The Art of the Southern Grin

A grin is an art form in the South. Everyone (yes, even the Yankees) knows that smiles can have all kinds of meanings. The movements of the mouth can convey happiness, anger, love, unhappiness, coyness, etc. It can be used to sustain happy times or to endure hardships.

You know you are a master of the grin when you can use it to convey a message and not speak a word. My great grandmother was a master. Her grins could knock you flat with charm or surprise. Most people didn't even know what had had hit them... if they realized it at all! The Southern Grin can be a weapon, so it must be used with caution!

For example, you walk into the grocery store or church (can see everyone at both places) and see someone you know or think you know. This person comes up and speaks to you. You have three scenarios and options on how to use the "Southern Grin.":

1. If you do know the person: Be prepared to laugh and swap stories. If you are at church you only have to stay and talk for the time in between the services. If you are in the grocery store be prepared to stay there for a while. You are likely to run into at least 3 people and have a least a 30 minute conversation with each (I like to get in and out -- now you know why I avoid the grocery store). This is why it is an unspoken rule to always get the milk last. No need for it to spoil!
2. If you don't care for the person: It is very rude, even if you don't really care for this person, not to smile. Glue on that smile and just as sweet as sugar say hello. You can do it. Chances are that person may not like you  much either.
3. If you can't place where you know the person from: It is never fun when this happens and the person acts like they have known you for life. It would be rude to say, "I'm sorry, I really have no clue who you are." If the person offers to refresh your memory, this is the best path to travel. If not, smile and listen until his or her name dawns on you.

Please do know that the Southern Grin is not a bad thing. Most times when Southern women smile they do mean it. If you understand how the Southern Grin works it is pretty easy to tell if it is a real smile or a fake one. I smile a lot and that is just part of me. Yes, I have an arsenal of grins, but generally they are good ones. Learn how to use the Southern Grin well and stick with the social graces.