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A Giggle

            Have you ever considered what Jesus’ giggle sounded like? I mean think about it- as anyone who has spent much time with the Lord can attest- God has a sense of humor, therefore, the God-man must have had a giggle. It is a magical thing really- a giggle. I can remember when my brother was a baby and we would play peek-a-boo. Every time I would let the blanket float over his face and pull it back again, he would erupt in a glorious giggle that I am sure could soften the heart of even the toughest, meanest man in the world. As my brother got older the game changed, and I was now “Tickle Monster.” I would chase him around the house and when I caught him, I knew just the right spots to get all his giggles going. As a postulant working at our daycare, I witnessed the most beautiful expression of the value of a giggle. A little girl was not happy to say “good-bye” to Dad one morning, and after many attempts to get her mind off of her sorrow, we finally succeeded. As I was twirling her around the room in my arms, dancing to the music, I heard the most musical ring in my ear… her tears had turned into the most beautiful giggle.
            This year, as I listened to our annual reading of the story of how St. Francis built the first Christmas Creche in Greccio, hearing again of how he knelt by the Christ Child to arouse Him because the world had forgotten Him, I could not help but place myself there next to the crib. I reached out and took His precious little hands in mine, and I heard it- His giggle. It warmed my heart with this overwhelming peace and joy.
           As things get busy and overwhelming, we could all use the raw simplicity of an innocent little giggle to ease the strain. So, in these moments, seek Him out, run after Him, and join the dance… and remember to take time to listen for His giggle.
- Sister Mary Francis, FSGM

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