So today (which is gorgeous and sunny by the way) while I was out running errands I decided to play a game that I started a few years ago while living in Philadelphia. I haven't played in a while, so I thought it might be mildly entertaining while driving/sitting in traffic. I call the game "The Smile Game". I simply count the number of people that I pass, either in cars or on foot, who are smiling. How many smiles did I count today while driving? Alas, only one.
Maybe it could be that folks hate driving or everyone on the road today was having a bad day, but I just don't see people smiling anymore. I suppose it could be that most everyone is a bit anxious about the economy and our current state of affairs, but maybe if we started smiling more we might feel better, and if we start feeling better, maybe the economy will improve (OK, I know I'm going out on a limb with this) and we will all be happier! I know I feel better when I smile. I am happier inside which reflects on the outside. I am less stressed, more at ease. I experience positive energy and think more positive than negative thoughts. Amazing what a simple little facial expression can do.
Smiling is infectious and I was determined to prove it. I decided to be proactive in making people happier. I began smiling at everyone I passed or was next to at a red light today to see if I could negotiate even a slight upturn of the lips from anyone. Only one person, an elderly gentleman, smiled back at me. Thank you mister! I'm sure everyone else probably thought I was a freak and they were praying for the light to turn green as soon as possible. I could have imagined it, but I think one soccer mom hit the gas pedal a little too violently as soon as the light changed, just to get away from me. I haven't given up though. I'm going to try again tomorrow.
What can we do to coax those smiles out in the open? I am of the opinion (my opinion) that we've really got to turn off the news. Nothing but negative reporting day after day takes it's toll on us. Some people might not believe that, but it really is true. I'm not the only one saying it. Not only should we turn off the news, we should try to refrain from negative talk ourselves. If you stop to chat with a neighbor or your out having a drink with a friend and they start talking about how bad things are now, change the subject immediately and smile. It would be great if everyone would play "The New and Improved Smile Game" with me! Instead of counting the number of smiles you see, force those smiles out. It's easy: smile at everyone you pass, whether in a car, walking, or jogging. See if you can't get someone to at least grin. Hey, even a smirk will do.
I have to be honest though, this takes some courage and you have to really not care what other people think about you. Oh, and watch out for pepper spray.
