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Bedlam Nov 11, 2008

Bedlam (currently Bethlem Royal Hospital) was one of Europe's first and most notorious psychiatric hospitals.===Early 16th century Bedlam conditions were consistently dreadful, and the care amounted to little more than restraint. Violent or dangerous patients were manacled and chained to the floor or wall. Some were allowed to leave, and licensed to beg.===The hospital became famous and notorious for the brutal ill-treatment meted out to the mentally ill.===The playrwright Nathaniel Lee was incarcerated there for 5 years, reporting that: "They called me mad, and I called them mad, and damn them, they outvoted me."===In the 18th century people used to go to Bedlam to stare at the lunatics. For a penny, one could peer into their cells, view the freaks of the "show of Bethlehem" and laugh at their antics, generally of a sexual nature or violent fights. Entry was free on the first Tuesday of the month. Visitors were permitted to bring long sticks with which to poke and enrage the inmates.

Do Not Use the Horns Unless You are Metal Oct 17, 2008

Strictly in relation to the Metal scene: Flipping the horns is a serious gesture, and the more serious metal heads insist it may only be used in the appropriate situation, or for an appropriate band. Overall, many within the metal head community feel the gesture is being cheapened and commercialized. Also, many metal heads, claim that since flipping the horns originated in heavy metal, using it for rock or any other genre of music is inappropriate... Any violent reactions?

Eid ul Fitr Sep 30, 2008

Today marks the end of Ramadan. The day of the celebration is known as Eid ul Fitr or the 'festival of fast-breaking'. We usually wake up early in the morning, put on our best clothes and go to the mosque for Eid sermon/prayers. We thank Allah for giving us the opportunity to experience the blessed month of Ramadan. The day is accompanied by celebration, socializing, festive meals (Oh Yeah! The best part lol), and modest gift-giving especially to children. But before any festivities begin, every capable muslim must contribute Zakat-ul-Fitra (This is the giving of a meal, or cash equivalent to a needy person to make sure that none are excluded from this happy occassion). So far I received 2 Zakats weee! and the celebration went well as expected. Happy Eid ul Fitr fellow muslimeen! Hope we earned God's pleasure.