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According to psychologist William James, we do not laugh because we are happy. But rather,
we are happy because we laugh.
The happiest people alive are those who know how to laugh often and well.
In his book A TOUCH OF WONDER, Arthur Gordon tells of a friend of his
who knew about laughter. Though deaf and almost blind, he went right on working, laughing
and making the most of his life. |
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One Christmas season Arthur and his friend entered a crowded drugstore. On the back of the
door was a mirror, visible when the door was closed. As they turned to leave, Arthur's
friend saw his reflection in the mirror. He thought the door must be open and that the
figure he dimly viewed before him was a customer attempting to enter the store. He stepped
aside and, naturally, so did the image. He moved forward again and once more met himself.
Again he retreated.
By now an uneasy hush had fallen on the spectators. No one quite knew
what to do or say. But on his third advance the man realized that he was facing a mirror.
"Why," he cried, "it's only me!" He made a grand bow. "Good to
see you, old boy! Merry Christmas!" The whole store exploded in delighted laughter.
And why not? Here was a man who knew how to laugh at himself! He
accepted his problems and limitations with a grace and humor that was contagious.
We're given the power of laughter, not only to laugh AT things, but to
laugh things OFF. We'll always know difficulties and we will never be without our share of
troubles, but the happy person learns how to laugh most of them off. And that's the reason
they're happy -- it's a laughing matter!
Steve Goodier Publisher@LifeSupportSystem.com
is a professional speaker, consultant and author of numerous books. Visit his site for
more information, or to sign up for his FREE newsletter of Life, Love and Laughter at http://LifeSupportSystem.com. |
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