Suspention dates back a long time ago and exists in many differant parts of the world, for many differant reasons, depending on the specific culture and region. As far as this day and age in America, it maynot symbolize status within the community, or the transition from boy to man, but it carries a great deal of spiritual elightenment. Since many of the religous practices that entail suspention do NOT exist in America, most of the suspentions done are for personal gain whether spiritual, or just for the soul purpose of trying something new (although I do NOT agree with people who do it for shock value, since I feel they do not take away 100% what they should having completed such a wonderful procedure) Anyway, I suspended on Sunday, and it was amazing. I have pictures that I posted from it and people can see more on my online portfolio at www.insertionstudios.com/jshad/ I hope I helped XXX- Jeremy

Yeah I agree, in my statement I hadn't really considered the native american culture (within North America)  that exists still today. How ironic that is considering I myself am almost full blooded native american (Chipawa). In my rambling, it was more generalizing, then specifics. Good point though Adam, I think it was good you were able to clarify that better.

It is ashame that such things are being taken and cheapened. It seems to be abundantly clear that anything with substance and meaning, that eventually grows in populaity within a certain group or subculture, is eventually worn down and holds nothing original about the procedure. Piercing existed throught the world years ago, and each piercing had a signifigant meaning. Now a days for most, it symbolizes only freedom of expression, or just worn as decoration. Not saying that it's bad considering my body is adorned with many mods, that had cultural and spiritual signifigance, and for me the process was spirtual, but the outcome is for decoration.

As piercing gains in popularity, I hope the choice to join the modified community is more thought out, and not just a "she had one so I got one" mentality.  As great as it is that it pays my bills, it's more gratifying personally to pierce someone whose heart and soul is into the bettering of themself, and this community! WHEW that was long winded. Anyway thanks again Adam for the response. XXX- Jeremy

I hate to generalize too much about other peoples' motivations, my only point being that it seems that most people who are doing suspension these days have lost the historical and spiritual significance to the act. I am in no way saying this applies to everyone....but case in point, just ask many of them about the cultural aspects to these rituals and they are clueless. I simply have little respect for those who perform these rites held sacred by many primative cultures, for a cool photo op and an interesting story.

That being said, it is only my opinion, and you know what that is worth.....2 cents anyone?

When I say shock artists I mean, people who do suspentions and whatnot for the sole reason is to make everyone think they are weird or crazy. Freak shows are fine but when they incorporate things that really aren't that freaky, such as suspentions and piercings, it kind of loses it's sense of purpose. It's a pretty sad state of affairs, actually to be honest what Adam said covered everything I am about to say. i.e "I simply have little respect for those who perform these rites held sacred by many primative cultures, for a cool photo op and an interesting story" to me, that is the wrong reason for choosing such paths to follow. Like Adam said, it's just the opinion of this person. Each his own I suppose. XXX- Jeremy

Thx for ur replys.... now i understand ......