Life stories were always swirling around us, unnoticed, as we focused on our own busy life.  We now see that many people have a "story" and we are not so quick to judge those who suffer misfortune.  We see them in a new light and, more importantly, we are getting an inkling of caring about their story and their misfortune.  Even in the throes of our own problems.

            Our own pain seems impossible to get through.  Yet, somehow, we manage to get to the end of each day.  Some days are challenging, some days we can barely endure.  Still, bit by bit, we are surviving a situation that we never believed we could survive.  We are developing endurance.  We dig deep to  find courage and fortitude within ourselves. 

            And in our struggle we are compelled to reflect on what is really important in our lives.  We may place more value on our relationships, our faith, or what our imprint on the world can be.  Our "things" may have less meaning.

            As a result, our character is strengthened.  Something beneficial has occurred in the aftermath of this hardship.  Just possibly, we have become a better person.  What a lasting tribute to our precious loved one!  We have created a  positive outcome from a difficult event.  We have created hope.