I would like to share a recent “pet peeve” of mine. The word “JUST.” You hear it every day. You say it every day. It is a seemingly harmless one syllable word — or is it?!
The main use of “JUST” as an adverb is to mean “a short time ago or barely.”
For example: The sun just came out. — or — The arrow just missed the mark.
“JUST” can also be used as an adjective.
For example: The person received a just penalty. — or — They got a just reply to their request. Just is being used to show fairness or lawfulness in these examples.
I have no problem with those previous examples. My pet peeve is when “JUST” is used to diminish the importance or undermine the value of something. Let me explain.
As my internship students go through the semester, we discuss in our weekly meetings various topics surrounding professionalism, communication skills, ethics and in general what is happening at their sites. Here are a few examples I’ve heard over the course of the semester:
“I just filed and scanned documents.”
“I just got to see the procedure, nothing more.”
“I’m just going to stay in Fort Wayne for Christmas break.”
“I’m just going to go to PFW for school next fall.”
Think about how you use the word “JUST”.
The following are additional examples that adults may use.
It really wasn’t much, I just baked 12 dozen cookies.
That’s OK. It just took 3 hours to replace the battery in her car.
I just need you to lead the group of students for two class periods.
My point and challenge to you all is “JUST” this!
I don’t believe that God wants us to “JUST” do _____. You fill in the blank. In God, all things are of value. What we do, how we serve, the decisions we make are representative of who God created us to be. The many gifts we have been given and give of ourselves are not something we need to rank, grade or belittle. Be thankful for the gifts and talents you share each day and the positive differences you make.
Advent Blessings to you all!
Luanne Erdos,
Career Internship Director