What is in a smile?

Who would you consider to be more approachable?  The person who is scowling with a frown on their face or the person next to them who is smiling and has a glowing presence?  Your answer is probably going to be the same as mine.  The smiling individual is easily approached compared to the alternative.

We all are capable of smiling and yet so few of us actually acknowledge the power of such a small action.  Ever thought about that? What exactly is in a smile?

I asked myself this question recently and decided to ask some others what they think is in a smile.  One of my favorites is the quote below.

"Happiness and joy. A smile, a true smile, can not only make you feel better, but can make anyone who sees it feel better. Scientifically, it takes less muscles to smile than frown. But being with someone who smiles often, lifts your heart and makes you feel better. Generally will let you have a greater day as well."

Here are some additional thoughts.

For the Person Who Gives the Smile:

• it makes me remember that, in spite of what problems I may have, I am a happy person.
• allows me to give of myself, in a tiny way, to a total stranger.
• as I reach out by giving my smile, I open up the avenue to receive back from another person.
• when I smile, and someone returns with a smile, I receive acceptance, validation and recognition (Note: I'd like to add that you also communicate friendship, understanding and professionalism).
  

For the Person Who Sees Me Smile to Them:

• it gives them a warm fuzzy, that some one likes them, approves of them, and maybe cares a little.
• tells them I am just like them.
• gives them a spark of happiness for their day.

Some pretty powerful thoughts, don't you agree?  The general consensus of the people that I talked to is that a smile lights up your face as well as your outlook on the day. It conveys warmth, confidence and love and many other things to the people around you.  I agree whole-heartedly.

Smiling is one of the easiest forms of enforcing your positive outlook because even in those down times, if you smile, as time passes your spirits will be lifted up with the corners of your mouth.  Not only that but you can bring light and life into anothers life. How is that for affecting change in yourself and the people around you.

I challenge you to crack a smile and share the light and love you have to give because it will be returned.

[Side Note:]  Share your thoughts with me. Tell me. What is in a smile?