Triumph over Tragedy. 30 years later

How you choose to handle adversity says a lot about you.

At some moment, many of us realize that life is short, not in years but in the opportunity to explore the infinite. This reflection reigns true as last week marked the 30th anniversary of my father’s death. As a little girl without coping mechanisms, the tragedy threw me into a state of depression and withdrawal from life. Life spiraled downwards. It wasn’t until ten years later, senior year of college, that a light bulb turned on. From that point on, living life to the fullest became reality. I chose where I wanted to go. I decided not to pursue a PhD. I chose to explore Europe by train with only a backpack for a month after graduation. That one experience in itself set the stage to travel internationally with ease for the rest of my life.

At that pivotal moment, I chose to live a different way. Instead of taking pity on myself, I realized that life is short. I began traveling the world to explore what else was out there. Learning about other cultures provided perspective that few see.

My father’s death while tragic led me to become independent and go after opportunities far beyond my reach. The lessons learned in adversity is what makes you grow as a human being.

In any situation, we have the choice to let tragedy bring us down or to rise up into something new.

Let adversity be a guiding path on your next steps.

What will you choose today?

Wishing you an abundant, joyful and prosperous day!