An Apple a Day and Other Lies

Adage Assessments For Modern Times

Old adages die hard.

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

Lies.

We know this because, you know, Google.

According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, an adage is defined as

“a saying often in metaphorical form that typically embodies a common observation”

In layman’s terms, adages are analogies and lessons about various life events. Still unclear? Think of the many phrases that our parents reminded us of when we were growing up. They likened our seemingly foolish behaviour to a metaphorical example which made us think twice (they hoped).

Yet many of these classic phrases need to be reconsidered in modern times. What may have been relevant decades ago may not work in today’s world. I’m not saying that all adages are untrue but they do need to be looked at again, through the lens of current society. Some adages will pass the test of time and in many ways be more relevant than they ever were. Yet many won’t. It’s as if the truth about some of our favourite expressions has been revealed through the passage of time.

Let’s review 10 of the most frequently-cited adages.

1) Use it or lose it

Really? Use what? Your brain? Your words? Your intellect? This directive may have worked during a time when information wasn’t so readily accessible, but in the Digital Age, anything is possible. If this adage is quoted in relation to one’s physique, it’s still safe to say that the adage doesn’t hold water. At least not for those who have not “used it” but have been able to regenerate/revive/rebuild it through other means. If we’re talking about more intangible items, say, brains, well, this saying may indeed be true. A sharp mind has to remain so by being honed – regularly. Failure to do so may actually result in loss, be it intellectual, analytical or otherwise.

2) Time heals all wounds

Not quite. In the Internet age, digital sharing is forever. If you were wounded by something that was said about you online, or a digital photo, quote or video of you that was shared, unfortunately time won’t erase it. The ether exists eternally. It used to be that such wounds were only levied in person or, perhaps over the phone. In today’s world, slights small and large are often shared virtually, leaving a digital footprint that’s very difficult to ignore.

3) Birds of a feather flock together

Now this adage may indeed be true. Hello, Reddit! It’s never been easier to find a “tribe” and to connect with those of similar mindsets. Depending on where you stand, this may be either a good or a bad thing, but isn’t that always the case? Our “communities” are largely virtual in today’s world and being a shut-in is no longer what it once was. Need to find a likeminded soul? Look no further than your smartphone, laptop or tablet.

4) Better late than never

I’m not sure that being late is always the right option. Perhaps not showing up at all is more of a statement or would be better received than being tardy. Time is money. People are impatient. You’ll look bad if you show up well past when you were supposed to. Through the lens of the digital world, there really isn’t any excuse for tardiness, is there? After all, there are numerous apps, digital alarms, notifications and reminders available to keep us on track and on time. Shame on us if we don’t use them to be where we’re supposed to be at any given, predetermined time.

5) Better safe than sorry

Being safe is a good thing. No one would deny this fact. But are being safe and being sorry really mutually exclusive? Can one not be both safe and sorry for whatever previous actions, future outcomes or present realities at hand? Life’s complexities would dictate that the answer is “yes” – just ask any victim of violence who has moved on from a formerly abusive situation, for example. They may be thankfully safe today and also very sorry or regretful for past decisions they may have made.

6) He who hesitates is lost

No.

He – or she – who hesitates is likely one who realizes the importance of sober second thought, analysis of a situation and the value of erring on the side of caution. She who hesitates is one smart cookie.

7) Don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched

This one seems to work today as it did during the many decades that have preceded. It has never been a good idea to make plans on expected returns, whether tangible or intangible. If you don’t have it in your proverbial hand, you don’t have it at all. Until you do, it’s just fantasy. The adage still stands.

8) You can’t have your cake and eat it too

Many people would beg to differ. Unfaithful spouses. Tax evaders. Sociopaths. These and many other groups seem to be able to maximize their personal gains, whether monetarily, emotionally or otherwise with no great pains to themselves. Unfair but true. This adage still stands.

9) Practice makes perfect

What is “perfection” anyway? Does perfection even exist? Can we really be “perfect” at anything? This may be a pipe dream, an impossible goal, one that sets oneself up for disappointment and self-criticism. We live in a time when the never ending striving towards perfection is the goal of few who are able to achieve it. The bar seems to be getting higher and the goalpost seems to keep moving. Sure. Trying to better oneself in any area is a good thing but perfection? It’s a lofty goal that may not always be achievable. Perhaps just doing your best may be a more viable and less stressful option.

10) No use crying over spilled milk

Does that include almond or soy milk, or just the dairy kind? If it’s the former, I can totally understand because you know, expensive. If it’s the latter, have you heard the latest about climate change, fossil fuels, the dairy industry and the like? If so, you’re likely not crying for the milk that’s spilled but rather, the consequences of the dairy industry as a whole. In a metaphorical sense, sometimes there’s value to tears. Crying over something that’s happened often allows us to greive, reflect and ultimately move on. So cry. Get it out. Let the years flow, realizing that in doing so you may be helping yourself more so than keeping it all in.