“Resilience is that ineffable quality that allows some people to be knocked down by life and come back stronger than ever. Rather than letting failure overcome them and drain their resolve, they find a way to rise from the ashes. Psychologists have identified some of the factors that make someone resilient, among them a positive attitude, optimism, the ability to regulate emotions, and the ability to see failure as a form of helpful feedback. Even after misfortune, resilient people are blessed with such an outlook that they are able to change course and soldier on.” ~ Psychology Today

Experiencing a tragic and unforeseen event can be emotionally devastating. The initial shock alone can paralyze and instantly bring the smooth flow of life, to a grinding halt.  Yet sometimes, we witness extraordinary resilience amid tragedy and see an astonishing ability to turn overwhelming emotion, into action.

The spirit and strength that we have seen in Parkland, Florida, is remarkable. After what is most likely the worst circumstance that community has ever seen, people are not floundering in sadness and despair. What has emerged is a call to action.

Students are leading the way to mobilize efforts for change.  They have recognized gaps and missing pieces and realize that while they can’t changed what happened to their family and friends, perhaps they can make a difference for the future.

This is a tremendous demonstration of emotional vigor and strength.

An unexpected event can happen to anyone of us. Anytime. Anywhere.

Thus can have a long lasting impact on our lives.

There is opportunity in tragedy.  While what has occurred cannot be changed, we can take the lessons learned and work toward improving conditions for others.  Taking action can have a positive effect on healing.

It’s during the tough times when it’s very important to find a way to believe that our experience will one day strengthen our lives or the lives of others. Consider the lessons that you’ve learned and see if there’s an opportunity to help others or initiate change.

Here are 3 questions to ask:

  1. What is an unexpected event or challenge that you have faced?
  2. What have you learned from it?
  3. Who can you tell about it?

How can you take what you have learned to make a difference for the future?

~ Lisa