Page 1 - Tapovan Prasad_October_2024

Keep Smiling!

ujya Gurudev gave the motto ‘Keep Smiling’ to our Chinmaya
PVidyalayas to emphasize his holistic approach to education –
a motto that develops academic excellence, emotional intelligence,
and inner strength, a motto that promotes a congenial atmosphere
for learning and teamwork, a motto that helps one face challenges
with equipoise and confidence, a motto that fosters resilience and
positivity enabling us to discover blessings, hope, and solutions
in the most difficult situations.
Scientific research shows that the simple act of smiling – even
when we feel unhappy – triggers the release of neuropeptides
that combat stress. Additionally, the brain releases key feel-good
happiness hormones. These create a chain reaction: the more we
1
smile, the better we feel, and the better we feel, the more we
smile! Moreover, a smile is contagious, it spreads joy and
creates an affirmative environment. It is no wonder that Pujya
Gurudev reinforced this message in the thousands of letters he
wrote to children with the words, “Keep smiling for me!”

One of the essential qualifications for a student of Vedanta is
titikñä – the quality of endurance or forbearance, the capacity to
bear the pin-pricks of life. Here, Pujya Gurudev took it to a loftier
level: bear them but bear them without complaints, bear them
happily – with a smile! The moment we do so, we grow
emotionally and spiritually. And Pujya Gurudev promises,
“Everything will come round to help you – money, men, and
material. Surrender unto Him and work.” When we transform,
the world around us also transforms.

Thus, a smiling countenance is not a simple facial expression.
It should be an expression of a calm and cheerful mind
that is rooted in Divinity; it should be an expression
of our ever-blissful, joyous Nature. Therefore, let
us forever ‘Keep Smiling!’ Editorial

1 Dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin

Tapovan Prasad 7 October 2023