Understanding Humor
Life becomes easier with a sense of humor. It is a useful tool when faced with difficult situations. Imagine all the good it can do: A witty comment can make the weary forget the weight of their problems. A hilarious punch line can knock the wind out of the irate. A strategic blasting of flatulence can loosen up a tense meeting or prompt an early dismissal (depends on whether the bomb is biological or nuclear). The ability to tell a joke makes one seem smarter and more carefree. It gives people an impression that a funny person is someone who thinks on their feet. To use humor effectively, we need to understand its qualities.
Wit is the root of all humor. Everyone has wit because everyone has a brain. Think that stand-up comedians have more wit than an average guy? Well . . . yes. Yes, they do. But that doesn’t mean a comedian’s brain is bigger. It just means that they’ve cultivated their wit. See, the difference between a comedian and a regular funny person is the skill in setting up a joke. The latter relies on engaging in a serious conversation and waiting for the right time to drop a witty remark, while a comedian prepares a joke from scratch, complete with premise, promise, and punch line. Their single-minded dedication in practicing a joke sharpens their mind, exercises their funny bone, and trains their wit to perfect alertness. That’s what got Louis C.K. bald. Okay, I’m just kidding. It’s because he’s past fifty. (Let’s face it, Louie. That’s true.)
At times, the tickle of humor can become a painful prick. There is a fine line between being funny and being mean. Sometimes we go too far, our jokes become hurtful, and every laugh bloats our ego and echoes around the shame of our victim, isolating them in the spotlight for ridicule. Constantly abusing others is nothing more than mere bullying done to gain temporary bliss and hollow delight. Know when to draw the line.
Making a joke is only half the fun. There is also the receiving end—the stooge, the ass. Max Eastman, author of The Sense of Humor, once wrote, “It is the ability to take a joke—not make one—that proves you have a sense of humor.” Someone who cannot take a joke is no fun at all. A heckler commenting on the similarities of a hippopotamus and your momma? Laugh it off. The capacity to take a joke without getting offended is grounded on the understanding and acceptance of one’s place in the world.
Life is hard. Why make it worse? Hone your sense of humor and enjoy life with a good laugh.
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