Have you ever had one of those experiences wherein you got sick after eating or drinking something and then, even though you know that the sickness was probably not related to that food item, you just cannot stand to look at it or even smell it without getting nauseous?
Well I have. Nothing against Cracker Barrel, but I can’t go within 1000 yards without needing a barrel myself. Enough about that.
But I have also found that the same thing can happen with words. When I find words that occur in frequent proximity to things that make me sick, I find that I can no longer stomach the word anymore, even if used appropriately.
Much to my chagrin, I find myself facing this very situation right now. What is the word that makes me sick every time I hear it or read it?
Pastoral.
Pastoral used to be a fine word but it has been keeping some bad company lately.
A priest decides to give out communion to active and proud homosexuals and….