A fool’s laughter is quickly gone, like thorns crackling in a fire. This also is meaningless. - Ecclesiastes 7:6 (NLT)We smile and laugh, but there's tension, and we're well aware of it. The other person might not be aware of our motivations, but we (hopefully) feel uncomfortable. Perhaps sometimes we feel vindicated instead. In reality, our comments are sarcastic...served with a twist of truth and topped off with humor. We purge what we need but have "JK" as our out, so even if the person suspects we're being mean, they can't really argue with us once we say "just kidding."
It's such a fine line. I enjoy laughing, but kidding around with someone can easily slip into making fun of someone. And we think we make it all better by saying "I was just kidding!" Is it that simple? Think about people you know whose feelings have been hurt and friendships have suffered because of "just kidding" moments. How much baggage is being carried around because of sarcastic (and hurtful) humor?
When do you rationalize sarcastic humor? Think about the situations you find yourself saying "just kidding."
- Are you usually working with groups of people? Serving or leading?
- Do you feel trapped and need to escape? Self-preservation?
- Is jealousy getting the best of you?
- Are you grasping for a way to tell someone something that's a little uncomfortable for you?
Be familiar with the situations and people you're most tempted to cross the line between appropriate humor and sarcastic humor. Know your temptations. And know your motivations. Stop rationalizing and consider how the other person might perceive and be affected by your comments. Even if you can "get away" with sarcastic humor, should you?
And is there anyone you need to humbly apologize to, someone you might have wounded with words recently? Do it today. NJK (not just kidding).
Everything in me will celebrate when you speak what is right. - Proverbs 23:16 (NLT)
