Final answer:
The advice about not crying can be seen as situational, and crying can signify either weakness or strength based on context and personal beliefs. Melba's grandmother's viewpoint may differ from contemporary perspectives that acknowledge the strength in openly expressing emotions.
Step-by-step explanation:
In evaluating Melba's grandmother's advice about not crying, it depends on the context and the individual's personal philosophy on emotional expression. Crying is not inherently a sign of weakness or strength; it is a natural human response to a range of emotions. There are instances in history, literature, and real life when crying has been seen as a weakness, such as the ancient Roman perception of Cicero's grief. However, modern views often recognize that expressing emotions through tears can be a sign of strength, as it shows the courage to confront and process feelings. The passages from literature provided suggest that tears can be a release of pent-up emotion, a reaction to loneliness, and even a shared connection among people. Therefore, whether crying represents weakness or strength is subjective and influenced by cultural norms, personal beliefs, and the circumstances under which the tears are shed.