A Smile

The power of a smile
Is a paradox that walks on the dimensions line
Between good and evil, good and evil

Smile; smile, uplifting that spirit, that soul
Making a terminal ill child glow with happiness
Feeling bold, soften the blow before he or she goes

A smile can expose institutional racism
Directly challenging hidden bigotry, bigotry

That person got fired because he or she
Did not understand the power of a smile, a smile
Deceptively powerful
Deceptively wonderful
Deceptively great

It takes forty-two muscles in your face to frown
I leave you with that question

How many facial muscles do it take to smile?
Most people take it for granted, never understanding
The power of a smile, a smile

I am still smiling

2/9/01

© 2001 Richard Turner