Life is a lovely place...except when it isn't.

Focus on the light. Focus on the love. 

Like the rest of the country, I've been thinking a lot about the events in Boston yesterday. In addition to the physical victims, I keep thinking about the people who love Boston, who call it their home, because when something so tragic happens in your city, it forever changes you. Even things that are not completely related are different. Like sunny Tuesdays in September. Beautiful September Tuesdays will never feel the same to me, whether they fall on the 11th or not.

The thing that helps me cope when tragedy strikes is focusing on the strength of the human spirit. The human capacity to endure and even triumph over pain is truly amazing to me. It stands as a reminder that the world is not a dark, evil place. Strength in spirit is everywhere.

Consider R.A. Dicky. This year's Cy Young winner was featured on 60 Minutes last Sunday. He was a victim of sexual abuse as a child. But he rose above it to be the best at what he does, and more importantly, he works to help victims of human trafficking in India. This man had a very difficult childhood, but he found the strength to use all of his gifts to the fullest. His example actually made me cry because he had every reason to give up on life, but didn't. It makes me ask myself, "Don't I, who had every advantage of a loving, secure environment growing up, have the responsibility to use my strength and gifts, too?"

Examples are found much closer to home as well. The story of a 4-year-old Minnesota boy who nearly drowned has strangers from all over praying for him and his family. His parents journal entries on Caring Bridge are filled with positive reflections and gratitude. Their son has a long recovery ahead of him, and they acknowledge their worries, but the message first and foremost is love. Love for God, for the boy, for each other, for their other children. There is no anger, just strength.

When terrible things happen, it is easy to lose faith. I hate it — hate it — when people elude to there being no hope for the world. "What is this world coming to?" "What is wrong with people today?" "The world is awful." This sort of thinking will only break you. Focus on the love. Focus on the strength. It is there, behind every tragic experience. Open your heart and see it.