The phrase to Grasp the Nettle means to face a difficult situation positively and with confidence. Stinging nettles are painful when brushed against and can bring a person out in a nasty rash, but for centuries they have been known for their healing and nutritional value. Nettle soup, I am assured, is a delicacy served now in the finest restaurants.

I am also assured that although nettles are painful when touched lightly, if grabbed boldly they inflict no pain or stinging sensation at all. Aaron Hill, in his poem 'The Nettle's Lesson' (1743), endorses this:

Tender-handed stroke a nettle,
And it stings you for your pains,
Grasp it like a man of mettle,
And it soft as silk remains.

There you are, kids - go off and try it. And tell your mum Aaron Hill says it's OK.