There's a kind of exhaustion that goes unseen. It doesn't come from work, or from the body, but from the soul. It's the weariness of smiling when inside everything is heavy, of saying "I'm fine" when it's not true, of maintaining a calm that only exists so others won't worry.

Pretending everything is alright is a silent form of exhaustion. Because while we try to appear strong, we're draining away what little we have left. The heart grows weary of holding so much in, the mind grows weary of hiding so much, and the soul… simply fades a little more each day.

We were taught that showing vulnerability is weakness. That crying is a sign of giving up. But the truth is, no one can heal what they deny . Pretending might keep up appearances, but it never brings peace. True strength lies in recognizing exhaustion, asking for help, stopping, breathing, and accepting that we can't always do everything.

There are days when smiling feels heavy, and it's okay to put it down for a moment. You're not less brave for being tired; you're human. The soul needs rest too, and God doesn't ask for perfection… He asks for truth.

Let the weight fall. Cry if you need to. Letting go is also a form of faith. Because life isn't about pretending to be okay, but about learning to be at peace, even in the midst of chaos.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
Matthew 11:28