The Blog of P.U.R.E. and Sue Scheff

Do you use 4-letter words? In the baby's (teen's) ears and out of their mouth. Swearing, cussing and meanness , that is how many school hallways are described.  When does a teen start using these four letter words ? How can we move from a cussing culture of cruelty to one of compassion and caring? McKay Hatch, 17 year-old California student created a No Cussing Club in 2007.  Isn't it time that Broward County and others follow this lead? Take the No Cussing Challenge, changing the world one word at a time... The words we use affect how we feel about ourselves, how others react to us and how others feel about themselves.  Our words truly shape our world. Thousands of people have taken this challenge and told the No Cussing Club about the positive affect it has had in their lives. Does cussing lead to bullying or instigate bullying ?  According to a recent NY Times article, some experts say the notion that cursing leads to bullying is misguided....

Here are 10 great tips to help you and your teens to stop using foul language.  Cuss Control by James V. O'Connor:   Your language might offend some people, but the tone and attitude behind your words do far greater damage to all of your relationships. Even if your friends and associates commonly use cuss words, you will be perceived as more mature, intelligent, articulate, polite, considerate and pleasant if you control your language and the emotions that typically prompt expletives. You can choose to have character and class, or be considered rude, crude and crass. Cursing is sometimes humorous, but sometimes abusive. It can help vent anger, or provoke it. It can relieve stress, or cause it. It can be clever and flirtatious, or sexist and intimidating. Consequently, be aware of when and where you swear. Control it, tame it, time it. ...