My latest journey through song led me to a classic standard: Smile. I had learned years ago that Charlie Chaplin was connected to this song. I had thought he had written and composed it, but I found out recently that the song was actually based on the instrumental theme he composed for his 1936 film, Modern Times.
So, Smile officially became a song in 1954, when songwriters John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons, inspired by Chaplin's resilient character in the film and the instrumental theme, wrote the lyrics we know today. It became a well-known standard, first recorded by Nat King Cole.
Now that I've shared some history, let's dive into the song's lyrics and why its message is still meaningful to us nearly 67 years later.
Smile, though your heart is aching Smile, even though it’s breaking When there are clouds in the sky You’ll get by If you smile through your fear and sorrow Smile and maybe tomorrow You’ll see the sun come shining through For you Light up your face with gladness Hide every trace of sadness Although a tear may be ever so near That’s the time you must keep on trying Smile what’s the use of crying You’ll find that life is still worthwhile If you’ll just smile
-Smile, music by Charlie Chaplin, lyrics by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons, 1954
This song personally tugs at my heartstrings because in a simple, yet raw and vulnerable way, it represents what life is all about and connects to my own experiences. There have been times for all of us when we have felt heart-broken, fearful, anxious, sad, or hopeless. I think this past year alone has even stirred up a combination of these emotions all at once. Life is never easy, but through our struggles, we have the opportunity to learn, grow and become stronger. And the struggle is real sometimes to stay motivated with a positive mindset, even when things seem hopeless and overwhelming. This song represents that glimmer of hope when all seems lost, that radiant sun when the sky has been gray for so long, and that gentle push in the right direction when we need it the most. I broke down in tears a few times while recording this song, and it happened to be during this part: "That's the time you must keep on trying, smile, what's the use of crying." To me, knowing that I was truly feeling those lyrics emotionally, and recognizing how hard it is sometimes to keep on smiling, speaks volumes to the significance of this song. I believe this song is truly timeless and has had a powerful impact on each generation.
There are actually several science-based benefits from smiling. Scientist Andrew Newberg describes a smile as "the symbol that was rated with the highest positive emotional content." And he's 100% correct. Once we flex those smile muscles, it sets off a continuous loop of positivity back and forth from our brain to our smile, Then, we start to feel immense joy, which creates more positive emotions, reduces our stress, and helps to restore our mental and physical health. So, smiling fills our joy cup! I've also heard that smiling is contagious too, and it makes others around you feel more joyful and happier.
Speaking of happier, I was thrilled to walked past this amazing chalk art quote the other day while walking my dog. I think it sums up what we are choosing to do by smiling. We are choosing positivity, hope, and joy, and not letting fear and worry rule over our lives. And that gives us resilience when life gets tough.
Keep going and keep smiling, my friends. Feel free to check out my own cover of Smile!
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