Laughter is a gift from God

Several thousand years ago, when Zoroaster, the founder of Zoroastrianism, the first monotheistic faith, was born, he did not cry, as most babies do.

According to legend, he laughed.

Zoroastrians believe that Zoroaster's first utterance was laughter because divine wisdom was already in him. He knew that good would overcome evil. Rather than crying like an ordinary newborn, those around him heard laughter. Zoroastrians believe that his laughter symbolized joy and the coming victory of truth and goodness over evil.

According to legend, the laughter frightened the forces of darkness — they believed that Zoroaster would challenge their power.

Fast forward a millennium or two. Many scholars believe the Wise Men (Magi) who came to see the baby Jesus were Zoroastrian priests. Magi were known for watching the stars for signs. In Matthew 2:2 they are quoted as saying, "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him."

But back to laughter — I am grateful for it because it adds so much to every day life. Laughter truly is a gift from God.

This week's funny kids column has stories from my recent weeks in Key West. I hope they make you smile and maybe even laugh.

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A sign posted for several days on a street near our home said, "I dream of a better world where chickens can cross the road without having their motives questioned."

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On walks in Key West we often pass a vehicle parked along a shaded side street with a sign on the driver's side that proclaims: "I identify as a Jeep." It always makes me smile. When I pointed it out to our daughter, Dolly, she said we should make a sign that says, "I identify as a Lamborghini" for our 15-years-old Ford Focus!

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A bar in Key West called The Bearded Lady has this painted on its window: "Good beer, decent wine, questionable staff." We've never gone inside, so I can't provide any details, interesting as they might be.

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Key West in July and August has some very hot moments. We were walking (trudging) home from somewhere when Mari, 8, noticed the small playground tucked away in a shaded area a couple of blocks from our house. It included a swing set. Running toward the swing, Mari said, "I need some AC (air conditioning)!" referring to the breeze she would feel while swinging.

Mari told me that her father invented this joke. "What do you call a group of fish? A school. What do you call a group of giraffes? A high school!" Good job, Simon!

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Last Friday night Terry and I were crossing the main street in Garrett (Randolph Street). A woman in front of us was tightly holding the hand of one (or two?) children while another ran ahead. The woman called to the child who was running ahead, telling her not to run because she might fall. The little girl called back, "I'm more mature. I know when not to fall."

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One of our favorite restaurants in Key West is Cafe Sole. I took Dolly and other family members there for her birthday. On the way out we saw a framed letter. In a child's handwriting this is what it said: You Guys Are one of the Best food places ever!!! Iv'e Done alot of fun things Butt that was one of the funnest things ever p.s. the choclate mose was EXELLENT

Thank you to everyone who shares — or has shared — their stories! Readers, I welcome your stories, suggestions and/or photos. Please email me at gracehous holder@gmail.com or text 260-318-1981. Thank you in advance!