Are you kidding right now?

We have officially entered uncharted waters. Each day over the last week has brought with it the latest announcement that is going to change our lives for the next several weeks. Uncertainty, rapid fire change, and for some, a sense of impending doom.

You might think right now is not the time to be funny. This is not the time to make light of this situation. These are troubling times and you believe there is no room for jokes and laughter. I challenge to you find a way to laugh. Find a way to take momentary breaks from the chaos and uncertainty and smile.

I grew up in a family situation where we always had chaos. Uncertainty is what we thrived on regularly. I can tell you it sucked. Seriously, not knowing from one day to the next whether we would be living in the same house or city, not knowing if we would have food in the fridge, or, what loser mom would bring into our lives to abuse the shit out of her. Somehow though, or family always found ways to keep humor around. Our family makes jokes when some might think it crazy to even think to do so. Yes, we have always done it.

The research is clear. Having a sense of humor even in the most troubling of scenarios can help. For couples it is always good to try to find humor in arguments.  Not in a belittling or demeaning way either.  Finding ways to see the good in the bad is not a bad thing. For those with cancer diagnoses part of the treatment is to ensure to have fun as best you can. Find a way to laugh. Research in this area shows clearly this helps significantly.

Right now we are making jokes about everyone running out and buying toilet paper. Now, I get it, I know why people are doing it. It has nothing to do with them thinking they are going to run out of TP necessarily, but more-so, that they need to feel some sense of security in uncertain times. During the depression and for years after families would keep pantries full of basic necessities at all times.  Why?  Because they had been without and that sucks.

Now, is it also funny?  Yes!  Of course it is. Is someone saying that people are stupid by making jokes. I don't think so. I will be clear with you, I am thinking in that same mindset right now in many ways. These are uncertain times. What people are doing is normal given the circumstances.

Have some fun, find a way to laugh, it lowers your stress and increases your ability to face adversity. I am a living breathing example of this. I know I have been able to get through the crazy shit I have been through by having the ability to laugh in the face of massive uncertainty.

As far as the TP goes, think about the great deals you will get at yard sales this summer!

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