Would it kill me not to be so funny all the time?
It almost did one night.
I was invited to a party in Los Angeles, and seated at a table with two of my comedic idols: Dom Deluise and Dick Van Patten – both of who star in my favorite Mel Brooks movies.
Everyone at the table was captivated by Dom, who had a very large presence, and an equally large sense of humor. He was the delight of the table.
Suddenly there was a short lull in the conversation, and I took the opportunity to tell a joke. Not just any joke, but the best one-liner that “kills” every time I tell the story.
Everyone listened intently. I had them right where I wanted them.
…And then it was time for the punch line. I look around the table, and everyone was ready.
Here it comes…. I said the punch line.
And nothing.
All eyes went to Dom Deluise to see if the joke had his approval. Again, nothing, nada, bubkus.
I began to slide down the chair and under the table in pure unadulterated embarrassment.
This joke works EVERY TIME, but tonight.
Then Dom just starts telling another story, and the table energizes again.
I wasn’t funny. I WASN’T FUNNY. I bombed. I sucked!
The Moral: Don’t try to compete with the big dogs. You’re never as funny as you think you are.
And the joke:
MrOptimum 