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February 03, 2006
OFF LEASH: Mot juste
"Off Leash" is an occasional column by Fiddler. Past columns can be found here.
I was chewing on a jerky treat recently when I was reminded of a quote by Benjamin Franklin: "A life of leisure and a life of laziness are two different things." Hmm, yes, indeed. Wait -- no they're not. Which, now that I think about it, may be his point. Perhaps Mr. Franklin is simply demonstrating the importance of choosing the right word.
For instance, I do not jump up on people; rather, I greet them with affection. I do not chase squirrels like a crazy dog; instead, I pursue trespassers with enthusiasm. I do not whine; I implore. I do not bark; I alert. And so on.
Being able to dress-up one's actions in appropriate verbal raiment is a useful skill. Sometimes, however, a spade must be called by its name. For example, the cats I live with are lazy as hell. I'm sorry but there's just no other way to say it.
Posted by teb at February 3, 2006 11:18 AM