Happy Wednesday, church family!

Dave and I were watching a movie this weekend. Less than an hour into it, I heard a sniff next to me. You know, one of those juicy sniffs that is usually accompanied by a quick wipe of the eye. Let me explain. We were watching the movie Ordinary Angels, the true story about a father who lost his wife, and was left to raise his two young daughters, one who was diagnosed with a terminal liver disease. Reminder- we have two daughters. Sniff and eye wipes make sense now? 

If I’m watching a movie with anyone, I try to stifle my tears. Why? I’m not sure when crying in front of people became something to hide. Jesus wept. Joseph wept several times over his brothers and the reunion with them. Yet, I don’t think I ever really let anyone see me cry until I was pregnant, because, well, at that point, I didn’t exactly have control over when and with whom I cried in front of. Now, I don’t love it, but I’m finally learning that I don’t need to diminish my feelings to protect someone from “feeling bad” for me, or worrying about my emotions. I’m learning that not only is showing emotion a sign of strength, but it allows others to get to know me. 

Back to Dave’s movie induced snot. I began to think about what his tears actually meant. This is a man who loves me and his daughters so deeply, that the thought of being in the position of the character in the movie hurt his heart. And his ability to let those emotions out, my friends, is beautiful.

God made us in a way to have emotions, and often, showing those emotions can help me relate with others. I don’t want to let my fear of other people’s reactions rob me of an opportunity to connect with people.

God, thank You for Dave, his emotions, and his ability to show them. Thank You for teaching me about my own mentality of showing emotions through Dave. I choose to not beat myself up when I cry in front of others, rather to embrace the tears, and be grateful for the ability to feel. Bless and seal these good things in Your name, amen. 

May your week be blessed,

Lisa