There Must be Sensitivity of Words

Sometimes, to get a point across quickly, one often forgoes how others understand the terminology one uses. Or one could just simple be ignorant about the semantics.

A meaning, comes from words. Thus, correct terminology must be in agreement before any debate of meanings.

For example, when Tim Keller considered Yoga as a neutral activity (exercise for some, religion for others), one must define what Yoga means. Otherwise, I could just invent a sport called "Screwing" which is an exercise that requires a partner. But then, the still-conscious public today may say: Wait a minute, you cannot use the word screwing as it connotes obscenity. Why? Because words are as important as the meaning/motive/goal.

Words connect one to the integrity of one's lifestyle. We do not say, I will pay you back what I owe, but then never pay up thinking I am justified because I did not say when I will pay back.

Hence, after defining as clearly as possible what each words mean, even when a word inevitably has two or more meanings, I must responsibly apply it or reject it at the optimal level and not think I can play around with words and have myself justified in various ways.

If there is a schedule to be met, it must be clear and distinguished from an appointment that is assumed to be set in the end of eternity. If there is something in Yoga that is essentially a mere unique exercise, why not define it properly? Otherwise it would be an irresponsible take on the meaning of what Yoga is.

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