As inspirations go I believe it’s hard to get much sillier than Monty Python. Is there anyone who doesn’t smile just a little at some Pythonesque silliness? The Fish Slapping dance still makes me laugh and I don’t even know why. Yes, it’s nonsensical and absurd and delightful.

For years I hosted annual parties all of which closed with a showing of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. I don’t know why. There’d be bodies draped over furniture, curled up on the carpet, and spilling out of the coat closet (I have pictures!), with the Python gang yucking it up on the television.

Even though times change and popularity wanes, there is something about Monty Python that continues to tickle our funny bones. Maybe it’s the British accent so many Americans adore, or the utter embracing of an alternative lifestyle of happiness. We are a somber country these days and some lighthearted laughter might do us some good.