Sometimes, the simplest gestures can have the most profound impact. In this episode of It's My Turn, Bro. Don Wildmon shares a touching story from his travels near the old city of Jerusalem.
Don and a friend were walking towards the Pool of Siloam, passing through a residential area bustling with the laughter and play of local children. The children, curious about these foreign visitors, watched them closely. Don, wanting to connect, decided to greet them with a word he hoped they would understand. He didn't know their language, but he guessed that "shalom," the Hebrew word for peace, might be close enough.
"Shalom," Don greeted the children, and to his delight, they responded with bright smiles and a cheerful "Hello." Despite the language barrier, this simple exchange created a moment of connection and joy. Don and his friend continued down the street, greeting each child with "shalom" and receiving the same warm response each time.
Reflecting on this experience, Don realized that a smile is a universal language. It transcends words and cultural differences, creating an instant bond between people.
William Shakespeare and Nathaniel Hawthorne also recognized the power of a smile. Shakespeare wrote, "The robbed that smiles steals something from the thief," highlighting how a smile can transform even the darkest situations. Hawthorne noted that a warm smile can make even the stalest message more appealing.
A smile requires no special skills or knowledge, just a positive attitude and a willingness to connect with others. It’s a small act that can have a big impact, making life more enjoyable for both the giver and the receiver.
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