That’s the keyword in my family to remind everyone it’s time to take action. When my dad and I have been sitting at the dining table for too long, philosophizing, one might say, “Rhubarb!” Then, we’ll finally get up and go for our daily walk.
The German word for “rhubarb” is “Rhabarber.” More so than just describing a vegetable, it is also a common way of pointing out when someone is jabbering. It even sounds like “blah blah,” especially if you repeat it thrice for dramatic effect: “Rhabarber, Rhabarber, Rhabarber.” In fact, there’s a whole family of tongue twisters built around the word, and even a funny song describing “Barbara’s rhubarb bar.”
So when my dad is annoyed at having the umpteenth meeting of the day, he might walk out of his office, roll his eyes, and say, “Rhabarber, Rhabarber.” When a friend tells me to get to the point, they might cut me off with “Rhabarber!” It’s a decisive, not always friendly but mostly endearing way of reminding someone: “Hey. You’re yapping. Let’s get a move on.”
My friend Mike says “banana” whenever he gets angry. Then, he eats one and calms down instead of yelling at his wife. My family uses “rhubarb” as a way to make everyone laugh and call each other to action.
Which keyword can open new doors for you and the people around you? Have a think, but don’t rhubarb for too long—the quirkier, the easier it is to remember, and, chances are, even the weird ones will grow on you.