The Rio Chama Blog

Of the many blogs posted thus far, Peace Begins with a Smile has been the most popular. Numerous people have spoken to me regarding it. In addition, as I’ve been smiling more in my life, I’ve been exquisitely pleased with the responses of others. Of note is when I go to the gym and check in—the people working behind the desk more and more greet me with a smile. And, of course, I smile back!

When I read about Joy Junction, a homeless shelter established in Albuquerque in 1986, I knew immediately that this was a remarkable story. The recent death of founder Jeremy Reynalds saddened many people, yet at the same time, they also felt such gratitude for his extraordinary presence and the exceptional differences he made in so many people’s lives.

As a reader of these blogs, you are aware of the effects of parenting on relationships. If you’ve had the good fortune of having been raised in a loving and caring way, with needs sufficiently met, your chances of satisfying and fulfilling relationships in adulthood are very favorable. On the other hand, if you experienced a family situation in which negativity, criticism, and punishment were frequent, most likely you have much to learn about healthy and happy relationships. 

Astrological influences have been studied for hundreds of years. Whether you are familiar with astrology or not, there is much to be said about 2018. This year began with optimism; yet halfway through, the desire for freedom, independence, and individuality became evident in the collective conscious, making it a time for those who are globally oppressed to rise up and demand justice in a way that can’t be ignored by the powers that be. For everyone, such conflict involves letting go of the past and preparing for the new, moving beyond the feelings of: “Change is too difficult, and I want to hold onto the familiar.” 

At the end of the previous blog, reference was made to Mother Teresa, who reminded people that peace begins with a smile. This prompted me to research information regarding the effects of smiling. Much to my delight, I learned how smiling affects the brain and the body: