We can’t all be happy; at least not at the same time as everyone else. I’ve been meaning to put this post up for a while now. The thought of it prompted by a comment on Instagram from someone asking me to smile more in my images. This wasn’t the first time I had come across a comment of such nature. It got me thinking why people would rather seen a smile as opposed to what some may describe as a resting face. I mean, don’t get me wrong, smiling is good. It helps relieve a bit of tension but so does crying when sad. Having said this, it does seem to be the expression that is most welcoming which makes others feel somewhat safe or awkward depend on the situation.
One trend I’ve come to notice on Instagram these days besides having a colour coordinated theme is certain people who always smile in their images regardless of what the content is about. It does give a feeling of being in a positive space when you’re on their page. Now, even though the topic of social media not being a true reflection of one’s life at all points in time, some folks still choose to assume that this is the case. Someone always exuding happiness does not mean that they do not have everyday struggles with life. It might mean that they’ve found a way to deal with it or rather not disclose this aspect of their lives on social media. The same can be said for someone else who is the opposite and seldom exudes happiness. It might just be that they don’t like smiling on camera or express joy differently. Some folks celebrate on the inside and how they feel might not always come across. As the saying goes, “difference is what makes the world go round”.
There’s really no right or wrong way to express how you feel to the world. You can choose to use your words or your emotions. We can’t always be happy just as much as we can’t always be sad. That is the way of life. We have days when we’re up and days when we’re down and some days we’re in-between.
Paying close attention to our emotions is something we have to make a conscious effort to do. Happiness can sometimes lead to a state of euphoria. And sadness to depression. Confiding in our loved ones and nourishing our minds can help better manage our emotions. Understanding that external factors play a role in the way we feel but ultimately what matters is taking control of our inner thoughts. I’ve come to recognise the latter as a powerful tool when dealing with my emotions.
It’s okay not to feel happy at some point just as much as it’s okay to relish in all the things that comes with being happy. And on days when we’re in-between, it’s okay to live and let live.
