Why does it upset so many people?
by Ted Schredd
It always makes me laugh when people are silly
in public. But that is not a typical societal response
to public silliness. It seems like a lot of people
seem to put their nose up in the air when they
see an open display of ludicrous behavior.
Just the other day I was in Dairy Queen with my
friend Erin we encountered this situation. We ordered
our dessert and proceeded to get as much ice cream
around our mouths instead of inside of our mouths.
It brought all the customers to a state of hushed
disapproval. We were having a great old time much
to the dismay of the people around us.
Why can people laugh until they fall off their
chair when they see silly actions on TV but when
the display is in public they become embarrassed?
Why? Why would you draw that line? Because some
where in your upbringing you were taught that to
be a little outrageous was bad. And even if it
was somebody else being silly, it was still bad.
I say Horse Puckeys!
When people are laughing and participating in
public mock foolery enjoy it. Don't be a judge
of what is and isn't appropriate. Enjoy the clowns
of the world instead of being disgusted. Sure if
people are disturbing you that is different, but
when people are engaged in silliness go ahead and
let that be a form of free amusement.
Its Ok to have fun or enjoy others
having fun in public. A couple of weeks ago I was
invited to speak at a bookshop called Phoenix on
Bowen on Bowen Island just off the east coast of
Vancouver Island. There I met Jan and Lois. These
two were dressed up for no reason except to be
silly and have fun. Jan was trying so hard not
to laugh as he tried to keep a straight face. What
a wonderful way to live that you have so much laughter
within you that when you try to contain it you
can't. I love these two for their zest for life
and not caring what others think.
If you want to add some silliness you will have
to get past "How you should" behave. If being grumpy
or being silly and fun are your choices - pick
silly.
