Whether you're 4, 14, 44, or 84, There's nothing like the feeling of a smile

An outward smile can be the best demonstration of an inward hope. It’s breathtaking!  

For the one doing the smiling as well as those who witness it - an authentic smile can give a great indication of what is happening within the heart.

For hundreds of years, child advocates, doctors, and grief counselors have studied the effects of loss and significant emotional interruption of a young person’s life. Everything from depression, anxiety, lack of safety, and general welfare has been explored in their studies. Without fail, experts have concluded that when children begin to stop smiling and cease to find reasons for resilience, they begin to experience grief. Coupled with a lack of core childhood needs, this grief can become traumatic and point to a serious condition known as Complicated Bereavement Disorder. When a child loses a significant loved one, it is possible that it can lead to this type of situation. 

If you look carefully, there are kids (and adults) everywhere who have lost their smile and are looking for hope. They’ve gone through a lot - more than any person should go through. These people are in our communities. May I encourage you to look for them? Advocate for their smile by listening, practicing presence, and offering a resilient spirit. You might be the perfect person to help them find hope.

Gratefully,

Steve