Rejoice and leap for joy on that day!

Have you ever heard of the Duchenne smile? It is that big broad grin that lights up your whole face and crinkles the lines around your eyes. Neurologists say that smiling like this – even if it is a forced smile that feels fake – can make a difference in your mood.  They have found that this physical act is powerful enough to dispel gloominess and lift your spirits.  What si more, its effects can rub off on everyone around you.

When Jesus gave his followers the beatitudes, most of his words promised future blessings: the weeping will laugh; the hungry will be satisfied.  But he changed course with his final beatitude.  We are already blessed, he said, when we face hardship, and that blessing should make us leap for joy.

How do we lay hold of this joy when we do not feel particularly happy?  By adopting the Duchenne smile!

The truth is, our bodies matter.  The things we do, big and little, have the potentials to change our state of mind.  When we meet someone new, we smile and extend a firm handshake as a way of making ourselves open and available.  When we see a co worker in the hallway, even one who has criticized us, we smile and wave as a means of extending friendship.  It is not a hollow effort; it makes a difference.

This may sound like only a human psychological formula, but it has a spiritual dimension as well. When you smile, you are resisting some of the devil’s favorite tools; discouragement, anger, and resentment.

So smile! Smile when your plans fall through or when things do not go your way.  Smile when someone says something unkind.  Smile when you are tired and do not feel like facing the day. Smile when your spouse get home weary after a long day at work.

Do not worry if it feels fake.  Do not worry if it makes you look like a hypocrite.  Just believe that Jesus will deliver on his promises. Smile, and you will start to recall all the reasons you have to rejoice.  You will start to tap into the blessedness Jesus promised.  Then, watch your mood change and your heart soften.