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At Sixes and Sevens

At Sixes and Sevens

At Sixes and Sevens--white dice on a black backgroundAfter I posted “At Loggerheads,” I received the following comment. “It’s all sixes and sevens now… That’s a ridley sea turtle, not a loggerhead.” Since I am not a turtle expert, I should have double checked my source. However, I did not.

At sixes and sevens means confused or disorganized.

In addition to turtles, I get confused about:

  • Numbers (Math is not my strength.)
  • Physics (I received a good grade but have little understanding.)
  • Meteorology (Weather forecasts keep me informed.)

At sixes and sevens also means frazzled.

Life gets overwhelming. Daily difficulties leave me bumfuzzled. Bewildered and spread too thin, I find myself going in circles unsure what to do next.

Rest makes a world of difference.

With a clearer mind and restored energy:

  • Life feels less confusing.
  • Organization looks more doable.
  • Tasks fall into place

The Free Dictionary offers two possible origins for this expression.

  1. “A dice game in which rolling a six or a seven was unfavorable.”
  2. “A dispute that arose between two of the guilds or craft organizations in medieval London.” It involved sixth and seventh place in the city’s annual procession.

When confused, turn to the right resource.

Seek God as the ultimate answer for life’s most important questions.

“I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me” (Psalm 120:1 NIV).

Thanks to Jeff Buck for the suggestion. Image by Willi Heidelbach from Pixabay

Do you have an expression you want explained or a thought about this one? If so, please comment below.

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