Grief, sorrow, and lament are unexpected teachers that can lead us to healing, hope, and divine presence.

Author Travis Craver's life has had its share of ups and downs with the pain, disappointment, and even grief that almost everyone would prefer to avoid. But he's convinced that the old proverb is true: "What soap is for the body, tears are for the soul."

The Hidden Beauty of Tears explores how tears - often hidden in our culture or seen a a sign of weakness - have curious healing qualities. Looking at how our tears can bring emotional balance or physical wellness, Craver goes further, wondering what God is doing with our tears.

At the tomb of his dear friend Lazarus, Jesus wept, and none of them went unnoticed. The psalmist declares our tears are precious and counted by God. Mixed into the saline water that runs down the creases of our face is God's mysterious presence. He is so near that we might miss him.

Mercifully, not all our tears are rooted in sadness; in truth, we may cry even more when we laugh. When something funny happens, our emotions are stirred and we can't hold back the tears. They just come out - uninhibited, maybe unwelcome, but needed. Unnoticed as we laugh so hard - and yet poignantly present - is God himself, the One who sustains all things.

Most have had the experience of being with loved ones after a funeral and sharing laughter together as they recount memories and create new ones. Travis sees this as a natural outpouring because laughter and grief are cousins and God walks with us in both, especially through our tears.

When you read The Hidden Beauty of Tears, you'll be inspired because you'll find God is in our singing, our cries, our fumbling faith, and in the swirling constellation of emotions that trail through our lives. It turns out that the broken hearted have a special access point to the Father if they have faith to see. Take in your tears and bask in God's presence.