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Essay 1

Under scrutiny, held captive by controversy, caught between an innate desire to speak freely and defend my faith, I find myself stuck between the boulders of religion and freedom of speech. In his piece of art known as "Piss Christ," Andres Serrano depicts a crucifix submerged in a glass of his urine. His work sets the stage for a collision between freedom of artistic expression and the interests of a large sect of society in which I find myself immersed - Christianity.

This piece of work not only unsettled and surprised me initially, but enraged me as well. I see myself as a rational observant to my surroundings and typically weigh a cost benefit analysis of the passion that I voice on many aspects of society. As a student of history and the philosophies implemented in creating our Constitution, I am forced to reckon with two passions that I hold true in my life, faith and freedom.

I am a Roman Catholic who has a strong faith facilitated by a life-long education in the history and teachings of the Church. As Americans we are provided the great opportunity to experience any religion we see fit. For me, this has represented a passion to advocate charity, morality, and respect. "Piss Christ" is an unsettling piece of art that borders on disrespect. I am challenged in that it represents my desire to promote freedom to express oneself as well as protect a passion for my faith.

Essay 2

c) Discuss something you secretly like but pretend not to or vice versa.

Human nature predisposes us to label, categorize, and judge fellow man. For this reason, within each of us, we harbor secrets in an effort to protect ourselves from the judgment of our peers. In many cases, we seek to be placed into categories that society deems acceptable. I consider myself an independent minded person who relays my disregard for the perception of others. I am rarely found expressing my...