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on goods.  I read his worksheet later that asked for the definition of tariff.  He had written "attacks on gods."  I can only blame myself for this misunderstanding.
• A passage in a book he was reading mentioned the Bubonic Plague.  He somehow envisioned people walking around with huge breasts.  After I finished rolling on the floor with laughter, I explained, between hiccups, that "Bubonic" is not a cross between "gigantic" and "boob."
• "Actually, one of the symptoms of Bubonic Plague is buboes, which is a swelling of lymph nodes."
• "So your nose goes limp because you're sick?" he surmised.
• "Lymph-ph-ph nod-d-des," I said, emphasizing the ignored but crucial letters.
• "Oh," he said, but I could tell he still didn't understand.  I wonder how long he will hold in his mind the fascinating image of people suddenly toppling over and expiring under the sheer weight of their ballooning chests.
• It's not the word used here, it's the meaning that is important.
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• Laura Snyder is a nationally syndicated columnist, author & speaker.  You can reach Laura at lsnyder@lauraonlife.com Or visit her website www.lauraonlife.com for more info.