Alicia's Auto #5

I noticed during my observations of my own language negotiations, that I shift discourse gears a lot! Over the past few days, I’ve written casual emails, text messages, facebook responses, essays and journal entries. I‘ve also used “a different language” for work, home, school, phone calls, and talking with my friends. It’s amazing how many “shifts” I went through rather instinctively, as well as intentionally.
For instance, I know when I’m expected to speak and write intelligibly-at work and at school. Not that I speak and write like an idiot everywhere else, but I do tend to use a lot of slang, abbreviations, and curse words when I’m in a comfortable environment and/or I’m writing in a casual manner. It’s actually quite impressive how most people are able to make these kinds of “language shifts” so effortlessly! The only time I have to truly “try” and “watch my mouth” in language switching is around my kids. I tend to have a “potty” mouth, (especially, in the car) so I have to consciously try not to curse around them. I know, it’s sad, but it’s true!