Alva Review-Courier -

From the beginning of time, the adage has remained the same: “publish or perish.” Even the Lord knew He needed to get some things down on paper (or stone as the case may be) to avoid being forgotten. Unfortunately, it became increasingly obvious that folks could still find a way to forget, with or without the written word. Before His first publication made its way to the population, they were already dancing around the golden calf.

My wife tries to encourage my writing “career” (does one have to sell stuff to have a career?) by saying things like: “After you’re gone, people can still get a copy of your work. You might make a difference in someone’s life long after you’re gone.”

While I enjoy the sentiment of being remembered in perpetuity, I prefer to be lauded and applauded while I’m still able to take a bow. And what of all those wise sages who never put pen to paper? Throughout the centuries, the majority of people were unable to read and write, depending on the “educated” hierarchy to give them the 411.

These days, at least in my neighborhood, writing is rampant. Of course, most of what is being published via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter falls far short of holding the everlasting import of “Thou shalt not kill” or “Honor thy father and mother.” Personally, I’d give the decalog ten likes and a smiley face, for starters.

Here are a few suggestions for sage communicators. First, think before you write. Is what you wrote true? Useful? Even moral? Next, check your spelling. The English language may be in a continual state of change, but until Webster gives you the go-ahead, use words in the same way others tend to use them. And finally, if you must hit the “share” button, double check the source of your transmission. A good quote from a source with a bad reputation (or simply a blasphemous or trashy title) does nothing to help you garner an audience for your eternal wisdom. See you Sunday.