You can tell a bit about a man by what it is that makes him silly. For some, the later it gets, the more likely it is to happen. Surround him with good friends, let the jokes begin, and see where the evening takes him. Some folks will be suspicious there’s alcohol involved but I have seen situations where it’s nothing other than good company and quick wit that can send people into fits of laughter. Humor can be a right powerful narcotic, inducing a euphoria that is right effective. Someone surrounded with people they love, clever comments playing off one another but without malice aforethought, and you soon see someone who has forgotten their troubles for a while. Rather, then, they are caught up in the joy of life.

Another thing that can take me there to the land of Forget Dignity, Enjoy Life is the company of small children. Particularly if there is a genetic link.

There ought to be some sort of immunity for an old man attempting to entertain his grandkids. Never mind that the truth might get a little lost in the commotion or that he may be saying things that he knows make no sense. If he’s capable of getting down on the floor with them and then getting back up with a minimum of assistance, then let him have at it for a while. If the mutual laughter and commotion rattles the dishes and shakes the plates for a while, so be it. If he tells them they have pumpernickel pudding stuck behind their ears, don’t get in too much of a hurry to offer a contrary opinion.

Just leave ’em be. Trust me, this level of energy isn’t going to hold up for very long and they’ll all sleep better tonight. This sort of inter-generational shenanigan is right as rain in August, nourishing to the soul and good for whatever ails you. I’m guessing that even God grins when old men work so hard at making little children laugh.

I’m putting my kids and grandkids on alert; I think I may need more practice.

H. Arnett
4/24/19