Every man has his secret sorrows which the world knows not; and often times we call a man cold when he is only sad.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Longfellow’s words reminded me of a member of our church, whom I barely knew. She gave me the cold stare whenever she passed. What had I done? I didn’t dare ask.
Eventually, we were in the same Bible study. She was cordial, but there was no warmth. One Sunday, I decided to probe. Had I offended her? No. She was surprised by my question, and yet not. Another church member had recently asked the same question.
She wondered,
What does my face show if people think I am mad at them?
Longfellow’s words also reminded me of something my brother told me when he entered high school the Fall after I graduated. Someone said,
Oh, you’re the brother of that unfriendly girl.
Back then, I was shocked. I had friends, but I wanted more. Perhaps, my shyness was misinterpreted? Now, I think it was my sadness. I had too many responsibilities and concerns with little support during my high school years.
Perhaps you know someone who is sad?
