X Marks the Spot

Well we're back to our regularly scheduled A-Z Challenge post and today's letter is "X". Now I must admit that I had to sneak a peak in the dictionary for some ideas since I don't regularly use words beginning with that letter. However, none stuck out to me as much as the plain old letter "x". I often “x” things off my to-do list or mark an “x” when filling out forms. But did you know that even in today's time, some people are unable to write their name and have to sign forms with an "x"? Reading and writing are fundamental things that I often take for granted. Yet, many of my ancestors labored to ensure those behind them would have the opportunity to read and write. According to the Department of Justice statistics, 21 million Americans can't read at all, 45 million are marginally illiterate and one-fifth of high school graduates can't read their diplomas.

However, in my line of work, I see people using "x" as their signature not because they're unable to read but because they're physically disabled due to some type of medical condition or motor vehicle accident. I can't imagine the daily struggle to perform even the simplest of task. Today as I go about reading posts, typing and adding my signature to copious notes, I do it with conscious gratitude for not just the knowledge to read and write but for the ability to use my hands.

As this month long A to Z challenge quickly comes to an end, it will soon be one of the tasks I can mark “x” through as completed. Many of the participants will be joining a mega post on May 3 to discuss what we’ve learned through this event. In the mean time find out what other x-rated (oops I meant related) topics are being expounded today here.