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Don't Say That
...we are becoming a nation of braying sheep, using the same words and phrases over and over again.

With Americans busy celebrating the 233rd birthday of the USA this week, freedom of speech comes to mind. We Americans are big on speaking freely, but the words we are using are quite another matter. In fact, we are becoming a nation of braying sheep, using the same words and phrases over and over again. Benjamin Franklin, a wordsmith if there ever was one, would have some issues with that.

Issues. That is a drastically overused word that is being used to avoid the proper word: "problems." "He has issues" sounds a lot better than "the guy is dramatically screwed-up." So, my friend, issues, not problems, is the new polite.

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This Independence Day, we encourage you to say "thanks" to our servicemen and women overseas by making a contribution to Operation Shoebox, which provides troops with care packages full of necessities and goodies.

encomium /in•KOH•mee•um/
n. a formal expression of high praise.

Example: The Pinheads & Patriots segment of The O'Reilly Factor highlights a different patriot each day, offering each a small encomium for their actions or deeds.