Roy Lloyd: Whatever Happened to Humor?

Pretentious people make unfounded claims that what they alone believe has unquestioned merit.  This is acutely obvious in this nasty political season, but even more so in religion where many claim only they have all the answers. 

The biggest casualty of this self-importance is humor. The prideful can't seem to have a good laugh about anything, especially when looking in the mirror. 

Why does religion have to be so unsmiling?  Faith doesn't need a frown to assert sincerity since it's joyfulness that provides spice to life. 

I will take some cheerfulness and holy hilarity any time over the somber manner of those who are "holier-than-thou." 

A great example is the Dalai Lama who seems always to be laughing and enjoying life.  He shows that we can be religious without being a sourpuss.  I suggest that we learn from his example, whatever our religious belief system or non-belief. 

As psalm 2 says, "God who sits in the heavens laughs."

This is Roy Lloyd.

Originally presented as a commentary on Newsradio 1010 WINS, New York, NY.