February 19 – laugh at me

210/365 – people to thank who have had an impact on me. I’d like to think that I am a funny person on purpose but sadly I know that I have my foibles that lead to humourous incidences due to my naivety. I would love to change that up but for some odd reason, I find myself in countless situations that perplex not only myself but the many people that find out about them. I am an open book so I share my escapades with others or on social media as deep down I feel that they will be revealed so why not take ownership immediately and spin it my way. The former works but for the latter, there is no way to spin the things I get myself into in a positive light. I have been told that I need to write down and publish all the situations I find myself in/happen to me. I would if I was aware in the moment but I just seem to walk into them and then upon realization and reflection, I embarrassingly try to minimize what takes place. I must thank all those around me who unwittingly experience first hand or second hand the outrageousness that finds its way to me. Although I may on first glance revel in the hilarity of what has taken place, I am, on a deeper level, trying to figure out how I could have changed things up to make myself come across as smarter and look way more intelligent but alas, that has never happened and I doubt it will ever happen. I now take comfort in the fact that I am who I am and that I bring humour to others based on what life throws me. For all of you have laughed with me and not at me, I am forever grateful. For all of you have laughed at me – uhm, well, I guess I still brought you some joy into your life. As of present, I have stopped worrying about how I am being perceived and live my life and embrace the circumstances that come my way even if they end up making me the butt of the joke! Laugh on, I do 😉

January 7 – laughter is the best medicine

167/365 – people to thank who have had an impact on me. Do you have something in your life that makes you laugh? If not, why not? I totally believe in the adage that “Laughter is the best medicine” and having something that can provide one with the right dosage is exactly what everyone needs for their sanity. I tend to be the pharmacist doling out laughter to those around me – it’s just in my nature but I also look for it and although, I don’t have a particular person that gives me my fix, I turn to substitutes. I, like everyone else, need laughter in my life to put into perspective what life throws my way and thus I turn to comedy as my favourite genre but sitcoms are just adequately do the trick; however, if I want the right prescription, I turn to comedy specials. I am not a superfan of raunchy comedians but if it’s done well and not just for the sake of shock value, I enjoy it. I could binge watch Anjelah Johnson and Mo’Nique telling their life tales just as easily as listening to Sugar Sammy or Kevin Hart reflecting on their lives. I am especially fond of comedians who use self-deprecating humour to make light of stressful, anxiety provoking situations and in my own personal life, I tend to use this strategy to deal with my own life – I mean, hey, I’m the first to take ownership and make light out of breaking four ribs! It’s cathartic when one can see the humour in almost any situation and also bring a little joy to those around you. I am so very glad that I discovered comedy at an early age on television and honed my own ability in making people laugh at my personal foibles. In fact, one of my goals is to do my own stand-up routine one of these days because of the inspiration I have received from comedians. Thank you to all of those who have made me laugh because it truly is one of the best gifts to have!