A PRICELESS GIFT

I feel very fortunate to be a part of a family that appreciates a good laugh. When I was a child, joy and laughter flowed out of the unending teasing that often left everyone doubled over and breathless. This was especially true of my mother’s side of the family. No one was spared.

While looking through a box of old photographs I found a picture of my Uncle Earl. He was my mother’s younger brother and the biggest tease I’ve ever known. I loved him dearly, but when I was very young his teasing would often make me cry. I didn’t realize at the time what a gift it was.

My mother enlightened me to my evolution from crying to laughing. My uncle teased me at her request. Once, when I burst into tears, he asked her if he was going too far. She simply told him that I had to learn, and he was the one to teach me. She was right. One day he teased me and I finally teased him back. My sense of humor came into the light that day and it has never left.

Laughter is and has been such a blessing for me. It’s like a healing balm. I can't imagine not seeing the humor in life. Living on this plane of existence isn’t always easy. Hard times come and go. Things happen to all of us that are not always pleasant.

If I allow my mind to rule I could become angry and critical of the circumstances in my life and in the world today. I might wallow in the throes of despair and remain in that state of mind for hours or days. I do, however, have a choice, and that is to see from my heart and remember who I really am.

My heart knows and remembers that we are eternal Divine energy. I must be willing to experience all emotion. Yes, I love teasing and laughing, but I could not experience that joy completely without allowing and embracing the pain and tears when they come.

My unrelenting sense of humor has carried me through so many hard times. Today I understand the Divine Dance of life a little better, and I do see life in the world much differently. I once thought and focused on life’s complexity, and today I often stand in awe of its simplicity.

I am truly grateful to Uncle Earl. He didn’t have an easy life, especially after the Second World War. It took its toll on him, as war does on many soldiers today. Still, he was my hero not only as a soldier but as a great teacher who gave me a priceless gift.

Written for you with Love,
Barbara Rasp


A well-developed sense of humor is the pole that adds balance to your step as you walk the tightrope of life.
William Arthur Ward

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