Before leaving physical therapy, I went to the restroom. Walking out of the restroom, casually checking myself in the mirror, I stopped in my tracks and doubled over in laughter. I wore my pants inside out--very noticeable when you wear black pants with a six-inch square white label. I had been quite sick that morning and dressed carelessly. As I laughed at my mistake, I knew laughter was part of my healing that day.
Life is full of whimsy. I believe God designed it that way so we learn not to take ourselves too seriously. God made us to laugh and be joyful, even amid life’s hardships.
A few years ago, I realized that I never laughed anymore. Instead, I focused on life’s problems. The most miserable person I knew, whom I was trying to affect with God’s love, told me I was the most miserable person he knew. The irony convicted me. I knew this wasn’t right, so I pleaded for God to restore the joy of His salvation. I didn’t want to be the miserable old crab who gave Christ a bad reputation.
Soon, I found myself enjoying simple things despite life’s traumas. I laughed at seeing an older person jogging across a parking lot, hearing the crows squawk in conversation, and watching my cat chase voles. Enjoying the simple things eased the burden of the serious things.
Laughter is strong medicine for heavy spirits. Don’t take life too seriously. Enjoy simple whimsies. God wants you to live joyfully. Ask Him to help you see the joy in life’s simple pleasures.
Bonnie Malone is a writer.