proverb · Words worth keeping
He looks for his ass and sits on its back.
He looks for his ass and sits on its back.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A person can overlook something immediately available while searching farther away. Check the present situation before assuming that the missing resource must be elsewhere.
Example
A team searches for a way to collect feedback before noticing that its existing meeting form already has an unused comments field.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The searcher is already sitting on the donkey they seek. The comic mismatch separates having something from recognising that one has it. It can describe overlooked tools, information or help as well as a misplaced object. A useful first step is to inspect what is already in use or close at hand, then clarify what is actually missing. The image does not establish that every difficult search has an obvious answer; it simply warns that familiarity can make an available resource hard to notice.
When to use it
Use it to prompt a check of resources already within reach.
Keep in mind
An available resource may still be unsuitable. Confirm that it meets the need rather than insisting that a nearby option must solve the problem.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional (French-language collection)
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown