"Put Down"

Tonight I realized the versatility of the phrase “put down.” When used in reference to a child, it means to take them to bed, and facilitate sleep. When used in reference to a peer, it means to disparage or belittle someone. However, when used in regards to a dog, it means to kill humanely, or put out of their misery. I believe this phrase is perhaps the most multifaceted of its kind. So in some contexts “put down” is an act of love. In other situations it is oxymoronic, malicious, and hateful. There is a wonderful irony in the variety of meanings it embodies. And sometimes I wonder if we ourselves embody such juxtapositions within our character. Please put me down.