"There are men so philosophical that they can see humor in their own toothaches. But there has never lived a man so philosophical that he could see the toothache in his own humor"

This quote by H. L. Mencken speaks with the idea that it is easier to find humor in difficult situations than it is to recognize the trouble in our own humor. Mencken suggests that it is possible to be so philosophical that one can find humor in even the most agonizing of experiences, such as a tooth pain. However, it is much more difficult to recognize the potential for pain in our own humor. This quote motivates us to be conscious of the effect our humor can have on others, and to be knowledgeable about the capacity for hurt that can be triggered by our words. It is very important to be aware of the power of humor, and to utilize it properly. Mencken's quote serves as a pointer to be conscious of the capacity for pain in our own humor, and to utilize it with care.