A self-confessed introvert, author Nancy Lewis’s Smiling at Strangers shares her late-in-life awakening to the power of smiles and connecting with others while simultaneously expanding her own humanity. The book is an antidote to self-preoccupied, individualistic America and fosters a more connected and communal public awareness. Her smiles and philosophy incorporate the best values of religions and humanism. This important work is a response to a growing consciousness that says for humankind to survive, we must globalize kindness and connection. As she says, ‘Take your amazing self into the world with a smile and a light heart, and it will be reflected back to you. The world is waiting for you.’
Nancy uses her simple story to convey a profound message. Small conscious changes in our lives can have a big effect on us, and on those around us. Her writing delights and inspires, bringing to life the simple steps we can make to bring more joy to the world. Enjoy!
As an introvert, I could directly relate to the anecdotes in Smiling at Strangers. Unlike many self-help books, it does not purport to improve your career, relationship, or other self-driven goals. Instead it offers a compelling reason to tackle social discomfort: the possibility of making the world a better place one smile at a time.
With her plea advocating kindness, using everyday anecdotes and quotes, Nancy has really hit it out of the park. As a healthcare professional, father, and introvert, I find many parallels in her journey using kindness as a tool to better connect with other people. This not only helps those people I deal with every day feel at ease with me, but helps me feel better about myself and what I do to help them. Kindness is a win/win endeavor.
A brilliant and marvelous book! Nancy has lovingly and lucidly illuminated an action that can change the world. We need to follow her example.
In a compact book that flows smoothly, Nancy has captured the spirit of spreading kindness with intentionality. Her personal stories remind us of the small ways in which we can make a big difference in others’ lives. Reading her book has had a huge impact on how I go through my days, being more aware of opportunities to be kind and taking action. This is a must-read book for our challenging times.
In these tumultuous, chaotic, and divisive times in which we find ourselves comes a breath of fresh air. Nancy’s book is this breath; a powerful yet simple manifesto for all of us. Read this book!! Practicing kindness will change your world.
Smiling at Strangers offers a simple and much needed strategy for developing connection and healing divisiveness.