Why the Scowl

When I’m out and about, I’ve noticed the ‘tough’ scowl that’s on the faces of so many young men (and some not so young), even some young women are wearing the scowl. I sometimes wonder if they are emulating their favorite athletes or entertainers, because many of them are donning the scowl too. I get it, the ‘tough’ scowl is cool. But why? Why is it cool to look mad? Why is it cool to try to intimidate others? Is that power? Is that strength? Really!?! 

To be honest, I remember putting on that scowl when I was a young man, it kinda had the “don’t mess with me” thing going on. But really what it was . . . it wasn’t toughness, it was an act, it was also fear and insecurity. I was scared to let others “in”, I saw love as weakness, so I kept them away. All the while knowing that that scowl WAS NOT ME! I wanted to break out of it, but wasn’t sure how.

Now I’m not saying that everyone that has a scowl on their face is fearful and insecure, but what I am saying is . . . 

Let’s make smiling cool!! A kind smile shows more strength and fortitude than a ‘tough’ scowl ever could. It doesn’t take strength to scowl at someone . . . that’s easy. It takes courage, strength and humility to greet someone you don’t know (and even those you do know) with a genuine smile.

A scowl can’t be worn on a heart filled with love and peace. I mean, you could try, but you would not be successful. 😊

Today, give the gift of a smile. Yeah, I know, it’s corny . . . so what!

“I just like to smile. Smiling’s my favorite!” - Buddy the Elf