Kelly Corrigan Wonders Thanks For Being Here - Chris Duffy's Thank You to Gary the 10-Year Old Food Critic
Jan 11, 2026
Standup comedian Chris Duffy writes a heartfelt thank-you to Gary, a 10-year-old food critic whose hilarious cafeteria reviews reignited joy in his life. Gary's unique perspective not only transformed his own attitude toward writing but also inspired Chris to embrace humor and become a comedian. Fast forward fourteen years, and Gary is now an educator himself, helping kids thrive, all while still puzzling over what was in his vegetarian Hot Pocket. This nostalgic journey highlights the power of laughter in education and personal growth.
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Food-Column That Sparked A Life Change
- Chris Duffy recounts giving a reluctant fifth grader, Gary, a food-critic column to spark his interest in writing.
- Gary's absurd, vivid reviews delighted Chris and changed how he approached teaching and life.
Hot Pocket Mystery And Hilarious Reviews
- Chris reads Gary's reviews of whole wheat pizza and a vegetarian Hot Pocket, full of playful contradictions.
- Those reviews combine vivid sensory lines and unexpected humor that made Chris treasure the school papers.
Laughter Improves Connection
- Chris realized that allowing goofiness and laughter improved his connection with students.
- Letting humor in made him more present and effective than relentless seriousness did.
