Entry #4 What a gift!

What a gift it is to feel deeply.

I have always been an emotional person. I am often labeled as “the one who will always cry” or the “overly sensitive one”. While it does not usually bother me, I dislike how being sensitive has become perceived as a negative attribute. There are so many beautiful benefits to being open about emotions and feelings.

In a world that is so self sufficient, being independent and strong is often highly praised. According to today's societal standards, we should all be able to support ourselves and do everything on our own. This includes handling hardships and emotions. On the surface, I feel as though the more I hide what I am feeling, the stronger I am. But deep down, I know that this way of thinking is not true and is unhealthy. It is a mindset that many of us need to change.

  

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Emotions can certainly get in the way. Feelings, while always real, are not always reality. Our feelings are often a side effect of a deeper issue that is going on. This means we need to identify the underlying issue and focus on addressing it, rather than dwelling on the emotion of the moment. It is important that we never act in the midst of a strong emotion and accidently make choices we may regret. There are times in which our emotions must be contained, which is a learned skill. I strive to improve at this aspect every day.

All of this being said, emotions can be beautiful and powerful. It is touching when someone’s walls come down and we get to see their heart in its real and genuine state. Similarly speaking, it is a blessing to be genuine and real with someone else. Sharing our trials is healing. Simply allowing ourselves to feel is healing. It does not take very much for me to become incredibly sad, but the same goes for feeling tremendous joy. I just feel very deeply. I can be equally moved by seeing family or by seeing a pretty sunset. 

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Emotions allow us to experience empathy. Sharing others’ emotions is something that comes easily to me. When my friend is excited, I usually end up equally as excited. This is especially true when it comes to someone that is really close to me and that I truly want the best for. That being said, I also love being there for people in their moments of pain. Holding their hand, crying with them, and just being in their presence are things I try my best to do whenever I can.

Emotions can be the most beautiful thing when expressed in a proper way. Sensitivity is a strength, not a weakness. It takes incredible strength to openly express our feelings. Our society should work towards having a healthier relationship with our own emotions, as well as encouraging the next generation to do the same.