Editor-
I must say that I enjoyed the printed article from the Nov. 11 paper titled, “‘Resting Bitch Face’ is no reason to judge.” I believe it is well written and it touched home for me as I, too, suffer from ‘Resting Bitch Face.’ I have been told during study sessions and in casual conversation that if I am not laughing or smiling or showing some sort of concern, that I look near furious or about to snap at everyone. Add this to the fact that I am over six feet tall and my weight stable above 200 pounds, and I don’t convey an air of acceptance towards others. However, I’m often described as outgoing, welcoming and easy to make friends. If we are to judge an entire personality, from humor to hatred, by a first appearance especially if it is in passing, we may be catching a person at their worst time. To assume that their personality matches the current facial expression removes the opportunity to meet people, learn more about others and, against everything we are taught here at State, the opportunity to network falls well below adequate for us to become productive, well-rounded students and eventually graduates. Because of my natural R.B.F., I too have been encouraged to “smile always.” I have tried it, but after a while my grin just appears dopey especially if it is while I’m reading a textbook for class. Most don’t grin for that long with a thermo book in front of them. No one should have to change for others. Our greatest strength lies in being different, and though I will often be seen with a smile, it is genuine; in those moments when I am impartial to my surroundings and the moment and an opinion is formed that I look mean or angry, I will probably surprise you by starting the conversation with a joke.
Knock knock…
Joshua Helms
Senior studying paper science and engineering