Healthy Living

The incomparable comedienne Carol Burnett was asked during an interview by Amy Spencer for Parade magazine, "How do you want to be remembered?" Her reply? "That I made somebody laugh when they needed it. That at one point, when they needed it, I made them forget — even if it is for just 10 seconds — that they were hurting." I thought that was a kind and generous life objective. Carol Burnett, also known as the “First Lady of Laughter,” is no stranger to sorrow and pain, as one of her beloved daughters died of cancer at age 35.

In no way am I suggesting that humor can overcome grief, or that laughter should replace tears. It's important to grieve the loss of a loved one, and unresolved grief will inevitably result in problems in the future.

My friend and colleague, HHC East Region Director of Pastoral Services Rev. Mary Horan tells us, “Laughter and crying often go together. They are both cathartic responses. A good cry, a hearty laugh can dispel anxiousness and fear and leave us feeling more relaxed, open and ready to see things from a slightly different perspective. A sense of humor in any situation can reveal both the seriousness and absurd possibilities which allows us to cleanse our body of distressing emotions and regain balance. The language of laughter connects us in an intimate way and it feels good!”

At my own father’s funeral many years ago, there is one thing that I remember distinctly from that sad time. Two of my cousins were toddlers and were laughing and giggling and playing during the memorial service. It was a very welcome relief from all of the tears being shed. It kept things in perspective. My father would have been pleased to see us having a memorial that included children’s laughter and the retelling of funny stories about him.

Humor and laughter can have healing powers. There is scientific evidence that laughter can lower cortisol levels and increase the production of dopamine, endorphins, T-cells and immune proteins. These changes may contribute to the following: a decrease in feelings of stress, depression and anxiety, and makes challenges seem more surmountable. Now with all that at stake, who couldn’t benefit from a good dose of humor?