Men of the Teague line tend to be stoic. When he was very young, Kelyn was no exception. In fact, his nurse described him as the most disagreeable-looking baby she had ever seen.
One day, when he was barely old enough to understand, his mother took him aside, and explained to him, quietly, the value of a smile. From that point onwards, every frown, every needless change in expression earned him a veiled look.
It was acceptable, she had told him, to show sadness, or anger. But he must always be conscious of the impression he gives to others. It was better to hide emotions- it didn't matter how good or bad he felt, things would move more smoothly with a smile. Save the anger. Save the sadness for yourself. Don't show them unless it will get you something.
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Date: 2007-03-20 12:56 am (UTC)One day, when he was barely old enough to understand, his mother took him aside, and explained to him, quietly, the value of a smile. From that point onwards, every frown, every needless change in expression earned him a veiled look.
It was acceptable, she had told him, to show sadness, or anger. But he must always be conscious of the impression he gives to others. It was better to hide emotions- it didn't matter how good or bad he felt, things would move more smoothly with a smile. Save the anger. Save the sadness for yourself. Don't show them unless it will get you something.
Feelings should be a private thing.