An An ecdote

from www.myfavoriteword.com...
Contradict.

Although I am now Australian, I was born in Scotland.

My father was serving in the British Army when we returned to Southampton Docks from a tour of duty in Hong Kong.

Of course, we had to undergo Customs inspection.

I was taught never to lie.

The Customs Officer asked my mother the quantity of cigarettes and alcohol she was declaring.

My mother answered the correct amount.

My father was then asked the same question, and when he answered incorrectly I spoke up.

"No you haven't Dad. You've got X amount."

I learned my first big word that day from the uniformed Customs Officer.

He was a tall man and I was only a small boy.

I can still see him in mind's eye.

He leaned towards me, pointing his right index finger and said "Boy, never contradict your parents."

I know today what contradict means and I heeded his advice.