“Say cheese!”
“But first… let me take a selfie!”
“On the count of the 3!”
Everyone knows when you hear any combination of these words, it’s your cue to smile for the camera!  Whether it’s for yet another picture that your mom wants to take or you are laughing with friends, we smile a lot!  I want to take a few moments to look at what exactly is a smile.

“A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.” ~ William Arthur Ward

Why We Smile

A warm smile can be used to nonverbally communicate inward feelings, emotions or even a gesture of hospitality. We use it to say, “hello,” “thank you,” “you’re welcome,” and “glad to see you.”  Now, it’s time to practice.

1…
2…
3…
SMILE!

Did anyone see you?  Did you laugh at yourself?  Think about your smile.  Was it genuine or fake? Was it forced or natural?  Whatever it was, it has value. Did a little spark or jolt of energy just run through your body?  Take that energy and get ready to share it with someone. If you need some help finding joy in your day, check out my other blog, Where is Your Happy Place?

Smiling Courage

But first, who do you smile at? Maybe it’s friends, family, coworkers, or even just strangers (especially if you live in the south)?  Do you have the courage to smile at a stranger?  Ask the Holy Spirit for an extra dose of courage to be the “eyes of Christ” today.  Who does He want to see through you?

“A gentle word, a kind look, a good-natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles.” ~William Hazlitt

The Power of Smiling

St. Teresa of Calcutta cared for people who were not seen by others.  They were often discarded, left for dead, or ignored.  She saw them with the eyes of Christ and used every bit of her will to give them the dignity that they deserved as a beloved child of God.  She often said, “We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do.”  Living the Gospel throughout your daily life can be as simple as sharing a smile with someone. You never know what a smile may do for another person. Let the light of Christ freely shine through you!

“A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.” ~ Phyllis Diller

Mercy & Kindness

This quote reminds me of reconciliation.  Reconciling and repairing relationships with someone who has wounded or hurt you can be accomplished or even solidified with a simple gesture.  A smile can convey a moment of God’s grace that maybe too special for mere words.  Can you imagine if you reminded three people of the power in a smile and kindness?  Be the spark that could change the world.  Share God’s mercy and love with those around you, even if it’s challenging.

“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” ~Leo Buscaglia

So, my tip of the day: Smile freely and often, so Christ’s light can radiate through you!