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Theresa's Tidbits: Irish sense of humour is unique, infectious
Theresa Seraphim
for Spotlight
Q.: Why did St. Patrick drive the snakes out of Ireland?
A: He couldn’t afford plane fare. (www.holidays.caboose.com)
Since it’s St. Patrick’s Day, sure an’ it’s a good time to reflect on one of the people of Ireland’s greatest assets – a sense of humour.
We’ve all heard the stories, like the one about the aging man who lived alone in Ireland. His only son was in Long Kesh Prison, and he didn’t know anyone who would spade up his potato garden. The old man wrote to his son about it, and received this reply, “For HEAVENS SAKE, don’t dig up that garden, that’s where I buried the GUNS!!!!!” At 4 a.m. the next day, a dozen British soldiers showed up and dug up the entire garden, but didn’t find any guns. Confused, the man wrote to his son telling him what happened and asking him what to do next.
His son’s reply was: “Just plant your potatoes.” (from ahajokes.com)
Ah yes, those Irish know how to spin a yarn with the driest, and funniest, sense of humour ever. ‘Tis indeed one of their greatest gifts to the world.
And, faith and begorra, the world needs to be able to laugh.
Psychologists say that when a person’s mental health begins to deteriorate, the first casualty is his or her sense of humour.
Humour has many benefits, both for body and mind. On the physical plane (according to www.holisticonline. com), laughter reduces stress, boosts the immune system, lowers blood pressure, protects the heart, relaxes muscles and reduces pain.
Humour’s psychological benefits are numerous, as well.
According to helpguide.org, laughter dissolves distressing emotions, helps a person relax and recharge and shifts the perspective.
In relationships, humour helps a person be more spontaneous, let go of defensiveness, release inhibitions and express true feelings.
Since the Irish seem to have this down “Pat” (pun intended), let’s give them the final hilarious word on this.
The good Father was warning his listeners about the suddenness of death. “Before another day is ended,” he thundered, “somebody in this parish will die.” Seated in the front row was a little old Irishman who laughed out loud at this statement. Very angry, the priest said to the jovial old man, “What’s so funny?” “Well!” spoke up the oldster, “I’m not a member of this parish.”
Laughter is inner jogging. – Norman Cousins
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