By Lillian Williams

International Laughter: A simple phrase with such a complex meaning. Something I had never thought of or interpreted before coming on this trip. Laughter to most of us is something that we experience in our day to day lives. A small action that most of us don’t even realize we’re doing until our stomach hurts. Whether laughing at a joke, or laughing at something stupid on TikTok, laughter is something that we all share; this is no exception for a small rural village in Guatemala. In a village where almost none speak English, a laugh or a smile are sometimes the only things that can connect one another when words aren’t able to. 

Arriving at Emma and Renzo’s house, I wasn’t expecting much, and my mood was deflated due to the long travel day and lack of sleep. So, when we were instructed to help locals build stoves in their houses, I had to harness my D1 construction skills. Most of my energy depleted, I entered the small hut which was made out of  mostly cardboard and metaI. I’ll admit, I wasn’t too excited to be doing some heavy lifting and manual labor on one hour of sleep, however, I wanted to be respectful by helping out and really trying to make an impact. So for the first part of the process, I was quiet and mostly kept to myself remaining focused on just getting the job done. Tensions were high in this tiny hut due to one of our group members, Cuong, almost falling through the metal roof. As we were finishing up the installation, tensions were still high and the stench of awkwardness filled the air of this tiny cramped hut. Trying to lighten the mood, I started doing what I do best: talk about my cats. I spoke about them in Spanish to our wonderful hosts Claudia and Clara. After sharing a few quick phrases they asked me what my cats names were. I hesitated, knowing that what I would respond with would either end in an awkward stare from them, thinking that they had misunderstood me, or end with a little chuckle or two to then move the conversation along. Either way, the ending would be weird and make the environment even more awkward than it already was. I slowly said, “Mis gatos nombres son pantalones y camisa.” There was a long pause. Had I really just ruined the calm and peaceful experience we had been having by telling our hosts that my cats are named Pants and Shirt? As I was overthinking, I heard a burst of laughter that echoed throughout the hut. I looked in astonishment as Claudia and Clara laughed with such enthusiasm I thought the hut was going to fall. Their smiles filled me with warmth as I began to laugh with them. Standing there, I realized the power of laughter, the fact that just then, I had made a connection, a breakthrough, and an impact all with laughter and a smile. 

Mr. Kim came up to me and said “It’s very hard to make someone laugh in a different language, good job!” This reenforced the power laughter can have between two people, or an entire community. As we walked out of the hut, we left no longer as strangers, but as friends. 

Such a simple thing as laughter is a universal language. The power of joy and connection is nothing to laugh at (yes pun intended). A simple action such as laughing, telling a story, or letting go of the anxiety and worries of being in a different place is so fufilling and easy to share with others. Being able to laugh with others is such a vulnerable thing, without laughter, life would be stagnant and boring. That is why no matter where you go, who you’re with, or whatever corny joke you try to tell, it can connect even the most different human beings.

If you don’t know me well, or if this is your first impression of me, just know that I enjoy being the comedic relief in most situations. I have always found comfort in laughing until I can’t breathe, or telling a harmless (or not so harmless) joke or comment to lighten the mood. Laughter and comedy has always been a large part of my life. I love making jokes and lightening the mood with my unique personality, however, it has never held a heavy meaning or philisophical importance to me. I’ve always thought of it as just being the funny girl, but now, understanding how important and special the power of laughter is, I am grateful that I surround myseld with such an important feeling everyday. This value has curated itself over my lifetime and I look forward to growing more both as a human, and an international comedian. So, here’s my advice: laugh a little bit and don’t be afraid to smile.