Mascara-Stained Faces

I remember standing in the scalding hot shower just days after my son was born and trying to sob quietly so my husband would not hear my painful and shame-filled cries. My black mascara streamed down my pale cheeks, my skin begged for the physical pain to cease, and my overwhelmed heart felt a burden like never before. As I looked in the mirror at the mascara stained on my face, I also felt a sense of darkness and sadness covering my tired and lonely soul. How am I going to do this? Why do I feel this way? What is wrong with me? These questions rang over and over in my ear.

We live in an age of appearing to have it all together. We must only show the pictures of our children posing as little angels rather than discuss the reality of our children throwing temper tantrums and refusing to listen to the simplest demands. We live in an age of shaming others, and at this point, I did not even know how to form the thoughts and words to ask for help. I have a master’s degree in Crisis Response and Trauma Counseling – this was something I was supposed to know how to process on my own, right?

The answer is no. No, we do not have to have it all together. No, we do not have to be ashamed of our shortcomings.

We can ask for help. We can support one another, encourage one another, pray together, and wipe the shame-filled tears from one another’s faces.

We SHOULD ask for help.

We should not shame others for being transparent, admitting that we cannot do things all on our own.

No matter what you are struggling with today, whether it be the stress of finances, behavioral situations with your children, estranged relationships, or feelings of anxiety – talk to someone. Talk to a counselor, pastor, spouse, or friend, and do not be afraid to utilize your support system.

I do not know what is burdening you and causing your mascara to run, but I do know that Jesus offers peace and hope amidst the turmoil. He offers hope beyond the storm. He is right there, holding your hand through the mountain highs and the valley lows. Grasp His hand today and don’t let go.

Prayer:

Father, right now I lift up every beautiful face that has cried tears of turmoil. I pray for every soul that is feeling defeated right this very minute. Lord, please fill their heart with a peace that passes all understanding. Please show them the path You would have for them.