I have never had a problem driving in the snow, but driving in the pouring rain at night, that can be a bit stressful!… especially with my Mom sitting next to me, holding on for  dear life.

Sensing a diversion was necessary, I said to her… “Mom, just smile.”   We both smiled, and instantly we relaxed and were even laughing about, well, everything!

I tossed and turned and finally decided to get out of bed and do something.  It was 4 am and it frustrated me, so I decided to smile;)   Then my research began.   I remembered having my hormones tested years ago, and the Doctor saying she couldn’t believe how happy I seemed as low as my hormone level was( I believe it was serotonin levels)   I have always been easy going, peacemaking, free spirited, etc., so have always been aware that when I frown, I droop, and that is not acceptable!

A brief counseling session at church ,for depression, made me aware of my ‘countenance’ .  According to Merriam Webster dictionary, it is a look, expression, composure as an indication of mood, emotion, or character.  Proverbs 15:13 states….a merry heart makes a cheerful countenance.  Sounds to me like a smile could have been somewhat helpful to my woes back then!

Again, from Merriam Webster dictionary, the definition of a smile is…1. A facial expression in which the eyes brighten and the corners of the mouth curve slightly upward and which expresses especially amusement, pleasure, approval, or sometimes, scorn.  2. A pleasant or encouraging appearance.

Ah!  The eyes brighten!  Another reason to smile:)  I have been  noticing as I age,  the eyes are looking tired, so I must smile more to remind myself I am “forever 42”!  In “The Truth behind the Most Powerful Human Gesture:Smiling” by Susanna Halonen from Happyologist Website,  practicing smiling has many benefits.  Amongst them, when you smile with your eyes, the muscles around your eyes are activated.  So flex those muscles , and just Smile;)