So today, I had this weird thought!
why, when, where and how did we learn to smile?
At least for myself, it was a question I felt compelled to explore. I decided to allocate two hours out of the thirty-odd years I may have left on this mundane curiosity.
Some modern toxic influencers might call that decision something a "fool" or a “weak man” would make, but hey,
This is who I am.
So, let me present to you what I found.
The Fear Grin
According to science and research, the origin of the smile can be traced back to the “fear grin” or “silent bared-teeth display” used by primates to show submission or to appease predators.
Ouch, that stings a little.
Was it really a signal of weakness and submission?
Universal Language
In modern times, smiling is one of the most effective ways to express friendliness, spark conversations, and foster social bonding among humans.
Toxic Masculinity
Lately, I’ve come across videos and content where toxic masculinity is exalted and portrayed as the norm for a man’s life. I admit, I sometimes fall for those hooks, but whenever I do, I’m left with a recurring dream of Batman confronting my dream self and asking,
Do you Smile ?
Smile The Brightest Style
We humans face many hardships in modern times , whether it’s work, life, or, for some, the harsh reality of war. I know how difficult it can be. I can only hope that nature, grants us the strength to smile through those moments and emerge well unharmed, regardless of the side of the situation we find ourselves trapped in.
Long time ago, I studied this couplet from Thirukural by Thiruvalluvar.
இடுக்கண் வருங்கால் நகுக
Which means
In the face of adversity, Wear your brightest style
Let storms come and go, just meet them with a smile.
which is
Easier said than Done, at least to myself
Then I saw this video and thought wow some are able to do it in real life.
May be this is masculinity ? because It has not hurt anyone in the process of showing courage and strength ?
See you all in another post. Long live the smile!
References
[1] When did we start to smile
[2] Smile Origins