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Originally Posted by Tormod
A speling mistake doesn't make us bad people. Or? 
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SAYS WHO??
Oh give me a break, boss-man! Sure it does!!
Ok, all kidding aside, I also commend you on this topic. Actually, it's an ongoing discussion here, or at least it was before my 2 month extended LOA. I think most of us have realized that grammar, punctuation and spelling are very important to some of us, not so important to others, and really not an issue for some (mainly due to English not being their native tongues).
Why are some better spellers than others? Well, that's a very interesting question. I have a theory that it has much more to do with brain function/activity than the way you may have been taught to read, but most of my theories are just pure crap, so who really knows. I do know that I am an avid reader, and also a pretty efficient speller. I did the bees in school and everything. I hate spell check, it's an evil invention created to enhance laziness. But there are times when I would really have loved to have it as an option
here (ask around if you want to know the story behind that one

) My oldest daughter is also an avid reader and a fabulous speller. My oldest son enjoys reading, but is not passionate about it. He is an ok speller, much more phonetical than anything, but he didn't learn to read using phonics. My second oldest daughter loves stories, but struggles with reading. She is great at recognizing words, but has a difficult time spelling anything new. However, once she learns how to spell a word, she never has to be told again. My second oldest son is a decent reader, and a decent speller, but he's young. Time will tell with him. The other two are just a tad small to know yet.
So the theory is still developing, but it's something that I am really interested to understand. Also of note, my husband, arguably the most brilliant person I know, is not that great of a speller. I find that hysterical, considering he can program in about 20 different languages. He relies heavily on spell-check programs. Like you, he's not really a 'rules' person in many ways, but that bodes well for his chosen vocation. It works for him.
How can you improve? If it's something you are truly interested in improving, go back to school. No, seriously, if you have a 4th grade spelling book handy, pick it up and read it. Those things are great for explaining the 'rules', and they are much better than 20 years ago at helping you remember the rules as well.
Sorry to be so long. Man it feels good to be back!
