[img]541|left|Carter Dewberry||no_popup[/img]Once again, tonight I stood outside my loft feeling the Santa Ana winds circulating the seasonal mixture of flu germs, stress, anxiety and general fatigue. I can’t say how much I am originating and how much I am catching from others.
Not one to lay blame, I decided to try to spread the quintessential anti-germ – the smile.
Hence, this list of 23 ways we can all brighten our faces and others’ lives with simple and inexpensive gestures.
(For those who ask why the number 23, my answer is easy. It is my favorite number, and it makes me smile!)
1. Smile at a stranger for no reason.
2. Compliment said stranger.
3. Let someone cut in front of you in line (extra smiles if they are a family with small children).
4. Write a loved one a letter of appreciation describing why you love them and give it to them.
5. Read a poem about nature or love (or whatever else inspires).
6. Give your pet an extra treat, hug, or walk.
7. Journal on whatever needs to come out and rip it up afterwards.
8. Try to play a favorite song on a new instrument.
9. Clean something. (Yes, really, it works.)
10. Visit a farmer’s market and try a fruit you don’t normally buy.
11. Listen to your favorite album from start to finish.
12. Exercise.
13. Schedule a coffee (or herbal tea) date with a friend you haven’t seen in 3 months. (No, Facebook updates don’t count.)
14. Take some time to indulge in your favorite holiday.
15. Set aside 1 hour to spend with your child, giving your undivided attention (cell phones prohibited).
16. Get some flowers for yourself or someone you love.
17. Donate to, or volunteer for, your favorite charity.
18. Make a delicious meal for yourself and another. Enjoy it together sitting at a table with no TV.
19. Look at a favorite photo album.
20. Write down 10 things you love about yourself.
21. Light your favorite room with candles and sit and watch the shadows flicker on the walls.
22. Watch an uplifting or funny movie.
23. Think of how happy your mother must have felt the first time she saw you after giving birth. (Thank you, mom! Yes, I was born on the 23rd. So was she.)
These are some ways I keep my life spinning with a smile. I hope you add your own touch to this list and spread the good cheer during this season.
Ms. Dewberry, an accomplished cellist, completed her DMA in Chamber Music Performance from UCLA in December 2005. She received her MM in Cello Performance from UCLA in June 2002 and her B.M. in Cello Performance from Western Michigan University in April 1998. She also holds a B.A. in French with a minor in Women's Studies and Philosophy.
Ms. Dewberry is celebrating the release of her latest album, “Origins.”
Her website is www.carterdewberry.com
She may be contacted at carter@carterdewberry.com
