Watch What You Say

I remember seeing an old, English comedy show that did a bit on the confusion that can be caused if we don't say something the right way.  The examples I remember are:

What's in the road ahead?  versus  What's in the road?  A head?

What is this thing called love?  versus   What's this thing called, luv?

Very different meanings.  I think I shared this once before, but it was a long time ago.

I thought about this today because a post by Rooth reminded me of a story--which is almost completely unrelated to the above, except in that we have to be careful what we say.  My brain is making weird associations this week.

Years ago I went though a super busy time at work--worse than anything I've experienced lately (and complained about).  I was working 100 hour weeks.  It caught up to me.  One day I was at my desk, talking on the phone and I nodded off.  (In the middle of a conversation!)  When I jolted awake I didn't know how long I'd been asleep (it was just a few seconds) and didn't know what I had missed in the conversation.  Over the years I learned if I missed something my wife said to me, I wouldn't get in trouble over it if I said "luv you".  It worked in any situation.  So I said it into the phone. 

Then I heard a voice that was not my wife's!!!  And it was saying "I love you too" back to me in a very choked up voice.  My brain exploded when I realized I wasn't talking to my wife (did I mention I was really tired?).  I didn't say anything, but in my head I was shouting, "no, No, NO!!!"  I couldn't take it back.  It was done.  There was nothing I could do about it.  She was a co-worker and a friend.  But I have to admit I was very relieved when she retired and moved to Florida.  And even more relieved when the Valentine's Day cards stopped showing up.  :)


PS - That's the only time I've ever said or written (or even implied) that particular sentiment without meaning it.  I don't need to feel guilty about it...right???