CAUTION: Some graphic content, not for kids

This study, obtained by Fox News, exposes the utterly unrecognized nature of homosexuality among men in the Muslim world. This is fascinating, because rather than admitting that sexual relationships happen between Muslim men and discussing the treatment of such behavior in the Islamic community, the prohibitions against homosexuality are so strong in this culture that inquiries about such activity are met with blank, confused looks and denial. Open and frank dialogue are unheard of.

Long derided by visiting Western soldiers as "Man-Love Thursday", it seems to be common for Afghan men, especially in the uniformed services, to have the attitude of "Women are for reproduction, men are for pleasure." In its uglier appearances, this can take the form of child sexual abuse. Why Thursday? Human nature, of course. The day before repentance at jumat (mosque), when transgressions are wiped clean. The remarkable thing is how consistent human nature is: Mardi Gras, Saturday Night Fever, Man-Love Thursday, it's pretty much a universal in rigidly externalized religion that the senses are indulged right before absolution. Like Bono croons, "Friday night runnin', to Sunday on my knees."

Nothing happens, but if it did, all is forgiven.