Mark Hodermarsky, a retired English teacher and author, reflects on the profound emotional release that comes from crying, whether in moments of joy or sorrow. His recent experience watching the film “The Great Escaper,” featuring Michael Caine and the late Glenda Jackson, stirred deep emotions as it portrayed the true story of Bernard Jordan, a British World War II veteran who escaped his care home to attend the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landing in Normandy.
The film captures critical themes, including the veterans’ determination to honor those who perished in the war and their ongoing battles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It also highlights the health challenges faced by aging soldiers, while offering glimpses of the friendships and love interests that provide moments of solace amidst their struggles. For Hodermarsky, the emotional weight of the film culminated in a heartfelt response, illustrating how tears can serve as a release of pent-up emotions.
The Dual Nature of Crying
Hodermarsky notes that crying is more than just a response to sadness; it also signals joy. He emphasizes that these emotional releases help individuals connect more deeply with their humanity. Whether mourning the loss of a loved one or celebrating joyous milestones, such as engagements or the birth of a child, tears play an essential role in expressing genuine feelings. “We need never be ashamed of our tears,” he quotes Charles Dickens, reinforcing the notion that vulnerability is a part of the human experience.
Reflecting on personal experiences, Hodermarsky recalls the exuberance of tears when joyous occasions arise, such as a couple agreeing to marry or a grandparent holding a grandchild for the first time. These moments encapsulate the essence of life’s circle, emphasizing the interconnectedness of emotions across different experiences. He believes that both men and women should embrace their emotional responses, asserting that suppressing feelings only hinders self-understanding.
Celebrating the Power of Laughter
In addition to tears of sorrow, Hodermarsky also acknowledges the joy brought by laughter. Moments of shared humor, particularly from sources like the Monty Python troupe, have elicited tears of joy for him and others. He finds satisfaction in making people laugh, noting how laughter creates a sense of unity among individuals. This duality of crying—both from joy and sadness—highlights the complex nature of human emotions and the importance of expressing them.
As Hodermarsky reflects on these experiences, he encourages others to embrace their feelings, asserting that honesty in emotion fosters deeper connections with oneself and others. The ability to cry, whether from joy or grief, enriches life and allows for greater appreciation of both the highs and lows we encounter. Ultimately, he advocates for the liberation that comes from acknowledging our emotional truths, urging society to remove the masks that often conceal our true selves.
Mark Hodermarsky, who resides in Olmsted Falls, continues to contribute to discussions on emotional well-being through his writings. His perspective invites readers to recognize and celebrate the power of tears, encouraging a more profound connection to humanity in all its forms.
