Shownotes:
We were filled with LAUGHTER, and we sang for JOY. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What JOY! Psalm 126:2

In this podcast, Karen shares how she learned to choose laughter every day. You can shift your perspective no matter what is going on. Your choices will provide sustainable JOY.

Laughter is the gift you give yourself and everyone around you. It comes as a result of a changed perspective and a strong decision to see the humor in every situation.

Self-Care for Caregivers

Choose to laugh
Make a decision to find humor in the messy mundane details. Replace sarcasm with laughter. As you laugh, share the story with others and the joy will spread.
Assignment:
Start making a list of the following – What was the funniest thing that happened this week? What brought you joy?

Discover life’s funniest stories
Get input from your loved ones(s). Start a book of funny stories that will leave a legacy of laughter and joy. Keep it simple. Relive funny times & great trips. Remember embarrassing moments and highlights of high school, college and early years of marriage.
Assignment:
Ask lots of questions and get others to share their stories.  Keep the concept going with family memories so they can ask about them.
 
Seek the humor in EVERY situation
Decide to create an atmosphere where it is okay to have fun even in the midst of the trials. I encourage find humor.  It’s not easy to do and yet, you can improve your odds of coming through the caregiving journey with greater strength and a sharpened wit.
Assignment:
Make a commitment to seek the humor in everything. Learn to laugh at yourself, especially when reliving embarrassing moments. Practice sincere laughter every day. 

Prayer
Thank You, Lord, for giving us the gift of laughter. I thank You for allowing me to see the glimpses of humor in the mundane and everyday challenges that I face as I care for ______________. I lift my eyes from the problems and allow you to fill me with laughter. I choose to sing for joy as I look at all the blessings You have given us. I honor these difficult days as times to grow and will smile in the face of it all as I look to You – author and finisher of my faith (Hebrews 12:2). In Jesus’ name. Amen

Here are more letters of the ABCs of Self-Care for Caregivers - so far:

A-Accept Your Role with Honor
B-Bounce Back with Hope
C-Celebrate Everything
D - Dance with Abandon
E - Eat Right and Enjoy Every Bite
F- Forgive Freely
G-Go Outside
H-Have a Good Cry When Needed
I-

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