A smile holds many powers. One of them is that when we smile, there is a direct link to the brain, and it releases endorphins that make us feel happy. We feel happy so we smile more, and the brain releases more endorphins – a circle of happiness.
A smile also has great effect on others too. A smile lights up the eyes and makes the other feel welcome, and spreads warmth and goodness. Just one smile can make an immense difference to someone’s day. However, the smile has to be real and come from within, from a state of inner contentment and happiness. In today’s world there are many challenges that could take my smile away, unless I have the inner strength to maintain happiness no matter what. Happiness is a conscious decision. Yes, some situations are extreme, and this is not to gloss over them by saying just smile, but some have enough faith and strength to maintain their happiness throughout situations of incredible levels of difficulty.
For the smile to be deep and real I need to be happy overall with life and with myself. If my smile is not coming naturally from the inside, what is preventing it? If I am not happy with life generally, then there is something about myself that I am not happy with. Perhaps I am critical or jealous, perhaps I get angry easily; we all have habits and traits that we would like to change, that we are not happy with. Inner happiness is about changing those traits and taking control of who I am. To do this we can use the understanding of spiritual principles, as these encourage us to change.
1. The law of karma. Whatever I do has an equal and opposing reaction. This applies not only to actions, but to words and thoughts too.
2. If I lack something, then donate it. If I lack humility, then let me practise using it and giving it, and it will come to me.
3. The most important thing is to maintain a good atmosphere wherever I am. My attitude creates the atmosphere.
4. Inner strength comes from the understanding that I am a spiritual being of peace, love, happiness, wisdom, and light.
5. When I attain that inner peace, it is a very natural step to connect with God, the source of all peace.
6. Have understanding and compassion. If someone is angry, it is their inner hurt speaking. If I hold on to inner goodness and smile from within, I can become an instrument for removing the sorrow from their heart.
By keeping the light of inner goodness alive – the light of compassion, and being connected to the light of God – we can smile. In this way we can bring light to the darkest moments and light up the smile of others.
Maureen Goodman is the Programme Director for the Brahma Kumaris UK, and BK NGO representative to the United Nations in Vienna.