There are all sort of theories out there that encourage people to combat their despair, depression, and personal tragedies, with positive strategies and tips. Many of these theories and tips are extremely helpful. In fact there are probably more resources now than ever before and it can be a confusing array for someone who is in despair. Nevertheless, despair is despair is despair and I have found, within my own ongoing situation with Anthony’s Parkinson’s disease and other situations (which we all have), that accepting these moments of despair is much more useful than trying to frolic them away on the back of platitudinous clouds. Clouds wouldn’t be clouds if they were constantly shot through with those over-heated parasites of despair. Don’t get me wrong; I am not in despair but it does have a habit of visiting me unexpectedly from time to time and last week it became such a pest that I had to politely ask it to leave. And, hey presto – whatever that means – it was gone! Okay I have my nouns, verbs and metaphors a bit mixed up but what the hell; I don’t teach at the university any more so, as far as I’m concerned, my sentences can do what they want. And the point of this post? The enormous power of humour. Ming, Ants, Meg and I watched our favourite comedy series this week and, even though Anthony’s ability to laugh loudly like he used to, has gone, there were a lot of smiles. The despair left the room with its tail between its legs and, next time it decides to pay a visit I will be armed and ready – with laughter! There is so much more I could say about this but I will save it for another post because it can be quite exhausting laughing despair away!
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jmgoyder 
I am so happy to hear this. You know the old saying, there is no better medicine than laughter. I am thrilled that you can still find your laughter. I think not having that job anymore may have helped you in ways you didn’t see. Hugs
I hear you Jules, there are times when I desperately need to laugh and I watch Modern Family, Veep, Cougar Town, shows that are about nothing and everything, just to laugh at the silliness they bravely act out. They are literally lifesavers or at least sanity savers. Hugs Jules xxoo
laughing despair away–I like it–you are one wise lady…………..
Wonderfully stated. I’ve found acceptance and humor are the keys to getting through, otherwise I’d surely have gone mad years ago. ❤
You won’t be surprised to learn that I TOTALLY believe in the healing power of humour. It’s kept me sane these past few years, that’s for sure.
laughter is a natural miracle-maker.
Such a splendid use of humour and laughter, well done indeed.
I can relate!
What is there to say? You have said it all.
If you have to be exhausted anyway, then laughter is good way to get there Julie! Wise words! ❤
Diana xo
I LOVE THIS POST! What truth Julie. What absolute truths.
If we can laugh when we are feeling in such despair then things will not seem so bad, humour is needed to make life feel better when it really isn’t