The old expressions are gradually fading away with the current generation not having a context for understanding. For example, at an assembly this week I spoke about  the development of the ankle sock that has wrecked the expression ‘pull up your socks and get on with it’ which is an old expression that was about the resilience of people. I started with the statement that ankle socks have wrecked the world! This caused a murmur amongst the group and hopefully they will remember the message. Socks used to be much longer in those times and for workers was also a protection of their legs. So can one say that ankle socks have affected a person's resilience? The real answer is no but it makes a point that times change but our humanity does not! We have to be resilient but young people have to develop the skills of resilience throughout their lives.  One of my mothers favourite expressions was ‘build a bridge and get over it’ this applied to many circumstances - issues with friends, being cranky with my parents over rules or even not liking what I was being served for dinner ( and you never did not eat it!).

Expressions may change but the ability to forgive others when friendship break down occurs is very important. No one is perfect. Sometimes we need to like a person not because of who they are but in spite of themselves. We do not have to be best friends but positive acquaintances are important for a workplace and in society as a whole that we demonstrate respect for each other.

I hope you can take the time to share some of the expressions you grew up with or even their grandparents grew up with and share them and the meanings behind them. 

For example

‘As the crow flies’ 

‘Like a broken record’ 

‘Your living in a pigsty’ 

‘I’ll be there with bells on’ 

'Kick up your heels’ 

‘That's the bee's knees’

‘You look happy as a clam at high water’ or ‘happy as a clam’ 

And there are many more!

We're living in challenging times, under the threat of war in the Ukraine, the devastation of the floods and the aftermath of the pandemic. This is no less difficult than generations past - every generation has its challenges but the inclusion of social media can be brilliant or can be negative and our young people today have to grow up way too fast in some aspects but also currently have the longest period of teenage hood that is extending into their 20’s before moving to independent living. 

Jesus asks us to be respectful and inclusive of others no matter where they come from or who they are - this creates a community full of respect and tolerance for difference. Encourage your young person to be part of that inclusiveness.