By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed.D.
I will be the first to admit there is a new language out here today. It’s one that I find challenging at times. I’m left confused and amused at the same time. In other words, what you talking about Willis?
If you are in the 4th quarter, maybe you feel the same way. You know that time is passing by when your grandchildren use what I describe as tech language. They are just short phrases and words or even a few letters that have meanings.
Here are a few of them that I hear or read almost daily. Trust the process, toxins, do the work and karma are just a few of them. They are on social media like a runaway train.
For example, the first person I heard use the phrase, “trust the process” was NBA star, Joel Embiid last year when he was injured. I guess the rehab of the injury was the trust the process part. Now everybody trusts the process in everything they do.
The word toxin according to reports was first used by Ludwig Brieger, a German chemist. It was 1888. I have heard the younger crowd tell someone, “You’re toxic”. I will leave it for your interpretation. Calling it or speaking it into your life is another widely used expression. This phrase has Biblical roots dating back centuries ago. It has now found new life and is used more intentionally.
Of course, there are some phrases we seasoned citizens heard back in the day. Our parents used them and we continued the tradition. It is funny that when I use them around a younger group, they look puzzled and clueless.
If the shoe fits wear it is one of the expressions, I heard in my community growing up. Translated it means that if the circumstances described fit then that is who you are or what you did.
Way back when, it was mind your p’s and q’s. Interpreted as act like you got some sense. H.T. (home training) also comes to mind. Families were big on children acting a certain way while in the public square. It is no different today as parents have certain expectations of the children.
Don’t spill the beans originally meant not to divulge a secret or privileged information. Some of us came of age when someone was always spilling the beans. Truth be told, I spilled the beans a time or two.
With today’s technology, someone is always spilling the beans using Facebook or Twitter. It’s humorous to think that some folks cannot keep a secret. They just must tell somebody.
If you have children or grandchildren, then you know this age-old phrase has turned into a popular game for kids. This game is being sold by the thousands on websites and in stores. Just think, those beans have come a long way.
Today’s computer age has given us a way to respond instantly. Even as a novice or a pro, you know the terms like and share. In the blink of an eye, you can add your satisfaction or dissatisfaction to anything on the internet. Sometimes a smiling face or a frown will pop up, too.
As reports confirm, Vimeo created the first like button in 2005 to show favor and appreciation. Facebook began to use it in 2009. It is now ubiquitous and a part of our universal culture.
Likes and shares have solidified their place in today’s tech landscape. They represent the easiest and fastest way to voice your opinion about a topic. There are budding political types who have become influencers using likes and shares. Some have podcasts now.
The Creator Rewards Program which was started for this new age technology has the attention of those wanting to make a splash. You need 10,000 followers and 100,000 views during a 30-day period. Technology with new avenues and innovations has changed the world and how we communicate. Wouldn’t you agree?
