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This week’s guest on Poetry in Daily Life is Nile Stanley, PhD, who lives in Jacksonville, Florida. A teacher educator, artist-in-residence, and researcher for 36 years, he has been on a mission to show how poetry can take on a bigger role within the teaching of reading and the development of resilience. I am glad to say that I have collaborated with him on interviews, articles, books, and poetry shows at conferences. – David L. Harrison
A proverb is a short poem long on wisdom. Some familiar proverbs are "Easy come, easy go," "Never too old to learn," and "There's no place like home." In our increasingly chaotic world, finding moments of reflection and insight can feel like a luxury. Yet, nestled within the pages of our favorite literary works and slumbering in the depths of our cultural heritage are treasures of wisdom known as proverbs. These succinct expressions encapsulate timeless truths, offering us guidance, encouragement, humor, and sometimes a gentle nudge toward a different perspective.
Some proverbs may challenge readers with vocabulary that is peculiar or expressions that are old-fashioned. For example, "Don't count your chickens before they hatch," "The early bird catches the worm," or "Many are called, but few are chosen."
Proverbs are like miniature poems — rich in meaning and crafted with care. They are often born from generations of collective experience, distilled into phrases that resonate across cultures and eras. Take, for instance, the classic adage: "A stitch in time saves nine." This simple reminder offers us the value of proactive action and foresight. It teaches us that addressing small issues before they escalate can save us considerable effort and trouble down the road.
Advanced-level proverbs often use archaic language and meanings that require detailed discussions of cultural context, such as "Discretion is the better part of valor," "All that glitters is not gold," or "United we stand, divided we fall."
In our daily lives, proverbs can serve as little beacons of light. They remind us of virtues like patience, perseverance, and kindness. "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" speaks to the importance of valuing what we have rather than chasing after what we might not attain. This wisdom encourages us to appreciate our present circumstances and find contentment in the here and now — an essential lesson in a world often focused on the next big thing.
Moreover, proverbs have a unique ability to offer comfort during challenging times. When life feels overwhelming, the phrase "This too shall pass" serves as a gentle reminder that troubles are often temporary. It invites us to embrace a sense of hope and resilience, suggesting that brighter days are just around the corner.
In shared conversations, proverbs can spark connections, breaking down barriers and inviting introspection. They are an ideal way to convey complex ideas in an accessible manner. Imagine exchanging a knowing smile as you share the proverb, "Actions speak louder than words." In that moment, both speaker and listener understand the depth of meaning behind those simple words — that true intention is revealed through what we do, not merely what we say.
As we journey through life, let us take a moment to incorporate the wisdom of proverbs into our daily routines. Start your morning by reflecting on a different proverb each day — ponder its meaning, how it relates to your life, and how it may enlighten your interactions with others. Consider keeping a small notebook where you jot down your favorite proverbs, creating a personal anthology of wisdom to return to when seeking guidance or inspiration.
In our modern lives, crowded with information and distractions, let us not overlook the beauty and insight embedded in these age-old sayings. Recognizing the art of proverbs means understanding the rhythm of life itself — capturing moments of wit and wisdom that resonate across time, reminding us of our shared humanity. For as the proverb reminds us, "In the age of information, ignorance is a choice." This highlights the importance of understanding the “smart” use of technology in today's world. "Trusting AI with the news is like letting a toddler run a lemonade stand — refreshing in theory, but you might get something sour!"
Let us cherish the simplicity and profound impact of proverbs as they weave poetry into our daily lives, illuminating our paths with their ageless truths. After all, in the grand tapestry of existence, a little wisdom can go a long way. Oh, and don't forget: "Humor, never leave home without it!"
Dr. Nile Stanley is an associate professor in the Department of Teaching Learning and Curriculum, College of Education and Human Services at the University of North Florida. He is a founding board member of Hope at Hand, Inc. a nonprofit organization that produces the annual Jacksonville poetry festival and provides poetry lessons for vulnerable and at-risk youth. Learn more about him at https://www.unf.edu/newsroom/2023/06/Graffiti-Poetry.html.
