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Why Not SMILE?

When I was a little boy a teacher told me that it took more facial muscles to frown than it did to smile. That is very telling on the super strength most have since a majority of people like to wear a sad face!

I Love To Laugh!

Though I was voted most serious in school one year, I do like to laugh. In fact, I like to laugh a lot! Making others smile is a fault of mine, but I feel that people ought to have a good time and enjoy themselves. God’s people, especially, should enjoy life. After all, we have everlasting life in Jesus Christ! That should bring a warm smile to even the saddest saint!

The Bible Says…

The Bible makes an interesting statement on a benefit of laughter, humor, and cheerfulness. Proverbs 17:22 states that, “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” God says that a merry heart is good for you. From a medical standpoint, God says that our bodies will benefit by cheerfulness!

An Interesting Study!

Notice what Helpguide.org states about laughter:

Laughter is good for your health

• Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
• Laughter boosts the immune system. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
• Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
• Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

The Benefits of Laughter
Physical Health Benefits: Boosts immunity Lowers stress hormones Decreases pain Relaxes your muscles Prevents heart disease	Mental Health Benefits: Adds joy and zest to life Eases anxiety and fear Relieves stress Improves mood Enhances resilience	Social Benefits: Strengthens relationships Attracts others to us Enhances teamwork Helps defuse conflict Promotes group bonding

Before You Jump To Conclusions…

Before one jumps to conclusions, we must remember when the Bible speaks of a merry heart, it is based upon righteousness and not wickedness. Lots of people think they are having a great time when they are boozed up, but that, so-called cheerfulness, is quickly turned into sorrow and pain.

Please Allow Me To Make A Suggestion…

My suggestion to all is: SMILE! I mean smile really big! Look in your mirror and start laughing. Make a funny face and try to make yourself laugh. No, I am not crazy, but it works sometimes! There is no reason to turn to artificial means of happiness like drugs and alcohol. Learning to smile at yourself will help when you make mistakes. Not taking yourself too seriously will ease your stress level and the stress level of those around! Bottom line… SMILE!

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