It would appear that I survived my first blog publication not only intact, but rarin’ to write another. (And I thought that overspending at gardening centers was my greatest temptation.  Ok, well, that and pizza).

I’m not that savvy when it comes to current events generally speaking. But in Calgary and probably the rest of the province, if people aren’t talking excitedly about the Flames hockey team in the finals, they’re discussing the radical & somewhat unexpected total change in government since this week’s election. Or both.  I am absolutely no expert in Things Government, but I DO know that when it comes to religion and politics (and on a lesser scale, sports teams), interactions can become heated, overheated, downright steamy and occasionally vicious. So how can you talk about recent and important events without angering friends, losing your job or getting your face punched in at the bus stop?  Humour, that’s how.

Humour is one great way to engage others with ideas, opinions, news…. or just plain drabble in a palatable, non-threatening way. Using humour effectively is actually a skill, not simply letting some quip you think is funny fall out of your mouth that immediately rewards you with wild popularity, job promotions or perhaps your own sitcom. The good news?  Humour skills can be learned by most everyone.

In Alberta’s presently preheated political climate, now is probably not the right time for the comedic novice to engage in humour experimentation with anyone other than a slightly deaf spouse or close friend who doesn’t sign your paychecks.  For now, perhaps limit yourself to safer topics like global warming or how you can never find your car keys. And stick with me for tips on how to harness the power of humour for good, not evil.  Stay tuned for more!