Stop telling people “oh, don’t cry!” when tears start flowing during a conversation

Why is crying seen as such a bad thing? The older I get, I’ve had multiple tough conversations in group settings, and once someone starts crying it’s always met with, “don’t cry!”. I absolutely hate this.

Maybe the sentiment is more along the lines of … trying to console the crier. Letting them know it’ll all be okay. More of a like, “I hate that you’re feeling this way” type of sentiment. But I think most of the time the sentiment is “don’t let this situation bring you to tears” and honestly I just think that’s bullshit. If a situation is bringing someone to tears that’s okay. Let them cry. Let them get it out. It might be a few different things in their life finally at the breaking point and they need to release it. Being met with “don’t cry” just embarrasses the crier, and I absolutely hate that. They shouldn’t feel embarrassed. They should be met with empathy and grace.

STOP TELLING PEOPLE NOT TO CRY.

Instead maybe try asking them “Is there anything I can do for you?” They’re crying for a reason and they don’t need you to tell them to stop!

Editing post to include: I’m not talking about scenarios where a person is using crying as a manipulative tactic. I’m talking about scenarios where crying is very much appropriate, and the person trying to help says “don’t cry” and then goes on trying to console them.