We must learn to lighten up!

Lighten up at any age!

Contributed by: John Bressan

As we sail through the ebbs and flows of retired life, it’s easy to forget that the best navigational tool we have isn't a map or a compass, but our sense of humor. As we age, this trusty companion becomes even more crucial, like that extra cup of coffee on a Monday morning 

Ever notice how a good laugh makes you feel like you’ve just run a marathon, but without the sweat? Laughing releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. So, instead of just stockpiling on pills, potions or pain remedies, read a joke book or start a fun journal of your humorous life anecdotes, amusing personal or family stories, and make a list of your favorite jokes for yourself and for sharing.

Jokes and puns are like crossword puzzles for the soul. They keep your brain engaged and your wit quick. Plus, remembering the punchline to that joke about the horse who walks into a bar and the bartender says: “Hey, why the long face?” can be a great mental exercise or a great conversation starter.

Life throws curveballs, sometimes they’re slow and easy to dodge, and other times they’re fast and hit you square on. Of course, some circumstances will never generate a smile, but how often have you heard someone say: I know it’s not funny now, but it will be next year around this time.”

 A sense of humor is born from optimism, and it will help one bounce back from setbacks, or even reduce monumental problems to a manageable size.  It’s like having a built-in cushion for when life gets bumpy.

Finally, imagine your kid’s grandkids telling stories about you. Wouldn’t you prefer they share tales of your hilarious antics and witty comebacks rather than your propensity for complaining about the weather or a sore knee?  A sense of humor leaves a legacy of joy and laughter, and in their quiet moments, they’ll look think of you and it’ll generate a genuine smile.

So, as the years roll by and you collect more candles on your birthday cake, don’t forget to also collect jokes, funny stories, and moments of simple pleasures, and to listen and laugh along when others are funny too!  Embrace the silly, celebrate the quirky, and never underestimate the power of a good belly laugh. 

So, this fellow is recounting his first baseball game he has ever attended and is asked how he got the bruise on his arm.  “Oh yeah…that…well, I saw the ball leave the player’s bat at a tremendous speed but I couldn’t understand why the baseball was getting bigger and bigger…and then it hit me! 

That joke still makes me laugh.