“Momma?”
“Yes, Miri.”
“Michael said his dad once lived in Wales.”
“That’s right, Miri. He lived in Wales when he was a boy.”
Miriam was confused, “…but you can’t live in Wales.”
Seeing her confusion, Miriam’s mother smiled, “Words can be puzzling. You’re thinking about the big sea animal. David’s father lived in a country called Wales.”
Miriam’s mother explained some words sound the same but have different spellings and meanings. Miriam seemed to be listening but, at four, she didn’t understand why words could sound the same and mean different things.
Miriam ran out to speak to David, “Momma said you were lying.”
Schools and students have permission to use this graphic for non-commercial, educational purposes.
Ross's Writing Blog 
Judie McEwen
September 18, 2012 at 00:30
Ah, the mind of a four-year-old! Good take on the prompt, Ross!
Ross Mannell
September 23, 2012 at 17:16
Thanks for the comment.
Children tend to interpret the world based on their limited knowledge. This story was based on a real conversation by a second cousin of mine. Miriam’s confused statement had been real. Most laughed but I pointed out she was being very logical considering her experience. 🙂
beebeesworld
September 18, 2012 at 09:51
nice work -Ive been on the computer for over a week=sick-then the cable got messed up, I had 977 messages piled u, so obviously I wont be able to do a lot-still not well-rough week. Hope you are doing well–beebeesworld
Ross Mannell
September 23, 2012 at 17:20
Thanks for the comment.
Sorry for not replying sooner but we are entering a busy filming/DVD production time of year for me. I have a backlog of blogs to visit and fully appreciate how being unwell can hold us back from what we do.
I hope you are well now. 🙂
Karen S.
September 19, 2012 at 07:04
Oh I love this witty little tale….such a lovely play with words….that yes, can be so puzzling at times…!
Ross Mannell
September 23, 2012 at 17:21
Thanks for the comment.
Many years of working with children from 5 to 12 gives you a chance to experience some of the wonderful ways their minds can work. 🙂
Sue
September 19, 2012 at 07:07
(unless you’re Jonah, of course…)
😉
Ross Mannell
September 23, 2012 at 17:23
Thanks for the comment.
I had considered Jonah but thought the idea probably out of the reach a a four year old. 🙂
Jenny Matlock
October 11, 2012 at 12:34
Miriam is awfully clever!
And I love this little story, Ross.