Why do so many people begin their discussions, stories, questions, anecdotes, etc. with the word "so"? It's a new word epidemic and don't know where it started. If you watch Jeopardy, note how many contestants begin their personal stories with "so". "So, I moved here from Ohio..." I strongly suspect that English isn't being taught with any rigidity any more, and "free expression" reigns. Which means that illiteracy is in fashion. What a pity.