“Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief.” Prov. 14:13
I love being around people who laugh regularly and robustly. I find myself laughing more when I am around them. These people seem to be able to laugh in spite of the circumstances around them. In fact, people who laugh easily seem to do so in spite of and seldom because of anything.
Many people are “if only” laughers. If only our finances were better, if only other people would treat me better, if only I had the same talent that other person has. “If only” people rarely laugh. “In spite of” people have learned to laugh regularly and heartily. If they can’t laugh, they at least know how to smile.
Life has plenty of “joy killers” that can rob us of joy and the ability to laugh if we let it. Grief and heartache are frequent companions in life. Yet, more of ANYTHING never made anyone more joyful. The Apostle Paul understood that. In the midst of terrible persecution, trial and imprisonment, he could still talk about joy and encourage others with these words: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Phil 3:4)
How will you encourage and model an “in spite of” attitude for your grandchildren that shows them it is possible to laugh and smile in spite of anything?
Tags: Christian Grandparenting, grandparent, grandparenting, laughter
