When our disappointments lead us toward greater purity or point us to Jesus, they truly become blessings in disguise. They invite us to see more deeply the power and heart of God.

Second, if we recognize that these disappointments present an opportunity to correct flawed policies or systems so that others will not have to experience the same pain, then they call for courage, boldness, and the continual compassion and grace of God. Revisiting these painful experiences may reopen wounds we have long wanted to forget. Yet these moments are often greater than us. They are no longer merely about our personal disappointments but about using our painful experiences to help others.

In my view, whichever of these two responses we choose, they both become genuine means of grace that lead to healing and transformation.