I think it all depends on one's perception. I sure would have continued to be the innocent naive girl that's easily deceived with sentimental compliments if I had not learned from my experience how deceitful some men are.

I'm yet to see anyone who got strong and brazen without first getting burned- betrayed, abandoned or rejected.

We can't ignore that experiences make us wiser. Choosing to celebrate your pain is a form of power shift. It's like taking over the control your abuser has over you and shaming them for their action.

That's how I see it though. I find a reason to be grateful in all my experiences both good and bad. It's the only way I can avoid building resentments for people who don't deserve my energy.