SMILING THROUGH THE PANDEMIC

by Richard P. Johnson

The best medicine for healing the emotional
and spiritual “insult” of our current pandemic


Day Twelve

When I smile, I act in peace and love.

People judge me by my actions, and I seek to act in the Lord when I am at my most noble and spiritual best.

Smiling gives me a moment so I have the “space” to quickly sort out my thoughts, feelings, and choices before I act.

This space, which smiling offers, gives me the peace in which I can sort out my next actions so I can act with the hands, and the feet, and the tongue of Christ, and not fumble with my own.

My behavior is my personal signature of “who” I am, not just a statement of “what” I am.

St. Paul says that, “You can tell them by their fruits.” It’s my behavior that shows others and me what I’m really made of.

When I act with the hands of God, I also act in peace and love.

Peace begins with a smile.
Mother Teresa

From The Power of Smiling: Using Positive Psychology For Optimal Health & Healing by Richard P. Johnson, PhD

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About the author

Dr. Johnson is nationally recognized for his pioneering work in Healing and Medical Behavioral Sciences. As Director of Behavioral Medicine at a large teaching medical center, Dr. Johnson was responsible for teaching medical interns and residents the “art” of medicine. He has taught hundreds of persons interested in healing. His fresh ideas and enthusiasm for the spiritual aspects of adult development and healing have inspired scores of maturing adults to follow their hearts and live more abundant lives. He is a dynamic, engaging, and compassionate teacher who delights in seeing his students grow personally and spiritually. He has written many articles and over 40 books all focused upon God’s expansive grace. Dr. Johnson is a devoted Catholic Christian; he and his wife Sandra live in St. Louis, they have three grown children and six grandchildren. Dr. Johnson holds a doctorate degree in clinical counseling from the University of Florida; he was also awarded an honorary doctorate from Holy Cross College, Notre Dame, Indiana in 2010.

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