Do as I say, not as I do.

Ok. So here's the deal. I'm a grammar nazi, and I'm a hypocrite.

I know how to write correctly, but I frequently break the rules. Sometimes I break the rules intentionally, in order to mirror the relaxed manner of speech through which I communicate. Unfortunately, much of the time it is because I am weak.

For instance, the header of my last post was Everyone remembers their first.... Now, the word "their" has fallen into common usage as a quick fix for "his or her." It is not correct, but it has become commonly used. This is an example of the many ways in which I have allowed the world to wear me down.

So, as I see it now, I have 3 options:

1. Resolve to tighten my sphincter and never do it again.
2. Continue to use incorrect-yet-commonly-used terms occasionally and get over it.
3. Continue to use incorrect-yet-commonly-used terms occasionally and fret about it.

I know what will most likely happen. I will wish I could go with #2, but will stick with #3. You see, as long as I am contrite about these transgressions, I can still claim superiority!

Still, if I could resign myself to accepting it, it would be less stressful. I mean, in a world where terms like "baby-daddy" are frequently used, how bad is it to use "their" to mean "his or her?"

On the other hand, in a world where terms like "baby-daddy" are frequently used, shouldn't those of us who care dig our feet in to at least slow down the decline of the language?

*sigh* The truth is that the English language is ever-changing ( I would not go so far as to say evolving). Reconciling my hatred of change in the language with my self-classification as a neophile is tough. Maybe I am not a neophile after all. Perhaps I really do fear change as much as most people do. Perhaps it's a sign that I'm getting old. Perhaps not - I mean... I was using Windows 3.11 until like '98 or '99.

Argh! I used "like." I give up.