Never in History has the average American citizen found more need for a saving sense of humor.  Beset by threats of destruction by atomic bombs, inflation, mounting taxes, overcrowded cities, witch hunters, propagandists, caterwauling commentators, and the incessant clamor of radio and television commercials, he must laugh occasionally to keep from blowing his top altogether.  It’s far too easy to see only the shadows, and ignore the patches of sunlight that remain.

Bennett Cerf (1898-1971) American publisher, humorist

Laughter Incorporated, Foreword (1950)
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