The healing power of laughter and friendship

Friday, July 16, 2010

With my presence at yesterday’s public events, word got out around the community that I’m in town … Folks that I hadn’t seen yet started stopping by the rectory to say hello.

Judy came while I was away at mass, so afterward I tracked her down at the arts and crafts fair. We had a good visit while she was setting up all the quilts and pillows she’s sown.

Judy lives on a ranch about 15 miles off the paved roads. During the winter and rainy seasons she may go several weeks without getting to town, and that’s her time to channel her creative energies into such beautiful items.

I also received calls to make some other stops. I visited the bank and hung out in the break room as workers came by in shifts and got the chance to catch up. I visited a couple that was so good to me ever since the first summer I arrived in Eagle Butte 30 years ago. With health issues they don’t get out much, but are still sharp and delighted at the company.

For lunch, I ate at the Senior Center. They always have a nutritious meal; but more importantly a place for the elders of the community to come for some friendship and company. What I noticed this time was that many of the elders I remember were not there any longer, and a new generation of folks I remember have now joined the ranks of elderly. I had several good conversations.

Later, I stopped at Landmark Hall where people were registering for the school reunion. I ran into some dear friends there.

In the evening a family invited me over to their house for supper.  I got to meet the newest generation of the clan. What I told them I most appreciated, besides the good food, was the laughter as they told stories about one another and life’s events.

Laughter and friendship is one of the most healing things.

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future. View all posts by St. Joseph's Indian School