Learn a Magic Trick

What Makes You Happy

Effect

The Magician displays a dollar bill (or an enlarged copy of one for group presentation). The face on the bill changes from a sad face to a happy one.

Presentation

Have you ever looked closely at the portrait on a dollar bill? Notice how solemn George Washington looks. I think he's kind of upset about the way the stock market has been going up and down so violently in recent weeks. Or maybe he's just tired and needs a rest. Let's just let him lay back and relax and see if that helps.

There, that's more like it. When the economy is strong, George is a lot more relaxed and looks a lot happier. But you and I don't have to depend on the stock market for our happiness. Like anything else that men have made, the nation's or the world's economy can let us down. We've all heard stories of men who were fabulously wealthy and ended up commiting suicide when they lost it. Jesus said "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven. . . for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

If we rely on earthly things, our happiness will come and go with every change in the economy. But God never changes, and by trusting in Him, we can have a lasting Joy that doesn't fade away.

The Secret

The bill or picture is perfectly ordinary except for one small bit of preparation: it is not flat. To prepare the bill make a vertical fold at each side of the mouth. On most bills this will also go through the middle of the eyes. Next, curve the area between the folds so that it is recessed, as in the picture below.

Now when you hold the bill so that you are looking down at it, the face is frowning. Tilt it back so that you are looking up at it, and the face smiles. Tilt the picture as necessary while telling the story.

If you want to learn more about the Joy of a personal relationship with God, Click Here.

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