Did you ever wonder if this was true? Why not test it out. I have to admit it is one of my favorite guerrilla experiments. What do I mean by that? Here’s Wiki’s definition of guerilla warfare: a small, mobile force competing against a larger, more unwieldy one. So, in my guerrilla experiments, I’m the small mobile force, a.k.a. the Smiling Smiley Lady (maybe I should get a cape, hmmm?) competing against the MUCH larger, unwieldy force of people convinced that society says we must be closed off to strangers.
Start with baby steps, simply smile at every single person you pass. Amazing how many smile back, often it’s you, then them, the you even more broadly, then them with a new sparkle, then you emitting a laugh, then they answer with a chuckle…all in the moments it takes for the two of you to pass on the sidewalk.
Spilled Soda on the Sidewalk Smiley
Feeling bold? Tell the stranger, who’s walking beside you as you head into the grocery store, the funny story you know always gets you laughs at parties. I have been delighted and amazed at how much strangers want to connect. I guess that’s the thing I have learned the most from my role as the Smiley lady. People want to connect with you but society has taught us to shield ourselves. Even the smallest crack, an invitation via a smile, and a flood of good will, giggles and friendship pours out! Be the person who opens the crack for others. They will appreciate you more than you might be able to imagine.
Smile, and the whole world really does smiles with you.
Smile. Be happy.
Ruth
Grocery Store parking Lot inspires this Christmas song parody:
Do You See What I see? Do You See What I see?
A Smiley. A Smiley. Hiding in plain sight.
To bring you joy and delight.
To bring you joy and delight.
* song lyric by Fisher, Goodwin and Shay.