Good-humor is a philosophic state of mind; it seems to say to Nature that we take her no more seriously than she takes us. I maintain that one should always talk of philosophy with a smile. - William James

Wherever you are, it is your friends who make your world. - William James

Good Morning Digital Neighbors! The last of the William James quotes for this series of morning posts. He has some good insights into the wide world of humanity and its antics. I have written often on humor, that after faith it is probably the best stabilizer in my life. A sense of humor does not mean that I lack any serious side of dealing with reality, but I begin by finding humor in myself, then my neighbor and our interactions. Life is funny. It balances out the fact that life is often tragic. I guess there is a reason the Greeks had those two mask together. In addition to anger those are the three most primal reactions of humanity. Anger makes an appearance on the ancient masks, but not nearly as much as comedy and sorrow.

Few things enrage the overly serious, the morally raging than laughter at their extremes or finding something funny or humorous about their precious. It can happen to all of us, whatever you hold precious or dear can become the subject of laughter. God knows (and He does) that there is plenty to laugh about in the history of Christianity. I suspect that balances the sorrow that comes when one knows history and the failures & scandals of Disciples of the Master. No pedestals for the living as I often tell my flock.

As to friendship, choose wisely. They are the aquarium or terrarium of your personal state. You will be as emotional or rational as your circle of friends often encourages. You may be more emotional or rational than some of the members of that circle of mutual influence, but there are unspoken limits that the circle finds acceptable or questionable. Good circles ask questions of the those moving beyond the circle of communion, unhealthy circles punish those who break the boundary or fail to uphold the norm. Good circles have a common foundation and will allow for some healthy variations of expression and experience, but they also recognize that there are mutually exclusive realties or attitudes which will likely break the circle.

The "About" section of the Locals communities we have joined spell out some of the basics of the circle of friendship that these communities might fosters among its members. There are the 5 basics of Locals and then whatever the hosts adds to that list of mutually understood guidelines. Good stuff.

Well enough Saturday morning rambling, I hope you have good people in your life. You don't need many, but a few good ones can make all the difference. I am glad to count a number of fine souls I have met here among the members of my circle of friendship. Happy Saturday ADD Irregulars, Refugees, Phamily & Triggeratti! Too all the rest of your good Localites, Localians or Localese have a great weekend. The Daily Far Side - usually just reserved for the Beautiful Bigots at the Nometry but shared with all of you this fine morning. Enjoy!