What is it that makes you laugh? The kind of laughter that bubbles up from the belly and spills out into the world, where it catches light upon the wind and spreads to all those around you. The kind of laughter that is carbonated, as Anne Lamott would say, and holy too. 

This month, we’re honouring the laughter and the lightness. This sort of release feels necessary to mark the beginning of a new year. As the 2022 chapter draws to a close, it paves the way for another calendar cycle, reminding us that time is obedient in its forward march. It refuses to stagnate and, with this, delivers us the constant promise of newness. 

So we are looking to the future with hope in our hearts. With hands clasped and minds open. This month we prompt you to contemplate what opens up your own heart to a sense of joy and wonder. And to meditate on what it is that inspires reverence within. Olivia Drake speaks with artist Heath Wae about his works of visual prayer. Meanwhile Annelie Bruijn transports us to the hallowed ground of the verdant Netherlands countryside. And Annika Hein muses on the art of playfulness through a beautiful series of poetry. 

With summer holidays now in full swing, the time is ripe for giving yourself permission to play—but also to pause where required. For ‘rest and laughter are the most spiritual and subversive acts of all,’ writes Anne Lamot. ‘Laugh, rest, slow down.’ 

Take inspiration from Lamott and seek to be present in the world, letting it fill you with awe. Wandering around Rome a few years ago with 6am jetlag, it seemed to me that awe was all around. That everything in the slowly waking city was coloured with a certain sort of reverence. Café owners fired up their coffee machines and laid out their morning pastries. Nuns wandered together along the morning commute, laughing and swapping confidences. And ancient buildings smiled in the morning sun. Time seemed to stand still in those long hours before Rome really awoke. And it felt like a deep cleanse for the soul. 

So consider how you can slow the process this month and tap into the collective laughter. To the creative spirit within. Whatever path you are charting for this new year ahead, resolve to find the light. Come together with hands and hearts clasped—with laughter in your belly.  

Rosie Dalton