Laughter in a Time of Turmoil

Synopsis

Here's A Different Angle On Humor--it Can Be A Spiritual Practice, An Expression Of A Theology Of Joy, Hope, And Grace. Humor Is So Valuable, For It Offers Self-care, Healing, And Renewal, Precious Gifts In Times Of Pressure And Tension. Olson Begins By Telling Of Three Unforgettable Friends Who Lived Their Lives With Joy And Zest--a Practice That Opened Doors And Aided Their Own Sense Of Well-being. Playfully, He Continues By Exploring The Known Benefits Of Humor. Next Considered Is The Amazing Variety Of Humor In The Bible, A Basic Theology Of A Laughing God, And The Caring Ethic Of Humor That Emerges From This Theology. Finally, There Is A Discussion Of How This Practice Of Humor Enriches Worship, Caregiving, And Administration. Laughter In A Time Of Turmoil Draws To A Close Considering Spiritual Disciplines/practices And Why Humor Belongs Among These Practices. Suggestions Are Then Offered On How To Grow In This Spiritual Practice. Discussion Questions Are Provided For Each Chapter To Help Groups Enjoy Their Conversations About The Book. This Book Will Help You Think And Laugh, Or Laugh And Think (take Your Pick) And Then Be On Your Way Rejoicing. What I Didn't Know I Knew -- Two Amigos And An Amiga : My Mentors/models Who Taught Me This Practice -- Let Me Count The Ways To Brighten Your Day : The Varieties Of Humor -- There's A Heck Of A Lot Of Medicine In Fun : The Contrinutions Of Humor -- Why Did Sarah Laugh? : An Exploration Of Humor In The Bible -- The Ultimate Comedian And The Rather Dull Crowd : Toward A Theology And Ethic Of Humor -- Laughter In The Crying Places : Humor And The Caregiver -- The Baptist Cat And The Presbyterian Dog : Humor When The People Of God Gather -- Laughter When You May Need It The Most : Humor And Administration, Criticism, And Conflicts -- How Can You Get There From Here? : Identifying And Develioping A New Spiritual Practice -- Richard P. Olson. Includes Bibliographical References (p. 175-179).