The Power of a Smile

As human beings, our faces say a lot about us. Whether we're aged, tired, worn down. Roughed up, toughened up, or flawed. The emotions and features on a face are stories. Though each is powerful, none is more than that of a smile. 

For years people have argued that smiling is contagious, and I have to admit I agree. Whether you want to or not, there's a special need to smile when you're surrounded by happy people regardless of how upset you may be. People often say "fake it till you make it," with negative connotation, but again they may just be overlooking some truth. Because with each smile, one's mood lightens. Forced at first, that very smile turns genuine and reflects the true emotions behind it. What an amazing thought that something as small as a smile can convey such emotion and depth. 

We smile out of happiness. Out of joy, bliss, excitement. We smile during positive times. Then ironically speaking, why do we so often lack smiles? The Bible shares with us the greatest story of them all, God's one and only son laying down his life for the forgiveness of sins of people in the past, present, and those who have yet to even breathe life. What a story of hope and joy, right? Eternal life, with one who is perfect and holy and flawless and full of love. Where is the negativity in that? Where is the pessimism? If God's truth is a reality, and we believe it to be, we should be optimistic, no? A life full of smiles? Not so much the case. We know God loves us and we often know he has a plan for us, but maybe sometimes we can't see the thought so clearly. Maybe sometimes doubt gets in the way. Maybe pain and suffering or loss fog up the ideal truth God shares with us. But just because there's a little fog, just because the idea is hard to see, doesn't mean it isn't there. God's love and plan for us always exists whether we see it to be true or not. Therefor maybe we need a little redirection every once in a while. Maybe we should focus so greatly on God and His goodness that we have no reason NOT to smile. Because not only do smiles reflect us and our feelings, but they impact others. And I'm willing to bet that the world would be more willing to listen to Christians if it was clear on our faces the wonders of God and His never failing love for us. Live out your faith. Wear it where the world can see it. Smile and be a living example of God's love.