By J1 Reporter, Opinion Writer Agoum Monydhel

Today, some people believe that to become happier and improve relationships with other people, it somewhat requires humor or sarcasm. While that may be true, sometimes it can go too far. People have to somewhat establish a line of honor when expressing dry humor. Despite smiling outwardly and feeling happier, most who receive sarcastic comments often feel let down.  “Sarcasm” literally means, “to tear or strip the flesh off.” What’s more, actions strongly determine a person’s thoughts, feelings and emotions.

While most find it entertaining, many also find it insulting. What’s delivered as a joke may and can hold resentment against another person, especially if it is geared for a person of color like junior Olivia Mathews.

“I identify as both black and white. Most people automatically identify me as African American, however, I only identify myself as biracial when dealing with particular (difficult) people,” Mathews said.

But because Mathews identifies with both races, she states that she would react differently if she saw something offensive towards her race.

“I think it sometimes depends on what I’m looking at. A lot of times it is coming for my African American roots, and other times it’s coming for my White or Caucasian roots. A lot of times it does offend me, but I wouldn’t say it changes who I say I am,” Mathews said.

In her opinion, she believes a certain line should be drawn when connecting with a new person.

“I think with anyone you’re meeting, or anyone you’re connecting yourself with and establishing a certain connection, I think that should automatically be known,” she said.

An anonymous sophomore, also agrees with Mathews saying that she believes a line should be drawn as well.

“Yes, a line should be drawn completely,” the sophomore said.

While it may be entertaining, people sometimes forget about what tragic events has happened within each other’s lives.

“I think when it reminds you of a time in your life where you are now traumatized from it, or when it extremely relates to your personal life, I think that’s when it becomes disrespectful…especially for people of color like African Americans, Muslims, etc. etc,” she said.

When used quite frequently, a boundary of trust in a relationship can easily erode over time, and because of that, others will find it more difficult to decipher which remarks are sarcastic and which are not. While it does create some humor and laughter among a relationship, most believe they cannot make it the foundation for trust and vulnerability.

However, people also believe that have to rule out the possibilities. Can it often be encouraging to someone else? Maybe…sure even. But they also have to question themselves and ask, “Why can’t we just say encouraging words and establish it in an authentic environment, rather than just in a sarcastic scene?”

Almost everyone has heard the quote “Sticks and stones can break our bones,” but words can also hurt us as well. As harmful, or destructive words within a sarcastic remark stick with a certain individual, it eventually grows contempt and dissatisfaction within an already fractured relationship.

Sharing laughter and humor is awesome and is such an essential part of a healthy and growing relationship among other people. However, it is very key that others get themselves together and check themselves on how they are using that humor especially if it’s at another person’s expense. Well-intentioned sarcasm is certainly possible, but it is very important that people are to remain aware the impact of our “jokes.”