The April Fool was Me


Without fail, I was the little kid who’d fall for every April Fools’ joke. Jokesters knew I’d look behind me because a huge elephant was there. Raucous laughter always followed. You’d think I’d learn, but no, I was the one foolishly looking up to see the flying saucer that wasn’t there.

When I was a bit older, I’d listen intently as a detailed story was told that I foolishly believed. Then the telltale mocking laughter and the dreaded, “April Fools”. 


Why was I always so gullible?  I tried to prepare myself to withstand the April Fools’ jokes. I knew the day was rigged against me. I must have had a label on my forehead that said, “I’m Your Fool”.




But in adulthood, I’ve fostered a fair share of skepticism. I routinely check sources of things I hear or read. Good thing social media wasn’t part of my gullible youth—it’s a minefield of misinformation. No joke. 

 

Actually, I do love a good joke—you just won’t catch me pulling April Fools’ jokes on others—I remember all too well what it felt like to be the fool. 


May you enjoy the light-hearted fun of April Fools' Day. At least today the jokes are real jokes. The rest of the year we can't be so certain. 

 

Photos from Reader's Digest

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