To yearn for something is to want it very much. Sometimes yearning can be a sign of weakness, but it can also be a sign of strength.
She yearned for a better life, but she didn't know how to get there.
I yearn for the days when I was young and carefree.
verb
To long, have a strong desire (for something).
verb
To long for something in the past with melancholy, nostalgically.
verb
To have strong feelings of love, sympathy, affection, etc. (toward someone).
verb
To be pained or distressed; to grieve; to mourn.
verb
To pain; to grieve; to vex.
verb
To curdle, as milk.