How important is eye contact socially and in relationships? What are the truths, the myths, and the cultural differences when it comes to looking people in the eye? A truth according to Wikipedia; eye contact is an event when two people look at each other's eyes at the same time. It's a form of nonverbal communication known as oculesics and has a large influence on social behavior. A myth; you can't trust someone who won't look you in the eye. Or, if someone's eyes dart to many things in the room while you're talking with them they're "shifty-eyed" or shy. In many cultures it's considered disrespectful to look someone in the eye, especially if the person is a superior. In some cultures or religions, looking someone of the opposite sex in the eye is forbidden, unless the person is your mate or a close family member. ...more

October 26, 2007

Seven guards and a nurse found not guilty. Sorry to say but it didn't appear justice was served in this case. Seven large men trained to subdue a suspect, couldn't control a small 14-year-old without killing him. They will all meet the ultimate judge and receive what's right. This verdict, along with some others, sends the wrong message to people who obey the laws. ...more

October 19, 2007

Regarding 'Sometimes, A Hug Is Just A Hug' (Other Views, Oct. 6): Leonard Pitts' column was excellent, to say the least. ...more

October 13, 2007

DeMario Johnson, better known as "Knox" or "Turbo," may have rapped about the violence he saw on the street, but there's no way the lyrics he wrote could have foreshadowed his own death. ...more

September 21, 2007