Like a sun rising in a state of gratitude for another day here, out in the world, I smile to other beings. That moment you share this act, not just a gesture, but a feeling of hope and fulfillment felt in our inner selves, they too smile. I became aware of how just one smile can be felt and received by all.  Smile not just for one, but for all the universe provides.

“I’m not a sad person. I walk these halls happily,” said senior Adriana Monto.

“I smile because smiling is very welcoming, which shows I’m really happy and positive,” junior Christian Mendoza states.

Junior Andrea Martinez said, “I smile every day, every hour, because I hang out with funny people.”

What makes other students at Miami High smile? Senior Emmanuel Henriquez says, “When a cute girl smiles at me It makes me smile too.” Sophomore Ana Gomez said, “Good vibes, when those around me are having fun and when people are just overall happy.”

Students at Miami High are making each other smile in many different ways. For example, senior Michelle Sanchez does it by complimenting others. “There’s so many problems out there, and with a smile, you can fix these problems,” she said. Another way to make others smile, said senior John Matute, is by “Keeping a positive smile and telling jokes.”

Some students, however, feel more dispirited. Sophomore Winston Rojas said, “I don’t smile often I’m just a serious person.”  Sophomore James McBride claimed, “I just mind my business and observe. I don’t bother smiling.” Ana Gomez said, “I stay serious unless I’m in a really good mood.” Sophomore Andrea Martinez said she always has a resting mean face. “It’s a part of my beauty,” she said.

Smiling may not always indicate that a person feels ecstatic. Some people fake their smiles. Senior Emmanuel Henriquez said, “Sometimes I be faking smiles because of somebody I don’t like, but I be cheesing a lot.” Sophomore Joshua Lightbourne said, “I fake smiles because I don’t want to be the downer of the group.”

Smiling may not always lead to positive outcomes. For instance, sophomore Chanel Carbonell said, “People can take you as a joke since you’re always smiling.” Sophomore Sean Collins said,  “You might have ugly teeth and scare the person away.”

Nevertheless, smiling costs nothing to do, yet it sets a loving and peaceful vibe. Smiling creates happiness at home, school, or job. Wherever one is at, it’s known all around the world as a sign that indicates happiness and acceptance. Senior Michelle Sanchez emphasized “When you smile, or others smile, you know you’re not alone and it makes you feel complete.”

Sharing smiles with one another can be uplifting to those having a dreadful day or to those just not feeling it. Sophomore Nicole Gonzalez claimed, “I love it; it lifts my soul and vibe.” 10^th grader Hilda Bonnilla said, “It feels great because you know the person smiling at you is happy.”

Nevertheless, some students feel the complete opposite they feel delighted when they smile and share smiles. Junior Sarah Castellanos claims, “I feel happy when I smile because people view me as a friendly person.” The simple act of smiling can lead us to feel happiness.