Mark Twain observed, “The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug.” And while they can never compete with lightning in dramatic effect, lightning bugs are extraordinarily good at what they do.
Also known as fireflies, lightning bugs emit a light, a brief flash of illumination, that lets other fireflies know where they are. It sends a distinct message, succinct and unmistakable. And in the process, they bring delight to summertime children everywhere.
Writers and editors are a little like fireflies. Their words send out flashes of insight and understanding that—hopefully—create connections and give joy to others.
Not a bad way to spend a life, however brief.
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