Encouraging Moms to Laugh

As the saying goes, “Laughter is good for the soul.” It’s good for your soul as a parent as well.

Studies show that families who laugh are healthier, happier and more connected to each other. Even little giggles between you and your family play a meaningful part in creating bonds that you’ll share forever.

Laughter is a powerful connector. In fact, at its heart, laughter is mostly about connection, only partially about humor. We laugh more when we’re with other people than when we’re alone. That’s because laughter is contagious. When you hear someone else laugh, you’re more likely to laugh too.

I know my boys would agree with that. Some of our greatest memories as a family involve laughing together in the car or around the dinner table. A few times we’ve laughed for so long that we started laughing at each other’s laughing.

Mom, to laugh in the midst of your parenting years you’re going to need to be connected to the Source of Life. If the chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever, then maybe it’s okay to take fun more seriously.

I’m airing a recorded message on Focus on the Family with Jim Daly from my friend, pastor and author, Ted Cunningham. He reminds moms that your children are not your source of life. They cannot fill you up and complete your identity and sense of value. Ted shares how to let your strength, your hope, and your laughter come from the inner beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.

Psalm 28:7 says, “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” Is Jesus your source of life?

Martin Luther actually put it this way, “If the earth is fit for laughter, then surely heaven is filled with it. Heaven is the birthplace of laughter.”

Tun in on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, or take us with you on our free phone app.

Before I close, I’d like to extend an invitation for you to become a special partner with us through our monthly “Friends of Focus on the Family” program. When you do, you’ll receive member-exclusive benefits, and I’ll send you a copy of Ted’s book A Love That Laughs: Lighten Up, Cut Loose and Enjoy Life Together. It’s our way of saying thank you for touching others with the love of Christ. To make your pledge, or for more information, click here or call 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).