Laughter

Let me just say that you were all right about Colbie. She is already growing up way too fast. But, even though she is only sixteen months, she teaches me something new every day.

You want to know what she teaches me the most?

Colbie teaches me not to forget how to laugh.

She’s always laughing at something and when she’s not laughing then she’s doing something over the top to get a laugh from someone else. And when we laugh, she laughs. Her laugh is contagious, really. When others laugh, it’s really hard not to laugh along with them. I try not to laugh at them. 😉

And that gets me thinking about what atmosphere that I create when I enter a room. Is it fun and lively or serious all the time? There’s probably a good balance to it all, but there are some times in life that require more laughter and here are a few of those times…

1. Learn to laugh at yourself.

This step is huge. We all make mistakes. Some of us make more than others, but there will come a time that you will either feel that you have to defend yourself or go along with it. Try it. It’s fun to laugh at yourself, especially when things don’t go as planned.

2. Laughter makes everything better, especially with your spouse.

Even if you like strict routine, you have to remember that laughter will make things better. It will even bring you closer. Even if you have to schedule a time to laugh with each other, then do it. (That is sick if you have to do this.) Remember to have fun, even through the stressful times.

3. Relieve stress by setting the atmosphere with laughter.

Just as much as you have to be deliberate with setting up a serious meeting, we should be just as mindful to be deliberate with creating a fun time. To create this setting, you have to get together with friends more often. Go have a night away with your friends once and awhile. These times will grow stronger relationships when you share laughter, not just past the surface, serious moments. You may have to be more intentional with this step, but don’t forget how important it is to have close friends.

So, what is something fun that is coming up for you?