Learn to Laugh in a Relaxed Way
Laughter is a sign of friendliness so long as it is not coarse.
In general, a person can do whatever is natural, but it must be in due measure and at the right time. Therefore, you ought not to laugh always simply because you have the capacity, any more than a horse is always neighing because it is capable of neighing.
We ought to control our laughter, to learn to laugh in moderation, being very careful not to let go of ourselves. Only then shall we be relaxed by it after wearisome toil or after a time of mental stress.
Clement of Alexandria
The Teacher, 2, 5 (PG8, 445)
High Life
When we are having a party we must be sensible. We must avoid licentious music and an excess of drink. Otherwise we will be prone to drunkenness and erotic exhibitions.
The Apostle warns us: ‘Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armour of light; let us conduct ourselves becomingly as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness and other forms of unchastity.’ [Rom. 13:12-13]
Let us keep well away from all that excites shameful and extravagant sensations and makes us deaf to the voice of God.
Clement of Alexandria
The Teacher, 2, 4 (PG8, 440)
~ Thomas Spidlik, Drinking from the Hidden Fountain, A Patristic Breviary: Ancient Wisdom for Today’s World
