(not exactly a current event so I put it there)

``I can remember getting back to the White House and Laura said, `What did you say that for?' '' Bush said. ``I said, `Well, it was just an expression that came out. I didn't rehearse it. It just was there when they asked me my opinion.' ''

Added Bush: ``One of the things I've learned is that words have consequences that you don't intend them to mean.''

`` `Bring 'em on' was a classic example,'' he said. ``Those words had an unintended consequence. Some interpreted it to be defiance in the face of danger. That certainly wasn't the case.''

As the interview session ended, Bush - who has drawn criticism for declining to admit any mistakes in the past - added, ``I speak plainly sometimes, but you gotta be mindful of the consequences of the words. What would you call that? A confession, a regret, a something?''