All sins forgiven. Pre-emptively and ever after.

If some parents truly are concerned about the language, perhaps they could use the documentary as a teaching opportunity. Profanity is so commonplace throughout our culture -- from sitcoms to hip-hop -- it is impossible to shield children from it. But teaching them the difference between lazy vulgarity and spontaneous passion is worthwhile.

What makes some language offensive has been a matter of colorful debate for centuries. Biblically speaking, profanity refers to using the Lord's name in vain. Other people find scatological language offensive. The question really boils down to manners -- being considerate of others.

The simplest rule might go like this: If a word describes something one typically addresses in private -- that would usually include the bedroom and bathroom -- then it should be used only in private. How hard is that?

Protecting the public airwaves is a worthy battle, which organizations such as the American Family Association, the Parents Television Council and the Media Research Center fight with passion, and for little appreciation.

But there are exceptions to all rules and ``9/11'' should be one of them. The FCC reportedly considers context in its rulings; if the terrorist attacks are not an acceptable context for profanity, then there is none.

Meanwhile, Sharp and his friends undoubtedly are familiar with Ecclesiastes, Chapter 3, in which the Bible instructs that to everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose.

``... A time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance ... a time to keep silence, and a time to speak.'' Had the chapter been written in today's post-9/11 world, its author might have considered an amendment: ``a time to watch one's words, and a time to cuss like a first responder at Ground Zero, Sept. 11, 2001, New York, New York.''