Useful Phrases for a Simpler Life
There is a phrase in Filipino that I find very useful:
“Hindi ko problema.”
Hindi = no or not.
Ko = I or me.
Problema = problem (from Spanish).
“Not my problem.” A most useful phrase for stopping gossip, malicious small talk. or other garbage you do not want to hear. “Did you hear what he/she said/did?” “Not my problem.” And then, feel free to walk away.
Also a useful phrase for international troubles, world economy, U.S. economy, and most of the U.S. government. “Not my problem.” We all have problems nearby. Why concern ourselves with problems that we have no control over, that we cannot affect, or that we can do nothing about? Do we need the extra stress? Useless.
Another useful phrase:
“Hindi ko alam.”
Hindi = no or not.
Ko = I or me.
Alam – know.
“I do not know.” Very useful as we get older. We all know a lot; we all do not know everything; we all will never know everything; and we all are free to admit that we do not know. It’s liberating to be able to say, “I do not know,” (especially if what we really mean is “I do not care to know.”) Again, a useful phrase against gossip, and trivia concerning TV and movie stars, celebrities, athletes, or anyone else you don’t need to know more (or anything) about. On the other hand, “I do not know” can be the beginning of a new learning experience. Your choice.
“I have no opinion.” Another similar useful phrase. This is a helpful answer to “What do you think of?” This phrase is useful for discussions of politics or religion or any other subject that you do not wish to discuss, especially if someone is trying to get you into an argument. No need for an argument. We do not need to have an opinion about everything; we can let some questions go. “I have no opinion.” Done.
So, for the end of 2024 and for 2025 and beyond, I hope you find that these are some useful phrases to make your life easier, simpler, less complicated, and more enjoyable.
B.J. Stolbov and his wife live in Northern Luzon of the Philippines on their organic farm where they raise fruit and nut trees, vegetables, herbs, and spices. B.J. writes mostly poetry, and occasionally travel articles, when he can travel, hopefully more often.
