Why Pronunciation is Important

As an English teacher of international students, I laugh every day. The miscommunication that can occur when attempting to make themselves understood can be both hilarious and embarrassing. But they usually laugh along. A few years ago, one of my students told me the following story, and it is one that I retell often.
This female student had gone to the movies and wanted something to drink. So, she went to the concession area and patiently waited in line looking at the long list of options, half of which she understood. So, she decided to go the easy route and order something she'd had lots of times before. She got to the counter, smiled shyly at the young teenage boy, and said,
"I'd like a large cock, please."
The boy, taken aback, smiled hugely and said, "Pardon me?"
"I'd like a large cock, please," she repeated louder, wondering, I think, if perhaps her quiet voice hadn't been heard.
"Um, how large?"
"Very large."
"Huge?" asked the boy, now trying to control his giggles.
"Um, yes."
They stared at each other for a moment when it dawned on him. She wanted a Coke. And when she told our entire class the story the next day, I suggested that next time she order a Pepsi.