August 15

”Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine.” Lord Byron

I knew I was in good company in my meetings when I saw others able to make jokes and laugh about their behaviours. It has encouraged me to try and take myself less seriously. Life is not all about responsibility. I have many defects, and have done many things that in retrospect were insane, hilarious, ridiculous and just plain stupid. Being able to laugh at my own foibles helps me to put the past into proper perspective. Laughter can also help deflate the sense of grandeur and importance my addiction feels it deserves. While I can admit it served a purpose in helping me cope in some manner, it certainly does not deserve to be worshipped or held in high-esteem. A little bit of self-ridicule and mocking can go a long way in reminding me that there is a better way to live. Laughter has also been described as the shortest distance between two people. I certainly know it has helped me connect to certain members of my groups. It is a healthy form of intimacy that helps to draw me into close relationships. Opening myself to making jokes about me has the same effect and is a sign I am letting go of old behaviours.

Affirmation Transforming pain into laughter helps me to move forward and loosens the grip of my addictive past.