When you’re an adult, it takes courage to have fun in front of others.

It might seem ridiculous to suggest that having fun takes courage. Not at Disney World, perhaps. But having fun in scenarios that invite people to question your maturity, intelligence and sophistication? That takes guts.

Kids are always on the lookout for fun, but adults operate as if you can have fun in certain environments.

Hogwash.

A few weeks ago, I delivered the eulogy at the funeral of Kim’s grandmother. Location numero uno on the “Thou Shalt Not Have Fun Here” list, right? But my speech had lots of little jokes that celebrated the life of a wonderful woman. Yes, it was heartfelt and respectful, but it was also fun.

I am a professional Permission Granter. When I’m giving one of my presentations, I see heads nod. I see people eagerly excited to run home and implement some of my suggestions with friends and family. I encounter people afterwards who proudly want to share stories and pictures of fun things they have done. I recognize people who are grateful for having been given permission to stop pretending that they hate having fun.

The pull to Adultitis is strong, my friend. It often comes disguised in the form of someone you respect being “sensible.” People may not take you seriously. Loved ones might roll their eyes. Clients might scoff at your unconventional ways. Co-workers may think you have a screw loose. Why? Maybe they are jealous. Maybe they wish they were as brave as you. Maybe they just have a stick lodged somewhere that needs to be surgically removed. The bottom line is, who cares? Raspberries to ‘em.

That’s their prerogative.

Choosing wether or not to ignore them is yours.

There are a lot of people who look down on me for the way I dress, the content of my speeches, and the art I make. What else can I do but feel sorry for them?

More than anything else, people want to be happy. Many people think money will do the trick. But the person who has accumulated a million laughs is infinitely richer than the one who has merely accumulated a million dollars.

I don’t know if it’s possible to have too much fun, but it’s definitely possible to have too little.

Life is short. But on the days when it seems long, having fun is the one thing that makes the whole thing bearable. Don’t let other people shame you into not having fun or to convince you to hide it under a bushel basket. Like what you like. Dance in the rain. Unsensor your silliness.

Have the courage to have fun as often as you can.

Don’t waste one second putting limits on when and where you can have fun.