Yes, he was accused of a crime and had been imprisoned by men. . . .

There was every indication that in that facial expression, beauty had fled.

Hard and irregular features.

Dull, colorless complexion.

Hair sparse and uncombed.

Face furrowed by deep wrinkles.

Eyes dulled by hidden desperation.

Nose hooked and unshapely.

Mouth with contracted lips.

Protruding jawbones.

Air of sadness and gloom.

He totters as he walks.

An unhappy picture. . .

Suddenly, however, the man smiles, and a breath of attractiveness revitalizes his appearance. His entire appearance takes a turn for the better, as if a powerful inner torch had unexpectedly been ignited.

He was no longer the same man. He no longer looked like a criminal. . . .

Friend, have you ever observed the revitalizing effect of a smile?

A smile is the soul’s ray of light.

And the light, even in the abyss, is always the splendor from on high overcoming the darkness.

Don’t refuse the gift of a smile to anyone.

Smile in the midst of difficulties.

Smile in the midst of struggle.

Smile in the face of sorrow.

Your soul is a divine sun.

Don’t be afraid to let it shine forth.

Valérium