Knowing how things work is the basis for appreciation, and is thus a source of civilized delight.

Do not be taken in by 'insiderisms.' Fledgling columnists, eager to impress readers with their grasp of journalistic jargon, are drawn to such arcane spellings as 'lede.' Where they lede, do not follow.

We are all environmentalists now, but we are not all planetists. An environmentalist realizes that nature has its pleasures and deserves respect. A planetist puts the earth ahead of the earthlings.

By elevating your reading, you will improve your writing or at least tickle your thinking.

To 'know your place' is a good idea in politics. That is not to say 'stay in your place' or 'hang on to your place', because ambition or boredom may dictate upward or downward mobility, but a sense of place - a feel for one's own position in the control room-is useful in gauging what you should try to do.

Previously known for its six syllables of sweetness and light, reconciliation has become the political fighting word of the year.

Better to be a jerk that knees than a knee that jerks.