Tears to Giggles

Tears To GigglesThe word had spread around that “Tears to Giggles” humorous show would go off air soon. One avid fan of the show was anything but happy. How can they do this?Why are they doing this?The hosts of the show, Amuse and Amaze both seemed to have enough of “Smile spreading.” Apparently, lukewarm response to their show and less than satisfactory impact on people’s lives had compelled them to announce the exit. While on their way to the “Justjoy” Channel Office to convey their decision to quit the show, Amaze and Amuse shared their feelings. Amaze, in particular was highly frustrated. Kicking the rolling tin that came in his way, he expressed his anger. “People only want money. They don’t want happiness. They just need the happiness that comes from having plenty of money. Why should we waste our time and energy trying to better their lives?”Amuse shared his displeasure too. “It’s so ironical. There are so many essays penned on “The importance of a smile” by now and so many benefits of staying happy we know, still most of us seem to run blindly on the path to materialism and become sad instead. We thought we could make a positive difference with our show, but perhaps we were being enthusiastic and optimistic.”“Well, gentlemen, don’t you think that I am trying to persuade you to go on with the show so that my job would be saved.” – said Project Manager Setright. He continued, “I don’t think this decision is one you will be quite proud of. Challenges surely come in the way, but facing them is what makes life worth living and the joy of winning special. I think you should reconsider your decision and get started again with renewed spirit.”Amaze said in an anguished tone, “ We began this show thinking we will turn people’s tears into giggles. But alas, the world seems to be too lost in its own materialistic kingdom. Now, after going through the TRP ratings, we can’t take it any longer. Let tears remain tears. Let there be no giggles.”Turning his face to Amuse, Amaze continued, “Do you recall, how we used to take extra pains to come out with new ideas that would appeal to the mass? How we brainstormed for so many hours, discussing what would bring a smile on the faces of the audience?”“How can I forget Muse! It was the hard work that was put in- sheer hard work. I have realized one thing – if the world has problems, it deserves it. There is no place for philosophy in this money crazy world.”As Amuse and Amaze stopped at a café to have snacks and tea, they saw a young boy, reacting with a sad face to something he seemed to have read in the paper.Curious, Amaze asked the young lad, “Hey young fellow, why are you sobbing?”“My name is Owntale.”“So, Owntale, tell us what is it that has bothered you? And has wrought sorrow on your face?” – Amuse asked“ I just read in the paper that the show “Tears to Giggles” is going off air. That has really bothered me. It had been such a nice show for children like us.”Amuse and Amaze saw the wrinkles of smiles on each other’s faces. They wanted to know more about how their show was perceived. So Amaze asked Owntale “But if the show was so nice, how is it that its viewership has not proved the point? We are Amuse and Amaze, the co anchors of the show.”“I don’t know. Perhaps it is because still all the channels are too busy motivating people how to succeed. However, there is no show that enables people to control themselves during tough times, to endure the bad phase in life.”“Ok Owntale, agreed! But then, how do we ensure that people will keep viewing our show?”There has to be some awareness of this issue. All must realise that many times, life fails us and somehow things go beyond our reach. That doesn’t mean that we had worked less or were not committed in our efforts. It just means that sometimes, things need to be accepted with pleasure and a pinch of salt.”The Channel head of JUSTJOY Mr. Smilespread in the meanwhile was listening to the arguments and the discussion.He noted many points in his diary and again turned his ears to the intense conversation. Owntale was heard saying “It is a matter of shame that so many suicides are committed by so many intellectuals. IS this why are we educated or why we work hard? The illusion is a big one. In quest of materliastic success, sometimes we sacrifice the real wealth of happiness. “Tears to Giggles” was doing a great job by showing examples of people who with a smile on their faces compromised with life the moment they realized things were beyond their reach.”“Mr. Whoever, what is your name?” Mr. Smilespread asked Owntale as Owntale was caught unawares by this suit-clad executive. “I am Owntale”“Tell me Owntale, are you interested in taking up the job of spreading this message nationwide and thereby rescuing your favourite show?”“Why not? I am game.”Smilespread also informed Amuse and Amaze that the channel was disappointed with the viewership statistics but was satisfied with the show content. It somehow wanted to know where the problem was. With Owntale making us aware that the problem lied in lack of awareness and a nationwide campaign. The duo was requested to join back and start preparations for future episodes in full swing. Amuse and Amaze saw their momentary sorrow sand tears turn into giggles and started work again. The following punchline was finalized for Tears to Giggles.Tears to Giggles – For happiness,for each home to become a HAPPY NEST Saurabh Niranjan Turakhia04.09(51) p.m. 29/12/2004Wednesday