Well, I think there are a number of things that go into making a great comic like Godfrey, but one of my favorite qualities, has to be irreverence. For just about anything. I’ve heard a number of Godfrey’s routines, and this guy has it in spades. Irreverence, by definition is a lack of respect for something, and to some people, this can be offensive. But, I think you have to remember the old axiom, that it’s not just what you say, but how you say it. When it’s none with humor, it’s never meant to be taken seriously. Sure, there may be a speck of good truth to it, but that’s what makes for good comedy.
Irreverence can be directed at any topic, but usually the more revered, the better. At least the more revered, the funnier it will be. Race, religion, government, authority, teachers, parents or any devout belief make for excellent comedy targets. Personally, I like comedy even more, when they’re making fun of me, my beliefs or my race. I’m part of the majority of males in North America, so I definitely think we deserve to be picked on. Hell, we’ve caused more then our fair share of trouble, so if a little bit of comedy can get us to laugh at ourselves then that’s a good thing.
I definitely need to laugh at myself a little bit more. We all do. Be so serious is simply not good for us. Thank goodness there are brilliant comics like Godfrey around to point that out for us. It takes the stress out of our lives, and makes us better people. I love a good laugh as much as the next guy, and I think as I get older, it takes more and more to get a good chuckle, let alone a hearty guffaw from me.
Shopping for diamonds helps me relieve stress, but once in a while, my friends and I watch a good comedy show. We actually went to see one when we were in Las Vegas and we are all glad we did.