Miss Anna

After many days and countless hours of the media’s bread-and-circuses routine, those few seconds of clown-face video induced a profound sadness that I’m having trouble shaking.

I felt like I was remembering the face of a friend who wandered away and got lost in the darkness.

If that has never happened in your life, keep your friends close and guard them the very best you can. It has happened in mine, and that friend’s face is still with me.

The song “Smile” is perhaps the single, best-known work of Charlie Chaplin, and is closely linked to his character The Little Tramp. In performance it has a bittersweet touch of the minor key. Find any recording for a hint; find Garland’s recording for the explanation.

Sometimes smiling helps, but that doesn’t mean it’s enough to rule the day.

I’m cynical enough that the feeling may not last, but for just a bit, I miss Anna Nicole Smith.

Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by
If you smile
through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you
Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile

bye for now . . .