Sarcasm

The Origin of Sarcasm:

"Sarcasm can be traced back to the Greek verb sarkazein, which initially meant "to tear flesh like a dog." Sarkazein eventually developed extended senses of "to bite one's lips in rage," "to gnash one's teeth," and eventually "to sneer." Sarkazein led to the Greek noun sarkasmos (a sneering or hurtful remark), iterations of which passed through French and Late Latin before arriving in English as sarcasm in the mid-16th century. Even today sarcasm is often described as sharp, cutting, or wounding, reminiscent of the original meaning of the Greek verb."

Sarcasm, wit, humor, satire or whatever you choose to call it. We all tend to use it in our daily life, and it is usually intended to arouse amusement. How many of us have had an "opportunity" to throw out a sarcastic remark when we hear someone ask a silly question? A joke at their expense to make people laugh. 

Then there are times it is used as a defense mechanism - a smart remark intended to hide our true feelings. If we use humor then we don't have to give a serious answer and expose our deep inner emotions. If we're quick enough then perhaps the moment will pass and others won't press on for a serious answer.

Most of our sarcasm is done innocently enough, and it's not intended to hurt. If it's kept lighthearted and used sparingly, then people will find it amusing. However, not every situation calls for a sarcastic remark.

Today, it seems that people use sarcasm in response to any question without using a filter first to determine if it's appropriate. Having no regard for how deep it may cut or hurt another. I'm not sure when society determined that quick, short, curt responses were proper. Did we just get so worn out that this is all we have?

If our interactions with friends and family are laced with sarcasm on a daily basis, eventually it will cause serious damage to those relationships. Hard to feel the love when confronted with sarcasm at every turn. 

I believe most people keep the sarcasm in check, and if it's intended to promote humor then I'm all for it. We all can use a good laugh from time to time. It just doesn't need to be the response to every question we are asked. Plus, we have to be willing to be on the receiving end of sarcasm every now and then, as well as being the one to dish it out. 

Sarcasm - use it wisely.