I have this wonderful laughing Buddha on my mantelpiece. He stands there representing my ultimate goal of joy, balance and harmony. Surely, it is good to have something to strive for don’t you think?!

Every now and then he reminds me that I need to laugh more, to be even more joyful than I already am. Sometimes he also reminds me of an uncle of mine. When I was younger I was fascinated by this mans laughter, it was as deep and as strong as his hugs, but without the big round belly. My uncle is my modern Buddha, I am certain he is not always happy and/or full of vitality but in my eyes he is all that my statue represents in living form. So why am I talking about my uncle, well it is only a reflection really!

I just wanted to share with you the ability of seeing and appreciating the strength and joy in others.

You may know that Buddha; perhaps he is your dad, uncle, brother, colleague, husband or partner? In fact who is to say that your Buddha isn’t a woman?

I merely think it is appropriate and essential to find laughter anywhere you can these days. Then it’s up to you if you want to rub his/hers belly for good fortune (laughter) or tell him what you are thinking of the next time you find yourself smiling when you are around him.

After all laughing is supposed to make us live longer and I for one rather have lots of laughter lines than worry ones!