Borrowed

The following quotes are often attributed to Mandela, but in actuality have been borrowed from another source:

Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, handsome, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God within us. It is not just in some; it is in everyone. And, as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

Actual Source: Marianne Williamson [1994 Inaugural Speech]

The Preying Mantis - Nature's Abomination

Okay; fun animal fact #1.

The female Preying Mantis (Mantis religiosa) has been made infamous for it's cannabalistic tendancy to consume the head of the male prior to, during, or post-coitus. While previously thought to be a manic method of nutritional input (which it is regardless; brains are high in protein!), it is now understood in some circles that it may be a vital part of reproduction.

The male mantis has several sexual inhibitory censors in its head that limit/repress its sexual behavior. Upon consumption, these inhibitors are removed. Normally, you'd think that this would present a problem for most species, but the amazing curve ball of nature foils even the most expectant of expectant expectators...yeah. Turns out the mantis is still able to successfully reproduce AFTER THE HEAD HAS BEEN EATEN. Apparentely it's worth it to get that rushing orgasm. Not something I'd normally think with insects, but hey! all males are alike.