on others, how weak in our separateness and yet how strong in
our togetherness.Laughing at Ourselves to Develop Humor
Humor seems like something that is spontaneous and natural and
cannot be cultivated, but the ability to laugh at ourselves and to see the
rich ironies and funny realities in our lives is actually, like perspective,
something that we can learn with practice over time.
1 . Think of one of your limitations, human faults, or foibles.
Think of something about yourself that is actually quite funny
when you can have some perspective. The Dalai Lama can
laugh at his limited English. The Archbishop can laugh at his
big nose. What can you laugh at about yourself? When you can
laugh at yourself, you will let others feel closer to you and
inspire them to accept their own limitations, faults, and foibles.
2 . Laugh at yourself. The next time you are in a situation where
you act in a funny way, or say something in a funny way, or are
just less than perfect, chuckle at yourself and make a joke of it.
Humor is one of the best ways to end conflict, especially when
you are able to make fun of yourself or admit that you are
overreacting or being silly.
3 . Laugh at life. The next time you are delayed or something
does not go your way, try being amused by the situation rather
than getting angry or outraged. You will notice how your
amusement puts others at ease and can often smooth the
situation. Similarly, when you encounter certain ironies in your
day-to-day life, try to see the humor.Acceptance—A Meditation
Any possibility of joy requires an acceptance of reality. As the