I never used to smile at people in the street/shops ect. I was too shy or inhibited. Also at times I just felt too damm awful to bother.

In the last 4 months I've changed though. I smile at people in the street - where once a passing gaze would have been just that, if I briefly meet eyes with someone I smile. I don't have to stop on my way, I can still go about my business, it doesn't cost me anything to give that out to others.

That people respond 9 times out of 10 witha smile back is lovely. I know it may sound silly, especially when we here go through so much hell at times but for me it really does enrich my day and add to my spiritual strength. I enjoy the interaction that comes about through sharing a smile.

It is lovely. Try it sometime if you haven't.

Yeah, I've noticed it too, but I only smile when I'm feeling great... Maybe I should do it more, even when I'm not feeling good.

Yeah!!! I used to feel that it was impossible to smile when I was gripped with depression but even on days where I'm not feeling well I still try and make the effort. At a most basic level it is a positive thing to do for oneself - to smile - so actually to do it and receive a smile back can actually make one feel a little bit better.

So go forth Black Flag and grin even when you're feeling grim.