Spirited Texas Aphorisms: What They Are and How to Use Them

A couple of years ago I purchased an app for my smartphone that helped me learn new words and expand my vocabulary. A few weeks ago the app sent me a new word I've heard before but I didn't know what it meant.

Aphorism. As I'm going through my emails today I realize I have a couple of emails that have used the word "aphorism" and now I know what it means. I guess there are others in the world using the same vocabulary apps that I do.

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So I started thinking, and this is where I get myself into trouble - thinking. I started thinking about this new word, what it means, and how we Texans are full of highly spirited aphorisms.

According to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary online, an aphorism is:

1. a short saying that is intended to express a general truth. It can be used as a short saying or a proverb.
2. a pithy observation that's a general truth, for example: “If it ain't broke, don't fix it”
3. a concise statement of principle
4. a terse formulation of a truth or sentiment (like an adage). An example is: "Let us value the quality of life, not the quantity"

A "Spirited Texas Aphorism" grabs the essence of Texas and blends it with some Lone Star grit, some good ole Texas humor, and a sprinkling of the wild west. Here are some of my examples and others from my wife Donna, my friends, and a few co-workers.