Recently in Hot Topics Category

Beliefnet member ironhold lives near Fort Hood and shares her account of yesterday's mass shooting there:

"One shooting happened at the main PX, which is within walking distance of the college I attend....

"I'm fine, and one of the soldiers I know texted me just before 4 to tell me that he's fine as well. Last I heard, however, the base is still on lockdown (I've been playing SimCity 2000 in order to block out the fact that I was so bloody close to where things took place)."

Continue to read his updates in this Fort Hood forum, or check out this discussion about the Fort Hood shooting.

What has the Beliefnet Community all fired up? Take a peek at the discussion forum that debates whether or not women should be aggressive. Do you believe women should be more of the aggressor, or should they try to conduct themselves in a quieter way? Whether you are a man or a woman, what do you think is right? Post your own opinion on how you think women ought to be on this hot topic!

For the past two weeks the media has shown the importance of women getting tested for breast cancer. Whether you are a breast cancer patient, survivor, or friend of one, take a look at the Biblical Quotes gallery dedicated to loved ones everywhere dealing with Breast Cancer.

Beliefnet member Dovey1 shares a brave photographic journey of her struggle - and survival - of cancer. Be inspired by the amazing soul and resilience this woman has to share with the world.

What kinds of women do Muslim men prefer to marry? Do most desire to be with a Muslim woman or are many deciding to be with women who do not belong to the faith?

One Beliefnet Community member shares his thoughts. "In my opinion, a God-fearing muslim (man or woman) would not prefer a non-muslim because obviously his/her deen is more important to him/her and would know that with a sincere devout muslim partner [it] would make life much better."

What is your take on the issue? Do most Muslim men want to marry women who are or who are not Muslims? Post your own thoughts.

Today in the United States, a celebration known as Columbus Day will remember when explorer Christopher Columbus set sail and 'discovered the New World'. In other words, the story goes that Europeans discovered a new land that was already known for generations by Native Americans. It's important to be culturally sensitive during this holiday as it was really not a discovery to all peoples.

Instead, this day can also be used to learn more about Native American traditions and beliefs, as Native Americans themselves had and continue to have hundreds of religions and belief systems. Or learn who the 13 Indigenous Grandmothers are that work tirelessly for their causes. Finally, what Native American knowledge, history, or story can you share with others?

The Beliefnet Community has always been a diverse group, and today, hopefully, that can be more exemplified.

Candy, cookies, and cravings - the start of the holiday food season is finally upon us, especially with Halloween just around the corner. But don't feel like you'll be the only one with piles high of candy in your home!...

Celebrities have always been known to run into trouble with their popularity. Many times however, they can use their publicity for their own protection. What do you make of all the blackmail stories that have been circulating lately? It originally...

When does the age of personal responsiblity actually start, or is it different with each individual person? Along with adulthood comes loads of responsiblity, including that of drinking alcohol. Lately there has been talk of making the legal age to...

As world leaders from 19 countries (as well as the European Union) gathered together for the G-20, tension arose in Pittsburgh in both support and defiance of the meeting. Protestors were arrested and police forces used several techniques to keep...

Ponzi scheme fraudster Bernie Madoff was sentenced to 150 years in prison today. What do you think of this sentence? "He certainly deserves the 150 years-every day of it," writes member IreneAdler. "He got more time than some who are...

Do you have a list of books you're hoping to read this summer? Share your summer reading suggestions with other Beliefnet members here. Plus: Any reading suggestions for our Fresh Living blogger?...

Sadly, two creative people have passed this week. Actor David Carradine, who was in Thailand working on a new movie. And also Beliefnet member Miasma, who was a regular poster on the Spiritual Writing board. May they rest in peace....

The stress many Americans are feeling from the economical crisis, as well as those from other countries, can become too much for individuals. But it's important to remember you are not alone, and many within the Beliefnet Community can share...

Every day Beliefnet members start discussions on a wide range of topics. Here are some of this week's hot topics. How to Make Fun of Liberals Goode Family Two discussions about the new ABC comedy Judge Sotomayer Some R "spokesmen"--like...

Americans have always been well known to share their opinions on hot topics, and the recent news and events surrounding the issue of abortion is no acception. What are your thoughts on the issue? Was is right for President Obama...

Family and Parenting What do you do on Memorial Day? Memorial Day Plans Discuss summer fun with other Beliefnet members, Summer Fun and Family Vacations Origins of Life Could this be the missing link?47 Million Year Old Primate...

Beliefnet members are talking about Swine Flu (H1 N1) on the News and Politics board. Have you visited Origins of Life? Meet Beliefnet member Teilhard, a frequent poster. How did you first discover Beliefnet and what prompted you to join?...

Today is Arbor Day, a special day set aside for the planting of trees. Have you ever planted a tree? Join the discussions in Home and Garden More Hot Topics Baby Shaker Application -- Games, Computers and Technology Same sex...

This week people are talking about -- Sexting Hypocrisy in the Moral and Ethical Issues forum -- the Vatican Takes Further Aim at US Women on the Discuss Catholicism board And we'd like to introduce you to Agnosticspirit our volunteer...

Have you filed your taxes yet? Join the discussion on the Economy and Personal Finance board to share Income Tax Preparation tips with other Beliefnet members. On the Entertainment board members are talking Dr. Kutner and House M.D. This week...

The weather is warming up and thoughts are turning to spring. What Spring activities do you enjoy? Join our Spring holiday discussions Passover Easter For a spirited discussion about the environment drop by our Environmental Issues board to join a...

This month marks the time of the year to teach others about autism and what can be done with treatment and prevention. The Beliefnet Community is reaching out to those families with children diagnosed with autism, and many of its...

This season of Lost is just as exciting as ever, but no one likes to experience the mysterious tv show alone. What happened to Locke now that he came back to life? Do you think Desmone will come back to...

Many Beliefnet members--along with movie fans across the world--were shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden death of actor John Travolta's 16-year-old son Jett on New Year's Day. You can discuss the Travolta tragedy with other Beliefnet members here....

The amazing thing about you, Beliefnet Community member, sitting there alone at your computer and reading this, is that YOU ARE NOT ALONE. By Internet magic, you're connected to multiple thousands of people worldwide. And sometimes, we get chances to...

What Did You Think of Romney's Speech? "Did anyone else see Romney's statement about his religion and faith practices? Did his statement change your mind about him--in general--and/or about his faith and practices?" -whisperingal Faith and Mental Health "To suggest...

What is Racism? "The epithet "racist" is now so widely used that it seems to me to have been drained of meaning."- stevenlmeyer 'Don't Give Up!' "I was at 350 pounds, and I hated it, I felt so pulled down,...

Do You Believe in Ghosts? "Are ghosts, spirits of the dead, actual being/things/entities or are they a product of wishful thinking?" - innerpoint Abortion Isn't A Religious Issue "I heard the author Garry Wills on NPR's Talk of the Nation...

Every day there are more new members on Beliefnet community, and every day there are new discussions on all kinds of topics. Here are some of the most spirited, interesting, and controversial discussions: Getting Married Late in Life "The purpose...

So, What Is Holistic Spirituality? "Since its been a while since this question has been batted around, What does Holistic Spirituality, or Spiritual but not Religious mean to you?"--hithrael Spanking "Is it wrong to EVER spank your child? Is there...

So, What Is Holistic Spirituality? "Since its been a while since this question has been batted around, What does Holistic Spirituality, or Spiritual but not Religious mean to you?"--hithrael Spanking "Is it wrong to EVER spank your child? Is there...

Beliefnet definitely has something for everybody. This week we've highlighted some particularly juicy topics about relationships, politics, health, and parenting. Does Marriage Have an 'Expiration Date'? "Did anyone notice the article on Politician, Gabriele Pauli -- who has shocked the...

There are so many discussions going on at Beliefnet that it's hard to know where to jump in. So we're highlighting a few of our most interesting conversations: How Important Is Attraction in a Marriage? "Everything else is 100% perfect...