Working Up

by Dwayne Phillips

The English language has generated to where any word can mean almost anything. I have to ask.

We are going to emphasize X. My first reaction is, “what do you mean when you say X?”

X can be just about anything:

• small
• large
• speed
• quality
• size

Yes, short, one-syllable words have been redefined by everyone. I am no longer surprised by the definitions I receive.

Me: What do you mean by “speed”

Them: Well, by ‘speed’ I mean the size of the package that is delivered.

Me: What?

Them: You know, large packages take more time to throw away.

Me: Huh?

Them: What’s the matter, you stupid or something?

And so it goes. Always ask. I think this has something to do with that saying:

Seek to understand before trying to be understood.

“What’t