The Gift of Laughter

Laughter is one of the most essential medicines in the world. While diseases, poverty, and lack of a stable family tare us apart it is laughter that can pull it altogether when its most needed. The Living Water Orphanage is full of children who are lacking something. It is true that their life has exponentially improved since being taken in. But I would argue that the change wasnt because of the housing, food, or education but the happiness. The kids now have a family. Brothers and sisters that they can turn to when needed. The teachers unconditional affection is that of a mothers. And the volunteers are the aunts and uncles. This entire community is medicine for the soul. If you can brighten someones day up with a tickle, a joke, a face, or a hug then you are distributing the most important drug available. Steve Wilson, a psychologist and laugh therapist states "I believe that if people can get more laughter in their lives, they are a lot better off and heathier to." I am greatful that laughter is never scarce in my family. Our constant, ruthless jokes about eachother are always in good fun and always catalyze a good chuckle. I tried to mimic this as best as I could with the children. Throwing them in the air or running with them on my back. I miss it. The greatest thing about happiness is that it is contagious. When I was in Africa I thought my job was to make the kids laugh and play. But they made me play. They made me laugh. In the wake of the terrible tsunami and earthquake it must be hard to be happy with all the chaos in the world. But all you can do is spread you contagious happiness and pray. So if you havnt laughed today please do. And if you see someone down and deppressed extend you unconditional loving hand.