Strong For Too Long

By Cassie Carroll

During a time where I was battling depression I painted images that spoke to me as being filled with sadness and/or hopelessness. The single sheet of paper sat in my closet for a few years until I came across this amazing quote. "People cry, not because they're weak. It's because they've been strong for too long." I feel like our society vilifies the act of crying. Crying can be extremely helpful and cathartic and I feel like somehow this gives me permission to cry. Maybe others will find hope in it as well. The wording stencil was drawn with pen and ink and gel pens, creating recovery encouragement for that special person who has endured trying times. Want to sent this print or card to someone but don't know what to write as encouragement? Here are some suggestions: I’m sorry you’re hurting. Let me know what I can do.. I know this sucks, but you totally got this. I believe in you. Let me know what I can do. You can always count on me when you’re feeling your worst.