In Harmony’s last blog, she took a vote about me (Nancy)  writing a series of the Ten Days of Spreading Joy.   While many voted “yes” there was a great comment from Miguel suggesting that Harmony write a series on the dogs she meets on her walks.   I am certain that Harmony took note of that Miguel, so thanks for the wise suggestion.

Today, is Day One of the Ten Days of Spreading Joy.   I know that my first day’s suggestion will leave many feeling like it is simply,  too simple.  But, let me assure you that from my experiences, a SMILE can make a huge difference. Recently, I was at an assisted living place to sing with the residents.  It is amazing how a smile as we look into someone’s eyes can brighten their day.   A smile says, hello, I want to give you some joy today.   When a smile is reciprocated, joy happens!

When I am teaching, I never underestimate how a smile can warm a student’s heart. Upon greeting them with a smile, they trust my constructive criticism  because that smile is a seal of accepting them wherever they are at in life and on their instrument.

Yesterday, as I was finally  filling the last four bags of leaves in our backyard, I found myself smiling to myself.  I think that when we smile to ourselves, we are fully equipped for the day! A smile can change someone else’s day with the smiles that we are practicing to give others.   Smiles happen when we can smile at ourselves.   But, on those days that you don’t feel like smiling, smile anyway because soon your soul will open up to joy.  Smiles are a powerful source to spread joy to ourselves and others!

A smile definitely SPREADS JOY!