I have not written for some time. I guess one day in lockdown looks very much like the next. That is not bad – just the reality of life.
So I have been thinking about the gift of tears. Yes, a somewhat weird thought. I have cried more in the last six months than the whole of my life combined. Not always spiritual, but sometimes spiritual related.
Here is a quote by Ignatius of Loyola:
As for the third point, that is, inflicting hurt upon the body for our Lord’s sake, I would completely stop any practices that could draw even a drop of blood. And if his Divine Majesty has bestowed grace upon you for this and the rest that I have mentioned (as I am convinced in his divine goodness that he has), I think that for the future (without giving reasons or arguments for it) it would be much better to give all this up and instead of seeking to draw any blood, to seek the Lord of all in a more immediate way; that is to say, his most holy gifts—for example, an infusion or drops of tears, whether (1) at our own or other people’s sins, (2) at the mysteries of Christ our Lord in this life or the next, or (3) at the consideration and love of the divine Persons. These tears have greater value and worth in proportion as the thoughts and considerations prompting them are higher.
Ignatius on Prayer (1548)
Tears are signs of intense emotions. Often uncontrollable. But every tear speaks! And should we not have “intense emotions” towards Jesus? I cry during silly movies, why not during the gospel reading on Sunday? (Ok, I have cried a couple of times during sermons but that was out of frustration.)
So, final question: would you pray for the gift of tears?
my solitary life 
Hi Marco, Apologies for the delayed reply but wanting to say ‘tears’ were never seen as an appropriate response when growing up but learnt their importance when I became unwell way back in 2002. I must have told a Christian friend about this, and the following year she embroidered and framed this saying “ Look for the rainbow that precious thing made up of tears and light” (Extra special as she was legally blind as a result of a brain tumor and she was aware my Mum had always told us a rainbow was a sign that God keeps His Promises.) Next time I won’t take as long to respond. Kerrie 🙏🏻🌷
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