About this quote

A little joke can soften a rough wake-up and make the morning easier. The image of a mysterious, hooded visitor at dawn breaks tension and replaces it with a small, human moment. Try the same trick: arrange one tiny comfort before the alarm, ask for a cheerful wake-up, or put something pleasant within reach. Who could be your morning 'something nice to look at' tomorrow?

When to use it

• Hospital night shift handoff: I tease the nurse coming to fetch me at 5 a.m., and she brings coffee with a grin so I stop snarling and get up.
• College exam morning: my roommate pokes me awake, I groan, then she slaps pancakes on the tray and I forgive her instantly.
• Early flight with teenagers: I knock and say a 'Silent Brother' is here to collect them, and their annoyed face finally turns into motion.
• Marathon training run: the coach jokes about sending a monk to drag you out of bed, you laugh, and somehow you lace up without arguing.