[Ruth A.]

As I walk around, I hear people who swear "coversationally" without regard to children or women being around. I detest it. It is one of the marks of our deteriorating society. There are occasions I swear--usually privately and never in front of my children. When I do swear in front of another person, then it is usually an indication of how strong my feelings are on a matter--and it is an emotional issue. Those who know me are certain as to how strong my opinion is. It is equally as rare when I swear for humorous purposes.

I still have a difficult time believing this president swears as often as this report makes it sound. I am heartened that GWB doesn't feel the need to speak crudely in public to assert his machisimo.

[MineralMan]

"As I walk around, I hear people who swear "coversationally" without regard to children or women being around. I detest it. "

I'm with you on this one. Public cursing is just plain rude, and I make a point of calling people on it if they do so in public places around children and families.

That said, I suspect most of our Presidents have been men who cursed frequently. Nixon was well-known for it, as was Truman. I'd not be surprised if Clinton did a lot of it, too. Nor does it surprise me if Bush curses freely.

It is the mark of a decent man that he not curse in public where he might be heard by others. Sadly, too few people feel that way, today.

[GATOR NAVY]

"He uses the 'F' word as an adjective, a verb, and a noun," says one adviser. Ditto for the "S" word. But not often in anger.

I'd prefer it if it was the other way around. As a 20+ year career sailor, I've certainly used my share of foul language. I used to use "...the 'F' word as an adjective, a verb, and a noun..." but now I rarely do except in anger. What turned me around?

1) getting married and having children

2) the fact that I had a sailor who worked for me and who swore even more than I did. I realized he sounded like a total idiot and decided I didn't want to sound like that myself.