FFT #9: Separating Fact From Fiction (Halloween)

[Link Reading Time: ~30-50 minutes]

Where does the controversy behind Halloween come from?

[Click here to view the blog article.]

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So much controversy and many strong feelings tend to arise during the month of October, especially concerning the topic of Halloween. But where do those beliefs about the holiday come from? Is there any merit to joining the crowd that regards the month to be a "time of evil"?

If you have the time, check out this article by John Sanidopoulos, from the blog Daimonologia. You don't have to be an Orthodox Christian to take consideration of its analysis on the history behind Halloween. Brace yourself, it's a long read but worth it for the strong points made!

(Article is approx. 30-50 minutes long.)
http://www.daimonologia.org/2014/10/orthodoxy-and-halloween-separating-fact.html

CQQ #21: Ouija Board...?

A not-so-innocent pastime for ages 8 and up?

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Since we're in the month of "all things spooky", I figured this topic would probably be expected at some point.

Some may find it baffling that, of all places, such a controversial device is being sold in today's world by Hasbro, a company known for selling children's toy products, including popular franchises as My Little Pony, Transformers, and Power Rangers. And the recommended age to use this "toy" is 8 and up. Cue the snarky comments and jokes comparing such to the legal drinking age of 21.

So, what is an ouija board?

CQQ #20: Foul Language...?

Are some words just too "bleeping" bad?

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"Are some words just inherently bad? Are we really just not allowed to say them?"

As a writer (and a graduated English major), I have to be constantly aware of the power of words and the instrument that is language. Every word naturally carries meaning; it's how we communicate ideas, imagery, emotions. Our word choice, even the first few words on a page, can make all the difference in engaging a reader's interest and getting our message across.

Socializing is no different.