The Reality Reports

The Meaning Behind The Gesture: Body language carries different meanings around the world. In many Western countries, sitting with crossed legs or stretching out your feet may seem normal. However, in places such as Thailand, India, and several Islamic countries, showing the soles of your feet or pointing them at someone is considered highly disrespectful. In these cultures, feet are viewed as the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Because they touch the ground, they are associated with impurity. Directing the soles of your feet toward a person, a religious object, or an image can be seen as an insult. Understanding this belief helps prevent unintended offense.

Incident Details: A 20-year-old father, Marlon Rabanales-Pretzantzin, is facing second-degree murder charges after allegedly beating his two month old daughter, Liseyda Rabanales-Barrios, to death in Inwood, Nassau County.  On March 7, emergency responders found the infant unresponsive after a 911 call initially reported a choking incident. Despite being rushed to the hospital, the baby succumbed to her injuries later that day.