Word Analysis

Beleaguered is a troubling word, quite literally. A beleaguered person is one who is surrounded by troubles and when I think of the word ‘beleaguered’ I don’t associate it with happy things. Besides the fact that its meaning is obviously negative, the word doesn’t seem cheerful in any way. From the context I got this word from, it was evident that it describes struggling or suffering because it was used along with the pioneers that trekked to Salt Lake City. That alone gives the word a red flag because of the numerous trials the Saints endured.
Beleaguer means to beset with troubles, or to pester; however, it also relates to besieging, like in wars. When I hear this word I think of all of the people that are suffering in this world with many trials. I think of the starving people in Africa and of the people that have suffered from natural disasters. Having these beleaguered people in my thoughts makes me wonder why they are suffering and I am not? How is it that I came about such a fortunate life, and yet they are living in poverty and misery?
The use of the word ‘beleaguer’ goes way back in history (earliest date around 1587). During the earlier periods of the world, there were a lot of impoverished people, and also numerous wars. I wonder how it is that people came about the word beleaguer. How was this word formed? The word comes from the Dutch word belegeren, but the root word really has nothing to do with beleaguer at all. I don’t understand how this could be because I thought all root words had some sort of relation to the actual word itself. Leger means camp: how does this even relate? I’m not even sure what to write about because this word is so hard to analyze! How is it that people came upon the word beleaguered? Why couldn’t they just say “these people are troubled or troubled people?” I mean sure, beleaguer is a much cooler word to say, but how did they even think of it?? Why is it that we always make huge words for simple words just so we can sound that much more intelligent? Really though, making larger words is idiotic because then you have to explain to other people what they even mean, so isn’t it arguable to say that technical words are a waste of time?
How many people in this world are beleaguered? Isn’t everyone? I would like to meet someone who believes they are in a world exempt of trials, and then punch that person in the face. Everyone is beleaguered. Some may be more so than others, but that doesn’t mean that there are some people in this world that don’t feel troubled at times. Why do some people go out of their way to make others beleaguered? Why is it that we can’t live in a world of peace and humility?
Our world is so proud today and everyone is always thinking of themselves. I think that we wouldn’t have nearly as many beleaguered people in this world if we all swallowed our pride and helped each other out for once. Why can’t we do this? How could anyone be so selfish when there are probably thousands (or more) suffering throughout the world? I think I was drawn to the word beleaguered because I want to bring aid to those in the world who are troubled. I don’t believe I chose the word. I think it chose me.