The simplicity of a smile & wave!

​We can all be difference makers!  The simplicity of a hello, smile and or a wave can make the difference of feeling accepted and acknowledge or feeling down and unnoticed. 
There is something magical about the humanity expressed by little ones sitting in a grocery cart, some of whom will naturally gain eye contact with a stranger sharing a smile, hi, wave.  I know this brings a smile to my face, warms my heart and immediately is reciprocal.  I can think of numerous times the awkwardness of being in an elevator and everyone looking down at their feet, until someone says hi, or gives a gentle smile making room, this kind gesture brings ease to an uncomfortable situation.  It brings me back to my childhood and reminds me of the nervous feelings I always had going to school getting on the bus, and the smile, nod, and good morning from my bus driver helped ease the uneasy feelings.
Take some time and reflect on the smiles, hellos and waves you share and receive everyday with complete strangers; how do you feel giving and receiving?  Could you make more of an effort? Are you the one that is spreading the joy, contagious to others following your lead?
With smiles, waves, and hellos from you, we are naturally meeting some of the prevention strategies set out by the province for FCSS’s to measure such as:  fostering a sense of belonging and promoting social inclusion. Thank you in advance for your simple friendly actions and behaviours; and making a positive impact in our community one smile, wave or hello at a time.
In summary If we were to be as natural as a child to smile and wave in various situations, this world would be a much kinder, accepting and understanding place to live, work and play.
This month- we challenge you to smile and wave to as many people you see.  As a member of the IMPACT Coalition we are promoting the Connection Magnets - drop into Wainwright & District Family & Community Support Services, Wainwright Family Resource Network or Your Public Library to pick up yours and learn more or visit their website at  https://impactwainwrightandarea.com/
Remember to check out all the events, activities, WDFCSS has to offer all community members by popping in our office 902-5th ave, calling 780 842-2555, visit www.wdfcss.ca   or connect with us on Facebook.