Not long ago, my dear little boy asked me “Why is it that some words are bad, and other words that mean the same thing aren’t?     Like a*s is a bad word, but “butt” isn’t. Did someone just decide some words were bad words?”

Hmmm…yep, I guess so!

I thought of this after some great conversations this weekend.  I ran into an old friend and we talked about how (during this economic transition) so many people are eager to tell you what you “should” do.  I happened to run into her at a local eatery where the cast & crew for the Vagina Monologues were celebrating. There’s another “bad word” in the eyes of many (which is so ironic since it is, the scientific term!)

There are so many words that are considered “bad” or “dirty words” for no apparent reason, yet many words that should be, aren’t.  Words that actually do harm! Words that defeat us, words that we use that defeat others. Words that sabotage us, limit us, and rob of us our potential! Words that really serve no good whatsoever in most cases!

So, I made my own list! Words that we should strike from our vocabulary wherever and whenever possible! (feel free to comment & add your own!)

Should…ie. “I/you really should…”

Never…ie. “I/you never do anything right!”

Always…ie. “I/you ALWAYS mess things up”

Can’t afford…(now is that something you really want to affirm?)

I’m broke…see above!

Can’t___…ie. “I can’t…” try “how can I?” instead!

but…ie. “I love you, but…I’m sorry, but…You’re great at____, but…!”

If only…try “when…

Why me?…try “Why not me?”

Failure…failure is a myth! It’s a necessary step to something better, always!

I’m sure that there are plenty more! I look forward to hearing yours!

In the meantime, “watch your language!”

Instead of just worrying about using words that are acceptable, make the effort to use words that are GOOD! Focus on those words that are useful, positive, encouraging and uplifting! It makes all the difference in the world…”Always”