I was struck recently, today in fact, by the beauty of a smile. Not just any smile. A true, genuine, heartfelt smile. The transformative power of that seemingly simple act of distorting one’s face has really knocked my socks off. There are people out there who are pulchritudinous no matter their expression. But even the most loathesome countenance can be turned into the beaming face of an angel with a good laugh.

This may sound hokey,  but trust me. Next time you’re contemplative (even if you have to schedule in the time) pay attention to people’s faces. Find one you consider “ugly”, then wait for it. Wait for that expression of joy to spread across that ugly mug, and you will see beauty. And hopefully it will stir a little happiness inside. And everyone is beautiful when they’re happy.

Maybe this cheese is squeezing out of me because I just saw the film Precious, a dirty filthy film about dirty filthy people, and beautiful ones, too (some being the same people, get it?). Some good performances from people whom we are used to seeing in their best light, but here, they are generally not that pretty. Mo’Nique is far from her role on “The Parkers”, and Mariah Carey did not make me vomit – which is surprising since the mere thought of Glitter makes me queasy. I actually didn’t know it was Ms. Carey until the end credits, which is to her credit. [wink] Anyway, it was well done in that it didn’t flog you tirelessly with the tragedy that is the title character. We get to escape with her when things get tough in her fantasies of a better life. Good flick.