Articles from prior issues of The Advocate

September/October, 2001

Living Life With Heart
by Therese Roseburrough, Missouri DDS

WE HAD JUST FINISHED LUNCH but there was none of the usual drowsiness. We were too busy. The room was full of people smiling their pearly whites, surprised expressions on their faces, hands clutching their body fat and laughing out loud for 30 seconds straight. Was this a gathering of Lunatics Anonymous? Of course not. It was one of many activities we participated in at the recent MADE conference. The presider at this “Getting Motivated” session was Tim Crowley, Ph.D. Dr. Crowley firmly believes that our day-to-day choices are directly related to the quality of life we have. In fact, he summed up his philosophy in these ten words: “If it is to be, it is up to me.”

Laughter is a great equalizer. It’s inclusive to all and a balm for body and soul. Studies show that humor in the workplace increases productivity and morale while decreasing absenteeism. Yet according to Dr. Crowley, adults over 35 laugh a paltry 10 to 11 times a day compared with the 400 to 500 times a day that a small child laughs. Even a little extra laughter can go a long way. Finding humor in the absurdities of life benefits more than people think. Beta-endorphins are released every time we laugh. These chemicals contribute to a sense of well being that lasts well beyond the moment.

One of Dr. Crowley’s tips for strengthening our humor potential is “Take your work seriously and yourself lightly.” Having a playful spirit is not the same as acting childish. When our brains alone direct our lives, we are more like machines than individuals. Living from the heart, too, and having fun along the way can only enrich our lives.

Another tip is “Stop your stinking thinking.” Dr. Crowley emphasized the importance of a positive mindset. An attitude of expecting the worst in life is likely to lead to more of the same. In contrast, a grateful attitude and sense of optimism leads to a life full of potential. This is not the same as turning a blind eye to injustice or tragedy. Optimism is a learned habit that helps us to weather the storms in life and take action where we can. And we often can take at least small actions that make a real difference.

During the course of our session, we became reacquainted with the importance of having dreams for ourselves. Dr. Crowley himself is a terrific example of the power we have to bring those dreams to life. He educated and entertained in a way that won’t soon be forgotten.