Smiles
Others oft get impressions of us by the way
We use facial expressions to feelings convey.
Most important of these to attract and beguile
Is the easy, reliable, versatile smile.
There are smiles that are sheepish or silly or sly
Or are knowing or fiendish or roguish or wry.
With our smiles we calm children and lessen their fear;
And we flash them if something is witty we hear.
People smile to emotions or motives disguise,
And they smile when they greet and old friends recognize.
There are wholehearted smiles that add sparkle to eyes,
And we glow when awarded an honor or prize.
Smiles despair can expel and extinguish a feud.
They rejoice and encourage and brighten one's mood,
When you're nervous, a smile can the tension relieve,
But both swindlers and traitors use smiles to deceive.
Smiles can hide our discomfort or foes irritate,
While a smile at the wrong time can troubles create.
And though smiles can disarm and befriend, as a rule,
One who always is smiling may look like a fool.
Smiles are signs we forgive and that we understand,
And we beam when a scheme goes exactly as planned.
Smiles are worn by performers when taking a bow,
And because this finished, I'm smiling right now.
Copyright © Richard Thomas | Year Posted 2022
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