Quoting a proverb to stress a point remains a good writing tool. Miguel de Cervantes (1547-1616) wisely stated: “A proverb is a short sentence based on long experience.” We all live our lives by well-known proverbs, but despite their wisdom, many conflict in meaning. Consider the following:

A proverb on which I have relied many times, with more success than failure: “Nothing ventured, nothing gained,” remains a valid formula for success; but its wisdom may be offset easily by: “Better safe than sorry,” which withholds action, sometimes to the person’s benefit. To be sure, choosing inaction to action assures the safer course to avoid potential mistakes, but taking no risks will yield fewer benefits.

Hence, “He who hesitates is lost,” supports some risk, as in “Nothing ventured, nothing gained,” but that risk is counterbalanced against safety, with “Look before you leap,” a cautious, well intended proverb, in alignment with: “Better safe than sorry.”

If one were to prioritize the previous four proverbs in order of importance for prudent action, I suggest: (1) “Better safe than sorry” advanced to (2) “He who hesitates is lost, ” followed by (3) “Nothing ventured, nothing gained,” but be sure to (4) “Look before you leap,” One could rearrange the order in various sequences to support any decision, good or bad. In weighing the above proverbs, however, we must also consider the people with whom we associate, as well.

A proven admonition in dealing with unsavory groups, like: clicks, gangs, or hoodlums: “Birds of a feather flock together.“ On the other hand, in love relationships, “Opposites attract.” So which is it? I suppose people flock together, to confirm the proverb: “The more the merrier,” but when the crowd starts to pair off in a romantic coupling, then “Opposite’s attract” brings: “Two’s company, three’s a crowd” to the forefront.

Lastly, we must remember: “The only thing constant is change,” which lends solace and justification when outside events adversely impact our lives beyond our control. Not to worry: “The more things change, the more they stay the same.” The first justifies or rationalizes a changed circumstance; while the other mollifies an unexpected change as having little effect.

In the end, one can find a wise proverb to support any desired action, relationship or change. Thus, the wisdom of proverbs depends on the desired result at the time.