Things can become more clear as you get older. Such as the distance that grows between people. The thing that's not so clear is how to shrink that distance or stop it from occurring. Some times we make attempts at humor to bridge the gap, but the jokes don't land. We're not trained professionals. You might slap on some goofy false teeth to illustrate how life can be silly and isn't really so serious, but the common perception is that you're ugly and weird. As this happens more and more, you start to see their point. You laugh less and less and the distance expands.
There's always the possibility that someone else will catch on. They'll see that you're just trying to open up and enjoy life while you've got it. The hope is that you'll still be around when they do.