Keep Smiling

If any of you have followed my Loving the Island Life blog, you know that I'm all about the power of positivity. That blog was initially started to catalog the things I find to smile about each and every day. I discovered no shortage of reasons to smile, but I had a horrible time sitting down to write and post daily. So, because I'm no quitter, I'm trying again. 

This time, anything goes. Whether it's just a couple words and some pictures from my trip to the beach or opening up and putting my heart on the page or an amusing anecdote from the day's events, I'm just endeavoring to write every single day. Today's thoughts come from my horoscope and some words I've heard this week. 

When I pulled up my horoscope to see what The Universe says is in store for Leos today, this is what it read:

LEO Apr, 21, 2013
It is hard to put a smile on your face when you are feeling badly - especially when your mood is caused by the way someone is treating you or oppressing you. But that's exactly when you need to smile the most... when you need to remain positive and upbeat and motivated to be happy. If you are dealing with a worrisome situation now, Leo, put a big, bold smile on your face, and fake it until you make it, because you will make it. You will rise above, you will prove your mettle, and you will thrive.

Earlier this week, I was introduced to a woman and she looked at me and said, "I'm sure we've met somewhere before. I remember your smile." What a compliment! (Especially when I know it's not due to perfect pearly whites or cosmetic enhancement.) It tells me that I can make an impression with just a smile and sunny disposition. This holds true for us all and is something we should remember as we approach each day. Attitude really is everything. 

This morning's reminder from The Universe to keep smiling is an affirmation of what I aspire to do no matter what is going on in my day to day life. And for me that doesn't mean slapping on a grin so people think I'm happy, it means actually being happy. It means staying positive despite frustration or adversity. I do my best to maintain perspective and be grateful for what I have in my life. Admittedly, sometimes I fail, but I always come back to the reality of the fact that my son and I are lucky enough to live on an island in the sun. I love this community and what I do in it, and I have wonderful friends. Life is good. So the smile you see on my face is genuine and it comes easily.

Not only does staying positive improve your outlook on the day, it can also shine the light of hope that someone else needs to find their way out of the darkness or to spark the flame of inspiration. There's a saying, "Be strong. You never know who you're inspiring." Being upbeat and positive despite the curveballs that life throws at you is a way of being strong.

So whether it takes a good song, a look at a picture, a goofy joke, an uplifting chat with a friend, or even a walk on the beach to get you in a happy frame of mind, find your smile and share it freely. It can make a world of difference.

If you need a smile to get you started, here's mine...