Rob Martin

The Truth About Giraffes

2008.12.12 | A rare bit of seriousness |

We discuss a lot of crazy ideas here, and that is something that is destined to continue. Just as “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” I think there is humor to be found in even the most trivial situations we find ourselves in and that seeing such humor is a gift. At the same time, I don’t think the purpose of life is just to have a few laughs along the way. I think we are here to learn truth, follow truth, and in the process become better people.

Thus the title of the blog: “Truthiness”. I think the word itself embodies both a focus on humor and truth. I share much more humor than truth on this blog, and where possible I do both at the same time, but right here, right now, I need to share a crucial truth we all need to hear: the truth about giraffes.

The truth about giraffes is actually more about truth itself. Don’t worry, this isn’t some trick… I didn’t use some wacky title to get you to start reading this entry just to fool you into digesting some philosophical mumbo jumbo… I would never resort to such manipulative tactics. Me? Manipulative? I’ve never heard such a preposterous idea. Okay, so it might be a little bit philosophical, but that doesn’t need to mean it’s dry boring stuff. If there is anything that my two favorite philosophers have taught us it’s that important truths can be taught via cartoon. Anyway, less talk, more cartoons:

Take a look at these pictures one at a time. What do you see? (answers to follow… no peeking)

Highlight the empty parentheses to see the solutions: Picture 1 is ( two fish kissing ). Picture 2 shows ( a giraffe walking past a window ) See it now? I’m sure at this point you’re scratching your head wondering “what was the point of all this, again?” The principle is this: Truth, once learned, becomes obvious. I guarantee if I were to draw these pictures for you 10 or 20 years down the road you’d be able to tell me what the correct answer is. I can’t look at these diagrams anymore and see anything but fish kissing and a giraffe. The truth has become too obvious.

This is important to keep in mind as we try to learn new things. If you’re not understanding something sufficiently, it’s because you don’t yet understand the principles upon which that truth is based. That which we understand, we remember.

I’m sure there are those of you who may not be convinced this particular truth will help you to learn more and to become a better person if followed. I hate to send you away empty handed so let me remind you of another truth I’ve revealed in this post and propose a proper course of action:

Truth: Rob has two favorite philosophers

Action: Buy Rob their complete philosophical works

Result: I personally guarantee you’ll be a better person (Me? Manipulative?)

6 Comments to The Truth About Giraffes

Leave a comment