Whenever someone takes a shot at me and then excuses his or herself by saying " I was just kidding", I respond immediately that my father taught me that nothing is ever said in jest.

One must learn that there's always a germ of truth in that "joke"or jest
and it is that germ of truth that must concern one's self and must be paid attention to.

Words to the wise!

Having posited this absolute verity, I must explain that I am the exception to the rule because I have a left-handed person's sense of humor which is often misunderstood.