Heh, I was the victim of a similarly intolerant homeschooling environment. I've found I can no more use foul language than I can fly - odd what that day-in, day-out condition does to one.
I think the use of "dirty words" indicates a poor vocabulary and inability to communicate. I'm trying to break at least my female friends of their swearing habits but they just don't see the problem.
Keep ministering to your friends, and be VERY careful about associating yourself with them if they refuse to change! (Spoken to you from a homeschool dad ;-) )
> I think the use of "dirty words" indicates a poor vocabulary and inability to communicate.
Incorrect. Dirty words are just words, with more emotional connotation. Granted, some people don;t know how to utter a sentence without using them; this is not a sign of moral decaly but, as you suggest, a sign that they are not well educated. However, certain words and phrases are STAGGERINGLY effective at getting across emotional responses. Consider a few days ago, when I found I need to go in for surgery that will leave me scarred and in agony. I'm sorry, but "gosh" and "darn" just didn't cut it. Something a bit more colorful was called for.
That's very true.. I can't help but say "sir" or "ma'am" numerous times daily.
And truly, I ain't all that humble! ;-)
I think it also reveals them to be emotionally and developmentally stalled out in the maturing process around the pre-adolescent period where potty language is funny. It's like they reach that point and stop growing.
This is the key. Without a moral compass, people are free to do what feels good. The tolerance movement has brought our society to a place in which it is wrong to criticize others for their behaviors, no matter how vile and disrespectful.