Heard a questions on astronomy cast that got me thinking.
-is the universe spinning? A: in relation to what?

for the question: "is the universe expanding?" shouldn't the only logical/ observable/provable answer also be "in relation to what?" we're comfortable saying the universe is expanding (though that is only in relation to us; after all, the residents of the universe)... Isn't it just as possible that all within the universe are simply shrinking within the singularity?

The shrinking contents of a singularity, after a space-time "grid" is formed within, might also lead to an easier understanding of the "expansion" of space without a center since people won't be imagining a "big-bang" throwing things out from a point.

If there "is" (with our time being a construct of the universe all tenses may be equally applicable) existence outside the singularity and our universe's "expansion" of space-time isn't overtaking any real-estate, it stands to reason that the singularity (if observed from outside) hasn't expanded at all, but instead has formed a space-time, hence our universe within itself.

If there is not existence outside the singularity, the universe expanding or singularity contents shrinking (within its contained but "expanding" space-time grid) are equally as likely but undefinable.

For now, I'm forced to assume that the universe isn't expanding, but instead, we are shrinking. eek!, says my ego.

This is very unsettling for me, please help
Aaron