Shakespearean Insults Mug
Even the Bard knew that words can sting or sing... it's all in how you wield them. Shakespeare’s insults were sharp... but also artful, theatrical, and, strangely, unifying in their creativity.

Laugh Like a Stoic: Timeless Wisdom for World Laughter Day

Laughter is universal... but not all laughter is equal. On this World Laughter Day, what if we turned to an unexpected source for insight: the ancient Stoics? Often seen as solemn or severe, they in fact understood the quiet power of laughter... when it’s rooted in kindness, humility, and truth. To “laugh like a Stoic” is not to mock or escape, but to connect, reflect, and even heal. In this post, we’ll explore how timeless Stoic wisdom can help you become not only funnier, but better.

World Laughter Day: More Than Just a Giggle

In 2025, World Laughter Day, also referred to as National Laughter Day, will take place on May 4th ( May the 4th Be With You! ).

Seneca once said:

It is not against nature to laugh, so long as your laughter springs from goodwill rather than ridicule. We Stoics do not condemn joy... what we guard against is losing ourselves in it, or using it to escape pain or duty.

Laughter, in other words, isn’t the problem. It's the why behind it that matters. Are we laughing to lift someone up... or tear someone down? Are we using humour to bring people closer... or to shield ourselves from uncomfortable truths?

Wit, then, if you wish to cultivate it, must be tethered to virtue. True humor does not belittle others, nor inflate oneself... it lightens the burden of living, for yourself and for others. A clever word can disarm, soothe, or encourage. This, too, can be a service to others if used wisely.

“Let your speech be real: this will bring you both reputation and pleasure. For truth gives delight to the one who speaks it, and, unless too harsh, to the one who hears”
(Seneca, Bear and Forbear)

Humor that comes from truth... especially truth about our shared folly, fragility, and fate... connects us. That is the kind of laughter that nourishes rather than distracts.

So ask yourself: When you laugh or make others laugh, what are you hoping to achieve... connection or control, elevation or escape?

What kind of humour do you most admire in others?

Here at Danna Bananas, we believe in laughter that brings people together. We’ve handpicked a collection of Funny Gifts that will make you... and everyone around you... laugh every day. Because when joy is shared and sincere... it becomes one of life’s finest gifts.