Photo by Edward Biamonte
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Happily Ever Laughter
By Yakov Smirnoff, January & February 2009
Staying close far apart
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Q: My husband and I are feeling the crunch of the bad economy. We used to travel to see our kids four times a year, and now we can’t do that. How can we stay connected?—Strapped
A: Tell me about it: When I gassed up my car this morning, I discovered I’d doubled its value.
Even though the economy is making it difficult to maintain the connections we’re used to, we can actually use the situation to enhance our experiences with our families—by focusing on quality time, rather than quantity.
One solution may be to organize a single family reunion at a central location that works for everyone. Personalize some classic old games for your specific family, like Pin the Tail on Uncle Harry or Hide-and-Don’t-Seek Aunt Martha. Or play Twister (but make sure there’s a chiropractor on call). Perhaps each family could be in charge of part of the day’s activities and entertainment. This will also provide opportunities to call, e-mail, or text one another as you come up with new ideas for the big event. Think of experiences that will provide laughter and memories that will last forever. If all else fails, I know where you can get guaranteed quality entertainment by hiring a great Russian comedian!
Joke
Here’s one way to save money on gas: join AAA and have them tow you wherever you want to go.
Although the economy is creating pressure right now, technology is doing amazing things to relieve it. Besides sending frequent e-mails and pictures, you can buy inexpensive Web cameras that enable you to both talk to and see your loved ones. (Be careful, though, when you choose which room to install the camera. Otherwise, you may show more than you want.)
To keep strong connections with my own children, I ask about the books they’re reading, the movies they’re seeing, the music they’re listening to, and the games they’re playing. Yes, it does sound like the KGB, but my intentions are good: I will check out those books, rent those movies, listen to those bands, and research those games. That way, we have things in common that can help us bond. Most of the time this works well, but it can be risky. I once embarrassed my kids when I tried to waltz to rap music.
The fact is, the economy will continue to fluctuate throughout our lifetimes. The important thing to remember is that real love is measured not by the miles that divide us but by each priceless moment that draws us together.
Comedian Yakov Smirnoff, who performs at his own theater in Branson, Missouri, has a master’s degree in applied positive psychology and teaches at Missouri State University. Visit his website at www.yakov.com.
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