Virus

I have often been impressed with the way something very small can change everything. I am reminded of this at the moment because some tiny, microscopic virus has gotten into my lungs and laid me low for a few days. In an earlier period, I might have even become a statistic, but fortunately, in our day, there is an antidote and I hope to be well again within a few days. The point of this post, however, is not about my current unexpected period of enforced rest. It is about the ability of small things to bring about big changes.

Take for instance a smile. On the surface, it is little more than the sometimes involuntary twitch of a few small facial muscles. It costs the smiler nothing, takes almost no effort, and depending on their state of mind, the person smiling may even be unaware of it happening. Despite this, a smile can have a huge impact on people and situations. Used appropriately, it can release endorphins, defuse tensions, and even engender feelings of peace and good will.

The smile of a certain young Italian lady, Lisa Gherardini apparently so fascinated and inspired Leonardo de Vinci that it changed European portraiture forever. For 500 years, the world has been fascinated and intrigued with the smile of the Mona Lisa, unquestionably the most famous portrait of all time. Perhaps she is the source of the saying, “Keep smiling - it makes people wonder what you've been up to.”

There are countless sayings inspired by a smile. Here are but a few.

The world always looks brighter from behind a smile. ~Author Unknown

Everyone smiles in the same language. ~Author Unknown

People seldom notice old clothes if you wear a big smile. ~Lee Mildon

Before you put on a frown, make absolutely sure there are no smiles available. ~Jim Beggs

Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been. ~Mark Twain, Following the Equator

I've never seen a smiling face that was not beautiful. ~Author Unknown

A laugh is a smile that bursts. ~Mary H. Waldrip

Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing. ~Mother Teresa

A smile is a powerful weapon; you can even break ice with it. ~Author Unknown

Peace begins with a smile. ~Mother Teresa

Keep smiling; it reassures your friends and confuses your enemies. ~Author Unknown

A smile is like a virus; it infects everyone. ~Me

By now, I hope this small post has helped bring a smile to your face today. If so, why not smile a lot? Can you think of an easier way to contribute to the cause of peace? In fact, may your smile "go viral" today, and infect all those around you. In fact, while we're at it, why not create a smile epidemic? After all, there is no known cure!

May you know you are blessed today, and smile! :)

Posted by Carman