This story is a classic example of clever wit and standing up to arrogance with humor. It took place in a medical school, where a professor asked a student, “How many kidneys do we have?” The student answered, “Four!” which shocked the professor. Arrogant and ready to humiliate the student, the professor mocked him and told his assistant, “Bring some grass—we have a donkey in the room.”

But the student was no fool. In fact, he was Aparício Torelly, later known as the humorist Barão de Itararé. He calmly responded, “And a coffee for me,” matching the professor’s sarcasm. This made the professor so angry, he expelled the student from the classroom.

As he was leaving, Torelly corrected the professor: “You asked how many kidneys we have. We have four—two of mine, two of yours. 'We' means both of us.” Then he added with a grin, “Enjoy your meal, and let the grass be yours to enjoy.”

It’s a perfect story about how quick thinking and humor can defuse pride and arrogance. Even when someone in power tries to embarrass you, intelligence and a good sense of humor can turn the tables.

Inspiring Thoughts

This story is a classic example of clever wit and standing up to arrogance with humor. It took place in a medical school, where a professor asked a student, “How many kidneys do we have?” The student answered, “Four!” which shocked the professor. Arrogant and ready to humiliate the student, the professor mocked him and told his assistant, “Bring some grass—we have a donkey in the room.”

But the student was no fool. In fact, he was Aparício Torelly, later known as the humorist Barão de Itararé. He calmly responded, “And a coffee for me,” matching the professor’s sarcasm. This made the professor so angry, he expelled the student from the classroom.

As he was leaving, Torelly corrected the professor: “You asked how many kidneys we have. We have four—two of mine, two of yours. 'We' means both of us.” Then he added with a grin, “Enjoy your meal, and let the grass be yours to enjoy.”

It’s a perfect story about how quick thinking and humor can defuse pride and arrogance. Even when someone in power tries to embarrass you, intelligence and a good sense of humor can turn the tables.

hottg.com/inspiringthoughts/10852

756 viewsJun 24 at 19:30