When standing in line at a fast food place, the young woman behind the counter asked me if I was going to tell a joke.

That kind of set me back on my heels. I have told my share of jokes, but while in a line waiting to order my food, I generally respect those behind me enough so that I don’t waste their time telling jokes. I can’t remember exactly what I said, but I did want to know why she asked. It seems I reminded her of an uncle who was always telling jokes.

To this I replied, “Mostly, I am only funny when I’m not trying.”

It was, I guess a little irony, because she seemed to know exactly what I meant. It was about the best laugh I ever got anywhere. I mean, generally, I do something or say something that makes people laugh. Some people get paid for that, you know. The problem is that it is not usually done or said to be funny.

Really, I don’t mind so much, usually. However, it is a shame I can’t get those wonderful laughs while I am trying.