Nora Ephron’s wisdom resonates deeply: “Gather friends and feed them, laugh in the face of calamity, and cut out all the things—people, jobs—that no longer serve you.” I’ve learned the art of laughter, a balm for the soul, bringing levity to life’s inevitable chaos. A hearty laugh, the kind that makes your belly ache, transforms even the most mundane day into a treasure. It’s a lesson in joy, a reminder that humor can soothe wounds and lighten burdens.

Over the years, I’ve honed the skill of excising the unworthy from my life. It’s a work in progress, mind you. I haven’t always been swift or timely about it, but I’m learning. Each cut is a step toward a lighter, more fulfilling existence.

Yet, the one area I struggle with is gathering friends. I crave the warmth of shared meals, the camaraderie of drinks and the simple pleasure of watching a movie or play together. Talking, laughing, and simply being present with friends—these are the moments that nourish the spirit.

But life, with its relentless demands, often gets in the way. A hard job, three dogs, and a 15-year-old son can consume one’s time and energy. Still, I take Ephron’s words to heart. I recognize the need to carve out time for friendships, to create those pockets of joy amidst the daily grind.

So, here’s to laughter that heals, to pruning our lives of what no longer serves us, and to the ever-important task of gathering friends and feeding them. In these simple acts, we find richness, connection, and a sense of purpose that work and chores can never provide. Let’s embrace the wisdom of laughter, love, and lightness.