The Power Of A Smile

May 23, 2019

It was an ordinary day.

Rise early. Jog a few miles. Breathing in the great outdoors.

Then home. Shower. Dress and out to door for a day of teaching.

But always.

Yes always. I stopped at the local 7 – 11 for a hot cup of coffee.

Something about that fresh cup of coffee just started my day off right.

So on this particular day I walked into the store.

And there he stood. Off to the corner of the store.

Close enough to watch people scurrying in and out.

But not in anyone’s way.

Yes, I saw him.

And went on my way grapping the styrofoam cup

and filling it with my favorite brew.

Then as I turned and walked towards the counter

I glanced at him again.

Baggy pants, shabby oversized shirt. Big floppy hat.

But honestly that’s not what

captured my attention that morning.

No, there he stood.

A simple man. With obviously little means.

But a big smile on his face.

It hit me. Truth.

I quickly paid for my coffee and turned to walk out of the store.

My eyes met his

and for a second-

a brief short second

we smiled at each other.

It was seemingly that simple.  But for days and weeks and now years later

I remember that encounter.

See I, the busy school teacher, on her way to school that day

was so focused on what I had to do that day – my responsibilities-

that I almost missed it.

I almost missed an opportunity.

And this man who is no longer with us

gave me a gift that morning.

A smile.

A smile that drew from me a smile of my own.

A smile that lasted well into that day and for days after.

A truth.

That it takes so little to smile.

But a smile is a gift you give another.

A smile draws us together in care.

No matter where you live —a smile is the same in every language.

A smile connects people and builds a bridge.

Yes, I’ll never forget that moment

when I saw him standing off to the side.

He gave me a gift that day. A gift that will last for a lifetime.

My heart was uplifted. My burdens lighter. My day changed.

And I was reminded of what is most important.

People. You and I. God. Love. Together.

A smile.

 

 

Proverbs 15:30 “A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health.”

2 Comments

  1. Bill, Pawpaw, Dotson

    I tell Bible stories to several school clubs and children’s church classes and one thing I do each time is to take up an offering…of smiles. I tell the kids they have an endless supply of something that they can give away for free to anyone they meet…smiles. it lifts my spirits to see those smiling faces.

    Reply
    • SharonBrani

      How wonderful Bill. What an example you are leaving these dear children. Yes it lifts my spirits too. An offering that’s free but makes a powerful impact. thanks so much for leaving a comment. God bless you as you serve.

      Reply

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