WE’RE ALL FOOLS ONCE IN A WHILE; LET US CELEBRATE APRIL FOOL’S DAY

(This article was first written two years ago, now rewritten with some contributions from ChatGPT)

Today marks April Fool’s Day on the first day of the month.

But let us give the traditional custom of practical jokes, hoaxes, or harmless pranks a little more elaboration and celebration to recognize that we all carry an eccentric strain of foolishness within our creative and intellectual cognitive senses.

The origins of April Fool’s Day are somewhat uncertain, but it is thought to have started in France in the 16th century. According to some historians, it may have been linked to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, which moved the start of the year from April 1 to January 1. (ChatGPT)

Whatever its origins, April Fool’s Day is now celebrated around the world. In many countries, it is customary to play pranks on friends and family members, such as placing a whoopee cushion on their chair or putting salt in their sugar bowl. (ChatGPT)

We are fools or do foolish things occasionally or quite often. Then why not celebrate them as these testify to be life’s experiences?

An inner fool within us behaves from time to time in mischievous and playful ways, an inner child who is cheerful and lighthearted.

Foolishness is not stupidity. The latter is a lack of intelligence.

Being foolish sometimes is to err in understanding, poor judgement or making unwise decisions. Impulsivity and outside influences also contribute to mindless behaviour occasionally. It is all-natural behaviour we crash into periodically.

Thinking takes time, energy, or brainpower to analyze a situation and decide. Instead, we take a shortcut based on pre-existing mindset opinions. And this is where foolishness can occur.

“It was foolish on my part” is often heard when we logically or sensibly recognize or accept the folly later. “To err is human,” and to take it is “divine.”

Intellectuals and philosophers seem to agree that foolishness is a part of human nature and expression. “I was young and foolish then; now I am old and more foolish,” Mark Twain says.

About April 1, he remarks, “this is the day upon which we are reminded of what we are on the other three hundred and sixty-four.”

Another quote from him, “Ah, well, I am a great and sublime fool. But then I am God’s fool, and all His work must be contemplated with respect.”

Albert Einstein asserts: “before God, we are all equally wise and equally foolish.”

To accumulate wisdom, Steve Jobs suggests, “stay hungry, stay foolish.”

While Jobs’ “stay hungry” means never being satisfied and pushing, “stay foolish” is interpreted as a natural human behaviour of doing things that we try but are futile. However, it presents an experience of foolishness that helps us correct ourselves.

Chat GPT adds: So if you’re looking for a reason to let your hair down and have a laugh, why not join in the festivities of April Fool’s Day?  

“April 1 is the one day of the year where people expect you to lie to them.” – Unknown

“April Fool’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show someone that you care enough to make them look like a fool.” – Unknown

“A well-planned prank is like a work of art, a masterpiece of humor and mischief.” – Unknown

“April Fool’s Day is the one day of the year when you can be a complete and utter fool and get away with it.” – Unknown

These quotes highlight the playful and mischievous nature of April Fool’s Day. It’s a day where people can let their guard down and enjoy a good laugh with friends and family.

Modesty demands the admission of our foolish remarks or acts.

Foolishness is pervasive. In its admission, something positive emerges from the negative. With that perception, we dedicate April 1st as International Fools’ Day.

On this lively and fun day, let us be authentic to celebrate our inner flirtations with comical and unapologetic foolery.

With exuberant pleasure, we respect our foolishness. Be silly for one day, loosen up, share jokes, and make fun.

After all, “life is too important to be taken seriously.”

-Promod Puri