Daniel S. Willins – The Eternal Gift of Laughter

After four decades, I’ve come to understand the power of laughter, of joy. How a simple chuckle can improve your day, lighten your spirit, bring back a fond memory, brighten your heart for a moment. Laughter is one of life’s most simple, and valuable commodities. As odd as it may seem, when I remember my father, I can’t help myself but laugh. The man’s legacy is synonymous with comedy. The jokes he would tell, the manner in which he would tell them, his displays of physical humor, the quick witted comments he would make with seemingly little to no effort. In a way only a man from NYC can, I suppose. The man just had a stellar sense of humor. I’m incredibly grateful for that. The sadness that comes with losing a loved one, and having to live on without them, is a heavy burden. It is heartbreaking in ways most can’t imagine until it happens. So, to be able to combat the darkness of that weight, heartache, and that sadness with laughter, and its indistinguishable light, is a blessing that I am eternally grateful for. A gift of his, to us that remain, and remember him with a smile. I miss my father, every day, but I am thankful that his legacy will always comfort us with laughter, and a smile. Until we meet again, and undoubtedly laugh together once more, I love you Dad.