Smile

Me, Cheery Charly

For as long as I can remember, I've been a smile advocate. The old saying goes something like 'it takes 22 muscles to smile and 37 to frown'. There are countless variations, but one thing's for certain: Whatever the real numbers, it's clear smiling takes a lot less effort. There's just one thing working against us, and it has a lot of influence. Gravity.

In this case, gravity isn't just a force that keeps us pulled to the ground. It's the sad things that happen to people. It's the moments that make us angry and confused. They threaten us at least once a day, and they come at us with weapons of all kinds. It's amazing how easily a sad expression can completely deflate your day, and once you're there, it's hard to get out.

Still cheery!

I'm a big proponent of music, and the healing powers it has. But right behind it, I believe the smile has a huge influence. It's hard to pass someone smiling at you and not smile back, not because you want to appease them, but because it's good to receive a little cheer and to know that someone is having a good day. In some environments, smiles are so rare, they feel mysterious and intimate. When you see one, you feel as though you just saw something rare and special.

A smile can be the difference between a so-so conversation and a great one. It can be the difference between a new friendship and an indifferent acquaintance. And it's the best shield you can carry against those scowls, glares, lousy situations and unhappy moments. Add a little nose scrunch and a giggle or a wink, and you've got protective power times ten.

Call me naive or idealistic, but smiles are still more contagious than frowns. Defy gravity and smile! Personally, I won't mind getting smile lines on my face.