Find the laughter!

One of my social media sites popped up memories for this month. Pictures of my wife’s and daughter’s past birthdays filled my phone. They reminded me of the joy and laughter that accompanied the memories of snow machining, vacations, and singing around the piano. These pictures, coupled with our baby graduating from high school, have caused a lot of reflection over the last 20+ years. My daughter lives out of state now with two of her own children. And I love watching them grow up, even if it is largely through her social media feed.

We really did not know what we were doing when we started our family. We went camping when our oldest was just over one year old, and we forgot so many things. I am surprised she did not starve to death or wear the same diaper for two days. She continually forgave her inexperienced parents for their faults, and there was much joy, love, and laughter during those early years.

Another time, when she was about two or three years old, we were sitting in the back of the church together. I am not sure what possessed her, but she started saying “Amen” really loud over and over. Apparently, she felt the talk/sermon had reached its conclusion, and she was encouraging him to wrap things up. The other people around us were a little alarmed at first, but after a little bit, they were trying not to laugh as her persistent request finally gained traction and he sat down. The power of little ones!

I am reminded of the story of Abraham and his wife Sarah. In KJV Genesis 21:6 “And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me.” I love that she saw the comedic qualities and even the irony that at 90 years old she would have a son. Now there may be some women who, at the age of 90 might be scared to find out they were pregnant, but Sarah had such an amazing disposition that she saw the laughter in it.

Sarah teaches a valuable lesson in this story. Despite the desire to control all the variables at times, we all experience unexpected and sometimes shocking . However, much like Sarah, you can choose how you respond. In her case, laughter provided the best mood to receive her miracle.

A dear friend of mine had her breast cancer return with a vengeance. She has a young daughter whom she adores. At times, the thoughts of her mortality fill her mind, and the idea of leaving her husband a young widower is terrifying. Yet, she chooses to be cheery, laughs easily, and has a quick smile. She continues to teach, and though she would certainly be justified in having a pity party, they rarely occur. She finds joy in helping others. She is not perfect, but she provides a lovely example of overcoming adversity. Her attitude and love are setting a legacy for her daughter.

As we start our summer out, I hope that we might strive to find the joy and laughter in life, for it is all around us. We can learn from Sarah and laugh at ourselves and laugh with the Lord. When life may not go as planned, laughter can be a powerful fruit of the spirit, helping us heal and brightening our perspective.

John Boston is a local physician, husband, father, grandfather, believer in Christ and a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.