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Rolling On the Floor Laughing Out Loud

I used to be talented in throwing myself pity parties. It was easier to sulk for months than to grab my bootstraps one day at a time. Misery loved my company. During one of those days, some internal evolution spawned. Instead of grabbing for the Pepto Bismal from a night untamed and blurry, I sought another medicine.

I was surprised to notice how laughter changed my moods. Strange to admit, but I had to retrain my mouth muscles to smile. I had read that one should smile even if there's no apparent reason to do so. It took practice, but after a few weeks, my cheeks stopped trembling because they were so out of shape. Now it's easier to giggle and squawk in amusement.

What's your point, scribe, or is this a shameless plug for WVU's new Comedy Series?

No (grin), but you may agree that we're not immune to low, frustrating points in our personal and writing lives. We often identify these times as writer's block or a full plate. If there's one thing that uplifts and inspires, it's laughter. Guffaws are major rut busters.

My sense of humor warped while I lived under that dark rug. But, infinite throat tickling sources abound. If you don't have any hilarious neighbors or family members, see if your joke-a-minute cyber buddy is online. Webmasters across the globe have developed fine humor sites. Conjure the memory of what made your ribs ache at that summer party a few years back. Make faces at yourself in the mirror. Oh, like you've never done it before!

Have a couple of hearty chuckles to ease tension. I'm not suggesting this to be a cure all, but laughter does radiate strong healing powers. Remember that the next time you feel storm clouds hovering your spirit. Take care and keep chuckling.