I liked Craig Harper's glimpse into another meaningful life story. No matter what we do each day, I find it humbling to learn about how other people deal with what can seem at times be unfathomable levels of adversity. Not only do moving personal stories enable us to put our lives in perspective, but we may also develop a deep admiration and respect for emotional trials.
In my mind, true adversity goes beyond external circumstances to include psychological challenges which are different for each of us. Christopher Reeve's sense of physical and mental adversity after his equestrian accident was different than Ernest Shackleton's trials during Antartica explorations. Child poet Mattie Stepanek is another example of determination and uplifting inspiration. (See
Mattie Stepanek's Personal Website) The attitudes of struggling people who develop resilience can be humbling. We can learn from them just like we can learn from our own lives. No matter how long we live, it is up to us to make the most of that time. Learning is our major responsibility.
Why is it do you think that people have such a more powerful lasting, impact when they experience accidents, abuse, violence or other tragedies?