A Fake Smile Is Worth Appreciation

3 reasons to appreciate a smile that hides vulnerability

Image by Myriam's Fotos on Pixabay, Edited by Author

When life gives a tough time, a battle begins in the outside and inside world. And to keep these two worlds separate, it’s important to make up things.

Both physical and abstract things have an equal share in getting over that time. And both of them deserve appreciation.

When life is unfair, sometimes it’s better to fake a smile rather than to explain yourself, show your weak emotions, or allow a little frown to trigger a flood of tears.

Today I want to thank this fake smile that doesn’t touch one’s eyes but is enough sometimes. A smile that shows strength and positivity, hides inner battles, and spares me from explanation.

Three reasons to thank a fake smile

1. It shows strength and hides vulnerability.

“Show nothing on the face. Emotion is a weakness.” Cassandra Clare

It means those who hide emotions are strong. Right? The face is an open book but you can write something in a different language while faking a smile. It keeps secrets.

Some people are kind enough to sympathize, but not all of them. That’s why we smile, even when we don’t feel like it.

Smiling despite all the problems shows courage and courageous people never show their vulnerability to everyone.

2. It discloses people who care for you.

A fake smile doesn’t touch eyes, and that’s why people who care, see beyond this bogus formality. We seem okay to those who care less or pay less attention.

The eyes of people who care, penetrate this barrier, to reach out and help you. This is sometimes better than a genuine smile.

3. Smile, real or fake helps in feeling better.

Researchers show facial movements while smiling, have emotional and biological influences. Facial movements are similar in both fake and real smiles. So, in disguise, it has a share in uplifting moods.

Either way, this fake smile helps to get over present or past moments, and hope and work for a new beginning. Always smile and be thankful for it as,

“Because of your smile, you make life more beautiful.”

Thich Nhat Hanh

I appreciate Trista Signe Ainsworth and all writers/readers for sharing acknowledging stories.