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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Write for the HUMOR Genre (10/09/14)
The practice of dowry - bridal offering or gift that the groom brings to his future in-laws is still very alive in most cultures in Africa, where I grew up. This gift which can be in form of real estate, cash or mainly livestock, is given not in exchange but in appreciation for the bride. It serves as a connection between the two families and an assurance of the man’s commitment to the union.

Having said that, it amazes me how one thing can be funny to some people and not so to others. Could it have something to do with our background? That is likely. For instance, the idiom “until the cows come home” can have a different meaning than the usual. With the issue of dowry in mind, to a family with daughters in Africa could indicate “until the ladies get married”. Anything in life can be funny; I learned from my Dad that it just depends on what angle you’re viewing it from.

Anyway, so a while ago, in my good quiet time with the Word of God, I came across something and literally burst out laughing. “Say to David, ‘The king wants no other price for the bride than a hundred Philistine foreskins...” (1 Samuel 18:25 NIV).

I momentarily visualized one of David’s peers going like, “Your future father-in-law asked for what? Should you really be marrying his daughter? Who knows? She could be as crazy as her dad.”
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This article has been read 754 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
C D Swanson 
10/18/14
It always interests me how a certain phrase can hold different meanings depending ont he person hearing it. This was an interesting read and was on topic. Well written.

God bless~
Joanne Sher 
10/20/14
Hehe - definitely true. Sense of humor is so incredibly subjective.

Enjoyed this piece - thanks for sharing!
Noel Mitaxa 
10/21/14
Having helped to bring the cows home for milking I know that the view is not inspiring if you aren't the front cow. I enjoyed this brief example of the lighter side (for anyone who was not contributing to the dowry) of a more obscure aspects of David's life. Well done.
Rachel Barrett
10/21/14
He he he! That was quite funny!

I have one comment: maybe "going like" is a little informal? Perhaps a similar word or phrase would make it a little more polished, but still keep the 'incredulous' effect of "going like". Just a thought though, not a big deal.

I enjoyed your piece!!!
Clyde Blakely
10/25/14
Thankfully this doesn't happen today. Or does it? Short but well written. Could have filled in a little more for length only but not really needed.