The Gift Of A Smile

The Gift of a Smile

A cheerful look brings joy to the heart. Proverbs 15:30

I’ve discovered there are many ways to give gifts that cost little in terms of time or money but can make a positive difference in another person’s life. One of these is the gift of a smile. I once read that Mother Teresa advised her workers to give smiles to at least five people a day because she found it not only brought joy but was good medicine for the people they were caring for. Even when we’re working to make someone else’s life better, we can get so focused on the task at hand that we fail to acknowledge the person. When I put Mother Teresa’s suggestion into practice and smile at five people a day (even if I get a blank stare in return now and then), I’ve found it often has marvelous results.

A smile dispels fear, encourages, reduces suspicion, and breaks down barriers. It connects us and brings out the best in the other person. But another great thing is that smiles have a boomerang blessing: The one smiling receives benefits too. Smiling relaxes muscles, dissolves stress, and even boosts circulation. Smiling is worth the little bit of effort it takes to notice others and respond to them kindly.

When I was a teacher, it was easy for me to think that my instruction was the best thing I offered my students. But the day I received the following letter, I realized that it was the little things—like the way I looked at kids—that lifted their spirits: “Dear Mrs. Fuller, I really appreciate your coming. I hope you like our classroom! You have taught me so many things about writing, but what I love is the way that you always walk into our class with a smile on your face. Your smile warms my heart and makes me happy. Thank you so much! Sara.”

Why not purpose to brighten the day of five people by sharing your smile?

—CHERI

Fill me with joy, Lord, so that I’ll have a cheerful look. Let my smile show your love to others, lift their spirits, and be good medicine.

It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving. But like the morning light, it scattered the night, and made the day worth living.

—F. SCOTT FITZGERALD (1896–1940), AMERICAN WRITER