Self-Deprecating Humour

I learned something the hard way this weekend. I cannot use self-deprecating humour around my boss as something gets lost in the translation ... and it's usually my self-esteem.

Some months ago I was getting ready to be a bridesmaid. Father told me to have a relaxing weekend, and I said I doubted that would happen as I would be up very bright and early at the spa, getting my hair and makeup done all morning before the afternoon ceremony. He said knowingly, "Ah, yes, you have to make yourself beautiful!" I laughed at his use of the idiom and said, "Oh, Father, that would take much more than a morning." He nodded and said gravely, "Yes..." Ouch!

I made the mistake of using similar humour this afternoon. Father and I were watching our couples enjoy their afternoon snacks and he commented that all the engaged women, soon to be brides, don't eat very much at all. After discussing a few reasons why this might be, I looked down at my lean figure and joked, "Maybe that's why I can't find a husband. I eat too much." Again he nodded gravely and said, "Yes..."

Maybe he is trying to teach me humility.