Every one knows what this notation means, “:)”, right? Well, I would guess that 99% of people who use their smart phones, use notations like this one. For the 1% who do not use or even know what an emoji is, this notation signifies an emoji smile. 😊 “A smile is formed primarily by flexing the muscles at the sides of the mouth. It is believed it takes about 42 muscles to smile. Some smiles include a contraction of the muscles at the corner of the eyes, an action known as a “Duchenne smile”.” Wikipedia
The actual number of muscles needed to smile as opposed to frown noted, “:(” , is subject to debate. Some say it takes 43 muscles to frown, ☹, and only 17 to smile. Our facial expression delivers a non-verbal message. I would like to believe it is better to deliver a welcoming message than one saying stay away from me. A frown may send such a negative message that we repulse instead of attract people. I have heard it said that if you are happy or glad, then we should notify our face.
During this most festive of seasons, why are so many people appearing to be frowning? Perhaps, all we need to do is look into the mirror to see what expression we are presenting to the public. Are we thinking about that expensive gift we just bought? Maybe, we can not even afford to buy the gift but buying it anyway because that is what’s expected. Maybe, we are experiencing a loss of a loved one or a job and cannot imagine what the new year will bring. So when we least expect it, our frown reveals our inner feeling. In my opinion, I think it takes a very special effort on our part to smile or be glad. Maybe, it is not the amount of muscles we employ to 😊 or ☹ that we should concern ourselves. Instead, maybe it is the amount of effort we choose to be glad always.
In Philippians 4:4-7, we are reminded to be glad in the Lord always. We should be gentle in our treatment to everyone. We should not be anxious about anything as we should bring our requests to God along with giving thanks. “Then the peace of God that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus.”
A smile is an outer expression of our inner efforts to be glad. Whereas, a frown is an outer expression of our inner sadness.
T