You know that moment when you're just messing around with a group of friends, and you don't how or why, but you find yourself saying something instantly regrettable. It could be in the form of a sarcastic comment going too far or a crude, offensive joke. Yeah. We've all been there.

I know I have. Multiple times.

And unfortunately, I know I will keep slipping up with the words I say. (I'm only human after all!)

But, I will at least try to be more conscious of what I say to and about people.

That saying, "sticks and stones may break my bones...", it's absolutely wrong. Words do hurt. Serious or not. I'm not just talking about calling people names or sarcasm- I mean the specific things you talk about.

It seems like people are either too scared to say anything at all or have no idea when they have crossed a huge line- especially when it comes to joking.

Here's a crazy idea: You don't know everyone's history.

There are some things that are funny, albeit slightly inappropriate. And then there are things that are in no way even remotely funny. Sexual assault, terrorism, racism... I could keep going.

I know it's easy to get going in the moment but please, honestly try to stop and think before making that joke, that comment, especially when you're with a group of people you don't know every detail about. That girl who isn't laughing, it's not because she's a prude, it's probably because the topic that you're making fun of is actually a huge personal issue for her.

When you take a serious topic and try to make light of it to the point of inappropriate joking, (and then sometimes attacking others and taking offense when people tell you that surprise! that "joke" isn't funny!) you're telling them that this topic, this issue they have a personal connection with, isn't important and that any strong feelings they have towards it aren't valid.

It's hard to feel like you're allowed to experience hurt when people are tossing around the actions or words that have beaten you down as if they were nothing.

I know I can't control what people find funny, and that's okay, I'm not trying to take away your laughter or sense of humor (no matter how weird it may seem). What I'm really trying to say is please just be considerate.

If someone has expressed REPEATEDLY that what you're joking about is not funny to them and is clearly upsetting them, then do the decent human thing and stop bringing it up in front of them! (you don't even have to like the person for goodness' sake just have a heart about it).

Because when it comes down to it, a consideration for other's is far more important than trying to convince everyone you're the funniest person alive.