Word of the Year

AUTHENTIC is Merriam-Webster’s word of the year for 2023. Checking its definition surged as a lot of us, apparently, looked for assurance that it hasn’t become an archaic adjective.

As we barrel into 2024, our dictionaries will gain more words before the year's end. That makes me think about words and phrases from a century ago - this one in particular: ‘Do you know your onions?’

The phrase first appeared in print in a Harper’s Bazaar issue in 1922. Whether or not it originated in the US is debatable. No one knows whom to credit, but it’s an interesting phrase warranting renewed attention.

It means to know your stuff. If I were to say my pastor or my mechanic, my grocer or my stylist knows their onions, that's a compliment acknowledging expertise used for the good of many without getting a big head about it.

*Don't claim to know your onions if you don't. You will eventually be found out; self and others may suffer. A little bit of know-how can cause a heap o' trouble and raise a big stink.

*Strive with passion to know your onions about something. It's never too late. Knowledge is accessible in print, audio and video at the nimble click of an icon. We need enthusiastic, informed (dare I say authentic?) people to lead the way in every field to improve and enrich daily life.

*Don't hesitate to admit you don't know your onions. Identifying them is not the same thing as knowing them. Search for someone who knows theirs. They're out there and willing to share.

*Don't worry about someone else's onions. Tend to your own. Time is short. I like this French phrase for minding your own business: Occupez-vous de vos oignons. (Take care of your onions).

*Don't be bashful about planting onion seeds. If you run out of time or energy, delegate. We will always need planters.

May your onion beds flourish in 2024!