I can easily fall prey to taking myself too seriously. My thoughts can magnify day-to-day stresses to the point of being overwhelmed. Yet, whatever drama is playing out, it is really quite small in comparison to the big scheme of things. Perspective brings balance.

Our tension needs release; sometimes it may erupt in volatile anger, other times tears, or even uncontrollable laughter.

Interestingly, our deepest grief, especially with the death of a loved one is devastating. Nevertheless, when in the thick of it we may find ourselves exoeriencing fits of tearful laughter.

 I observed this phenomena first hand when I was thirteen years old. I stood watching as the ambulance arrived to take Jimmy’s lifeless, cancer ravaged body away (.Jim was a long time neighbor and good family friend.) It was a poignant moment; the seeming finality of it all.

Later, my father sat with Jimmy’s wife, Hilda.  Together they shed heavy tears of deep emotion and shared fond memories and stories about Jimmy. I was fortunate to bear witness to such an extraordinary moment; the sacredness of their shared love and grief.

Then it happened. My dad brought up something ridiculous and spontaneous, irrepresssible  laughter burst out between them. I found it so comforting to be in that moment; one, which left an indelible imprint on my heart.

Thank goodness for the gift of laughter. Mother Nature provides such a natural conduit for healing by shifting our consciousness.

Worries can drag us down but laughter creates delight. Today, I wish to leave you with a smile that curves into a grin and culminates in a belly laugh!

~liz Sorensen Wessel

Note: Internet photo shared on FB  (thanks Robyn) and the Art Linkletter YouTube video shared by Bob Maio, (thanks Bob!)