A Smile Given Returns A Smile Received

Have you taken note to how limited personal contact with other people becoming? The fast-pace of today's technological age has everyone in a rush. We dial the phone and talk to machines. We spend hours playing computer games, sending email or managing web sites. In the office we email the person in the cubicle 3 feet away instead of walking over to hand them a task list.



Developing rapport with others on a personal level is becoming obsolete. Human beings react to one another as strangers. Many people in today's society exist without the slightest feel of a human touch or a word of comfort for days at a time.



Could this be the cause of the rise in clinical depression? What of the number of youths in today's society attempting suicide. What of those youths who join gangs to feel a sense of belonging? Saddest of all are those young people who are so desperate to be heard that they become murderers of their classmates or family members before taking their own life. Is it viable to conclude a lack of a one-on-one personal touch is a contributing factor?



Recall a time when you have been standing in line at a place of business feeling anxious and irritated that you were forced to wait in line. Your thoughts were on the mundane tasks of the day.



Without provocation an individual standing in front of you turns and flashes a broad friendly smile. Instantly you receive the warmth that the smile transmitted and your tension is eased. Created a social creature your natural inclination is to reciprocate the smile.



A mere smile like an embrace from another person can fill you with feelings of acceptance. The shared personal contact and the warmth emitted gives evidence that you are an integral part of the human race. The individual sharing the smile is changed from a stranger to a kindred spirit. A conversation may result and the irritation of waiting in line is transformed into an enjoyable experience.



Obviously giving and receiving a smile is not the solution to the world's problems. However, sharing a smile is a good place to start. Being social creatures we need to embrace one another in fellowship.



As you go about the tasks of the day, take time to smile at those you encounter. As you do, you may find the world becomes a friendlier place. Your smile might make the difference in someone's day. You never know what good you will do for others by offering a warm smile. You can be sure the smile given will return a smile received.