As a child, it was an unspoken—and sometimes spoken—assumption that crying was a sign of weakness and fear. This was especially for boys. Not only was crying discouraged when I or one of my friends hurt physically, it was almost a taboo for emotional hurts as well.

Tragically, when this cycle of “being a man ” (i.e., not crying) is not broken, children turn into adults who can neither feel hurt nor comfort others. Fortunately, recent medical and psychological studies have shown that crying is quite healthy for the body and spirit of children and adults.

But what about in regards to faith? Is crying out to God healthy or a sign of distrust and weakness?

One must simply read over — or better pray over — the Psalms to realize that faith is born out of and nurtured through tears. Crying to the Lord is one of the greatest statements of faith that we can make.