Thinking Like a Magician

"Be Absurd" - April 2008

Last month I mentioned that Steve Martin is my favorite comedian. It's because he is not afraid of being absurd. Our culture seems to be obsessed with acting 'serious' and 'proper'. Beginning in grade school we are somehow taught that being different or weird is a terrible thing. We become terrified of being seen as 'goofy' or 'silly'. I think that's a shame.

When we grow up, it's almost expected that we behave a certain way. It's ok to be funny, but only within certain parameters. 'Make me laugh, but don't be too weird.' Why is that? I honestly don't know. But I do know that one of the greatest gifts we can give each other is a moment of laughter. I learned this from my Dad. Most of the time, he was a pretty down-to-earth, proper guy. But he had a certain absurd sense of humor. Every Christmas since I was in high school, he underwent a transformation into "Boydio". He would dress up in really goofy clothes and nose-glasses and facilitate a silly game that the whole family played. Every year it was a different game and we all won little prizes (it was just a funny way to give us a gift.) He was a huge goof and we loved it! By going out on a limb and being absurd, he gave us the best gift of all - laughter.

I have to admit, I was a little hesitant to post this video. I act like an idiot in it. But I did declare this The Year of No Fear, and if it makes you laugh, it's worth it!

Trick of the Month - Be Absurd

Music: Kevin McLeod

" When in doubt, make a fool of yourself. There is a microscopically thin line between being brilliantly creative and acting like the most gigantic idiot on earth. So what the hell, leap."
- Cynthia Heimel

 

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