Article August 2, 1952 Issue

TRUE HUMOR

CLARA ARMITAGE BROWN

True humor, with its happy merriment, is a lovable quality. It springs from the unfolding of Love's spontaneity to human consciousness and expresses the joy of a loving heart. It leaves behind it a sweet sense of refreshment. Never caustic or forced, but always kind, true humor relieves tension and breaks the spell of fear, dissipates the stiffness and false reserve of mortal mind, and quickly establishes friendly relationships.

In her book "Miscellaneous Writings" Mary Baker Eddy says (p. 117), "I agree with Rev. Dr. Talmage, that 'there are wit, humor, and enduring vivacity among God's people.'" If we would be counted among God's people we must reflect the deific qualities. These include the innocent happiness, blitheness, and spontaneity of Love, as well as the strength, stability, and integrity of Truth. Gratitude for God's loving-kindness brings spiritual contentment, which is reflected in a smiling face and genial speech. It is recorded that Solomon "sent the people away ... glad and merry in heart for the goodness that the Lord had shewed" (II Chron. 7:10).

Merriment and good cheer shine forth when one lovingly and gladly does his part. Before the zest of earnest, right purpose, drabness and dullness vanish, and in their place come joyous sharing of effort, vivacious friendly converse, and the laughter of happy hearts. Cheerful co-operation with others and loving appreciation of the good they express will leave no room for criticism, envy, or hate. Thus is fulfilled the promise (Zeph. 3:17),"The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing."

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