Dear Abby: A smile goes a long way toward making new friends

DEAR ABBY: When I was in middle school, I was pretty much an outcast. In the summer between eighth grade and high school, I read a Dear Abby column where you offered advice to someone who was shy like me. You recommended that the writer smile and greet people every day. When I got to high school, I took your advice. Your column changed my life. During my senior year I became involved in drama, choir and sports, and I was elected student body president.

I am now a mom with two children. I hold a master's degree and have friends all over the world. I am a public speaker, poet and actor - all because you wrote to someone like me and told that person how to make friends. Abby, please repeat those words. Folks need that message. Thank you for the impact it has had on my life.

- Renee in Washington

DEAR RENEE: I'm pleased that my column was so helpful. I think I know the column you mentioned. The reply echoed advice that's in my booklet "How to Be Popular." It said: "No matter what you wear, the expression on your face is your greatest asset - or liability. You can walk down the street in any foreign country in the world, and even though you may not be able to understand a word they're saying, when you see a smile, you get a message. It's the universal way of saying, 'I'm friendly.' "