Dear Gill,
There used to be an expression used in the jewish community: "This is
too serious not to laugh". For many years it has been the 'in case of
emergency break glass' back-up for my wife and myself, and it has seen
us through some very dark times. Finding humour in a bad situation may
not alter the facts, but if it changes our perception of the facts then
it will also influence our responses.
I do a fair bit of media work, tv, radio and print, and I find that
there is no substitute for a very thorough briefing to getting the
story right, even with people I have worked with for a long time. Don't
forget that we are dealing with very complex issues. Journos are not
expert on everything they report on, the best thing they can hope for is
an instant fix that will see them through the story. Hence I will try
and anticipate the traps for them, and if they get it wrong gently
correct them. However, provided their attitude is good, which will show
in their work, I will call them later and thank them for having done a
good job.
After all, the audience will react to the tone, not to the actual
terminology used.
Have a good day, rgds John
Gill Dixon wrote:
>
> I will not respond in length to this, other than to say that I am sorry not
> everyone shares my ability to laugh at myself.
> At times I find the stereotypes reassuring, because they allow me to
> understand a little why life is such a battle!
> I apologise for upsetting you Kathy. I will endeavor not to use humour on
> this forum again,and will cease to laugh at myself immediately and retire
> with my wrists stinging!
> Gill.
>
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: [log in to unmask]
> > [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of Kathy
> > Boxall
> > Sent: 08 March 1999 11:28
> > To: [log in to unmask]
> > Subject: Re: FW: Laugther, the best medicine
> >
> >
> > Laughter at whose expense?
> >
> > Offence may not have been intended but the forwarded message does
> > reinforce negative, unhelpful and disabling stereotypes.
> >
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