Title: "The Power of Laughter: Coping with Heartbreaking Realities" As the world continues to grapple with the pandemic, it's easy to forget that there are countless individuals experiencing personal struggles alongside the global crisis. The recent Quotation of the Day from The New York Times highlights Ukraine's teens who resort to laughter to keep from weeping in the face of constant political unrest and economic hardship. It is heart-wrenching to hear that these young individuals are robbed of joy and forced to find solace in the release of laughter, but it is also a testament to their resilience. Laughter may seem a trivial response to their hardships, but it holds immense power in coping with heartbreaking realities. History has shown the power of laughter in the face of adversity. It has been utilized as a tool for protest and liberation, as seen in the Civil Rights Movement when African American comedians used humor to expose and challenge racial injustices. Comedy has also been used in wartime, as soldiers found solace in laughter as a way to cope with the trauma of combat. Therefore, laughter is not only a coping mechanism but a tool for empowerment. It allows individuals to reclaim their sense of agency in the face of oppressive circumstances, and sends a message to those in power that their efforts to suppress joy and happiness cannot succeed. At a time when the world feels heavy with grief and uncertainty, it's crucial to recognize the power of laughter as not only a means of coping, but a tool for resistance and liberation. The Ukrainian teens may feel robbed of joy, but in their laughter, they hold a profound strength and resilience that serves as an inspiration for us all. Teens in Ukraine use laughter to cope with being robbed of their childhood and joy amid the country's ongoing conflict. (Summary: 26 words) 