In this teaching George explores the underrated spiritual value of lightheartedness. Far from being shallow or unserious, lightheartedness is a sign of joy, resilience, and trust in God. Scripture, psychology, and even medicine remind us that laughter heals, strengthens, and connects us. When we recover a lighthearted spirit, we rediscover what it means to live fully, truly, and holy.

SLIDES GEORGE READ IN OUR GATHERING

“A lighthearted spirit is an essential element of a healthy spiritual life and a healthy life in general. When we lose sight of this serious truth, we cease to live life fully, truly, and wholly. Indeed we fail to be holy.” 

- James Martin, Jesuit priest

“A good laugh is a sign of love. It may be said to give us a glimpse of, or a first lesson in, the love that God bears for everyone of us.”

- Karl Rahner