Comedy is cathartic, and perhaps no one knows that better than the people who've been drawn to pursue it as a career. From Carol Burnett to Mark Twain, comedians and humorists from all walks of life have shared illuminating insights into the value of their craft, reminding us of humor’s positive impact on the world.
At its best, humor can offer not only joy but also relief from the painful moments in life. Laughter also creates bonds and breaks down the barriers between people — finding the humor in our shared experiences can reshape our perception, help foster empathy, and make us feel less alone. As writer Eva Hoffman so beautifully put it, "There is nothing like a gleam of humor to reassure you that a fellow human being is ticking inside a strange face."
To remind us to find the humor in each day, here are some musings from comedians on this powerful and joyful force.
Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.Victor Borge
You can't laugh and be afraid at the same time — of anything. If you're laughing, I defy you to be afraid.Stephen Colbert
Comedy is tragedy plus time.Steve Allen
Humor is the great thing, the saving thing after all. The minute it crops up, all our irritations and resentments slip away, and a sunny spirit takes their place.Mark Twain
Laughter heals all wounds, and that's one thing that everybody shares. No matter what you're going through.Kevin Hart
If one has no sense of humor, one is in trouble.Betty White
Comedy is finding the things you hate about people and the world and having fun with that … Turning that into joy.Bob Odenkirk
Even though it seems foolish and silly and crazy, comedy has the most to say about the human condition. Because if you can laugh, you can get by. You can survive when things are bad when you have a sense of humor.Mel Brooks
It is a curious fact that people are never so trivial as when they take themselves seriously.Oscar Wilde
A day without laughter is a day wasted.Unknown
Life goes by fast. Enjoy it. Calm down. It's all funny.Joan Rivers
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