Tears; from whence they come

Tears; from whence they come

My tears from where they come I know not.  There are daily occurrences in every life that the sensitivity of any moment may produce an emotion within us that allows the need of tears to come forth.

Perhaps we may accept that this sign of emotions is the most visible, pure in sensitivity, and a connection to whom or what has perpetrated an outburst of feelings for that entity.  There are many experiences we shall encounter that require an internal emotion that visually says “I am here for you” or my heart reveals your need for empathy.

Have you lost a child or spouse to death?  Has your best friend suddenly contracted a terminal disease?  Is there nothing you are able to do to change the outcome in either situation?  This reaction through tears represents a feeling of loss that can not be reversed and the senses within produce a different reaction in the tear ducts sensitizing a sorrowful emotion.  Tears of grief that show a sadness that may be hard to get over.

Your child reaches their senior year in school and is graduating this evening.  As she/he receives a diploma representing intense study and constant tenacious efforts, you sense a tear or two flowing down your cheek in appreciation of all that has been sacrificed for this effort.  Tears of happiness and pride for your child.

There are tears that reflect wonderment, some that expose grief, many that represent forgiveness for sin, others revealing joy, or pleasure, and a lot that are signs of accomplishment.

When the close friend of Jesus, Lazarus, died Jesus wept showing grief over the loss of a dear friend.  Even God is sensitized when we are hurting.  (Jn. 11: 1 ff).

Palm Sunday, as Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey he wept and said “If this day you only knew what makes for peace - but now it is hidden from your eyes.”  (Lk. 19: 41 - 42).  Tears of sadness for the Jews whom he came to heal and was rejected.

Tears, or crying is the most essential sign of how any of us can respond to evil or glory within the days of our lives.  Never hide them since they portray our very humanity that is real and blessed.

Ralph B. Hathaway, June 2022