Speaker Beware! A Story of Multiple Meanings
Posted in Thomas Hooker, connection, fishing, funny story, meaning, parenting, power of words on August 22nd, 2008 by Steve Bradley – Be the first to comment
Oh, what they teach you in school these days. Christian school no less.
My 8th grade son was learning about a certain prominent religious and colonial leader, who also was one of the key founders of the Colony of Connecticut.
It just so happens that this man has a rather interesting last name — a name that can also be used as a verb to describe the actions of a fisherman.
This is the meaning my son and his friends found amusing. Since my son and I have a fishing trip planned for Labor Day weekend, he thought it would be cool to give himself a new nickname. One that highlighted his extreme angling skills.
He was so proud of this name, he shared it with the teacher of his Bible class. Who then shared it with the school’s headmaster. Who then shared it with my wife. Who then shared it with me. Which caused me, like everyone else along the chain of communication, to be both horrified and extremely amused at the same time [strange combination, I might add].
What was the name, you ask?
“The Hooker”
Inspired by the story of Thomas Hooker. Thanks Thomas.
On the bright side, it did serve as an important (albeit slightly embarrassing) “teachable moment” for me and my son. Rather him hear this stuff from me than elsewhere.
Interesting how simple words can be packed with so many layers of meaning, isn’t it?
Have you ever been misunderstood? What can we do to ensure that our words connect meaningfully with those around us?
