Throughout my life, I have faced a number of crucibles but one, in particular, is more prominent than the rest. About five years ago, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, a traumatic experience that affected my entire family. Each member of my immediate family chose to deal with the news in different ways, however, I am the only one that elected to live in denial. Sadly, the only way I knew how to cope with such devastating news was to continue living my life as if nothing was happening. Denial is simply unsustainable as you cannot escape the memories that the crucible has formed. Nevertheless, years after my mom was originally diagnosed I began to appreciate the experience for what it was rather than shy away from it; developing hardiness.…