It’s Okay to Cry

By Erin McNew

 

I’ll never be afraid to cry.

 

I have a weird appreciation for people that aren’t afraid to cry. So many people label the act of crying as weak, but I think it is incredibly strong.

 

We have a warped view of strength for the most part. We act like holding everything in and ignoring the things that hurt us makes us stronger, by I personally believe this couldn’t be further from the truth. We are never stronger than the moment we admit we are weak.

 

I have a friend that’s a few years younger than I am. She once told me that sometimes she had to cry just to release all of the pain and suffering she tried to hold in at a particular time. She told me that all the agony she committed to withholding would keep her from experiencing joy to the fullest extent that she imagined God wanted her to. Could you imagine a more beautiful way to explain a few tearful moments?

 

Saint John Paul the second said, “It is better to cry than to be angry, because anger hurts others, while tears flow silently though the soul and cleanse the heart.” This brings me to the reason I think I appreciate the act of crying so greatly.

 

Crying reminds me of rain. Ever tear that slips down our cheek brings to mind raindrops falling from the clouds. And rain is so powerful. It allows the vegetation to grow and thrive. Each drop literally brings new life. And I believe that tears are the same way.

 

Tears empty us of those hateful, hurtful, and pained emotions that prevent us from shining God’s light to the extent He desires us to. With every tear that falls, our heart grows lighter and becomes more capable of loving others and ourselves. Tears are truly healing.

 

Crying doesn’t indicate that you’re weak. Since birth, it has always been a sign that you’re alive.

 

Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! // Psalm 126:5

P.S. You are enough.