Love Letter #16 ~ Your Smile

Dear Self,

When I am out running errands, I notice how few people smile these days. I try to make eye contact with others as I pass them, though sometimes the attempt feels futile. When I do catch someone’s eye, I smile.

Most of the time I receive a smile in return. Other times, the person quickly looks away. I am not offended. I actually feel sorry for them, because they are missing out on something that costs nothing but can change the course of a day.

When I smile, I hope I brighten someone’s day or simply let them know that someone cared enough to acknowledge them. I never know who might need encouragement, kindness, or a reminder that goodness still exists in the world. My smile may feel small to me, but I am beginning to understand it may mean far more to someone else.

When I pass someone and they do not make eye contact, I sometimes wonder what is going on with them. Are they afraid I might see pain in their eyes, or something else? I am not invisible, yet I wonder if some people are trying to make themselves invisible. A common belief is that the eyes are the window to the soul. What might they be afraid I would see if our eyes truly connected?

I do not know what kind of day they are having, but when a smile is exchanged, I feel a brief sense of connection. It makes me believe, even for a moment, that they are okay and willing to step outside themselves.

When I receive a smile in return, it affects me physically and emotionally. My body relaxes almost instantly. My shoulders loosen, my breathing slows, and for a moment life feels lighter. My spirit lifts, and I feel a silent connection, as if the other person is saying, “Hi there. I see you.”

I think of smiles as small acts of grace. They remind me that people want to be seen, valued, and not alone. In a world where so many are silently carrying pain, a smile becomes a form of comfort.

One of the first things I noticed when I moved to this city over 30 years ago was how often people smiled unprompted. Over time, though, I have noticed those small exchanges have faded, and with them, a sense of connection has diminished.

I wonder if other people have noticed this same shift. Will smiling become natural again between strangers? Is there another way to connect with others as we go about our day?

With Love,

Self