They say it so well

Is it because we are overly familiar with North American english,

or do we not have the richness of language usage

that some other ethnicities incorporate ?

I grew up with 'high german' and 'low german' as second languages.

The nuances from, at least our cultural tree are laced with expressions ripe

with hyperbole, wit and satire.

Expressions often address subjects that would be taboo to discuss

or to mention in conversation.

One common low german expression,

used in mixed company in our overtly and religiously correct community

was the familiar 'shieterie und buch wie doa',

directly translated, diahrea and stomach ache. Not obscene by any stretch,

but it surely loses it's charm when translated into english,

no matter how you interpret it.

Body parts were described colloquially,

rope and tail could as easily be used to refer to

a certain male body part as to be used literally,

both by women and men.

I'm belaboring my point.

My Irish friends have way too many discriptors and 'turns of phrases'.

The lyrics to much of their music evoke

humor, compassion and tell stories so vividly.

A while back while browsing through Irish Design,

a local shop selling all things Irish,

I was compelled to purchase a little piece of art.

Both for the artistry of the piece as well as the proverb

that had given the calligrapher motive for creating his little work of art.

But I must say, it was the proverb that drew me to it

and compelled me to get out my Visa card.

I trust that as you read the proverb

you will understand the pleasure that

I have enjoyed each time I happen upon it.

May those that love us, love us;

& those that don't love us,

may You turn their hearts;

& if he can't turn their hearts,

may he turn their ankles;

So we may know them

by their limping.

It also reminds me of another saying,

"Everyone I meet brightens my life.

Some when they enter my life

and the others when they leave it".

And you my friend

are one of those who brightens my life

each time you enter.

Ciao, I hope to see you soon.