For as long as I can remember, I have loved words. I was one of those people who carried a thesaurus around with me (although I used to mispronounce that word), and I was never happy with just a simple word. I refused to use typical words to convey my emotions and feelings. My English teachers realized it immediately, and in my effort to use unusual words, I sometimes used them in nontraditional ways. I honestly don’t recall any funny moments from that time period, but I did (and still do) have a vast vocabulary. My daughter does, too, and I am grateful to know that she is quickly following in my footsteps.
When I became a teacher, I realized that I had to “dumb” down my vocabulary. And as time has moved on, the level of words students comprehend has only gotten worse. But that doesn’t mean that I don’t luxuriate in just the right word. My blog posts and book reviews give me that chance on a regular basis. You will find that my book reviews often praise those authors who have a vast vocabulary.
If you are one who has a love affair with words like I do, then you will appreciate the new social media site that is based around people who share a common affinity for words. I would invite you to check out www.favoritewords.com. Its whole aim is to connect people who love words. It’s free to sign up, and through this experience, you will increase your knowledge, get to know yourself better, and most importantly connect with like-minded people. We know that depending on where you were raised, your school background, and your cultural background, you will gravitate to certain words. As a simple example, think about the soda versus soft drink versus pop debate. I was raised with the term “pop,” and then I moved to the South. I learned the term “soda,” and I consciously made that change in my speech so I would fit in. I go back and forth between those two terms even though I now live up North again. I often confuse myself in this area!
Since this site is brand new, and so many features are still in the works, it would behoove you to get in on the ground floor. And while you are at it, be sure to invite your friends and family members. Social media is the wave of the future, and I believe this is an intriguing concept that a variety of people would enjoy.
