Thank goodness the world isn't like high school...

Because if it were, we'd be in serious trouble.

America would fill the "secret b*tch" roll. We all knew one in high school. She made cutting remarks to those whom she didn't consider important, but was nothing but butter and sugar to those whose friendship or acquaintance could gain her something. 

Democratic nations other than America would fill the "trusty sidekick" roll. Many of these nations harbor varying degrees of negative feelings toward America. However, because of America's tradition of dominance over the international system, none of them can do anything about it.

Brazil and China would be considered the "wannabees," as both countries are emerging markets focused on the gaining of power.

Switzerland could be considered the "good girl," as it is always care-free and conflict-adverse.

And they say it gets better after high school. Some things never change!

Nunca se olvide de tener pasión... Never forget to have passion

When I think of passion, I think of Cuban dancing, specifically the dancing that goes on at La Rosa Negra in the movie Dirty Dancing Havana Nights. Unfortunately, I couldn't obtain the clip I wanted, but I think this one should do the trick:

Look at them dancing... pulses racing, dresses spinning, bodies dripping with sweat... these people are passion.

Passion is often portrayed through sex in movies, and Dirty Dancing Havana Nights is no different.

But what about portrayals of passion other than sex?

What about musicians practicing their instruments? Or artists working with their preferred media? Or teachers helping their students? Mothers nursing their baby? Athletes playing their sport?

The potential to find passion exists everywhere.

In high school, I called volleyball my passion.

Now, art and people are my passions. I love to study both, and find no greater solace than interacting with either the right medium or the right person at just the right time.