14 June 2021

I witnessed the birth of something amazing the other day.

Humour.

Specifically, my two year old grandson discovered how to entertain four adults. He pointed to his rear end, and announced “BUM” loudly and proudly. And then sat back to accept the stunned, happy, laughing reactions of his audience. And then repeated the exercise. And got the same reaction. He did, admittedly, after a while get a little carried away with his comedy routine, but I’m sure that, like all good performers, he will eventually broaden his repertoire.

It was lovely to watch. Learning that you can do or say things that make people smile, is such a pivotal moment in our development. It’s something we can (and should) all do – every day.

We don’t all have to become stand up comedians, spending our time on the stage or television. We don’t all have to be riotously funny with every breath. We don’t, in fact, have to make people smile by telling jokes.

Making people smile can be achieved by doing something nice for someone.

Making people smile can be achieved by saying ‘please’, and ‘thank you’.

Making people smile can be achieved by listening to them.

Making people smile can be achieved by letting someone know you miss them.

Making people smile can be achieved by a surprise phone call, or message, or even a letter or card.

Making people smile can be achieved by sharing an umbrella.

Making people smile can be achieved by telling someone you are proud of them.

Making people smile can be achieved by letting someone into a queue ahead of you.

Making people smile can be achieved by buying them a cup of coffee.

Making people smile can be achieved by telling them what makes you smile.

The easiest one of all though???? Making people smile can be achieved by… wait for it….smiling at them.

And possibly by telling them about your bum.