“Learning by Fear”

Many people have always considered me to be highly intelligent. I trust I have successfully refuted that hypothesis in my previous Blog post. When I asked how they conclude that, one reason they mention is my language skill and extensive vocabulary. Consequently, I don’t consider myself a genius, even though I may sound like one.

The explanation of my giving the impression of intelligence is, I believe, my proper use of the English language. The genesis of this goes back to my High School years. My English teacher for 2 years was Miss Purcell. She was considered very mean and a hard taskmaster. I for one was scared to death of her because she had absolutely no tolerance for the antics of teenage boys, of which I must admit was one of the ringleaders.  I learned a lot from her because, frankly, I was too afraid not to learn. She always said, “Rightly or wrongly, people judge you by the language you use”. I never forgot that and to this day use proper English.  As a result, although I rarely, if ever, say anything, the use of improper English, both oral and written, that is so common these days always causes me to cringe whenever I hear it. I could list dozens of examples of the misuse of language these days; however, I would just get myself in a state of aggravation. Therefore, I will squelch this intention.

Because of peer pressure, even others who know and usually use proper English will tend to start using the same improper language when they are with their peers who use the lingo du jour. I never do that. I make them come up to my language level rather than drop to their level. I have no need to be accepted by them since I am secure in who and what I am (much to the consternation of some).

One of my biggest regrets in life is that when Miss Purcell attended one of my High School Alumni Banquets in the early 1990’s, I did not go to her and thank her for teaching me about proper language, which has positively influenced my life to this day. Unfortunately, she passed away several years ago before I had another opportunity to thank her. Alas, another opportunity in life squandered.  Anyway, for what it is worth now:

Thank you Miss Purcell!

)))Mike(((