Just A Thought
Evolution encompasses much, and forward momentum can't be stopped whether or not we choose to participate.
The energy, intentions, and force which propel the words exiting our mouths should be the primary gauge and yardstick for their meaning(s), not our subjective and sentimental leanings. In regards to the word choice and usage in vocal discussions or banter one of the villains of understanding is value assignment. We tend to consciously (subconsciously) assign value to words, phrases and ideas (all of us) without giving a moment's thought to whether or not the listener/audience possesses the intellectual or emotional currency to buy into what is/was said.
Consider a defense attorney referring to his or her client as a "gentleman" during opening statements, and the same "gentleman" called a monster by the prosecution in his or her opening statements. Which word was greater value? It depends entirely upon the intentions of both speakers and the currency of the listeners. There is no inherent worth to any word, phrase, or idea but imposition of one's own value system upon others when the currency of choice is clearly not universal...that is bad intentions disguised as nobility.
b. f. thames
The energy, intentions, and force which propel the words exiting our mouths should be the primary gauge and yardstick for their meaning(s), not our subjective and sentimental leanings. In regards to the word choice and usage in vocal discussions or banter one of the villains of understanding is value assignment. We tend to consciously (subconsciously) assign value to words, phrases and ideas (all of us) without giving a moment's thought to whether or not the listener/audience possesses the intellectual or emotional currency to buy into what is/was said.
Consider a defense attorney referring to his or her client as a "gentleman" during opening statements, and the same "gentleman" called a monster by the prosecution in his or her opening statements. Which word was greater value? It depends entirely upon the intentions of both speakers and the currency of the listeners. There is no inherent worth to any word, phrase, or idea but imposition of one's own value system upon others when the currency of choice is clearly not universal...that is bad intentions disguised as nobility.
b. f. thames
Great point as we use words to paint a picture of the writers thoughts to a reader who might be down the street, cross town or around the world. Just a thought Brother b.f. thames.