### March 9 On March 9, 1790, President Washington summoned me to his office for a meeting. We discussed matters of finance and economic development for our fledgling nation. As I was departing, he asked me why I never smiled. Surprised, I responded that it wasn't in my nature. He then told me an amusing anecdote that brought hearty laughter from both of us. This was my first time laughing in his presence and I decided then and there to wear a smile whenever I was around him. This humorous episode has become part of Washington lore, with some saying that the anecdote involved a story of a wig and a rooster. Regardless of the details, this moment of friendship forged between us symbolizes the man I knew and respected as more than just a leader, but a friend.