Yeah, I'm not a fan of "pledge" either, but this of course using it was kinda necessary for the dramatic effect and all. Though I kinda like the juxtiposition of the solidity of "pledge" with the fluidity of "affinity".

Very interesting. Where are our semantics scholars?

Best day of school ever...

Sometimes I feel I live a life of hypocracy, advocating freedom yet mandating conformity at school. This place does not lend itself to anarchy :(

I advocate semi-nonconformity at school to my children. It's a fine line to walk, believe me. We teach our children the difference between being disrespectful and blindly doing what you're told. You can question a teacher's motives and methods without coming off like a spoiled brat -- but it takes practice.

The golden rule at our house is: You're more likely to get in trouble with us if you do what you're told without knowing why than if you question the teachers and the system at every turn.