Tears, those visible responses to sadness, happiness, anger, frustration, and even laughter, are awesome. To me, they are God’s built-in universal conveyor belt, physically protecting our eyes from things unwanted and emotionally cleansing our pallet of hurt’s bad taste. I also consider them to be a “memo to self” that something has happened and notice to others that a moment is needed.

Tears coming from feelings of helplessness, sorrow, or frustration release emotions that would be toxic if left to fester. They trickle or gush, depending on how fast they need to escape and how, historically, you allow yourself to respond. On occasion, they make unwelcome reappearances. Flowing tears can serve as a necessary comma in our thought process, giving us a pause or time to consider what is or has happened. Such a needed pause.

On the other hand, tears are not always negative. There is nothing better than hearing or seeing something so funny, you collapse in a fit of non-stop, not-able-to-breathe, tear-producing laughter. And, tears flowing from sheer happiness – heartwarming. These tears recognize and acknowledge the good things life offers notwithstanding whatever else is occurring and reaffirm that pleasure, often from simple things, is there for the taking.

So, for those who know that tears are about to surface, let them flow. God made us with tear ducts which need to be periodically exercised. The ruined makeup, red face, puffy “mouse eyes” will all recover.

For those who witness sad or angry tears, recognize the we each will respond differently – maybe reaching out or pulling back. Past experiences and our own emotions weigh-in, and sometimes, another’s tears open a door in our own heart to places where sorrow has lived before. Just know, there is no one “correct” way to respond. Acknowledge the tears, give a hug or pat on the shoulder, offer Kleenex, say you’ll be with them, or get some water, particularly if you need a break.

Awesome. Tears.