A sense of humor... is needed armor. Joy in one's heart and some laughter on one's lips is a sign that the person down deep has a pretty good grasp of life.

In this quote, Hugh Sidey suggests that a sense of humor is essential for navigating life's challenges. He likens humor to armor, something that helps protect us from the difficulties and stresses we face. Humor acts as a shield, allowing us to approach life with a lighter, more resilient attitude, even in the face of adversity.

Sidey goes on to say that joy in one’s heart and laughter on one's lips are indicators that a person has a healthy outlook on life. The expression of happiness and the ability to laugh demonstrate an inner balance and grasp of life’s complexities. It suggests that those who can find joy in the little things and laugh through hardships are often the ones who are most in tune with themselves.

The message behind the quote is that humor is not just a fun trait but a powerful life skill. It’s a sign of emotional intelligence and maturity, helping people cope with the ups and downs of life. Sidey implies that someone who can laugh, despite everything, shows they have a solid foundation of inner strength and perspective on life.

Overall, the quote emphasizes that humor is more than just entertainment—it's a sign of a well-rounded individual who can face life’s challenges with both wisdom and grace.