A Captive Audience - Visitor's Story

by John Fitts
(Palm Harbor, FL USA)

As a chaplain I’m often asked to speak about spirituality as it affects various groups of people. Recently I was invited to speak to a support group for stroke survivors and their caregivers. Shortly after work the members of the group began to gather in the designated room at the hospital. Slowly the room began to fill with those walking without any aids, and others who ambulated with their canes, crutches, and walkers.

After being graciously introduced by the host, I proceeded to speak on the topic of spirituality and how it applies to victims of strokes or their caregivers. There are many issues and I carefully and sympathetically addressed them.

After about twenty to twenty-five minutes, I stopped speaking and in an attempt to relieve some built up tension said, “It is at this point that most people either have a number of questions to ask, or they simply get up and decide to leave.� A sweet little lady in the far corner of the room obviously impaired, showing the indomitable spirit that is the underpinning of true survivors, grabbed her cane and said meekly, “We can’t.�

With that the whole room, myself included, burst into laughter. It was exactly what was needed to bring some humor to the situation and lighten the atmosphere. After that there was quite a time of healthy sharing and support.

There is a proverb that says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine.� Norman Cousins wrote about his struggle to survive cancer years ago. He claimed that the key to his survival was his ability to laugh. If further proof were needed, Reader’s Digest has a section entitled, “Laughter is the Best Medicine.�

Humor helps us endure difficult trials and it gives other permission to get closer to us. A sense of humor allows other to feel more comfortable when they try to reach out to us, to comfort us. So, while humor relieves inner tension and stress, producing a more positive attitude and outlook, it can also bring healing to relationships.