It's the smile. We live in a time where texting supersedes speaking, and yet the most powerful connection often begins not with words, but with a smile. No matter what the situation, a smile sends a universal signal. I see you. I welcome you. Leading with a smile isn't just about being polite. It's about opening the door to empathy. It's the first step in softening hard edges in saying, "I'm willing to connect even if just for a moment." And in that moment, we build trust. In Memphis where history runs deep and the stories we carry are rich with struggle and soul, choosing to lead with a smile is a quiet kind of courage. It means choosing grace even when the day is long. It means being present for each other even in passing. I'm sure you can think of people who give you a smile every time you see them. These are small acts, yes, but their impact echoes. They remind us that kindness like music doesn't need translation. This is Dr. Scott Morris for Church Health.
Smile!
