Share a Smile

Walking in my neighborhood early one morning, I met some students walking to school. Realizing “strangers could be danger,” I quick-prayed for wisdom, and out of my mouth came the words, “Enjoy a wonderful Wednesday at school today!” They looked at me with a blank expression and kept walking. Several days passed. When I encountered the same group of kids again, I smiled and said, “Enjoy a fantastic Friday at school today.” This time, smiles cracked their faces, our eyes met, and we all kept walking. The following week, we had a similar exchange. I said, “Enjoy a terrific Tuesday at school today.” This time their smiles were wide, their eyes, bright, and I saw them whisper something to each other and smile some more.

While I do not know their thoughts or words, I do know many kids head out to school without a happy, optimistic send-off. So why not give them—or whomever we meet—a bit of heaven’s encouragement with a smile and a few thoughtful, meaningful words? Greeting each person I see with some sort of verbal positivity has become a fun habit. Anticipating how my Best Friend may actually encourage others through me has revitalized my interactions. I must admit, there have been a few sour experiences, but they are minimal and so far have not kept me quiet. Most often the response is, “You too,” followed by a wide smile and a nod of the head. I used to watch my mom talk to people on our small city streets and wonder how she could speak so easily with strangers. She glowed with heaven’s goodness.

I also have a great living example with my husband, one of the most creative verbal cheerleaders I know. It is exciting to share our experiences at the end of our day. It is fun to watch God put smiles on faces. It only takes a moment, but it can have an impact for good that may last a lifetime. We could all do with a word of encouragement from time to time. Job understood that more than most and told his friends, “My mouth would encourage you” (Job 16:5, NIV). So how do you share heaven’s encouragement with others? Share a smile with someone today and make their day a little brighter!

Lynn Ortel