Smile while you are Being bullied?

St. Therese of Lisieux

This morning in the sacristy, I was talking to the altar server who was relating a story about bullying.  As usual, I couldn't think of anything useful to say.  However, upon reflection, I recall a story St. Therese tells in her Story of A Soul.  There was one grouchy, angry nun, who used to really annoy Therese.  So as a penance, Therese decided to be nice to the curmudgeon.  She made a point of greeting her with a smile.  Therese did this for the rest of her short life.

After Therese's death, that same annoying nun talked about being Therese's best friend.  Every time Therese saw her she broke out in a big smile.

Go figure.

Do you think that story would have helped the altar server?