Pressure creates diamonds.

Poverty, abuse, persecution, racism, death, bullying, and a myriad of other wrongs influence how we encounter the world.

The social norms of the day may have swept events under the rug or threats silenced the reporting. But, you remember and carry these memories in your bones.

Writer, Debbie Millman (@debbiemillman), openly discusses the sexual, physical, and mental abuse she received as a child and youth. Counseling has helped her to process her story. Debbie uses her experiences to fuel her passion for eradicating the closeted abuses encountered by so many.

"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.” Wendy Mass

Intimate discussions among friends provide opportunities to open up about our history and fill in the gaps that no one knows. The words, "Wow, I'm sorry, I can't imagine," seem to fall short when hearing the struggles held so close, for so long.

Will Smith's portrayal of Chris Gardner in the movie, The Pursuit of Happyness, hits too close to home. I like the movie, but I can't enjoy it, I feel my cortisol spike because I have lived some of the scenes. I am all too familiar with financial woes and the pressures associated with a dream delayed.

How have your tough times marked you?

What are the scars left behind after circumstances change and time marches on?

How do you use these experiences to propel you forward?

Where do you get tripped up and who can you reach out to for help?

What is one trial you are now grateful to have experienced?

What is your process for reframing this event as useful or necessary?

What other events need to undergo your process to reframe?