Warriors Weep
by Soul Places | Diane Ludeking
Copyright Diane Ludeking 2012
“There must be those among whom we can sit down and weep, and still be counted as warriors.” ~ Adrienne Rich
Time and time again I’ve witnessed TV interviews of people apologizing for their tears. In some cases, these people wave their hands at the camera, cover their face or ask for the camera to be turned off, while others get up and walk off set. I’ve witnessed this refusal of self in public places with strangers, private places with friends and even within myself. This need to apologize for what is real, what wants expressing, is a phenomenon that makes me want to weep for those who deny themselves of this gift. The gift of expression and being witnessed , truly seen, by another.
Sometimes the only thing I know for sure are my emotions. My sadness, my anger, my elation, my childlike play.
These things never betray me.
Nor are these things me. I am not sad, I feel sadness within me.
My emotions are a fingerpost home in a maze of trails through the woods.
When did it become necessary to hide these things? Or apologize for them when they break through despite all my efforts to the contrary? It is not easy to be vulnerable, to honor our emotions, especially with the eyes of so many upon us. That’s why Warriors Weep! Courageously. Unapologetically.
Please share your thoughts in the comments.
Soul Places 
Oh my gosh! Thank you for saying this! It has been driving me crazy…people apologizing for crying! I don’t get it. Perhaps people fear causing discomfort for the listener? I don’t understand why crying is perceived as bad or wrong. It’s just one of our many emotions. I cherish crying…sometimes it can leave me feeling as good as if I had laughed. It creates balance.
That’s a great point, Karen – “people fear causing discomfort for the listener.” I also really enjoyed your observation about how crying creates balance. Brilliant! Thank you for sharing these priceless thoughts.
Bravo!!! agree totally!
Thanks Sue.
I had lunch with my Vietnam vet Marine buddy this week. 4 bouts of PTSD, 4 years in recovery from a near death alcohol experience and he asked, “What now?” His tears have all been shed inside, I’ve never seen him cry, but I’ve heard him cry out.
Wow, Robert! A great reminder of the many faces of suffering.
From the first letter of your piece to the last, brilliant and beautifully expressed. There is both courage and the sacredness of truth in being vulnerable and allowing emotions to BE, unapologetically.
Thanks Rita.
Oh so sweet the tears of angels,
thanks for sharing this facet of your soul.
Mokasiya
You’re welcome, Moka! Thanks for stopping by.