Thankful for tears!

I cry. When I see Hallmark commercial, I cry. That Folgers commercial where the son comes home for Christmas, gets me every year. I cry every time I watch Anne of Green Gables, Facing the Giants and Fireproof. Some worship songs always bring a tear to my eye, but this crying every time I am worshiping is pretty new to me. In the past year or so, I cry when singing in church, I often cry when singing in the car, and sometimes at home. Reading Scripture often makes me cry as well.
I think it started last October, just after my miscarriage. Sometimes the tears are tears of sadness because I do not have that baby to hold. Often, the tears come when singing about worshiping God forever, singing to Him in heaven. Heaven has somehow become more real to me, knowing that I already have children there. As King David said when his son died, "He will not come to me, but I shall go to him". That is so comforting to me to know that someday I will be in Heaven, worshiping my Lord and Savior forever, and I will be doing that alongside my children
I also feel like the tears have served to somehow heal me. Like, when I'm crying, the God of all comfort is comforting me, so that I can comfort others in trouble. This year has been a difficult one, not just for me but for many. It has been full of opportunities for me to comfort others with the same comfort that God continues to give me. As much as I wish that my friends and dear sisters in Christ did not have to suffer, I am thankful that my Heavenly Father has softened my heart, healed my soul and helped me to grow so that I am able to be a comfort.
And, I am strengthened, as if the joy of the Lord truly is my strength! Imagine that! In the midst of difficulties and sorrow, I find joy in the Lord and I am strengthened! He arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. Oh! How good is our God!
So, with Thanksgiving just 3 days away, I am so thankful for tears. I am thankful for how God has healed me with tears. I am thankful for how He continues to strengthen me through tears. I am thankful for how I've grown because of tears. I am thankful for the tears that have led to joy!