Facial language
Some years ago a photographer published a book of pictures of cow faces. He had discovered that these so-called dumb animals do develop expressions on their faces.
The cows may not realize they look bemused or cynical or angry or contented but they do. What he did was write some appropriate comment to go with the expression depicted.
The blank expression that goes with cud-chewing looks almost human.
Facial expressions are sometimes deceptive. What do you make of a fierce-looking barking dog whose tail is wagging? Assume the best but keep an eye on the hound? Aside from aggressive behavior, dogs have most expressive faces from smiling to dismay to humiliation.
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Sometimes a baby appearing to smile in its sleep is really a bit of bliss occasioned by a burp.
When Dale Carnegie taught the business world how to manipulate people to their own advantage, a smiling confident mien was an important part of the package.
Looks can be deceptive. You see a slobbering boar pig and immediately assume it is stupid. Give it a chance and you’ll find otherwise. An innocent-looking school pony that pulled us two miles to school really had two thoughts in mind: 1. Give me an opening and I’ll take off. 2. If there’s loose dust on the road I’ll drag my feet and give those brats a cloud of the stuff.
A horse giving you the horse laugh often is just trying to dislodge a bit of foxtail from its upper gums.
Those of us who go around with a scowl or angry expression should remember that our faces are part of the scenery that other people have to live with.
Lighten up, Bud.
