Those who suffer often learn the value of compassion. Those who struggle often learn perseverance. And those who fall down often teach others how to rise again. Our troubles can shape us in ways a care-free existence cannot. A story is told of an Eastern village which, through the centuries, was known for its exquisitely beautiful pottery.
Legend has it that when each urn was apparently finished, there was one final step.
The artist broke it- and then put it back together with gold filigree. An ordinary urn was then transformed into a priceless work of art. Broken by hardships, disappointments and tragedy, they can be either discarded or healed. But when mended by a hand of infinite patience and love, the finished product will be a work of exquisite beauty- a life which could only reach its completeness after it was broken. And you may not actually be complete until the pieces are reassembled and bonded with a golden filigree of love.