Spiritual Awakening: Smile Until It Hurts

This post was inspired by Up With People as I just saw a trailer for the documentary Smile Until It Hurts, which chronicled the Up With people group or as many have described them a movement. The are many people who support what Up With People stands for while others are still questioning their motives. I find what Up With People does to be spiritually moving in shifting the consciousness of those who attend theor shows and understand the value of a smile, a kind word, and respect. Imagine if we all took the stance that I will not judge you and I will get to know you as I continue on my spiritual path. It is when we begin to implement the ideas of peace, love, and happiness that we begin to see both personal and spiritual growth.  I had the privilige to work with the cast when they came to Coral Springs, FL. in the late 90’s and I was moved by those I worked with as they were from different cultures had varyibg beliefs but were able to take action to put their differences aside and realize that together working in harmony for a higher good that a positive impact could be and was made that week. They did many community service projects and helped to mark Martin Luthe King Jr. Day with a special performance at The Citi Centre(now known as The Coral Sprongs Center For The Arts). Their message was one of hope and you could see the dedication of  the performaners and the staff to deliver a message but also to allow that message  being spoken through actions.

When you visit The Up With People Website this is the history you will find.

Up with People was founded by J. Blanton Belk in 1965 as a positive voice for young people during a turbulent period in the United States. Its historic path officially began in 1968 when it was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) international, educational non-profit entity.

Over the years, Up with People has become known as a tremendous force in international relations, education, and entertainment.  The statistics speak for themselves and we are proud of the impact we have made – and continue to make today.

• More than 21,000 young men and women from more than 102 countries have come together to travel in 180 casts to deliver a common message of hope and goodwill to people around the world, and pursue their own global education and personal growth goals through service, music and travel.
• Up with People has visited more than 4,000 communities in 42 countries;
• Over 3 million hours of community service have been performed by Up with People students;
• 500,000 host families around the world have welcomed Up with People students into their homes;
• An estimated 22 million people worldwide have been directly impacted by Up with People.
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