Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Put on a Happy Face

Smile though you heart is breaking....... Remember that song? Put on a happy face..... Maybe that one rings a bell.

Over the holidays, I was told such a sad account that it made my heart stop for a moment. The statement was”I used to go in the bathroom (at a public place), cry, then smile at myself in the mirror and go back out". I was deeply affected by these words. As I began to really think on it, I realized that what she was doing was denying her feelings, stuffing them inside and putting on a smile for the world around her. As I thought about it more, I realize that I too was guilty of putting on a happy face at times.

We are taught from an early age to just "pull your boots straps up and move on" or "there's nothing you can do so just get on with it". Boys from a small age are told "Big boys don't cry",”be strong, be a man". Little girls are told "smile, look pretty".

As I began to pray on this, God began to show me, how I was taught myself to deny my own feelings. Sometimes I can be hurting inside and cover it so easily with a smile. That is not what God intended us to be like. I'm not saying that we should fall apart everywhere we go but maybe we should be a little more honest with what is going on in us.

I don't believe I have ever heard any of those responses from our Savior. He never told anyone, "Just smile through it". I believe He would say mourn if you need to, there is a time to cry, I will hold you and comfort you while you do.

So I say, don't smile while your heart is breaking, don't just put on a happy face. Instead, take your broken heart to Jesus. Let him comfort you and mend it while he keeps you cradled in His arms.

Psalm 147:3 – He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Psalm 126:5 - Those who sow in tears, shall reap in joy.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Amen! When you have the love of God and you trust in Him when you are going through the toughest times in your life you can rest assured that God will see you through. He will mend your broken heart. When life situations get to me I cry oh how I cry. I believe when we cry Jesus feels our pain. He knows we need comforting and He knows just how to do it! Praise Him. God loves for us to be totally transparent with Him. He knows we are weak. We know that God is strong! We know He is our Comforter! We know He is our help in the time of need!

God bless!
I love you!
Grace and Peace

Anonymous said...

I have to agree with you about the practice of wearing a mask. Christians are sinner's saved by grace....and have struggles like any other person. The difference is that we have a power that unregenerated sinners do not have....the Holy Spirit. He can help us when we are depressed, angry, frustrated...or....He will magnify our joy, success, or praise.
For other Christians to be able to comfort, strengthen or effectively pray for us....we need to take of the "happy" mask and speak the truth.
I share my feelings to those I know and trust will be real to me. I know they will be a comfort or an encouragment as needed. They do not say trite things like "I'll pray for you" and do not mean it...or....who offer advise without listening, saying "I think what you should do is...." These dear saints are more ear and heart...than brain and mouth.
Thank you for your reminder for us to be tranparent and real.

Julie Arduini said...

Awesome post, so Godly and timely. I think God showed me at least three times this week about how Jesus wants to comfort us. Thanks for the reminder!

Jennifer @ JenniferDukesLee.com said...

Isn't it weird how the first place we "put on a happy face" is the church? NOT cool.

Hey -- I love your blog. One of my favorite parts is what you have over on the left-hand column. Good for you. To God be the glory.

Anonymous said...

You're right on! Stuffing our feelings results in passive-aggressive behavior, high blood pressure, diabetes, ulcers, etc. Solomon said there was a time to laugh and a time to cry. I see too many people (especially in church) that have a different persona for public and I wonder, sometimes, what will take them out of this world.
Loved your statement, too, Sherri

Sherri Watt said...

God bless you all. I appreciate all of you!!! You are all great servants and I am glad to be in your company!

HUGS!