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‘Tis.

On a Google search, the meaning of ‘tis sort of says it all. It is a common quip in Irish conversation, and it says nothing. It is simply a way to keep the conversation going, in the same way that “uh huh” or “hmm” keep things moving along. It is non-committal and in that way friendly. It communicates the notion that someone is listening, intently or not, but at least wanting to be seen as such -- as listening.

What a world we could live in if that were a badge of honor -- that notion that “I am listening” is notable.

Or, less intensely -- because maybe we are all ex...