The Gift Of Smiling

Professor Smith was working in his office at university when he received one of his students. He asked him to come in and take a seat. The young student looked enthusiastic and delighted to have been received by such a distinguished professor.

“Thank you for your time, sir.”

“You are welcome. I hope you are doing well.’

“I am well. Thank you.”

“Great. How is your project coming along?”

“The vision is clear now. I succeeded in shaping the basic axes and set the whole conception.”

“You sound self-confident and motivated, aren’t you?”

“Yes, I am.”

“So I need some time so that I can study the work and make some assessment.”

“Without doubt, sir. Here you are.”

“Thank you.”

“By the way, I was wondering if I can ask you a question, professor.”

“Go ahead.”

“I, and I am not the only one, noticed that you always bear a smile on your face. You always look cheerful and positive.”

“Is it weird to always keep a smile on the face?”

“What I mean is that you are human too. Yet you go through tough periods like everyone and you never show that . You seem to possess some exceptional power to do that, don’t you?”

“I see. Let me say that the whole matter is a state of mind. It is a personal conviction. In truth, most people think that a smile is a very simple expression. I think that such an expression isn’t simple and it reflects deep meanings and insights. The fact of smiling is the output of a huge inner effort because when you smile you do your best not to spread negativity and spoil the mood of the receiver. You care for the one and you show your selflessness by restraining your selfishness and hiding your personal suffering and worries. You struggle to be a giver irrespective of your inner state and mood. We should follow the example of bees. They collect nectar from the best flowers to turn it into honey and selflessly dedicate it to us.”

“Wow. So deep and insightful, professor. I did enjoy listening to your view and I appreciate it. My sincere respect, sir.”

“Thank you. Try to do the same.”

” Certainly I will do it. You are our idol, professor.”

“Have a nice day.”