Triniglish/Trinididioms spoken and explained #63 | One Day, One Day Congotay | Yuh is ah Trini
This is a saying that a mischievous youth or neighborhood bully might hear from an elder in the community. The wave of violence currently affecting Trinidad—with all the murders and mayhem—makes this proverb resonate far beyond youthful mischief. Today, it applies to all the wicked ones preying on a vulnerable and distressed society.
The phrase “One day” carries a chilling weight. Just the image of an elder, finger raised and voice steady, uttering “One day, one day, young man,” evokes a sense of impending justice. It signals that a reckoning will come—a moment that may force someone who has strayed to confront their actions and reconsider their choices as a citizen.
Now we add the twist that makes this proverb distinctly Trinidadian: “one-day congotay.” This Trinididiom reminds us that karma does not sleep. One day, one-day congotay means the time will come when one must answer for their misdeeds. It's the moment every wrongdoer fears: the arrival of their judgment day.
Or as a Trinidadian would say with biting truth: “Who cyar hear will have to feel.” — And yes, “One day, one day, congotay!”
