is crying a sign of weakness?

I raise this question in light of a recent conversation I had with someone close. "Never cry in front of people" was the advice and it hit hard. I knew why and I wanted to change it immediately so as not to have this embarrassing moment repeat itself. But I knew, or at least am coming to know, that there's nothing I can do about this taboo trait. I've attempted several times -at my own leisure and for reasons that seem obvious - to never do it. It worked for a while. I developed a way to warrant off the numbing and slightly tingly feeling that tears can create. The results were simple: increased levels of stress and frustration. Was crying then some sort a release that kept my stress level down? I mean I'm not walking around with a bucket or anything, but those moments when you feel completely overwhelmed with anger, confusion, pain or loss isn't it OK to cry? Why shouldn't it be? If anything, crying seems more like a sign of strength than weakness. When I cry, I'm able to deal with the sorrow -be it anger, pain etc. - and deviate my tension all the while lessening it. I feel fresh afterward and although pain takes time to heel, I do feel closer to completion when I get a good cry out. That's not to say that crying is an intentional remedy, at least for me it's not and for most people, I'd like to say the same is true. I can't speak for everyone but when I cry it's never the plan. It's always the alternative.

So when someone is deeply hit with life's woes and refuge is found in tears, stand back and admire the strength of someone who is able to deal with a setback. Listen closely to the temporary grief where comfort is welcome but not always received. Doubt your urge to assess their moment and instead yearn to understand the journey that each takes when things are not what they used to be.