I think some churches don't use wine out of respect to recovering alcoholics, which makes sense really.

Yeah, as a Christian, thinking about crucifixion makes me almost cry, but whether someone's a Christian or not, it is a pretty horrible way to die. Also, hearted for your smart comments about sexy lingerie.

Even the majority of evangelicals are not that extreme.

"Or anywhere that lacks the allergens that make him look like he's about to cry all the time."

That is on my 2012 reading list!! (Yes, I have a 2012 reading list, because I'm a nerd :) )

You are correct. I was in too much of a hurry and ascribed to Columbus something that was actually said by later Spanish conquerors, though it is certainly appalling enough that this was made into an official statement.

It's really awful. There's also a passage in his diary where he writes about whipping and killing a couple of Taino to teach the rest of them a lesson, but I can't find it online. It might be in 500 Nations (amazing book, by the way!)

Jesus was killed for speaking truth to power. Good people get killed in all kinds of cultures for this reason.

I do question the efficacy of the Department of Education.

Oh God, yeah. I would really have to dig to find the quotes from the nice priest guy who was with Columbus and wrote about how disgusting they all were, but some of the stories are literally jaw-dropping. Most chilling of all, maybe, are the ones from Columbus's personal papers where he's like, "These Taino are super…

Sure. It was part of an official statement they read out loud when meeting new Native peoples. Sort of like reading someone their Miranda rights, except it was a recitation of non-rights. It's of course possible that one of Columbus's men read it and not Columbus himself.

Since people don't always realise what a monster Columbus was, this seems like a good place to share a quote of his. He was addressing the native Americans.

Yeah, I can see what you're saying (except for "counting coup," because I don't really know much about that.)

The report does say that no one was "seriously injured," so I think that plus the singular nature of the crimes lead to the joking.

I thought it too, if it's any consolation.

Somewhat related: if you learn new things & do unfamiliar mental exercises, your brain can create new networks & it actually increases the weight of your brain! In a good way.

I am somewhat in favor of delusions, but that's just me. I apologize for being the Frivolity Police. The Pro-Frivolity Police, that is...

God forbid we have illusions! Especially if we are not young or thin! Only sensible thoughts and proper behavior for us.

Oh, I'm so sorry. I know I can't really understand what you and your husband have been through, since I never wanted babies, but I know what it's like to feel like everything around you is just rubbing salt in the wound, and I'm so sorry.

Because I am a big geek in all ways, I'm a Dr. Who fan, and I loved this thing the Doctor says from last year's Christmas special: