By Sheryl Lilly Pidgeon
It seems that getting older might actually mean getting wiser. (But be careful not to mention this to your kids; they believe they’re WAY smarter than we are.)
If you’re anything like me, you often find yourself giving advice to your children, family, or friends using expressions that your parents or even grandparents used. These phrases often didn’t resonate with me back then, but now they make (almost) perfect sense.
Good Life Family is designed for us – parents like me who are balancing between ‘having it all’ and ‘dropping the ball.’ Sometimes a dose of timeless wisdom and a bit of humor is all we need to navigate the day.
Here are some of my favorites:
Up to my eyeballs in alligators
Feeling overwhelmed and short on time? This phrase works wonders when you receive a request to do just one more thing that you can’t possibly fit into your day.
Let’s cross that bridge when we come to it
With today being so packed (as mentioned earlier), let’s not worry about that particular task for now. (Okay, just give me ten more minutes…)
The straw that broke the camel’s back
You’re strong and capable, but we all have limits. Some situations just require that one more thing to be the last thing.
Put that in your pipe and smoke it
This was a favorite saying of my great-uncle (who indeed smoked a pipe – perhaps why I didn’t understand it until much later). This phrase is perfect for emphasizing an important point. Caution: Not recommended for use with your spouse.
You wear your heart on your sleeve
This phrase fits well when feelings are hurt or when you’re feeling misunderstood, and it’s best enjoyed with a warm cup of cocoa.
Caught between a rock and a hard place
How apt is this expression when neither option seems viable? This phrase pairs nicely with a glass of chardonnay.
Birds of a feather flock together
Considering my last name is Pidgeon, this one had to be part of my list. This classic saying highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with people who share your values and loyalty.
Bite the bullet
It’s time to tough it out! This saying originates from the time when wounded soldiers were given a bullet to bite before surgery, reflecting endurance in difficult times. It resonates well when facing obligations we don’t want to tackle but know we must. If they could endure physical pain, we can surely make it through (fill in your own scenario here).
Two wrongs don’t make a right
I find myself saying (or thinking) this almost every day. Just because someone else did something wrong doesn’t give you permission to do the same. Always strive to do the right thing. Teach and lead by example.
Through thick and thin
This phrase conveys a message our loved ones can never hear enough: “I love you, no matter what challenges we face.”
Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth
Someone is giving you something. It may not be exactly what you need, but it’s definitely an improvement over what you had just moments ago. Show gratitude.
Don’t rest on your laurels
You’ve achieved something great. But don’t stop there! There’s always more to accomplish.
Never Give Up. Never Surrender.
No explanation required. This mantra is best accompanied by a good night’s sleep.
We’re living in a society here, people!
Yes, this line comes from George Costanza, but it’s my favorite among all the classic Seinfeld quips. I say it ALL THE TIME. It’s perfect for moments when someone cuts you off in traffic, jumps in line, or in any situation that reminds us we’re all part of a bigger community.
Strike while the iron is hot
Time is precious. Go for it NOW!
Worth your weight in gold
How do you compensate someone who is irreplaceable? This saying effectively expresses gratitude in ways beyond just monetary value.
Icing on the cake
I often tell anyone who will listen that when seeking the right friends or the right partner, it’s important to focus on the CAKE that forms the foundation. Understand someone’s core values, integrity, honesty, and generosity. The fun element is simply the icing on life’s cake. And let’s face it, what’s a cake without frosting? But if you indulge solely in icing, you’re likely to feel unwell.
Up the creek without a paddle
When I’m having a particularly challenging day, just picturing this phrase brings a smile.
And this brings me to…
Oy Vey
Or just “Oy” for short. This Yiddish expression conveys exasperation or dismay and is probably my most frequently used phrase. It works in almost ANY situation. With the right tone, it adds a touch of humor.
Now, put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Live. Laugh. Learn. Say What? Repeat.
