A Smile Costs Us Nothing 7 comments

3 Jul 2004 @ 00:26, by Salama Shaquana This morning I was in one of my local shopping centres. I am off travelling tomorrow so needed to pick up a few things before I leave. I popped into the supermarket and came face to face with a sad looking man, he appeared to be African. I smiled (as I am prone to do) and his face lite up with this wonderful smile in return. He asked how I was – we exchanged a few words and each went our way. It made me rethink about the fact that we live in a society where often we forget how hard it must be to be different. To be black living in a predominately white society, to be Asian living in a western society. Whilst we see ourselves as enlightened many others are not. Many treat those they see as different with disrespect and sometimes violence. Those who are viewed as different often feel as though they do not belong. Sometimes, something as simple as a smile can make a difference. I hope ‘my new friend’ felt a little brighter today. I know I did and it cost me nothing – but that mans face will stay with me for a long time. I left for home with a lighter heart. So share a smile with someone today – it costs nothing...... but you might be surprised by what you receive in return. Peace and love

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