During this confusing Covid-19 time, I am noticing more and more people bearing deep frowns and worry lines and even depression. This is certainly understandable as we are in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, wreaking havoc in people’s lives, finances, emotions and relationships.
Now more than ever it is extremely important that there are strong adults present in the lives of children and young people. Adults who laugh and focus on the positive. Our well-being and that of our children are just as dependent on humour and laughter as it is on wearing masks. Sad though that the masks conceal the smiles of others!
According to Positive Psychology, humour is a strong character trait closely associated with gratitude, hope, spirituality and wisdom.
Character quotations:
“When humour goes, there goes civilization.” –Erma Bombeck
“A good laugh overcomes more difficulties and dissipates more dark clouds than any other one thing.” –Laura Ingalls Wilder
“A person without a sense of humour is like a wagon without springs. It is jolted by every pebble on the road.” –Henry Ward Beecher
“It is a curious fact that people are never so trivial as when they take themselves seriously.” –Oscar Wilde
“A sense of humour is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.” –Dwight D. Eisenhower
Character tips that work:
Try keeping the conversation positive at home. Daily bad news on TV causes increased stress and negativity. Deliberately focus on that which is positive and good. Phil 4:4-8 is now indispensable.
Share jokes and funny incidents with the people in your house. If you are not a natural comedian, try reading a good joke every day.
Give each family member a turn to share or write down one thing they are grateful for every day . It is the best medicine for feeling happier.
To be happy and cheerful during these uncertain times requires strength of character; we do however owe it to our children and family members.
“There is no duty we so much underrate as the duty of being happy. By being happy we sow anonymous benefits upon the world.” –R. L. Stevenson
Love yourself,
Jeanette De Klerk Luttig