SMILE, When You Think You Can’t

“I lift up my eyes toward the mountains; whence shall help come to me? My help is from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” – Psalm 121:1-2

Was there a time in your life when you felt hopeless? Have you experienced moments when you had no one to turn to for help? You might be in that moment right now. With this Covid pandemic lurking around us, negative feelings can resurface, the future may seem bleak. It is very important to be reminded of God’s promises during this difficult time. Here’s the truth: God is the maker of heaven and earth. There is nothing that is out of His control.

So, when was the last time you smiled with your heart?

I recall a time when I had a stupid fight with my husband on our way home from work. I was frowning and refused to look at my husband who was driving silently beside me. Then viola! This song played:

“There’s always a reason to always choose joy
There’s something deeper that the world can’t destroy
Smile, get up and dance!
Smile, there’s a bigger plan
The storm only lasts for a while, so smile…”

That song is entitled “Smile” by Sidewalk Prophets and after hearing it once, it became part of my “feel good” playlist. It is now my go-to song when I feel down, or whenever my wifezilla mood kicks in. Sometimes I dance to it too when I feel lethargic and the song never fails to make me leap with joy.

One early morning in the office, I was thinking about the endless tasks on my to-do list, I was so lost in my thoughts when an elderly patient greeted me saying, “Good morning! It’s a beautiful day, isn’t it?” I looked at this frail elderly man and I couldn’t help but return his smile. He looked sick, and yet, he took the time to appreciate the beauty that I neglected. And there I was, completely healthy, yet I didn’t even notice that the sun was shining brightly. You see, sometimes we fix our eyes on what went wrong, or what could go wrong. If only we take the time to pause and reflect, then our eyes will be able to recognize the beauty all around us.

Whatever it is that you’re going through right now. SMILE. It’s good for your heart. It’s a medicine for your weary soul. Things may not be going the way you planned them to be, your circumstances might tell you that there is no reason to hope, but still, SMILE. Smiling in the midst of trials is a manifestation of faith. As to the things that you hope for, it will get there. As for who you want to be, you’ll get there. One.step.at.a.time. For now, just SMILE. :)