It’s a scorcher of a summer day in Southern Cali, but it doesn’t really seem to faze me today. The heat wave is on, but I still managed to wake up with a goofy little smile on my face.
I tend to smile a lot. I like to think I’m a pretty happy person. And I’m Canadian. Smiling is what I do.
I smile when times are good.
I smile when they’re not so good. I often find a simple smile or funny little quip can turn a situation from bad to better rather quickly.
There came a time where I felt like was starting to force smiles--I’d never done that before. I’ve learned that you can’t genuinely smile when you’re not allowed to be yourself.
I smiled (for real) when I took back control of my own destiny.
Things don’t always work to schedule or the way you think they will. And that’s really a beautiful thing. I’ve learned to appreciate the unexpected. Coming from a “planner” (both in life and work) this is highly unusual.
Now the ‘real’ smile is back in full force. Exactly two weeks ago I moved to Los Angeles. Completely unexpected, I had always expected I’d be moving much farther than just up the freeway. A great opportunity drew me to a city I had never imagined living in.
I smile everyday as I walk to work. Yes, I said WALK to work…in Los Angeles.
I’m smiling at the light ocean air that’s wafting over this sunny, sleepy little beach town in San Diego that I’ve returned to for the day.
It’s unbelievable how fast perceptions can shift. Four weeks ago, I was balking at how mundane life was (un-smiley self and all). Today, I’m thrilled to be back, spending time with the people I care about.
I have this great painting that greets me in my new home from an awesome friend of mine. It reminds me that no matter how crazy things get there are always people in my life that give me a reason to smile.
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About the author: Thas is a strategist gal. Working in Cali, tweeting away at @thaz7. Looking for interestingness, bakeries and the perfect mac and cheese. Most likely with a silly grin on my face.
