They say laughter is the best remedy, and honestly, with the relentless barrage of grim news and the usual mayhem of parenting, I could really use a steady supply of laughter.
When I’m in need of a lighthearted pick-me-up, I might settle down with episodes of Brooklyn Nine-Nine or catch reruns of Parks and Recreation or Friends. I also enjoy the witty writing of comedians like Ali Wong or Mindy Kaling while indulging in a stash of chocolate-covered pretzels. Sometimes, I’ll even share amusing and slightly risqué memes on social media.
But when I’m in serious need of a robust laugh, there’s one surefire remedy that never fails: watching videos of people experiencing spectacular falls. It feels like there are two types of folks in this world—those who find joy in watching epic wipeouts and those who just don’t get it. If you’re unsure which category you belong to, check out this delightful clip that’ll have you in stitches.
Now, I’m not a bad person by any means. In fact, most people would describe me as genuinely nice. Though my language can be colorful, I strive to be polite and reject negativity in all its forms. I’m incredibly empathetic too; I’ve been known to tear up during commercials for household cleaners, for crying out loud. Yet, when it comes to watching blunders and tumbles, I can’t help but be a bit of a sadist. It’s like that reflex when a doctor taps your knee, and suddenly, your leg springs up uncontrollably. You know what I mean?
And let me clarify, I only laugh at falls when I’m convinced no one is hurt. I would never wish harm on anyone. But when someone takes a spill, it’s hard not to muster a chuckle, right?
I’m an equal opportunity laugher, too. One evening, a few years back, my partner and I went to check on our children before heading to bed. As we opened the door, we witnessed our youngest son unceremoniously tumble right off the bed. He hit the floor with a thud and a groan. My partner rushed to comfort him while I fled the room, doubled over with laughter. “You laughed at our son falling out of bed!” he exclaimed, wide-eyed. “I know!” I managed to gasp between fits of giggles. “Did you see how he just flopped over?”
I even find humor in my own klutziness. A while back, while visiting my in-laws, I tried to help by clearing the table after dinner. We had two puppies who were far from house-trained, so we had them contained in the kitchen. I was feeling all helpful and optimistic, arms full of plates, when I tried to leap over the baby gate separating the kitchen from the dining area. My shoe snagged on the gate, and instead of gracefully vaulting over, I crashed to the floor like a clumsy gymnast. Plates flew everywhere, and I landed in a heap, laughing uncontrollably, unable to get up. My partner rushed to check on me, “Are you okay?” he asked, concerned. I just shook my head, tears of laughter streaming down my face, and managed to gasp, “I fell!”
Even now, reminiscing about how I soared over that gate while dishes scattered around me brings tears of laughter, years later. And don’t even get me started on the time I slipped on ice and ended up needing surgery. Hilarious, I swear.
At this point, you’re either nodding in agreement or looking at me in disbelief. Regardless, I’ll leave you with this final video to brighten your day. You’re welcome!
For additional insights into parenthood and laughter, check out this blog post on home insemination. You might also find this link to an excellent resource on in vitro fertilisation helpful as you navigate your journey.
In summary, laughter is a vital part of our lives, and finding humor in everyday mishaps—whether they involve our children or ourselves—can be a wholesome release. Embracing these moments can foster joy amidst the chaos of family life.