Do you have 1 or both of these people in your life? 1. The one who points out every spelling or sentence error you've ever typed, or 2. The one who seems to struggle with basic punctuation and sentence construction. They both love spelling, right? One loves [for you] to spell perfectly...and the other loves not knowing how to spell. The former drives you crazy, and the latter makes you wonder if he/she finished the 5th grade. Did 2 names pop into your head?
We scorn these people and attack them silently. We wish the Grammar Police would go away, and we'd prefer the problematic linguist to grow up and get bit smarter. (Pause...deep breath). OK,What if we started to embrace these folks to help our own cause? What if we changed our outlook on grammar?
Pretend you're cleaning your house because your parents are coming over....or maybe a date. (The parent analogy works better if mom and dad still manage your overall cleanliness.) You spend 3 hours making your house immaculate. Windows are streak-free and clear. Floors mopped so you can eat off of them. The vacuum lines show a perfect pattern in the carpet. You even broke down and bought a fragrant plug-in. Here's the kicker, though: Your parents or guests arrive and walk-in with hugs. After the greeting, the first comment is focused on the 1 bowl of spaghetti from 2 night ago. The sauce is hardened and dishwasher can't handle it. Perhaps an ant has discovered it as well. It's the one thing you just didn't have time for...and someone noticed. Now you're deflated.
That's grammar, folks.
No one praises sound sentence structure, punctuation, or spelling in your daily communication...it's just kind of expected. But the second a your is swapped for you're and a there replaces their incorrectly, we're haunted by English teachers of years past.
Revisiting our 2 friends from above: They both have value in our lives. They both remind us to maintain a moderate level of attention to detail to our e-mails, memos, and letters because there are always eyes watching. And while some of those eyes judge us, others will make permanent mental notes that just might affect (see diagram below) future advancements or professional opportunities. Recap: No kudos for your good grammar. Punishment for the one dirty spelling in your kitchen.
Let's eat grandpa. Let's eat, grandpa. See, grammar ultimately saves lives.
~Coach Jake
P.S. Ask me how www.MaximalMe.com can help your proofread and review your important documents.
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