I shared this with a friend earlier who is going through some difficult times due to Hurricane Sandy. Facing the loss of some very irreplacable objects in her buildings basement.

Being that I practically live in sunshine I shared with her a saying from my grandmother:

You must remember that darkness is a gift  just as much as light. How you walk through darkness determines your character. In the face of misery fear and doubt, when the devil believes you have given up hope, you keep smiling until you reach the light and only then do you cast off your burdens and sorrow onto Him so he can support you.

It's a powerful message that carried me through the loss of my daughter back in February. It's a sentiment I have always carried with me. I know many of you have heard something similar.

What are words of wisdom that you have carried with you throughout your life?