Has adversity made you a better person?

[CelticWarlord]

Another member and I spoke briefly today about how adversity, namely health issues, had been good for us. For me, having experienced mental health problems since my late 20’s has made me into a far more compassionate and empathetic person. Without the years of struggle I would also still be far less patient than I have learned to be. I’m no longer quick to judge or condemn another. Do you feel that illness or misfortune has been a blessing for you or someone you know?

 

[tafan2]

Depends. I have a sibling who has had serious mental health problems, and certainly dealing with that made me a better person, for the exact reason you say. I started to truly understand the old saying “There but for the grace of God go I”.

I have also lost a loved one, and that was far greater personal adversity. I do not believe that made me a better person, not worse, but not better.

 

[Lee1]

Yes adversity can be like the grit to the oyster. Not only should we love our adversary but thank him!
I think ego is a major problem, great adversity can seriously damage the ego and in so doing can be the catalyst for great change since we look externally for help. Once we learn to defer to God we begin to gain real strength and the deeper the faith the greater our defences become.

 

[Dan_Defender]

When you lose a loved one, you realize that at times, you took this person for granted. You realize you could have done more for this person. You mourn and regret the past, but you realize you cannot change it, you only have control of the present. So you learn and become a better person, yes, adversity can improve us.