Check out this article off of yahoo.com today. "Regular swearing at work can help boost team spirit among staff, allowing them to express better their feelings as well as develop social relationships, according to a study by researchers."
Wonder how this would go over where I work? (a church for those that don't know me)
It is funny (not funny "haha" but "odd", not like a clown BB) to see how different words are appropriate in different situations depending on people's views. It's an especially tough line to walk as one who interacts with young people, whose parents may have widely varying views on the issue. For example, the following might be black listed in some households:
"stupid"
"dumb"
"shut up"
Growing up, I probably deserved to have all of the above said to me! I remember being told not to tell my sister to shut-up, so I guess early on I was under a "G" rated home.
But now as an adult, I casually use the following frequently:
"shoot"
"crap"
"that pisses me off"
Now, when you type them out it seems worse than when you use them in a sentence! But one has to be mindful of the context in which one peppers their vocabulary with such language. So the question is: If its inappropriate sometimes, is it really inappropriate all the time?
So whereas I would use the word "crap" in front of my Grandma and not think twice about it, other words used casually do inspire a double take in my opinion. I've been around young pastor-y types who cursed frequently, and it struck me as very funny because it was very apparent to me they were doing it for "street cred". Which leads me back to the article (betchu thought I would never get back there!).
I think what "raises morale" is there is a certain sense of casual-ness that comes with using cuss words. It's like people feel un-restricted to share this sort of machismo comradery. It's like an ongoing verbal casual Friday- you can take off the tie, loosen the shirt tail, and talk like you were at a bar in Memphis Missouri.
That, would definitely not fly where I'm at.
However there have been times when a well placed curse word (the a-word if you're wondering) provides some urgency or poignant definition to the subject at hand. So maybe there is some truth to this?
What do you guys think? POST A ^%$#@ COMMENT!
3 comments:
Cursing is funny. I refrain from using bad language in anger or around anyone I work with/for.
Actually, I mostly just curse around you. And Sarah because she laughs. And Courtney because it makes her fuss. (And Bob.)
Still hiding in Ky... I'll give you a call when I return to the Land o' Lincoln.
OK, another related incident (see "Ecumenical, Baby) and how it affected my faith.
I was a complete jerk when I worked in Chicago (as opposed to an incomplete jerk here in St. Louis). One day, a co-worker, who I really admired, came to me, following a profanity filled rant at my computer or home office (can't remember which), very quietly sat down at my desk, and shared with me that my language was really offensive to her. I felt like sh...well, er, garbage, and one thing led to another, and she witnessed to me a in very nice, subtle way. It led me to consider my life and perhaps to use Jesus name other than in vain. My co-worker is one of those who helped me turn to Christ. And I am forever in her debt.
However, I don't think that is what the article was trying to get across. But what the hell?
I can't believe you say PISS! My pastor would probably give me pushups (did I mention he's a Colonel, and went to Iraq...he's also bald....) and then make me feel bad about for weeks afterwards.
I try to guard my tongue-but I end up drooling.
xtbtwy: wierd way to say exciting, by the way.
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