James Thurber: 'Humor is a serious thing. I like to think of it as one of our greatest earliest natural resources, which must be preserved at all cost.'

Humor is a serious thing. I like to think of it as one of our greatest earliest natural resources, which must be preserved at all cost.

In his famous quote, James Thurber brilliantly encapsulates the essence and significance of humor. He states, "Humor is a serious thing. I like to think of it as one of our greatest earliest natural resources, which must be preserved at all cost." At its core, this quote underscores the profound value of humor in our lives and aptly reminds us of its role as an essential aspect of our humanity. Thurber implies that humor is not just a frivolous pastime but a genuine resource, one that must be safeguarded and cherished. This straightforward interpretation emphasizes the importance of humor in our daily lives, highlighting its ability to uplift spirits, foster connection, and provide a healthy escape from the challenges of life.However, delving deeper into the philosophical realm, we can explore some unexpected facets of the quote. By contemplating the idea of humor as a "natural resource," we can draw intriguing parallels between humor and other resources revered by society, such as clean water, fertile lands, or energy reserves. Just as these resources require conservation and preservation to sustain life, Thurber subtly suggests that humor, too, has a vital role to play in our existence. If we reflect on the concept of preserving humor, it becomes apparent that it is not merely a matter of personal preference or entertainment but a necessity to navigate the complexities of life with resilience and joy.In contrast to tangible resources, humor operates in the intangible realm of thoughts and emotions, making it all the more fascinating and mysterious. Unlike water which quenches thirst or land that yields food, humor does not directly address our basic needs. Yet, its ability to transcend language, culture, and time signifies its universal nature. Consider a moment when you shared a genuine laugh with a stranger who spoke a different language – in that fleeting yet powerful instant, humor created a connection that transcended all barriers. It is precisely in these situations that the true value of humor as a natural resource can be fully appreciated.Furthermore, like any renewable resource, humor has the potential to regenerate and replenish, even in the face of adversity. In times of sorrow, pain, or stress, a well-placed joke or a witty remark can offer respite, temporarily alleviating the weight of burdens carried. Thus, humor not only serves as a source of joy and laughter but also as a psychological balm, soothing the wounds of a troubled soul. In this sense, Thurber's quote evokes the image of humor as a resilient force that not only perseveres through hardships but actively helps us overcome them.As with any resource, however, there is also a danger of its depletion and misuse. The preservation of humor, then, can be seen as a call to nurture and protect its purity. Nowadays, fueled by the rapid dissemination of information and the rise of social media, humor has sometimes been reduced to mockery, sarcasm, and divisiveness. This distortion risks diluting the positive impact of humor and undermining its potential as a unifying force. Thus, it becomes necessary to cultivate a discerning sense of humor – one that fosters kindness, inclusivity, and empathy, and that never loses sight of the intrinsic value of laughter.In conclusion, James Thurber's quote provides a compelling lens through which we can appreciate the significance of humor in our lives. It not only emphasizes its role as an early and invaluable natural resource but also raises intriguing philosophical questions about its essence and preservation. Humor acts as a boundless wellspring of joy, connection, and resilience that transcends language, culture, and adversity. The safeguarding of humor becomes an imperative, calling upon us to cherish, nurture, and employ it responsibly. In doing so, we can harness the true power of humor and embrace its transformative potential in our lives and the world at large.