Monday, 29 March 2010

The smiling antedote!

When was the last time you found yourself smiling at a complete stranger as you walked past them in the street?  I use this technique for my own sanity along with the idea that I like to progress goodwill in the world by a smile.  One step at a time! :-)
On the other hand, when was the last time you smiled  and laughed in the hope that no one would actually require you to respond with words?  I use this technique to overcome my frequent uncertainty to what people are actually saying.  Dialects are not my strong point.  Often I find myself in a situation when a simple response would suffice, except, I don't know what that response needs to be.  So in comes the wide grin and a half snort of acknowledgment with a quick retreat to a place where I hope to recover my equilibrium. 
I'm sure there are a number of people I've encountered over the years that have either been horribly offended or simply perplexed by this weird red-headed smiling woman.  Overcoming my horror of embarrassing myself and others is one great challenge that I meet with a smile.
Mostly it goes a long way to generating goodwill.

2 comments:

  1. Marie, you speak as if you could read my mind.

    I love this post, because it embraces my mantra as well; "Cheers, Smiles; Laughs and Success"

    As the old saying goes, "Always smile and people will wonder what you're up to."

    Looking forward to your future posts.
    Johnny

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  2. Johnny, that's a great old saying. A little twinkle in the eye and suggestion of mischief can often bring an unexpected response in the most hardened dour faced individual.
    Keep it up!!!
    Maire

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