2535) One of the things I delighted in during my teaching career was laughing with my students. There were times something so funny or unexpected happened, we’d laugh about it for days.

These memories come to mind when I read Proverbs 17:22. The first part of the verse says, a joyful heart is good medicine. (ESV)

I now have to shift gears in my mind because the rest of the verse says, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

I noticed as a child people who most would describe as bitter. There was often anger in their faces and poison dripped from their words. Those around them were brought down rather than built up.

I can remember thinking; I need to be sure I’m not that kind of person. It comes down to a choice. Do I want to provide myself and others good medicine, or do I choose to poison myself and others?