[bit.listserv.christia] Language - KEG

UJCCPC@UNC (01/11/90)

> I have always been amused by the concept that certain Anglo-Saxonisms were
> considered "bad words" or words that "no Christian would use."
>     Why have I been amused?  Because as far as I can tell there is nothing
> intrinsically wrong with those words, it is the fact that we have decided
> that we don't *like* to hear those words that has made them "bad."  For ex-

KEG,  You must make the distinction between the necessity of referring
to body parts and bodily functions versus CURSING.  CURSING is
intrinsically bad and intrinsically jarring to the ears.  It's offensive
no matter what company you are in (whether or not the receiving ears
realize the offense).  Referring to certain private parts is offensive
DEPENDING ON THE CONTEXT.  At Grandma Irene's it is recommended to
avoid conversation that necessitates referral to certain body parts
and functions.  This is difficult for children, of course, since
their universe seems to revolve around these unmentionables, and I'm
sure Grandma Irene understands this as well as anyone.
    Everyone has a devil of a time teaching their children that, it is
not the words you use but how (and when and with whom) you use them.
John Cromartie