A smile is a universal language that will engulf everyone coming in contact with it. The verbal words we use won't affect lives as much as a genuine smile given to others. Many people are burdened with enormous problems today but the smile they receive from someone else is a bright spot in a darkened existence. The problems we face will seem smaller if we can stop dwelling on them and relax a second.

With the world constantly shrinking and the influx of different nationalities and cultures, it isn't unusual to have people in your neighborhood who don't speak your language. Often this seems to be an obstacle between us but isn't one that can't be overcome. If we truly want to bridge the communication gap it is possible but will take a little time and effort. If we take the time to read and interpret the expressions and actions of others, they will relay their feelings to us as we watch them. Most times we know what to expect well before making contact.

There is one way we can all communicate with each other which almost always gets a favorable response, that way is through a smile. I said "almost always" because I have encountered people who wouldn't let their gruffness ease no matter how you greeted them. When we offer others a smile the preconceived notions we had about them normally pass away. We ignore what we saw and offer them a fleeting moment of peace and reassurance they are cared about.

The smile is always received no matter what the person's attitude or disposition. They normally put their negative attitudes aside for the moment and return the smile. Seemingly enough, if you want to do something for a stranger, give them your smile and watch their face lighten and their eyes gain a twinkle. It's hard for someone to smile at you and not return the gesture; it's a natural response we all wish to enjoy. Spreading the joy in a smile has no cost but the repayment we receive is priceless.