Typically  I allow death to visit my older pets in its own time; the process usually peaceful with a helping hand of patience. It takes a few days for the body to shut down, and during that time, I sit and be with my beloved friend.

My cat, Cloudy’s case, is different. She has bone cancer, and it is eating her jaw. I’ve had no experience with cancer, and I would not wish it upon any living being, for cancer is insidious. I called my vet today to help Cloudy transition.

I have known that she would pass, of course, we eventually all do, and at 20yrs old, she has been in the last phase of her life for a while,  but to make the call has opened up the sadness, I have been stowing away for months.

I once read that tears are 1% water and 99% feelings. It is those feelings that make my stomach tight, and my face feels as if it will explode.

There have been times in life, I have cried so much I thought I could not breathe, taking with it my ability to move.  A whisper of thought could set me off, yet, I have shed few tears for Cloudy.  The big cry is building; in time, it will erupt.

I like to cry. I cry when I hear a sad story or when watching poignant moments on screen. I also cry for joy with tears of happiness flowing down my cheeks. But, right now, my tears are stuck, compartmentalized behind a door I have yet to open.

Crying is good for us.

There is a 2014 study that reveals crying may have a direct self-soothing effect on humans. The study explained how crying activates the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS), which helps people relax.

Also, when we cry emotional tears, it releases oxytocin and endorphins, which reduce pain and stress, improving our moods, giving us a sense of well being.

How many times have you commented, “I always feel better after a good cry.”?

Crying bonds us as humans. Tears are a gift we can share. They are a way to connect with others and perhaps open a window into our souls.

When my grandmother passed many years ago, I stood to speak, barely audible through my gasping and tears. Looking out into the temple, eyes that had been dry, were now moist, and I knew their feelings were being released.

Don’t hide when a tear is shed,  but instead lift your face to share your deep emotions with those around you. It may be a gift of healing they did not know they were in need of.

Tears are a release ~ a let go.