Since the goal of my programs is to show audiences how humor can both help them heal as well as deal with not-so-funny stuff, I decided to discuss the events of the previous week, the pain all of us were feeling, and how humor and some laughter might be beneficial.

The hardest thing you can do is smile when you are ill, in pain, or depressed. But this no-cost remedy is a necessary first half-step if you are to start on the road to recovery.

When times get tough, at some point, people instinctively know they need to lighten up in order to get through it.

Now, a recent study from cardiologists at the University of Maryland, has shown that laughter may have a beneficial effect on the heart.

Zen teaches that once we can open up to the inevitability of our demise, we can begin to transform that situation and lighten up about it.

A little perspective, like a little humor, goes a long way.

I contend that not only can you laugh at adversity, but it is essential to do so if you are to deal with setbacks without defeat.