July 5, 2023

SUMMER ~ WEEK 4

As I was walking my black lab, Becket, around campus, there was something special happening.  There were students and staff providing a concert of laughter, singing and reveling in each other’s company.  What a great sound!  The circle around the gazebo was full of enthusiasm and it struck me how infectious and how powerful smiling and laughter is.  When I laugh with someone, my mood is instantly lifted. There is a significant amount of study that has been conducted into laughter and smiling.  It shouldn’t surprise any of us that laughter can reduce blood pressure, reduce anxiety and negative emotions, boost your immune system and even burn calories.

My grandmother had a framed Irish proverb hanging in her house that said:

May love and laughter light your days,

and warm your heart and home.

May good and faithful friends be yours,

wherever you may roam.

As I took in the atmosphere of laughter, I remembered this Irish proverb and hope that you will be able to hear the same chorus of laughter and see the smiles across the campus.

Enjoy the weekend,.