A Smile Is Worth
Have you ever thought about what a smile is worth? These poems remind us a smile costs nothing, yet it can mean so much.
A smile is the universal welcome.
Max Eastman
Updated January 22, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer
A smile can say what words sometimes cannot. No matter where we live or what language we speak, a smile is understood. When you choose to smile first, your words often feel kinder.
It’s Worth A Million Dollars was written years ago by Rolf Thelan, but the message still fits today. It is a wonderful poem to share, because it reminds us that a simple smile can lift a heavy day.
We hope these poems encourage you to smile more, and to remember the quiet value you give when you do.
It's Worth A Million Dollars
The thing that goes the farthest toward making life worth while,
That costs the least and does the most, is just a pleasant smile;
The smile that bubbles from a heart that loves it fellow-men,
Will drive away the clouds of gloom and coax the sun again.
It's full of worth and goodness, too, with manly kindness blent;
It's worth a million dollars, and it doesn't cost a cent.
There is no room for sadness when we see a cheery smile,
It always has the same good look; it's never out of style.
It nerves us on to try again when failure makes us blue;
The dimples of encouragement are good for me and you.
It pays a higher interest, because it's merely lent;
It's worth a million dollars, and it doesn't cost a cent.
A smile comes very easy; you can wrinkle up with cheer
A hundred times before you can squeeze out a gloomy tear;
Its ripplings, moreover, to the true heart strings that tug
Will always leave an echo that is very like a hug.
So, smile away, folks understand what by a smile is meant;
It's worth a million dollars, and it doesn't cost a cent.
A Smile
A smile is worth more than you can imagine
To the person who is feeling down and out
To the child who is feeling all alone
To the homeless who have lost all hope.
Can you put a price on a smile?
Could you put a price on love?
Or, how about a price on friendship?
All these things are priceless.
Never underestimate the power of a smile
Never underestimate the feeling a smile gives
Never underestimate the welcome of a smile
And, never underestimate the worth of your smile!
A Smiling Face
I feel welcome when I see you
I feel accepted when I see you
I don't feel so alone when I see you
You are a smiling face
I feel the encouragement
I feel the hope
I feel the support
You are a smiling face
There is no money that could buy you
There is no treasure I could trade for you
There is no power that can force you
You are a smiling face
Face This Sad World With A Smile
This world is made up of much sorrow;
Each heart has its share all the while;
But I've learned not to murmur, but rather
Face the world with a bright, happy smile.
We all have our trials surrounding;
Let us comfort each other the while;
With our hearts clean and pure with salvation,
Let us face this sad world with a smile
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Conclusion
A smile may seem small, but it can change the moment. When you share one, you give comfort, kindness, and hope without spending a thing. May these poems remind you that your smile has value, and it is a gift you can offer every day.
Read another Smile Poem to Encourage and Inspire
Peace begins with a smile.
Mother Teresa