Comments for sursumcorda.salemsattic.com/post/7-quick-takes-friday-4

Comment #2660

2011-10-28T19:06:33Z

I don't think smiling to yourself as you walk along is a problem, but directing a smile to a stranger is more likely to seem strange. It's not hard on me now that I know I can give a friendly "gruezi" instead. Americans are easy to pick out, so I wouldn't worry about your smile. ;)

Comment #2659

2011-10-28T12:45:46Z

totally with you on the delivering before 39 weeks. i had to have an emergency c-section at 29 weeks and had the whole preemie experience. it's not something that should have to happen just because delivery is more convenient for the doctor.

Comment #2658

2011-10-28T12:44:29Z

How hard it must be on Smiling Janet to keep a straight face walking along the streets of beautiful Switzerland. It was so easy to smile in Basel, I must have offended a lot of folks. Or do "crazy Americans" get a pass on such things?

Comment #2657

2011-10-28T12:33:27Z

I like the smile lecture. One still has to be careful to smile when it's culturally appropriate. I remember in New Zealand, when the Maori engaged in a serious ritual (was it a peacemaking ritual?) it was vital that one didn't smile - it was seen as a threat and an invitation to war. Also, I find that smiling to strangers on the streets of Switzerland is threatening, but a straight-face "Gruezi" is often warmly returned. Children are an exception - their smiles bring smiles almost anywhere. I suppose it has to do with a smile being a somewhat intimate gesture, and so each culture defines where such an intimacy is appropriate.