Heroes Not Zombies

I know there are many serious problems in our lives, in the situation of the whole planet even. I know there is a lot of terrible suffering. There’s plenty to get angry about. Lots to be afraid of. Much to be upset about.

But we humans still need to celebrate our sense of humour. I don’t know who was the first to say that laughter is the best medicine but we know that laughter increases levels of healthy and protective chemicals in our bodies. It’s good for us.

It’s just not possible to be happy all the time, but actually it’s not possible to be angry and upset all the time – not without seriously harming ourselves.

So I thought it might be an idea to pause today and think about what makes us laugh. Sense of humour is very personal and also very cultural. Scottish, French and American humour doesn’t always translate well. It’s difficult to tell a good joke in a different culture. But I believe we have more in common than we sometimes realise.

This photo is one I took a few years ago in a pretty village in France. It still makes me smile.

The village I’ve moved to has some fun, light hearted “sculptures” around and they make me feel glad I’ve moved here. I like that there’s that light heartedness, that sense of fun.

Here’s my recommendation today – allow yourself some time to watch a video, or a movie, or to read a book or a poem, that makes you laugh. Or enjoy sharing a funny memory or story with someone who shares your sense of humour.

It’s good for you!