Resilience is a remarkable quality that empowers us to endure and bounce back from life’s most trying challenges. Most of us will encounter difficult times at some point in our lives, and today, I want to delve into the concept of resilience, shedding light on how it plays a crucial role in helping us navigate adversity.

My personal journey through hardship began four years ago today, when I received a life-altering phone call informing me that my husband had tragically collapsed at his workplace. Regrettably, he did not survive, and my world was forever altered. I was suddenly widowed with two young sons, left grappling with the daunting question of how I would not only survive but also carry on.

In the aftermath of Jim’s passing, I embarked on a profound exploration of my own resilience. It was a journey filled with heartache, triumph, and countless lessons. There were moments of doubt, days when I wept silently into my pillow to shield my boys from my pain, and times when the weight of my responsibilities seemed insurmountable. Nevertheless, I persevered. Through this challenging experience, I discovered a reservoir of strength within me that I never knew existed.

This experience led me to recognise the importance of resilience, the remarkable capacity to weather life’s storms and emerge stronger on the other side. It became evident that the resilience I had unknowingly cultivated over the years played a pivotal role in my ability to cope with this tragic event and continue moving forward.

Today, I channel my experiences into supporting others who find themselves in similar circumstances. I have had the privilege of addressing audiences ranging in size from 100 to 2000 people, sharing insights into what resilience truly means and how we can strengthen our own resilience threshold. I discuss strategies for coping better when life becomes challenging and how, ultimately, we can not only survive but thrive.

Instead of a day for mourning, on the anniversary of that fateful day four years ago we celebrate Jim’s life, honouring his spirit by living with the strength and resilience he exemplified. This day is also an occasion to celebrate our own tenacity, as we continue to navigate life’s adversities with unwavering determination.

Resilience is not just a concept; it’s a force that dwells within each of us, waiting to be harnessed and nurtured. As we recognise and nurture our own resilience, we empower ourselves to face life’s challenges head-on and emerge from them even stronger, just as I have. Together, we can celebrate the strength, resilience, and sheer determination that enable us to thrive in the face of adversity.