Magna Cum Laude

It means in Latin, 'With great honor'. I have a friend, who shall remain nameless, who happens to be fluent in Latin. I just can't help but wonder why? Regardless, he's probably the smartest person I know. When you meet an intelligent person, they're usually a lot like Albert Einstein. Freakishly smart, but can't figure out the zipper on their pants. This guy seems to have struck a balance. He CAN tie his shoes, and yes, they are on the correct feet. He can condescend to your level, and carry on somewhat of a lengthy conversation on just about any topic. But there is a price to pay for being that intelligent. He does have a few phobias? that manifest themselves, the longer you get to know him. He doesn't like to draw attention to himself, until you hear him speak. Then he has an audience. He's somewhat phobic of crowds. I don't know if it's because of the amount of people in a given place, or the fact that we all carry our own suitcase full of germs. He likes good food and wine, but then he'll go indulge on a stack of pancakes at Louie M's. He usually feels so guilty about it afterwards, he doubles up his workout at the gym later the same day. Any rate, he's a very nice person, and probably one of the most interesting people you would ever meet. Occasionally I drop him an email, or send him something interesting involving food or wine, and he'll respond with a Latin phrase at the end. It's very frustrating, because I don't know Latin, yet I want to find out what he's said. I need to know whether he's insulted me or complimented me. He knows it's a mind control thing. If he sends me a Latin message, he 's manipulated me into looking it up. I'm like a mouse attracted to the cheese in the trap. I can't help myself, and he's got me. I feel the need to verbally punch him when he does this. The last phrase he sent was a Clint Eastwood quote, "Go ahead, make my day". I've been looking at Latin phrases to respond. So far, my favorite, "I didn't know you could do that with your hair". It's perfect, since he's completely bald. But, if I respond, then I've taken the 'cheese', and he's going to hammer me. I'm glad it's all in jest. He has the type of mind and personality to pull off a prank, or practical joke, that would be unmatched. There's no possible way to top it. Better to leave well enough alone, and just stick to matching wits with my seven year old. As least she lets me win once in awhile.