Awhile ago I wrote a blog post on laughter which got me thinking about crying. These two expressions of emotion seem to be opposite to one another, but they share a similar result. When we laugh or cry, we let go. In most cases, we cannot even control it. For example, laughter usually occurs when there is a humorous trigger, like a joke or an ironic situation. But, sometimes we laugh in the most inappropriate times, such at a funeral. Perhaps its is because we know we absolutely should not behave this way in such a solemn situation that makes us do just the opposite of what is expected. (You Seinfeld fans may remember a show where Elaine laughs during a funeral. The audience then laughs at her laughing because we can all relate to the experience.)
Crying also evokes a loss of control. Usually the tears flow when we are emotionally hit. We are sad, hurt, angry or overwhelmed. The need to cry is actually a good thing because it lets kout pressure. The tear ducts (lacrimal ducts) allow the release of saline, hence the salty taste. Physically, tears help to cleanse our eyes when foreign objects enter, allergens attack, an eyelash rubs the eyeball or the protective layer over your eye (conjunctiva) gets infected-Pink Eye.
So why do our emotions make those lacrimal ducts produce tears? This is not so easy to explain, although, it is an imperative part of human development. Infants cry to communicate. When they want food, water, changing, or teething, sick and scared. As they get older and can use hand gestures and words, the need to cry changes to reflect more emotional needs, such as anger, tiredness and frustration. Eventually, parents and teachers help children to “use their words” to express themselves. So crying occurs less and less.
When we become adults, the reasons for crying differ than when we were children. In a way, it is more difficult to understand. Some of us cry “at the drop of a dime” while others rarely, if ever. It seems that we all need a good cry once and awhile. It releases pressure and starts the healing process. However, if you find yourself crying frequently and have signs of depression, seek help from your health provider. Sadness happens to all of us, but it does not need to be a permanent condition.
Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions often are accompanied by sadness and depression. These are a result of chemical changes in the brain and by changes in mobility which restrict your social interactions. You may find yourself isolated and lonely Crying often and uncontrollably may be a sign that you need help You are not alone so ask your health provider for assistance.
Finally, I think of crying also as a reaction to happiness. “Tears of joy” is another one of God’s gifts to us. When we become so overwhelmed with a pleasurable event or a powerful sense of gratitude, we cannot stop those beautiful salty drops from flowing. Sometimes we find ourselves laughing and crying at the same time. Wow, what a giant emotional package we feel. How blessed we are.
