The 8-year-old grandson of a friend of mine once remarked, “You have a funny belly laugh”—which is absolutely true. I laugh loudly and often—even though the biblical references to laughter seem to be associated with foolishness more than joie de vivre. One of the few positive references to laughter is the Ode to the Capable Wife; it describes a thrifty woman who is so well prepared for the future that “she laughs at the time to come” (Proverbs 31:25b).
Do you worry about the upcoming Christmas? Are you experiencing CPSD (Christmas Preparation Stress Disorder)? I challenge you to keep your preparations simple. Don’t be afraid to say no to social commitments. Focus on activities you enjoy. Spend time with people you love. And don’t forget to laugh.
-Hugo Olaiz