April 16, 2008

And now, for Something Completely Different

I love that line, it's from Monty Python, great show and hilarious movies. So, that's what we'll talk about today, what makes something funny. It varies from person to person, sex to sex, even race to race.
But, why do us laugh easier than others? I think there are a lot of factors that play into this. Things like the way you were raised, the people you're around, and, in general, just what kind of person you are. If your parents were very strict and uptight, you're probably going to pick up some of that. Are you friends with a very serious, intellectual crowd? The laughter will be a bit restricted. And, if your just an introverted person, serious person, strict, or any combination of these, the laughter might not peel out of you.
Yet, there is nothing wrong with you even if you do fit any of these molds. You're who you are, and that's just fine as long as you're not hurting anyone. Maybe you laugh at things when you're alone, have your own brand of humor, or just didn't find a certain joke very funny. And, the thing is, if a joke is racial or sexist, you're not going to find it funny if your race or sex is the target. That's completely understandable, I wouldn't laugh at a joke that offended me.
Think about it, as you sit in a restaurant, walk down the street, or even at work. Listen to the conversations around you, listen to the jokes and what people laugh at. Don't be a snoop, but pay attention. It's very interesting to listen to the variety of humor out there.
In conclusion, it's either funny to you or it isn't. There's nothing wrong with you if some jokes just don't catch your fancy. And, take care when telling a joke or laughing at one, if it's sexist or racial, you're walking a thin line. People can easily become offended and you can help someone offensive think that it's OK to be.
Until we next meet, Readers of mine, Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good Evening and Good Night....

1 comment:

  1. Joe-I am one of those people that think the cup is half full most of the time and life is much easier to deal with when you can laugh. I feel more at ease when I'm around "down to earth" people that have a great sense of humor and I've noticed alot of these people can have serious things to worry about too. No matter what is going on in anyones life, you can relieve some of the tension by laughing.

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