Exposure to traumatic events can change the fabric of our life. We no longer see through rose colored glasses. Trauma and tragedy can either blur our vision or put things into a crystal clear view. Trauma changes our perspective. Loss makes us review what's truly important. These incredibly difficult experiences can either be the stepping point into becoming a stronger, more resilient and wise person, or they can send us into a spiral of self-destruction.

A tragic circumstance can change you, but it doesn't have to define you. It can make you a better person but it doesn't have to be a label that you wear. You can use an incredibly painful moment as a stepping stone into post-traumatic growth. Positive growth due to terrible situations can be incredibly powerful and can be a catalyst for significant change in the world. Some of the most significant organizations, institutions, and inventions came into fruition because of someone who experienced trauma and/or loss. You can use your grief and heartache to make a significant difference in the life of another.