Don’t Tell Me to Smile

I have always hated it. Nothing irks me quite so much as when a stranger, who happens to be taking up space where I am, looks at me boastfully, with a cocky grin, and says, "Come on, smile. Don't be so serious. It's not that bad."

Like really?! Does this person, someone I've never laid eyes on, happen to roam the recesses of my mind to know what I'm thinking? Or does that person have an inkling what is front and center in my life?" If I want to frown, by God, I'll do it, and I'll do it damn well! And don't be so freaking cocky to tell me otherwise! Sheesh!

So, yeah, I've absolutely spent 98% of my life (and I'm damn old, so that's a lot of years) being serious. Still, I can laugh with the best of them, especially if I've had a few gin and tonics. No one enjoys a joke more than me or multiple bouts of belly laughs recalling memories with my bestie. Hell, I can even laugh at myself on occasion (I've always heard you might as well laugh with the masses, especially if they're laughing at you!). Still, if I had my druthers, I'd choose seriousness over laughter. I mean, who wouldn't - in all serious earnestness - pick seriousness over laughter when you can contemplate current world affairs, decode the thoughts running rampant in your teenage (alien) daughter's psyche, question your partner's daily (and nightly) activities, or chew on the idea of what your co-worker has been saying about you? Opposed to laughing, this type of attitude is a sure win in my book and pretty much a necessity in this life, too.

It all comes down to the fact that being full of giggles and glee is highly overrated. After all, has anyone proven that laughter is good for the soul? So go ahead....prove me wrong. Until then, I'll just be seriously contemplating the philosophy of life....and what I'll eat for supper.