The Best Medicine
Fortunately for me, I hardly ever experience low times. I get frustrated with my computer, my husband, or maybe the puking cat, but it never lasts. And that’s frustration, not darkness.
One day last week, I got off to a bad start and felt low. Every morning, I study my Bible, and then I write my prayers to God. It’s my conversation with Him. I praise Him, thank Him, confess to Him, tell him what’s on my mind, name all those people I’m praying for, and run my plans for the day by Him. On that day, I gave him a whole shopping list of things that were a heavy burden on me. I was in the midst of growling and venting when I could almost hear His still small voice say, “Hey, wait a minute. Isn’t this the woman who goes up on stage and teaches people how to fake laugh? Aren’t you the one who guarantees all kinds of benefits come from fake laughing? Take your own medicine, Girlie.” I don’t know if He actually said, “Girlie.” but it was something like that.
I forced a wee giggle and then an all-out fake laugh. Immediately, I realized, you can’t fake laugh without smiling. I started belly-laughing at myself; the black cloud was gone in seconds. Wow! It worked!
I’m glad God has a sense of humor, too. The Bible says, “He who sits on the throne, laughs.” I know He laughs with me, and at me, at times.
Years ago, I was a member of the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor. It was a group comprised mostly of doctors, therapists, nurses, counselors, and clowns. They have scientifically proven that laughter makes you happier, and healthier, live longer, learn faster, be more creative, and have better relationships. Those are all desirable attributes. And here’s the kicker. It doesn’t make any difference if your laughter is authentic or fake. You still get the same benefits. I think the reason it works, is that fake laughter usually moves a person to authentic or sincere laughter just because you feel silly for a second.
So, fake it until you feel it. Don’t let dark times get you down. Laughter is the best medicine. God said so in Proverbs, and He reminded me that He means what He says.
Order a copy of More for Les from Amazon. It will make you laugh and cry. It is a true memoir about my grandson, Les Paul Fountain, and me.
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