Speaking of Smiles.

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Everyone seems to be talking "smiles" today. So I'm sharing an old article that I wrote some time ago. "How do you respond to store associates that ask, "How are you today?" When in pain ... or depressed ... or just plain grumpy, I would look down and think about it. Sometimes I would say, "like crap" or "alright I guess". Most would look down appearing sad and look bad as if wishing they hadn't asked. Having worked retail myself, I knew it was part of their job to ask. I was more depressed having made them feel bad about my disorder. Afterall it wasn't their fault. Then about three years ago, I started saying "fine". Saying the word made the corners of my mouth turn up slightly, appearing as a small smile. A few months later, I started saying "fine thanx". This made my mouth look like a bigger smile. Remembering my days in retail, when I had to smile and appear happy to be helping the customers whether I wanted to or not, I started to say "fine thanx" and smile at the check out clerks. Seeing them smile back would actually make me feel happy. Now when anyone asks how I am or if someone smiles at me in passing (even on a bad day), I will smile back and say "fine thank you". It actually makes me feel better and lightens my heart. So, no matter what your ailments are, try making yourself smile ... even for a second ... it really does help." Smile at yourself in the mirror. What do you see/feel?