Aug 3, 2012

Putting On a Happy Face

My mom and dad were in town to visit with us for about a week.

As some of you know, my dad is a man of very few words. He says what he has to say and doesn't see a need for saying much more beyond that.

But there always comes a time when we get quiet enough and alone enough where he and I have some wonderful conversations together.

In one of these times, my dad said to me, "James, you don't have peace in your eyes. You always look angry. I know you don't mean to come across that way, but when you're thinking, you look angry. I would hate for others to think you are angry when you are not. You should stand in front of the mirror and practice looking happy."

Dad even suggested that I should practice giving my sermons in front of a mirror so I can see my face as I preach.

At first, when one hears things like that, or at least when I hear things like that, it kind of ticks me off.

But you know what, my dad has a point.

I don't want people to think I'm angry. I am a happy guy. I want joy to come across my face.

A story is told of President Lincoln.

An advisor to President Lincoln suggested a certain candidate for the Lincoln cabinet. But Lincoln refused saying, "I don't like the man's face."

"But sir, he can't be responsible for his face,"insisted the advisor.

"Every man over forty is responsible for his face," replied Lincoln, and the subject was dropped.

So I told dad that I would practice looking happy in front of the mirror. There is joy in my heart and I want that to be expressed on my face.

You all tell me how I'm doing. Okay?




1 comment:

momlet said...

I've seen your face...it's not anger that you see on it. It's passion: for your wife, your kids, your family, your church and for the lost. That's a good thing.