Wednesday, January 01, 2014

It was inconceivable to me in my younger years that I would be alive in the year 2014....and yet here I am, alive, attempting to thrive and embarking on the last six months toward fifty years of marriage to the same man, no less. 

2013 was not a banner year and it got worse a few days ago - so I am happy to see it go and hopeful for the future. There is no where to go but up. 

Something I think worth mentioning: Sometimes I try to be funny, and in so doing, I say things that may be inappropriate, or come off as sarcastic and snitty when that is far from my meaning.  I am referring mostly to Facebook (and the blog) as the places where I do this; since, in person one has clues to my meanings based on facial expressions or laughter. In print, there are no such prompts. 

Recently I made a remark/comment on Facebook that was deemed not appropriate for a business page. The person who governs the page let me know in a nice way that it was not the image he wished to project on his page and so he deleted the comment stream, with my blessing, although he didn't need it. It set me to thinking, and that's always a good thing. I reflected on how a chance comment here or on Facebook could have a serious impact on oneself or a business, and therefore, we ought to be careful what we say and  how we say it. I am specifically referring to content and meaning, but it just dawned on me that grammar and spelling, and use of punctuation and capitals is just as important - especially for younger people who hope to someday have a good career. I see many Facebook posts wherein the grammar and spelling are appalling to this English major (although I have forgotten more than I was taught.) People who write run-on sentences with no punctuation cannot expect me to try to make sense of what they say. It is a big waste of time, in my opinion. 

The phrase "Big Brother is watching" was made popular in the 50's by the author of the book 1984 by George Orwell. Back then it was science fiction but now it is our nightmare come to life. And not only is Big Brother watching, our friends, families and prospective employers are watching too - and don't we ever give them something to watch!!?? Be careful what you put into print because it will follow you for the rest of your life and beyond the grave. 

My comment was flippant, and meant to be funny - but I realized it could be damaging too if it gives the wrong impression. I promise to be more careful this year how I phrase things and not to make hasty comments without thinking through their possible impact on the other person/page. 

And that, my friends, as as close as I will ever come to making a New Year's Resolution! Happy New Year to you all!

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

Happy New year, Judy. May 2014 bring health, contentment and plenty of joy!

sage said...

Have a wonderful New Year, Judy!

Anonymous said...

Good advice, Judy. I often think about comments that I leave. I try to be thoughtful, but sometimes content is misunderstood.

Happy New Year!

Granny Annie said...

Oh balderdash! Everyone is speaking text language which has nothing to do with grammar and punctuation and spelling. It spills into Facebook. There is no telling what the future holds.

Happy New Year Judy!

MissDazey said...

Now I am really, really curious what you said on Facebook. I read Facebook posts all the time, time are some really awful comments. I know there is no way that you would offend anyone..you are too, too nice.

btw, Judy.. I sent you a Facebook friend request that hasn't been answered.

Happy 2014!

OldLady Of The Hills said...

You are so right Judy....Words on a page can be taken in so many ways---and often, taken wrongly..(Is that good English????lol)
As a playwright----"from the Page to the Stage" makes all the difference. The actors understanding of what they are saying is essential to the audience understanding what you as the playwright are trying to say.
Writing a letter---things can be misconstrued----misunderstood.....So, I am in agreement with you about being careful when writing things without the other person hearing your voice and truly getting your intent. I'm not on Facebook or Twitter,but it seems to me lots of things are said there that can and will be misconstrued----And lots of things are said that are without a doubt, really mean. Intentionally so. I find that scary, I guess.

OldLady Of The Hills said...

AND....A VERY VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR, MY DEAR JUDY!!! I got so caught up in your post,I forgot to wish you and Mr. Kenju a Healthy, Happy Year, my dear!

Gilly said...

A very happy new year to you Judy, and I hope 2014 is a great year for you. You speak very wisely in your post - I only wish more people would take note of what they write and publish.

carmilevy said...

Long may you continue to share, Judy. I think the page admin's pants were cinched just a little too tightly.

The writer in me recognizes how quickly a word, phrase or passage can be quickly misunderstood. Words are immensely powerful things, and I've learned to use them with care (otherwise I'm guessing I'm in the wrong profession!)

But I've also learned to appreciate the person behind the words. I read bylines before I dive into an article, and I take note of the Facebook commenter, blog poster and email-sender every time I read. It helps establish context, and enriches the experience. I know you do, too, and your intent is always so positive. I wish more folks, online and off, were like you.

Ginnie said...

Happy New Year, Judy. I'm making a concerted effort to make it a better one than 2013 !!
I agree with all you've written here.