I was born with a smile and that gift has kept me on track all my life as I focus on happiness, beauty, and kindness in a world that can be harsh and cruel. The act of kindness, the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate goes easily with a smile, like pancakes with syrup, and it has always been a priority in my life. It was one of the reasons I married my husband. I loved the way his blue eyes twinkled when he smiled. My grandson, James, named after his grandpa, can light up a room with his smile and lift your spirit without a single word. I pray that life never robs him of this gift and when he struggles with his emotions, he finds strength and comfort by moving his lips upward.
Sometimes I hid behind my smile as life threw me a curve ball, which I wasn’t ready to handle. However, the confidence I showed outwardly allowed me to look inward to see my insecurities more clearly. It has always amazed me how a simple smile can create unexpected and memorable adventures that linger in your mind forever. Sometimes that gift can anger unhappy people, and I had to learn to respect their feelings by holding back what was naturally a warm and giving expression. I love how a smile can open the door to friendships and opportunities, by becoming a social connector that encourages feelings of belonging, good intentions, politeness, reassurance, and romance.
Mother Teresa said, “Peace begins with a smile.” Whether we are creating internal peace or world peace, let’s give comfort where there is grief, show light where there is darkness, and express joy where there is sadness with the gifts of kindness and a reassuring smile.
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