Life is simple from a stage. Don’t get me wrong, not all of my stand up shows are easy. I have had really good nights, and some not so good nights. I have had nights where I feel like a conductor, and the audience is my symphony, responding to my every signal. And I have also had nights where I feel like a complete and utter failure, where nothing in my arsenal works.
I’ve talked before about failing forward, so I am at peace with poor nights, as long as I take something away from it. Excuses, like it was the crowd’s fault or the venue’s fault, doesn’t help me grow, even when it is the actual case (because trust me, not every crowd is a good crowd). The lessons in the bad shows make me that much better during the good shows.
No matter which type of show it is, good or bad, I have the luxury of knowing pretty quickly because of instant feedback. If they like me, laughs echo through the room. If I hear my own breathing, well, buckle up for a long night.
Comedy effects people in different ways for different reasons, sometimes deep and sometimes it’s very generic. But, in the moment, when I’m on a stage, it’s a very simple form of communication. I say something I find funny and the audience either laughs, or they don’t.
Sometimes I wish communication in real life could be that simple. But, with various outlets to communicate, like Facebook and Twitter, it is more complicated now than ever before.
We have often been a society with divisive beliefs. That’s what makes our country amazing. The fact that all of us can coexist without thinking exactly alike, the freedom to be different. And, most importantly we have always found unity in our differences.
Many of you have probably come to the conclusion that I am referring to politics. I do, but I am also referring to much more. I have spent hours going down rabbit holes of hatred on the internet. I know, it’s not healthy, but they can be so tricky.
I could start with a cute video of a dog sitting in his owners drivers seat and next I’m reading arguments in the comments about how the dog shouldn’t be sitting there because it doesn’t have a driver’s license. Before I know it, I’m reading angry comments concerning Trumps wall (from both sides) and how Bryce Harper shouldn’t need $400 million to hit a ball over a wall (what a prima donna).
What is my point to all of this? I’m not sure, I’m just a comedian. But let me try to make one.
Today, we all have a stage, and we all get to play the audience. It’s so easy that we don’t even have to prepare. We can be doing the dishes, making dinner for the kids, and stepping on stage with our fingertips to the phone.
The problem: it’s chaotic. It’s hard to tell when you should be the audience, or when you’re still on stage. It’s hard, because we’ve given up listening. We stopped understanding.
I understand it is easier said than done. And I am guilty of jumping right in on many occasions. But, without unity and compassion and empathy, the argument is lost before it even starts.
This week, if you happen to be on social media and feel the need to attack someone, I ask a favor. Take a deep breath, send the person a message that you don’t understand their point, and take time listen to the response. Most of all, be kind.
I would also like feedback. Find me on Facebook.
Special thanks to Rev Up Nutrition for the shirt!
You can catch me this Saturday at The Vineyard and Brewery At Hershey.
See also:
Our Rebuild: The Lasting Legacy Of 'Tyler's Ride'
Our Rebuild: A Vacation Performance In Florida
Our Rebuild: Juice And Science Stuff
Our Rebuild: Finding Inspiration In Frustration
Our Rebuild: Make Yourself A Priority
