How many times I read in the books for management that unless a person smiles permanently and maintains a happy posture while acknowledging vulnerability at the same time he/she is not a good team player. After 9/11 the Bush folks did not acknowledge any vulnerability; they came our with solemn looks and lied to our faces. And nobody pointed out to them those books on management and requested any accountability at all. I saw a photo of the "Bush team' in one magazine at that time; they looked like a coven of witches (no offense to Wicca people, they have my utmost respect). It was as if their faces were twitching with chromium smiles. Recently I saw such smiles again- when the so- called Osama killing occurred and our current power mongers were celebrating. Same twist. Smiling slaves.
I have news for you, my dears. Russians are not Bipolar. They are just normal. They consider that thoughtful look is the look a normal human should possess. They also consider (unfortunately, the number of us is decreasing) that the Great Revolution, wars and sacrifices made them free in mind, body and spirit. That would mean they and only they can decide when to be moody or happy, proud or shamed, smiling or serious. They think that has nothing to do with money, They think that has a lot to do with a proper personality and breeding. They think that people are not to be forced to look happy all the time even when they buy a TV. Happiness is a very rare commodity.
Once, when I started
to have my "communication problems' I was offered that for $4000 some company would
teach me the secret of success, all smiles and happy looks. It seemed like a bargain but I
declined. I smiled and declined. Ah, the Russian smile. The smile
of understanding. It comes from the
heart indeed. It is good to have a heart. I don't want to lose it. My smile is not for sale.
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