Healing Tears

“Stop crying or I’ll give you something to cry about!” How many of us have heard that growing up? It is something I remember from my own childhood. Disappointment would set in and tears would come unbidden. My parents weren’t very sympathetic with my upset. I learned to hide when I cried.

High school years bring a lot of tears. It’s a huge season of heartbreak, loves won and lost in a day. By this time, no teenager wants to be caught crying. It’s a sign of weakness. So tears are hidden behind closed doors and under showerheads.

Moving on into adulthood, crying is expected to be a thing of the past. It is only allowed at hospitals and funerals as an adult. Once you reach adulthood you are expected to have a strong handle on life and your emotions. If you cry at an emotional movie you are weak. Or “too sensitive.” The need to keep tears hidden is drummed into our heads through most of our lives.

However, tears are not a sign of weakness. They are a sign of caring about something. They show that we are human. Sometimes crying is merely a sign of trying to hold on too long. Rather than indicating weakness, tears are the sign of a strong person.

Crying should not be a shameful act. As an empath I have found the healing power of tears. One good long hard cry can clear a lot of negative energy. When life becomes overwhelming I find it necessary to make time to cry. I allow myself to cry.

I don’t make a big show of it. When I cry it isn’t for attention. I cry to heal. Crying releases a lot of emotions that are stuck inside with no way to escape. Tears are the vehicle those emotions ride out on.

Society has taught us not to cry but society is wrong. Instead of being ashamed of tears we should embrace them. Honor them for their healing ability. Thank them for clearing emotions from within. Instead of being embarrassed at seeing someone else crying, acknowledge them. Offer a hug and an ear. Perhaps that’s all they need at the moment. If not, silently walk away and give them space to cry on their own.

When was the last time you cried? Are you past due?