Smile Power

We're leaving the orchestra concert. My husband is saying "Have a nice evening" to every one he sees: the coat-check guy, the usher, the valet. Our son is with us and he whispers something to me as we're walking, "Mom, did you notice every time Dad says, 'have a nice evening' to somebody, they stop frowning and start smiling?" Not much gets past kids; they're observant little creatures, for sure!

I started thinking about that and my son was right. The coat check guy was looking a bit down, shoulders slouched, and when my husband told him to have a nice evening, well he perked right up, stood a little taller and told us to have the same, with a smile. Why? Are people so deep in thought these days that they tune out to the world? Is it that the world has tuned us all out and we just zone out in boredom? Is everyone so into themselves that a few kind words from a stranger is out of the ordinary? I don't have answers to these questions but I do know one thing: the power of a smile is HUGE!

When you send a smile someones way, it means you're acknowledging their existence. You've taken the time to send them a message that says, "You matter." It costs nothing but a few facial muscles and the personal gains are higher than Apple's stock.

So, the next time you're in line at the grocery store, or you pass a stranger down the cereal aisle, take a moment to make eye contact and just smile. Showing those pearly whites not only benefit the receiver, but also the giver. SMILE:-)