A Smile Is Contagious Too!

As we continue to find our way through the seemingly never-ending twists and turns of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is understandable that many of us are anxious, frustrated, and worried. Our lives and health are still at risk, our jobs and businesses remain in jeopardy, and parents are unsure about sending their children back to school.

Even so, there is a light at the end of the tunnel as many inroads have been made. There seems to be a feeling of increasing lightness and hope as the restrictions are gradually being lifted. In some places, people are nearly back to pre-pandemic norms, but for many of us many challenges and restrictions remain for the time being.

If you are feeling stifled and frustrated by the circumstances, remind yourself that it is the little things that we will come to appreciate after having gone without them for so long.

For example, with masks no longer required in some outdoor settings, we can now see each other’s faces again! And is it not wonderful to be able to make even the tiniest connection again with a smile?

Whether it is a neighbor you have known for years, or a stranger on the street, why not take the opportunity to smile at them as you pass by? Grin at the cute kids playing outside, or the adorable dogs owners are walking. Appreciate the little things. Gratitude and appreciation is empowering. Kindness and compassion is healing. And a smile is powerful. It can transform someone’s day in an instant.

Smiling is universal. In every country and culture, people smile. A smile represents kindness, joy and happiness. A smile can break through worries for a brief moment and make someone’s day. A smile can be reassuring or comforting when support is needed most.

Be the living expression of God’s kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile ~ Mother Teresa

Greatest of all, in the midst of a viral pandemic a smile can be even more contagious in the best possible way, because most people will return a smile as they pass by and often continue spreading that happiness to others. For some it might be the nicest thing that happens to them that day.

Smiling has been shown to release cortisol and endorphins to make us feel happier, become healthier and live longer. In fact, smiling can also help others benefit from these effects when they see you smile, in addition to seeing you in a positive light.

If a simple smile can reduce blood pressure, pain and stress and improve immunity in ourselves and others, it is certainly worth challenging ourselves to smile more often and spread some happiness in our part of the world. And that makes Spirit smile too.