Having A Bad Day? Make Someone Smile! [PHOTOS]

It always seems like the world is becoming a sadder, more dangerous place to live. Maybe it's due to all of the negativity we see splashed all over the news and internet. One war after another could play a role, and perhaps the lousy economy is to blame. Regardless, there are no where near enough smiles in the world.

I was incredibly blessed with two amazing, loving, supportive, and all-around wonderful people as my parents. My mom is easily one of the best friends a person could ever have, and I have been told on countless occasions that my dad is the nicest man on the planet. I learned a lot from my folks, but one thing that they instilled in me is a genuine care for people as a whole.

I'm one of those guys who smiles and says hello to strangers, always says 'please' and 'thank you', and will give any change on me to the take-a-penny thingy at the gas station (yes, even quarters). I've even gone to hold a door for someone, and ended up standing there for several minutes as people kept going through.

Over the weekend I hosted a wedding reception, and out of the blue got the urge to ask the groom's 75-year-old grandmother to dance. It wasn't by any means a slow song, but she accepted and tore up the dance floor! That woman has me smiling ear-to-ear when I think about it, even now!

A smile is so easy to share with someone, it's usually contagious, and the best part... it's free! Whether of not you get a 'thank you' for your courtesy is irrelevant. Knowing that you made the life of someone easier, even just a little, is worth it. Not to mention, a simple act of kindness may be the small thing that changes someone's day, week, year... or life!