[rlmorel]

I try not to cuss. I have cussed extensively and casually at various points in my life (it was bad before I went in the Navy, but after that, I became a “fine and fancy cusser”.

For about the last 30 years, I have been fighting it. I view it as a crutch, but still do it, but have improved. Now, only use it sparsely in conversations with friends, never in a professional setting, and only with heat when I am alone with nobody around (hitting my finger with a hammer, etc)

It was both funny and embarrassing to hear from my adult nephew that he learned all he needed to know about cussing from watching me work on cars as a young person.

One area I definitely avoid it is in a heated or emotional situation with another person. It doesn’t help at all.

[Tuscaloosa Goldfinch]

I appreciate your effort to avoid profanity.

I’ve heard my dad swear once - oddly enough, when he hit HIS thumb with a hammer. He said “Damnation.” I just didn’t grow up hearing it AT ALL - didn’t even know what those words meant until high school. Yes, I was sheltered - I admit it.

Someone here years ago posted a lengthy piece on how to let someone have it without cussing - it was brilliant. :-)

[BookmanTheJanitor]

I hear you. Cussing is my main weakness/vice. Ghetto schools and years and years of football were my teachers and, unfortunately, I am now at Masters level. I try hard, but occasionally it comes out in an unconscious flow. My wife equates it to like “speaking in tongues” :o).

Combine this with my size and look and I really don’t want to scare people. I do feel it is a weakness, but used sparingly, it can be effective.