After work I decided to go to the grocery store to pick up a few items.  I usually make a mental note or type a list into my phone, as it is so easy to stray and buy other items you don’t need. I walked in focused on what I needed to get, and then I proceeded to the check out lane.   As I was paying for my groceries, the lady behind me was talking to the cashier.  She said “Smile.”   Then she turned to me and said “Smile..you’re in the land of the living.”  As much as I didn’t want to…I smiled.

I’m used to walking around with a straight face, and having people tell me to smile.   Usually it’s “smile..it can’t be that bad.”  Sometimes it’s “smile…you look like you’re whole world just fell apart.”  I usually just smile to please the person, but being irritated because I really didn’t want to do it.  Being a bit self conscious it’s something I rarely used to do.  I wondered why people were so intent on me smiling.  I cannot speak for the motives of the other people who inquired about my stern face (maybe they were just worried about me), but it was clear this time was different.  This lady reminded me that I have everything to be grateful for…I’m still here.  To me that was a good reason to smile.  Now I can’t say that I walk around with a huge smile on my face everyday, but I do take moments to be grateful.  I smile about the opportunities and the good times I’ve had.   If you actually take time to reminisce about the good moments in your life, there is no doubt in my mind that it will bring a cheery look to your face.

Though I know we still have tough moments in our lives, we can take comfort in that we will get through that trial or resolve that problem.   If you are living and breathing there is still time. Some people did not have that chance.  Some died before they could resolve an issue or live their dream.  But you..you made it to a new year.  You made it to 2018.  There’s still time to get things right, to accomplish your goals, and live your dreams.

So smile..you’re still here…you’re in the land of the living!