Maybe no one told you that there was strength in your tears. – Kelly Clarkson

I used to be one of those females who believed that crying was a sign of weakness. Well, it should be the flip as crying doesn’t show that you are weak but rather that you have strength. It takes strength to show others that you are vulnerable. One of the things that have really struck me is that although tears show considerable strength, we tend to apologize anytime we become emotional in the presence of a group or others – especially if we don’t know them well. I had to ask myself: ” Why do we do that?  Why is it not okay to become emotional whenever we want?”

Here are a few reasons why tears, whether in public or private, are okay.

1. Tears enable us to get in touch with our deepest feelings. Unless you’re putting on a really good act, eating onions, or acting in a movie scene, tears express the rawest emotions within. We have all had moments when a really amazing gift or gesture had brought tears to our eyes. We cry when we share moments of great elation with others. There are many times, I’ve laughed until I began crying. Tears are also an expression of grief at endings or the loss of those who are precious to us.

2. Tears signifies an open and softened heart.
   This explains why oftentimes we cry when we watch a movie that touches something in us and produces empathy even if we can’t fully relate to the experience. PS. I Love You, A Walk to Remember, The Longest Ride and The Fault in Our Stars have all been tear-jerkers in the theatres when they premiered.

3. Tears allow you to connect with others. People are normally embarrassed to be caught crying because they are afraid to reveal their vulnerability. Strange enough, most of us have never felt more connected to others than when we are crying. Personally, I’ve always felt really cared for when an individual held me as I cried my eyes out although the aftermath had always been somewhat embarrassing and I find myself apologizing.

4. Tears are healing. Tears cleanse the soul. There’s something about a good, long or short, cry that just makes us feel better most of the time – even if temporarily. A good cry releases all the pent-up emotions and frustration, thus allowing you to think clearly and rationally afterwards. There was a time when I experienced a situation that really ripped me emotionally. Ripped to the point where my chest hurt daily! The only time I would feel better or able to function effectively was after a good cry.

The point is we are all humans and this is something we shouldn’t have to apologize for. So the next time you feel the tears building, let them flow. After this, see if you don’t feel stronger and better. And don’t apologize for being human.

Finally remember:

The smile that is worth the praises of earth is the smile that shines through tears. – Ella Wheeler Wilcox

What are your thoughts on crying?  Hit me up by commenting below.

XOXO

Chañel

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