There are times in our life when we may feel we are in a horrible relentless storm, continuously being tossed from one huge wave to the next, unable to see from the rain pouring down our face, the wind pushing us onto locations we cannot control and scared of the many rocks and sharks around.
But as Charlie has taught me, there are meteorological systems in place now that allow ships to see where the overhead clouds are and allow us to try to navigate to calmer waters. I really enjoy my working sessions with him because not only is he passionate about his project, but he’s receptive and open to new ideas and concepts. He also respects people which is great when you are working together on something; you feel heard and that’s so important for a team to grow together for the benefit of the business.
I’ve also learnt so much about the sea: navigation routes, where to find the wrecks of ships sadly lost in the past, how the sea shelf off some coasts can suddenly dramatically drop down as well as the origin of the phrase “the doldrums”.
As a sea fairing nation, we have quite a few phrases from the maritime world which have now become part of our everyday language. Others include:
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Aloof – Originally a nautical term meaning to steer a ship into the wind to stay clear of hazards. Now, it means being distant or detached.
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Above Board – In sailing, cargo or activities “above board” were visible on the deck and honest, unlike hidden dealings below. Now, it means something is open and honest.
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Batten Down the Hatches – A sailing term for securing a ship’s hatches before a storm. Now, it means to prepare for trouble or difficulty.
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By and Large – A sailing term describing a ship’s ability to sail both into the wind (“by”) and with the wind (“large”). Now, it means “generally speaking.”
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The Cut of One’s Jib – Ships were identified by their jib sails. Now, it refers to judging someone’s character by their appearance or behavior.
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Deep Six – Originally a reference to throwing something overboard in at least six fathoms of water. Now, it means to discard or get rid of something.
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Feeling Blue – When a ship lost its captain, it would fly blue flags and have a blue stripe painted on its hull. Today, it means feeling sad or downcast.
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Hand Over Fist – Originally meant hauling in a rope quickly. Now, it refers to gaining something rapidly, often wealth or success.
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Loose Cannon – Unsecured cannons on ships were dangerous. Now, it describes an unpredictable or reckless person.
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Pipe Down – A boatswain’s pipe (whistle) signaled when sailors should be quiet. Now, it means to be silent or calm down.
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Taken Aback – A sailing term for when the wind suddenly changed direction and pushed sails backward. Now, it means to be shocked or surprised.
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Three Sheets to the Wind – In sailing, sheets are ropes controlling sails. If three were loose, the ship would be out of control. Now, it means being very drunk.
We hope that this community can help you navigate towards safer seas and find good ports of call to enjoy life. Remember:
Today is where your book begins / The rest is still unwritten.
Photo by Nicole Baster
