This semester, I have learned a lot about humor, comedy, and laughter. During crazy times, it’s good to remember that we don’t live in a vacuum where humor does not exist, though we may have to try a bit harder to find it. So here’s a list of some of the things I’ll take away from my final semester and our Sounds and Silence of Laughter class.

1. Humor is in the eye of the beholder

There are things that are funny to some people and not funny to others. Sometimes it’s someone’s sense of humor, or it’s the setting it’s being told.

2. Laughter can be a bonding technique

Some of my most fond memories with my family and friends are when we uncontrollably laugh together. That’s why me and my friends love watching stand-up comedy together, I think.

3. There are historical figures who were very funny

I had no idea that Ben Franklin wrote satire. Sometimes I forget that those people in history probably loved comedy just as much as we do.

4. Comedy is relatable

For me, the funniest things are the ones that I can relate to. I can feel the pain and find the humor, but I HATE second hand embarrassment, so it can’t be too relatable.

5. Laughter is the best medicine

Especially now, when everything is NOT awesome, laughing is important to keep our spirits up and going. It can bring us together during this trying time.

+ 1: I should probably read the syllabus to see how many blog posts I need/have already posted. This is my third post in 24 hours, and I think I’ve passed what I need to do, but I’m just really unsure and stress writing/overcompensating at this point. 🙂