FLASH THOSE PEARLY WHITES!

Living in a country where English is not the mother tongue, I have come to a greater appreciation of how vital communication is to each of us. Almost every moment of every day we are communicating to those around us, or afar, often without being aware of it. And yet, after months of developing new language skills, it is only fairly recently I came to a greater awareness of the significance of a communication tool that transcends language, is learnt in infancy and can be used by all.

The smile. There is some piece of trivia that surfaces occasionally (I'm sure you will be familiar with it) exhorting us to smile as

frowning requires the use of many more muscles. It seems like a trite piece of trivia but
further thought might encourage us to put those smiling muscles to

work. We all know that a smile can show that you're happy but so much more can also be communicated with a simple smile

A smile can be disarming. It can show that I come in peace and mean no harm. It can ask you to trust me and can indicate that I only intend to treat you with kindness.

With a shy smile, accompanied perhaps with a drop of the head or lowered eyes, one can show deference to another, humbly requesting that they treat you with kindness and sympathy. Or one might use a broad smile and a nod of the head for a confident greeting.

A stranger can be made to feel welcome and accepted with a friendly beam. Without a word, they can be made to feel safe and at ease. A smile in return can communicate appreciation for these simplest of kindnesses.










A smile allows us to tease or flirt. A coquettish smile and fluttered eyelashes can win a heart. Yet a leery grin can have completely the opposite effect. And, girls, don't we well understand the importance of knowing when a smile should be absent!














A goofy grin can be our apology when we are feeling socially awkward. In return, a friendly smile can ease the discomfort of the one who feels so very out of their depth.










A smile can show our approval; for a tasty meal, a child's artwork or someone's hard efforts. Our smile can bring encouragement to others who have possibly poured their heart and soul into what they have done and simply want to feel appreciated.










All without a word! It's amazing how much can be communicated in a fleeting moment and how little we realise what we are 'saying'. What's more, do we ever fully appreciate how much effect these communications can have on others? So, smile! Besides, it takes much less effort than frowning.