I have been hearing a recurring message over the past week. It's been a tough week too - one where I thought I might not make it through. Ever have those kind?
The message was - it's time to laugh. Joel Osteen is on tv right now with this message - Psalm 2:4 "God sits in the heavens and laughs." He already knows who wins - He does; therefore, we do. So why are we so serious?
Earlier in the week, I attended a workshop that talked about burnout & how the stress of toxic social interactions is equal or greater to the impact of physical stress (i.e. blow to the head) and that it can cause some of the same diagnoses like diabetes, hypertension, etc. It really made me think about how little I've laughed and what type of interactions I've had with people lately.
I really can't think of too many occasions recently where I've had fun, or where the people I'm dealing with are fun. So guess what? I'm going to seek out God's joy this coming week - I'm going to watch some cartoons, listen to some clean comedy, tell a few jokes, play with my kids, color in a coloring book. I'm going to find some ways to RELAX and not take myself so darn seriously. I bet it will be contagious.
How about you?
Psalm 126:2 Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
Thank you Tanya for that! I really need to get with that myself. I have decided to do the same thing. I am going to give myself my own retreat without having to spend lots of money to really enjoy me. I know God doesn't intend for us to be bored, inadventurous, depressed, or sick.
Friday, February 13th 2009 at 11:02AM
Shannon Jones
Thank you so much for sharing. I've been trying not to react so much to the stresses in my life. I would love to enjoy a workshop like that. Please continue to share what you have learned. I know it will help all of us to grow and learn.
Friday, February 13th 2009 at 11:15AM
Leslie Dunn
Absolutely... I've been searching for joy and happiness in all the wrong places. This weekend- I'm going to take myself out and enjoy what life has to offer. I appreciate your willingness to share with us. Be Blessed!
Friday, February 13th 2009 at 12:48PM
Jerrica Dowling
Joy is a stress reliever, a friendship healer and laughter actually physically heals--thanks for the reminder--I got hit in the head by a lawyer friend--whom I told I wanted to see " Alvin and Chipmunks and laugh like I didn't when it first came out and I was a youngster--two professional intellectuals at "Alvin and the Chipmunks" but he wasn't ready so I had to sit through the" Great Debaters"--which was great but I just wanted to laugh!! so I hear you--thanks for the post.
Friday, February 13th 2009 at 12:57PM
Marta Fernandez
There's healing power in laughter ! People who laugh often are seldom sick. Also the devil hates it when you laugh and have a joyful spirit. Whatever makes you feel good, like laughing, keep finding ways to keep that feeling. Great post !
Monday, February 16th 2009 at 5:48PM
Min.Dr.LaDonna Blaylock D.D.
