Every child born to Jamaican parents has experiences which make them wonder if they all grew up in the same household. There are certain characteristics that make being raised in a Jamaican-ruled household unique, especially where reprimanding children is concerned.
Here are some popular patois proverbs (and their meanings) used by every Jamaican parent.
1. Who cyah hear must feel
Meaning: If you don’t heed the warnings of others, you must deal with the consequences.
This is mostly used by parents who have already spoken to their child/ren about something in particular. It’s usually the final warning… followed by a thump in the back.
2. Wah sweet yu aguh sour yuh
Meaning: Whatever causes you to be happy will soon become your source of pain/sorrow.
Is it me (I’m sure it’s not) or are Jamaican parents uncomfortable with seeing children laughing or having a good time? It’s never ‘Aaaw, your laughter brings me joy’… but always ‘guh tek yu book’ or ‘yu brush yu teeth from mawnin yu deh deh a skin dem?’
3. Chicken merry, hawk deh near
Meaning: In your moments of careless joy, danger can suddenly creep upon you.
Be not deceived, my child, 99.9% of the time, they (the parents) are the looming hawks.
4. Fiyah deh a muss muss tail, him think a cool breeze
Meaning: Impending danger is mistaken for safety.
Like all the other passive aggressive phrases, this warning should not be taken lightly. Children, be vigilant. Do not be like ‘muss muss’ (mouse) who confused fire for cool breeze.
5. Lang run shawt ketch
Meaning: It may take a long while for you to be caught and punished for wrongdoing, but you will be caught.
Jamaican parents don’t forget. This proverb is proof!
6. When plantain waah dead, it shoot!
Meaning: Plantain trees are usually cut down after they bear.
This gem is used to address ‘showoff’, feisty children who, according to Jamaican parents, are ‘passing their place’. It is an explicit warning… yu want mi fi kill yu wid lick? Shoot!
Though strict, Jamaican parents are easily among the most caring and protective. They ride hard for their children and would do almost anything to ensure they are provided for. Words of affirmation and physical touch may not be their strongest love languages, but the immaculate way in which they cater to the needs of their children is comparable to none!
Thanks for reading!
Walk Good.
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