bring the clowns

You are right about that. Today's generation get really offended by old style comedians like Don Rickles and others who insult not just themselves but different races, etc. I think the ability to see past the stereotypes and still enjoy the humor is great. Just depends on the comic's ability to pull it off. But some comedians spend their entire hour insulting one group. I had to turn the channel off the ones that focused entirely on people like me for having ideals opposite of liberals.

Andrea, Woke seems to go too far for many (including many democrats and liberals). My issue is that it may impinge on our ability to make a joke. We hope we never get stigmatized for being funny!!

Thanks for a clever comment John! I promise not to cancel you for it! Personally I don't mind the individual freedom and rights extended to people and letting people be who they are, but some people do get offended or take all this too far. I am generally a fan of planned and gradual change. If I were at a university, I would sign: Sincerely, Duke (he, him).

Jennifer...sounds like you have a good balance of thinking! That is a desirable thing. We just need to be able to listen and act with reason, which you do so well. The extremes bring us into strange territory at times, and triggers something that I tend to laugh at. That goodness poetry allows it!!!

Thanks Hiya. Laughing is good therapy and we can still take things seriously when necessary for the benefit of society. You are making me smile!

Mike, very wise you are. Laughing and talking are much better than anger and fighting....which are the tools of those who seek to manipulate us. Let's just all be happy to the extent possible even if we have different opinions!!!

Sally, you are so very elegant in your comment. You give me more credit than I deserve. You always make me smile and reminding me I need to visit your page for an emotional lift! You are a wonderful presence here.

Couldn't agree more. We really are walking a cultural tightrope where sometimes it's best to tread forward carefully. Thanks for your thoughtful reply.

Robert, I agree totally with your observation. Definite reasons exist for getting offended for sure. I think when we get too sensitive (sometimes from hurt and anger), we may go overboard. Room exists for all sorts of opinions, and I personally prefer seeking the reasons why people say what they do rather than immediately condemning others. Interactions call for a delicate balance and sensitivity, which I know you understand completely!! Thanks for what you said--much appreciated.

Anne-Lise..Thanks! It's hard to know when what we say will prompt a laugh or indignation. There's normal standards of behavior, and then there are some that go over the top and interfere with reasonable communication and negotiation. A few extremists on the left have gone too far, but the right has gone crazy. Many of us wonder how we all get together and live in peace. We hope a little laughter helps!!!

Thanks Tom. There is indeed a method to approach our issues of the day that can benefit from a laugh or two. While I would rather be aware of what's going on around me than asleep, I do like moderation. Sending smiles!!!