Deeteereoraeteeng

Back in secondary school, I was one of the best students when it comes to English. I routinely won school essay competitions every year, and I'm praised by many of my English teachers. It wasn't that great, really, but I did have some flair for writing essays. So my spelling was almost impeccable to a fault.

Lately though, I find that my spelling (and grammar) is deteriorating. I haven't been writing enough. Sure, typing assignment reports require me to use English but the words I use are so mundane, technical, and dull. It has been a long time since I wrote a beautiful story that actually inspires and moves people. Seriously!

My spelling has taken a turn for the worse when I recently began confusing words that sound the same. I have caught myself using the wrong spelling numerous times now, and the trend is worrying. Some of the words I keep confusing are:

• it's and its


• deadline with dateline


• bear and bare


• thought and taught


• leaving and living


• this and these

I hope it doesn't get any worse.