Since possibly the beginning of man, we’ve unwaveringly mused at the existence of other forms of life out in the universe. The vastness of it all – the trillions upon trillions of stars, each making up just one of billions of galaxies, the size and scope of which are literally unfathomable. And here we are, one tiny planet in one solar system, revolving around one star, in an endless sea of others.The more we discover about the universe, the more our feeble existence begs the question, “are we alone?” And what if, not only were we not alone, but “visitors” had been watching us up close this entire time.
man
There are 5 posts tagged man (this is page 1 of 1).
Manhood | The Economist
It is inevitable that more men will earn less than their female partners in years to come. To pull their weight, they will have to do more at home. There are few signs that women want househusbands; but though they don’t want a man who does all the housework they often want one who does more of it. And doing more chores could ultimately make blue-collar men happier, because it would help them forge happy relationships. As the experience of white-collar men shows, more equal unions can be just as rewarding for men as the old-fashioned sort.When men live with women on more equal terms, they may grow closer to their children. Fathers may find they like being attentive, and it would certainly be good for their kids, especially the boys. As one man whose dad abandoned him lamented on Fathers’ Day in 2008:“[Fathers] are teachers and coaches. They are mentors and role models. They are examples of success and the men who constantly push us toward it. But if we are honest with ourselves, we’ll admit that what too many fathers also are is missing—missing from too many lives and too many homes. They have abandoned their responsibilities, acting like boys instead of men. And the foundations of our families are weaker because of it.”
Source: Manhood | The Economist
Morgana Wings and Outfit
I tend to read about female villains with a grain of salt. If I read between the lines and think from a fresh perspective (not an antique male view) then I wonder. In history the winners tell the story. Seldom were women the winners in history. The forgotten, the ignored, the blamed… I’m not man bashing. I’m just rethinking the stories which have been passed down from generations of people.
Anyway, Morganna from the tales of King Arthur and Merlin, could have been a queen from another place, not a sister of someone, not a Witch (in a wicked way). We don’t know. We don’t even know the right spelling of her name, however it was originally.
Meanwhile, here is an outfit including wings for a Morgana character. This is the fairytale version of a woman who was probably a real person long ago in out history.
Is “Steam Man” the First Droid in History? – History Buff
Over at the Rosen-blog, Kathy Haas dives into the archives to find what might be fiction’s first droid, from an 1868 dime novel titled The Steam Man of the Prairies. The titular “steam man” is described as follows:
It was about ten feet in height, measuring to the top of the ‘stove-pipe hat,’ which was fashioned after the common order of felt coverings, with a broad brim, all painted a shiny black. The face was made of iron, painted a black color, with a pair of fearful eves, and a tremendous grinning mouth. A whistle-like contrivance was trade to answer for the nose. The steam chest proper and boiler, were where the chest in a human being is generally supposed to be, extending also into a large knapsack arrangement over the shoulders and back.
Read the rest over at the source.
Featured image via Rosen-blog
Where the Wild Things Are: I Believe in Santa Claus
I believe in Santa Claus. Maybe I just choose to believe. But I think there’s more to it. In part it’s the Christmas spirit generated in this season, sharing good cheer and love, friendship. Maybe it’s the atmosphere of giving and not just taking. Maybe it’s the strength of all those children who also believe in Santa Claus. All those things combine and make strong magickal forces. You may scoff all you like. But the fact is this is a powerful time of year. Each person wandering around with their own part in the whole of the Christmas spirit contributes to the power. Each good deed, each gift shared and each friend greeted is part of a huge ritual taking place.
Children traditionally set out offerings for Santa: milk and cookies, something for the reindeer and a tidbit for the elves. We send him notes asking for blessings. Santa also has ritual music and poetry, widely known and frequently chanted at this time of year. The rituals are passed on to each new child, carried along and given new life for each generation.
All those people, no matter what path they follow, know about Santa Claus. He’s the focus of the spirit of giving and good will. For children he’s the figure of authority, he who must be pleased. Cultural icon, old wives tale or commercial legend, Santa has been given power and there doesn’t need to be an actual human being for that power to exist. We don’t need to see a man in a red suit driving an air borne sleigh, packing a bottomless bag of toys to believe in Santa Claus. It’s all around us, every moment of every day in this season.
So, scoff if you choose. But, I believe in Santa Claus. I like it that way.
Merry Yule, Seasons Greetings and leave Santa a little something tonight.
Originally posted to ‘BackWash: Where the Wild Things Are’ newsletter, December, 25, 2003.