As water downs ships but upholds leaves,and as fires burn cities but refines gold,so do life's troubles propel the meek to greatnessand the proud to ruin.

When bad things happen to you, become wiser, not bitter.

Flowers have to stretch to bloom.

Flowers still have to stretch to bloom.

A flower does not lose its beauty because it grew on concrete.

When darkness comes,stars shine.When storms come,plants flourish.When adversity comes,champions triumph.

He who runs from a challenge runs from an opportunity.

Seeds pour out oil when pressed.Grapes pour out wine when squeezed.Herbs pour out medicine when pounded.Flowers pour out perfume when crushed.The gifted pour out excellence when tested.

Caged birds still sing beautiful symphonies.