A Balm for the Soul

Every day, Chance takes me on a walk. Officially, I hold the leash, but he’s the one guiding me along the path. Chance, our Frenchie Pug, entered our lives as a puppy just one week before the COVID lockdown. He soothed our frazzled emotions while marking his territory on everything we owned.

I try to take us on trails where we can roam freely without bothering other hikers. Typically, this means venturing out in the late morning during the summer or early afternoon in colder weather. One of our favorite trails includes two tight switchbacks that demand extra caution to prevent slipping down the slope. Every time we reach this spot, Chance pauses, gazes at me, and waits for my cue to go. Then, he darts down the trail at full speed, plowing through dirt and leaves. His hind legs churn so rapidly it looks like he might somersault, and that’s when I burst into laughter.

His frenetic paws make me laugh. I chuckle at his clumsiness, revel in his delight, and find sheer joy in his goofiness. As an instinctive reaction, I don’t ponder if I should laugh. Laughter just happens.

Laughter becomes a balm for my soul.

I echo the sentiment of Sarah, a figure from the book of Genesis, who declared, “God has brought laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh with me.”

Laughter rarely makes it on our daily to-do list, but I urge you to carve out time for it this week. Laughter alleviates our burdens, spreads happiness and warmth, and encourages us to relax and smile. May you discover moments of light-hearted joy in your surroundings. May you find comfort in yourself and the natural world, allowing yourself to giggle, grin, and unwind. And may you share your laughter-filled tales, spreading joy wherever you go.

With Laughter,
Nikki Sauter