most popular beverages on the planet.

References
Avey, T. (2013, Apr. 8). 'The caffeinated history of coffee.' PBS Food: The History Kitchen.

Retrieved from www.pbs.org/food/the-history-kitchen/history-coffee/.
Calderone, J. (2017, Oct. 30). 'Is decaffeinated coffee bad for you?.' Consumer Reports.

Retrieved from www.consumerreports.org/coffee/is-decaffeinated-coffee-bad-for-you/.
Helmenstine, A. (2017, Sep. 5). 'Caffeine chemistry: what is caffeine and how does it work?'

Thought Co. Retrieved from www.thoughtco.com/chemistry-of-caffeine-608500.
'The history of coffee.' National Coffee Association USA. Retrieved from

www.ncausa.org/about-coffee/history-of-coffee.
Knowlton, Susan. (2011, Nov. 7). ‘Benefits of decaf coffee.’ Health Guidance. Retrieved from

www.healthguidance.org/entry/15841/1/benefits-of-decaf-coffee.html
Mendes, E. (2018, Apr. 3). 'Coffee and cancer: what the research really shows.' American

Cancer Society. Retrieved from www.cancer.org/latest-news/coffee-and-cancer-what-
the-research-really-shows.html.
'Restricting caffeine intake during pregnancy.' (2019, Feb. 11). World Health Organization.
Retrieved from www.who.int/elena/titles/caffeine-pregnancy/en/.
Sagon, C. 'Caffeine for your health — too good to be true?.' American Association of Retired
Persons. www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-10-2013/coffee-for-health.html.
'Spilling the beans: how much caffeine is too much?’ (2018, Dec. 12). U.S. Food and Drug
Administration. Retrieved from
www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm350570.htm
Swartzendruber, K. (2018, Oct. 9). 'Health benefits and risks associated with caffeine.' Michigan
State University: Michigan State University Extension Nutrition. Retrieved from
www.canr.msu.edu/news/health_benefits_and_risks_associated_with_caffeine.

Taylor G.
Hi, my name is Taylor, and I’m 17 years old. I’ve been homeschooled since about 4th
grade up and have taken numerous online classes during those times. I work at a Mexican
restaurant just five minutes away from my house. In my free time I like to play video games,
create things (programs, games, websites, take electronics apart, build electronic devices), and
hang out with friends. I’m a senior this year and will be going to college next semester. I’ll be
most likely studying for an Information Technology (IT) major as a backup career option.
However, my actual career is going to be as a commercial pilot.
Favorite Assignment: The Beneficial Effects of Video Games on People

Selfie:

The Beneficial Effects of Video Games on People

Taylor D. G.

Abstract

Almost everyone today thinks video games negatively affect the people who play them. This
research paper shows there are many positive benefits to playing video games, ranging from
better decision making, to improved focus and attention, to even improved multitasking and
management skills. Video games also enable people to train for a job without the
consequences of the real world, such as pilots in flying simulators.

The Beneficial Effects of Video Games on People

After playing a video game have you ever noticed you are more aware of your
surroundings and focused? Video games have contributed not only entertainment but also
taught skills and had positive effects on those who played them. These benefits from video
games affect people in their everyday lives. The effects of playing video games benefit people
and players in work and everyday life.

There have been events of people acting out because of the influence of video games.
Benedict Carey said in an article on the effects of playing violent video games, “The young men
who opened fire at Columbine High School, at the movie theatre in Aurora, Colo., and in other
massacres had this in common: they were video gamers who seemed to be acting out some
dark digital fantasy. It was as if all that exposure to computerized violence gave them the idea
to go on a rampage — or at least fueled their urges,” (2013). However, studies have proven
that even violent video games have positive effects on people, “In fact, there is some evidence
that as more youth play video games, rates of youth violence have decreased,” (BCTR, 2018).
While it is logical and reasonable to relate video games as the cause of violent actions and
behavior, that's simply not the reality. Results from studies as well as real-life examples of
people who play violent video games show that virtual violence doesn't negatively affect how
they think and act.

One positive effect of video games is the better decision-making skills it teaches you to
make. Charles Choi states, “[...]scientists find action gamers apparently are better at making
quick and accurate decisions, ones based on details they extract from their surroundings,”
(2010). Every video game requires decision making that dramatically influences the outcome.
It demands critical thinking and weighing the possible consequences if a certain choice is made.
A study conducted by the University of Rochester found, "It's not the case that the action game
players are trigger-happy and less accurate: They are just as accurate and also faster,” (Bavelier,
2010). People may think video gamers simply pull the trigger on a situation faster. While that
is true, that decision also has the same if not better accuracy of someone who does not play
video games and takes longer to make the same choice.

Along with better decision making, video games enhance players’ learning abilities. A
study conducted by Sabrina Schenk asserted, “Our study shows that gamers are better in
analyzing a situation quickly, to generate new knowledge and to categorize facts - especially in
situations with high uncertainties,” (Paddock, 2017). In fast-paced action games, it is necessary
for players to retain as much critical information as possible in a very small amount of time.
This is done so as to add it to the many probable ways that information can help them reach
their objective.

As people play video games, they notice more and start to see the details in their
surroundings. “[…] we've found that action video games train the brain to process the existing
visual information more efficiently, and the improvements last for months after game play
stopped,” (2009) noted Robert Britt in an article discussing how action video games improve
vision. Even the tiniest details can be of utter importance in an action video game. Especially if
the player is familiar with the map or area they’re competing in, the slightest of obstructions
from the usual terrain can lead to numerous new calculations and strategy changes. Study lead
from McMaster University in Canada concludes, “Researchers found that following the 40 hours
of game playing, the vision of five of the six patients showed signs of improvement. They were
able to recognize faces more easily, as well as make out small print and judge the direction of
moving dots,” (Mogg, 2012). Being able to notice patterns and combinations that work in real
life can bring people to a solution a lot faster compared to if they hadn’t played video games.

Along with teaching hand-eye coordination, video game simulations teach real-world
skills. Jared Gallego states, “[…] researchers noted that motion-controlled video games, such as
those played on the Wii and using virtual reality devices such as the Oculus Rift, might be
turning video games into legitimate simulations,” (2016). Playing video games such as Wii
Sports can show people how to play the sport or complete the job before actually doing it. This
practice gives them an idea of what to expect as well as previous knowledge before jumping
straight into the event. An analyst named Matt Swayne of the same study declared, “Motion-
controlled video games, such as those played on the Wii, may help boost skills when players
compete in the real world, according to a team of researchers,” (2017). Simulations can show

the results of either good or bad actions before trying them in real life. Similarly, it can show
the consequences of accidentally doing the wrong thing such as in airplane simulators.

People who play video games are not only less anti-social than non-video gamers, but
have better teamwork skills especially among complete strangers. An article on co-operative
(co-op) modes in video games declared, “[…] when people from different social groups
cooperate in a video game – even a super violent one – their impressions of one another
improve and prejudices diminish,” (2015). When players enter a game together with lots of
other random people, they learn how to adapt and communicate no matter the kind of person
the other players are. This is necessary in order to work as a team to complete the objectives.
Clark Godshall and LaVonna Roth acknowledge this saying, “Completing quests or banding
together is a value-added activity in many games,” (2017). All players on a team has a role to
play, and if they can’t or don’t communicate with their team, then the whole team will suffer.
Knowing how to communicate with complete strangers is a very, very valuable skill when it
comes to real life application and work.

While video games make players less anti-social, they also create an escape or ‘therapy’
for some people. In an editorial by Elizabeth Scott, she states, “Most gamers report that
playing video games—even violent games—is a way to relieve stress and enjoy playing with
friends,” (2019). A lot of people who play video games are there to simply relax and enjoy
some virtual reality while talking to their friends and cooperating to achieve a goal. This
enjoyment is especially evident in cooperative game modes, where players join together to
fight a computer-generated enemy, instead of battling among themselves. Fighting depression
is another great benefit of playing video games, “These two regions of the brain, the reward
pathways and the hippocampus, are the same two regions that get chronically under
stimulated, and that even shrink over time, when we’re clinically depressed. In other words:
Video game play is literally the neurological opposite of depression,” (2015) asserts Jane
McGonigal. Depression can mistakenly be thought of as caused by sitting down and playing
video games for extended periods of time. Yet it has the exact opposite effect on people who
play it, creating an ‘escape’ from the sometimes-harsh reality of life.

Video games also increase players ability to multitask in-game and in the real world.
Daphne Bavelier comments in a report, “And these skills are not just gaming skills, but real-
world skills. They perform better than non-gamers on certain tests of attention, speed,
accuracy, vision and multitasking, says Bavelier,” (Trudeau, 2010). In video games as well as in
real life there are times when multiple things are being worked on at once. During these times
video game players are able to handle the situation much better than people who don’t game.
A study by Adam Gazzaley of the University of California using a game called NeuroRacer which
supposedly improved cognitive skills indicates, “This multitasking exercise, says Gazzaley, draws
on a mix of cognitive skills just as real life does — such as attention focusing, task switching and
working memory (the ability to temporarily hold multiple pieces of information in the mind),”
(Abbott, 2013). Especially in games that require accurate decisions based on information that is
given to the player quickly then immediately moving on to another task, being able to multitask
is important. Multitasking is another one of the many positive effects of playing video games,
especially action games.

The video game industry also provides plenty of possible career opportunities and
options. Sasha Brown notes in an article about game designing careers, “The culture of game
designers is made of individuals that are living their highest passion. Because of this, they are
enthusiastic, dedicated, and creative.” People who choose a career path related to video
games are always very passionate about not only their job but being creative and working with
others to create something amazing. Brown later asserts the compensation for this career path
is more than reasonable, “As part of the larger career field of software development, the
United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for a software
developer is about $97,990.” Designing and producing jobs for software and video games is in
high demand, especially in recent years. The possibilities for careers in the video game industry
is numerous with more than satisfactory rewards.

The effects of playing video games benefit people and players in work and everyday life.
There are many positive benefits to playing video games, ranging from better decision making,
to improved focus and attention, to even improved multitasking and management skills. There

has always been a bad reputation for video games. However, the positive effects that players
achieve from just an hour or two of playing has enormous value in the real world.

References

Abbott, A. (2013). Computer Game-Playing Shown to Improve Multitasking Skills. Scientific
American. Retrieved from https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/computer-game-
playing-shown-improve-multitasking-skills/

Britt, R. (2009). Action Games Improve Vision. Live Science. Retrieved from
https://www.livescience.com/5360-action-video-games-improve-vision.html

Brown, S. 7 Advantages To Being A Game Designer. Lifehack. Retrieved from
https://www.lifehack.org/413779/7-advantages-to-being-a-game-designer

Carey, B. (2013). Shooting in the Dark. The New York Times. Retrieved from
https://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/12/science/studying-the-effects-of-playing-violent-
video-games.html

Choi, C. (2010). ‘Grand Theft Auto' may improve decision-making skills. NBC News. Retrieved
from http://www.nbcnews.com/id/39154288/ns/technology_and_science-
science/t/grand-theft-auto-may-improve-decision-making-skills/#.XL9GwHdFyUn

Do Violent Video Games Make Kids More Violent?. (2018). Psychology Today. Retrieved from
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evidence-based-living/201807/do-violent-
video-games-make-kids-more-violent

Gallego, J. (2016). Scientists Find That Playing Games Actually Improves Your Skills in Real Life.
Futurism. https://futurism.com/scientists-find-playing-motion-controlled-games-may-
actually-train

Godshall, C. and Roth, L. (2017). The Hidden Benefit of Video Games. Amle. Retrieved from
https://www.amle.org/BrowsebyTopic/WhatsNew/WNDet/TabId/270/ArtMID/888/Arti
cleID/854/The-Hidden-Benefits-of-Video-Games.aspx

Gozli, D., Pratt, J. and Luke, K. (2014). University of Toronto study finds that action video games
bolster sensorimotor skills. EurekAlert. Retrieved from
https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-10/uot-uot101714.php

Markman, A. (2016). Video Game Play Benefits Coordination. Psychology Today. Retrieved from
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ulterior-motives/201608/video-game-play-
benefits-coordination

McGonigal, J. (2015). How Video Games Can Teach Your Brain to Fight Depression. Slate.
Retrieved from https://slate.com/technology/2015/11/how-video-games-can-teach-
your-brain-to-fight-depression.html

Mogg, T. (2012). Good news for gamers: video games can improve your eyesight. Digital Trends.
Retrieved from https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/good-news-for-gamers-video-
games-can-improve-your-eyesight/

Paddock, C. (2017). Playing video games may ‘enhance learning’. Medical News Today.
Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319614.php

Patenaude, M. (2014). Playing action video games can boost learning. University of Rochester.
Retrieved from https://www.rochester.edu/newscenter/playing-action-video-games-
can-boost-learning-78452/

Railton, D. (2018). Just 1 hour of gaming may improve attention. Medical News Today.
Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320943.php

Raza, F. (2018). Gaming and Self-Development: Why Gaming Helps You Make Better Decisions.
Influencive. Retrieved from https://www.influencive.com/gaming-and-self-
development-why-gaming-helps-you-make-better-decisions/

Scott, E. (2019). The Link Between Video Games and Stress Relief. Verywellmind. Retrieved from
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-video-games-relieve-stress-4110349

Swayne, M. (2016). Motion-controlled video games may improve real world skills. PennState.
Retrieved from https://news.psu.edu/story/393347/2016/02/18/research/motion-
controlled-video-games-may-improve-real-world-skills

Trudeau, M. (2010). Video Games Boost Brain Power, Multitasking Skills. NPR. Retrieved from
https://www.npr.org/2010/12/20/132077565/video-games-boost-brain-power-
multitasking-skills

Video Games Lead to Faster Decisions that are No Less Accurate. (2010). University of
Rochester. Retrieved from https://rochester.edu/news/show.php?id=3679

~The End~