By: Jim Ryan 
Source: The Daily Guardian https://epaper.thedailyguardian.com/view/1868/the-daily-guardian%09/15 
Dated: January 4th, 2025

Each smile is an energy that generates an atmosphere of well-being, and each smile moves and draws everyone into a world of goodwill and loving feelings. Smiling is the yogic art of facial communication that transmits our intention of supportive energy. 

However, when we are not sure or fully engaged, we hold back, smile and acknowledge, but only with our eyes, and when we disagree or disapprove, our lips widen to a smiling pose, but our eyes are inactive, and our face is still. In both, we are held in critical reticence, not connecting or supporting; we are passive critics. Sometimes, we meet the crooked smile of deceit or deception; however, reciprocating with a smile of truthful kindness we offer a mirror that disarms, and reminds each one of what is correct and authentic.

When we smile, a soft wave of well-being flows through us, full of acceptance and begin good feelings. We all love to smile and receive a smile in return. It is the language and currency of positive relationships. It signals to others that you are friendly, kind, and mean no harm, and the reciprocating smile acknowledges that they are also the same. The smile arises from each one's inner truth. It is a unique moment of spiritual unity beyond the forms and norms of the limitations of language, role and gender. It is a subtle expression of the soul’s pure nature; transcending the turmoil of the divisive energies of fear and need.

A smile has incredible power. It breaks down barriers and draws the mind away from the shadows of misapprehension and fear. Smiling becomes a pathway, sometimes the only link in expressing values, truth and friendship, especially when the effects of our chaotic and aggressive world, block our channels of communication in relationships. 

The basis and fuel for the energy of our smile is spiritual self-awareness. As we link into God's great power, we become a channel for a beautiful flow of lightness, happiness and good wishes. Our smile becomes the flame of spiritual power crowning the candle of eternal truth; there is no need for words, reassurance or explanation.

In reminding ourselves of our spiritual identity and of the Supreme Soul who is our support and guide, we find our approach and ways are now lit and guided by that great light and energy.

So, thus empowered and reassured, we now emerge an inner smile that becomes a sun of hope for all our brothers. We create a smile that lasts forever.

 
Jim Ryan has a background in education. 
He is an author and a Brahma Kumaris Rajyoga teacher, 
based at the Global Re-treat Centre, Oxford, UK.