It worked splendidly. It has
never been satisfactorily explained why it is next to impossible for a
man "to be down on his luck" if he will only keep the corners of his
mouth turned up. Perhaps it is the mental effort of forcing this
mechanism of a smile which brings a really happy state of mind.
Whatever the cause, it is literally true that you cannot look blackly
on the world and your own fortunes if the lines of your face are
ascending instead of drooping. This muscular state of your countenance
is connected in some strange way with that mysterious thing called the
mind; for you will find, if you try it, that a sort of serenity of
soul comes to you, and a strong confidence that "everything will come
out right in the end." When we Americans are older we shall pay more
attention to these things.
The Japanese neglect none of these deep psychological truths in
warfare. It is said that they are taught to smile in action, and
especially when they charge. Doubtless this report is true. It has at
bottom the same reason that music in battle has. What could be more
terrifying than the approach of an enemy determined on your death, and
who looks upon your execution as so pleasant and easy a thing that he
smiles about it or who regards his own possible extinction as no
unhappy consummation?
Also it is interesting to note how a pleasant expression begets its
like.
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