Words are a big deal.
No matter how many times we chant―sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me―some part of us knows this is not true.
True, they can‘t break bones, but that‘s because words don‘t operate in the physical dimension. Jump into the emotional dimension and it‘s a very different story.
Centuries ago, words were
thought to be capable of casting spells and driving out demons. History is replete with lovers wooing the loved one—not with wine, or flowers, or the crown jewels—but with the humble word.
Politicians today know full well how they are chained to their words, which can turn entire lives upside down in an instant. Verbal abuse is even acknowledged in our legal system as a source of actual damage.
It is odd, when you think about it. After all, words have no taste, no smell, no sound, no color, no texture … they are, actually, almost nothing.
And yet, they are everything.
Why?
Because, like your art, words have the power to excite our imaginations.
So, you’re thinking: What’s all of this got to do with covid?
Take one more look at the title of this post: Why I Spell covid-19 This Way
Notice two things: 1) I do not capitalize covid, even though the entire title is in Title Case, and 2) I do not even use the SMALL ALL CAPS as you see in many publications.
This is my itty-bitty rebellion against a force of such magnitude that it has turned the world of our entire World upside down.
When you capitalize or use SMALL CAPS, it immediately confers an elevated status. We capitalize words that are proper nouns, in much the same spirit as we do for positions of importance: The Queen, for instance. Or President, or Dr.
And SMALL CAPS stands out visually, creating another distinct level of importance.
Right now, correct editorial elements be damned, I refuse to give covid-19 any more elevation than it already has in my psyche, or anyone else’s.
From me, covid deserves nothing more than lower case.
Next up? How to Use the Power of Your Intention to Get Results
Wishing you…
Your Truth. Your Power. Your Word..claim it!
P.S. It’s your turn: What are you doing, right now, to deflate the drumbeat of this monumental virus?
P.S.S. And remember, since words excite our imagination, your artist statement has the power to double the impact of your creative gift to our NewWorld!
