Editorial: Fence Sitter: Nothing personal.

Why does someone announcing some misfortune on another excuse himself by saying: It's nothing personal, just part of a job? Does such a declaration soften the blow or elicit from the victim greater acceptance? (I know this is not enjoyable to you. Your job is forcing you to bash my skull in. I understand. And I don't mind.)

The expression "Nothing personal, just a job" is gaining currency and covers a multitude of sins. It prefaces uncalled for vilification of another's reputation, ouster from a job, or the commission of a crime.

Kidnappers have been known to assure their victims that their abduction is nothing personal, just a day at the office.

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