PET PEEVES

Why do we call them Pet Peeves when pets are our adored friends? At any rate, two dictionaries define "pet peeve" as: "A particular or recurring source of irritation"--or "Something about which one frequently complains; a particular personal vexation."

A personal recurring source of irritation, a particular personal vexation. Here are some of mine as I think of them.

1. However, Number 1 as Number 1 for me refers to those who think the highway is their personal byway and so choose to drive in the left lane-- the lane meant for passing, not cruising, not owning, not blocking, not clogging, but passing--and in its subtlety or blatancy-- for speeding. This website provides a chart listing the law for each state concerning the right and left-lane driving: http://www.mit.edu/~jfc/right.html

Although posted by an individual, he provides links to official websites. Here is the bottom-line policy regarding left lane driving:

"The Uniform Vehicle Code states:

Upon all roadways any vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall be driven in the right-hand lane then available for traffic ...

Note that this law refers to the "normal" speed of traffic, not the "legal" speed of traffic. The 60 MPH driver in a 55 MPH zone where everybody else is going 65 MPH must move right."

It is so annoying and vexing and irritating to get behind that someone who "owns" the left lane and blocks those who want to pass. Often, I pass on the far right while the road hog clogs traffic. And say a few unpretty words.

2.The use of blogs for personal grievances
Originally, I stated a person's name and why this person is one of my pet peeves. After just a couple of days I realized I was doing the hateful thing she does--using my blog as a personal attack. I deleted my comments, then stated the obvious.

3. The use of poor grammar when the user knows better.

The use of "ain't"--The common response: "Ain't" is in the dictionary! My response is: "Guess what? So are fruition, tintinnabulation, onomatopoeia, feckless, prodigious, and so on. I don't hear you using those words."

My point is that we go to school to get an education. Not to use it is not only a waste of money but ignorance of the worst kind. Those who grew up in illiteracy and truly do not know proper grammar, thus speak with words like "ain't" and "he don't know no better" are not a source of annoyance. Those who know better and refuse to use their brains are one of my pet peeves.

4. People who think teachers choose that occupation because they cannot do anything else. My only suggestion: Ask to sit in your child's classroom for an entire day. Just one day. Or substitute for a teacher just one day. You'll change your mind.