A smile is like the sun shine
It brightens up the day
It gives the eye a twinkle
And chases frowns away
Anna Johnson 1892-1979
These lyrics from a children’s church song comes to mind when I think of how delightful a simple smile can be. Smiles are symbols of hope, friendship; a pleased expression and kind expression. Smiling brings a warm and happy feeling in your heart.
As a young mother, I heard that we are mirrors to our children. It made me evaluate how I was presenting myself when I was talking to my children. In my hurried days I asked myself, was I truly pausing for them? Did I show them my undivided attention when they spoke to me; or was I rushing in to accomplish the next task in my busy day.
After hearing that we are mirrors to our children, I made a more conscientious effort to be a mirror that would give them the knowledge that they were not only special to me but special human being that deserved me to pause and be present in that moment.
I made more of an effort to give my full attention, eye contact and a smile whenever I could. I didn’t always succeed, but with my commitment to do so, I could more easily correct myself. Now they are adults, I am in the habit of giving a big smile when I first see them. They may not feel like smiling back, but I hope it will still make a positive imprint of love.
