Practical Jokes

THE FOLLOWING IS AN ENCORE TIM MOORE BLOG:

Everyone knows someone whose idea of a good time is to pull “practical jokes” on unsuspecting family members, co-workers---and even strangers.

Not sure if this propensity is genetic—a recessive cruelty gene—or perhaps the effects of a warped childhood. Maybe those who partake of these often elaborate schemes were themselves the target of these jokes and now--- it’s payback time.

Where did the term “practical joke” come from? Webster’s Dictionary gives several definitions of the word “practical”, only the first of which can be STRETCHED to apply:

1) “of or obtained through practice or action” (this one has to be it)
2) “useful” (uh…..I don’t think so)
3) “concerned with the application of knowledge to useful ends” (here again the word “useful” disqualifies #3)
4) “dealing realistically and sensibly with everyday matters” ( nope)

Enjoy this video compilation of everyday people being scared out of their wits by—in most cases—people they seem to know:




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MOriOpcgeQ


OK, I admit that I laughed out loud at most of these, but in the case of the older people, isn’t a fatal heart attack a possible outcome here? In this case, the victim may get the last laugh as they get to watch you (from the pearly gates, of course) being sent to a federal prison for involuntary manslaughter!

We have all been guilty of participating in practical jokes at one time or another I suppose, but I’d like to think that my transgressions have not been of the severity that would cause instant death or serious injury.

A warning to those who may attempt to make ME the butt of the joke---if it’s harmless, I’ll be fine with it. However, if you do ANY of the things depicted in the video above, you’ll “crusin’ for a bruisin’”!!!

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