A Joke Is Still a Choice

Calling something a joke does not remove the purpose behind it. You may know exactly which remark will draw laughter at someone else's expense. The audience's response does not make the choice innocent.

Proverbs gives weight to speech because its effects are real. Words can damage trust, protect someone from error, encourage faithfulness, or spread a lie. They do not create events by magic, but they can change how people are treated.

Examine the humor you contribute. Refuse the joke that needs another person's humiliation to work. If you have hurt someone, apologize without asking them to prove they are less sensitive. Use the same creativity to encourage that you once used to get a laugh. A truthful, generous sentence can have a long life too.