Laughter and Tears

I just learned that Gallagher (Leo Anthony Gallagher, Jr.), the comedian famous for the "Sledge-O-Matic" and smashing watermelons and other food items during his shows, passed away today. If asked to name my favorite comedian, I likely wouldn't have named him (to be honest, I don't know that I could name a "favorite"). But he was funny, he was intelligent, and I think that his comedic talents were sometimes unfairly dismissed or minimized by the cynical, the jealous, and the blasé, high-brow, pseudo-intellectual types that you would expect to dismissive of anything as "crude" as prop-based comedy. I enjoyed his comedy and his passing saddens me.

Life isn't always easy. I can sometimes get caught up in my own head. I can get caught up in my emotions, my thoughts, and my ruminations. When I am sad or feeling melancholy, sometimes it can be difficult to let it go. I have learned that finding a way to laugh can really be the medicine that I need to break out of a funk, even if it is only for a little while. And I think that laughing can even be a prophylactic of sorts against sadness and worry.

Today's news is sad, but I think that it is an opportunity to remember someone that made me and countless others laugh and forget their troubles if only for a short time. That is not a bad legacy. Below is a link to video of one of his thirteen Showtime comedy specials. I encourage you to take some time to watch it and laugh. 🥲

Over Your Head

https://youtu.be/x4ltZRK7BvQ

"Comedian Gallagher Dead at 76"

www.tmz.com

Comedian Gallagher Dead at 76

Comedian Gallagher, known for smashing watermelons as part of his act, has died.