Don’t take life too seriously, develop a sense of humour

The Greek philosopher Plato said: “Even the Gods love jokes.” In today’s hectic life, fun moments are like stress busters. Occasions like April Fools’ Day celebrate foolishness and absurdities and underline the importance of humour and pranks in our lives.

One must have a somewhat carefree attitude towards life. The ability to laugh at oneself as well as other’s follies without hurting sentiments is important to lead a stress-free life and to keep one physically and mentally fit. Despite the abundance of good natured fun in life, there are many of us who do not possess a sense of humour and take life too seriously. As we grow up, we get bogged down with responsibilities and kill the child in us. Also, some of us are in the habit of thinking too highly of ourselves, so much so, that we become averse to an easy laugh or smile. Devoid of a sense of humour, we are not able to enjoy life’s small moments packed with fun.

We must remember the words of English novelist George Orwell. He said, “The aim of a joke is not to degrade the human being, but to remind him that he is already degraded.” At times, it is all right to play the fool and become a part and parcel of smiles and laughs all around. Remember, in Shakespearean dramas, the fools were the most wise men. American writer Mark Twain said, “The first of April is the day we remember what we are the other 364 days of the year.”