Lincoln writes: “With the fearful strain that is on me day and night, if I did not laugh I should die.” Abraham Lincoln thought that laughter was an essential part of presidency; the then president’s stress was apparently so acute that he felt that he might not survive without the diversion. President Obama needs to take a lesson from the 16th president and laugh.

Obama’s smiles are less frequent than in the past. With Republican Scott Brown winning Massachusetts’ Senate seat and the U.S. Supreme Court handing down a decision negating existing limits on corporate campaign spending, the president is bound to feel downcast. Yet, President Obama has a long way to go, and he needs to cheer up. America looks to him for the national spirit. Let Obama be resilient.

He could tell old jokes about his ears or make fun of his middle name. I’ve heard him do both. Still, I suggest that he open up the White House to various artists and entertainers.

The White House is more than Obama’s personal residence; it is a symbol of the country.

We pay attention to what goes on there; it makes the news. It is the hub of the political world. With so many problems challenging the nation, people might be lifted up with the special performances.

These events could be similar to the “In Performance at the White House” series. The PBS series once featured singer/songwriter Stevie Wonder. Yet, these performances would not have to be expensive. Certainly, artists would donate their time to improve the morale of the country. They would be honored to serve with their talents.

Bring in comedians. Roast the president. Let there be lightness and laughter. It is tiring to always hear negative stories, to hear from people who have lost faith in government. I recall that we are a nation by the people and for the people. Lately, all you hear from are the cranky folks, from people with axes to grind, from people who love the slow progress as if it were a sign of their intelligence. We knew it wouldn’t work. Aren’t we prophets?

Some wanted a miracle or a gray rabbit out of a hat, an escape from locks and chains. Without magic, it was not possible to restore an abused nation in one year. George Bush created a political and economic mess during his two administrations. They were a long eight years, do count them, and remember them. Bush left the country on the brink of a Great Depression. The nation’s people are still seriously divided, a reality that has so far prevented an overhaul of the health care system. Bush has taught us that we are red and blue Americans. Somebody needs to teach us that our fate rises and falls together on the same Earth.

Open the White House doors. President Obama should extend sincere goodwill to every American. The best entertainers can share their ability for levity. The national spirit needs a good dose of mirth. Let the poets be whimsical. Let them amaze us with their rhymes and verse. Let soulful choirs fill us with song. Lift up our hopes and begin the laughter.

Kristine Kaiser lives in Kernersville.