A few years ago I had a client who was struggling. She was very emotional as she shared her challenges, past hurts and fears. We were processing a lot. As she was talking and crying she grabbed a Kleenex to wipe her face. When she opened it there was a smile. I couldn’t believe what I saw. I quickly snapped a picture. We both looked at each other and then burst out in laughter and then more tears. Our tears were no longer sad tears they were tears of joy!
Sadly last week this previous client abrubtly lost her husband. Yesterday we attended his Celebration of life. The service was opened with a song “Beautiful Day” by my favorite band U2. The song soon made a lot of sense. The family, pastors, friends and co-workers who were there all spoke about her late husband’s smile and joyful spirit. They shared funny memories. They all spoke of his joy. They spoke of his heart to serve and help others. They ALL spoke of his SMILE.
I couldn’t stop thinking about this memory and this picture.
This picture reminds me that in loss, pain, fear, and hurt we can find a smile. We can find peace. We can find joy. We can find laughter.
I don’t know what is happening in your life today. You may have lost a friend or loved one. You may have been hurt. You might be struggling with confidence and self-worth. You may have lost a job. You may be sick. You might feel lost. You may feel like there is no way to go on living.
My encouragement to you is that you keep moving forward. That you find help. That you mend relationships. That you know who you are and what your worth is. That you find the best career. That you heal. That you find clarity and purpose. That you live.
Most importantly that you find the smile in the middle of your tears…
You just might find yourself even laughing!
If you are struggling, hurting or need help I am here!
#smile
#smilethroughyourtears
#