Think back for a moment on your own history -- not just where you were born or where you grew up, but the circumstances that contributed to your being right here, right now. What were the moments along the way that wounded or scared you? Chances are, you've had a few. But here's what's remarkable: You are still here, still standing.

The only people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire.

I would like to thank the people who've brought me those dark moments, when I felt most wounded, betrayed. You have been my greatest teachers.

There is not one experience, no matter how devastating, no matter how tortuous it may appear to have been, there is nothing that's ever wasted. Everything that is happening to you is being drawn into your life as a means to help you evolve into who you were really meant to be here on Earth. It's not the thing that matters, it's what that thing opens within you. — Oprah

Say Thank You because your faith is so strong that you don't doubt that what ever the problem, you'll get through it. You're saying thank-you because you know that even in the eye of the storm, God has put a rainbow in the clouds.

Every decision, setback, or triumph is an opportunity to identify the seeds of truth that make you the wondrous human being you are.

What I know for sure is that there is no strength without challenge, adversity, resistance, and often pain.

What I know for sure is that the only way to endure the quake is to adjust your stance. You can't avoid the daily tremors. They come with being alive. But I believe these experiences are gifts that force us to step to the right or left in search of a new center of gravity. Don't fight them. Let them help you adjust your footing.

Every experience is a valuable teacher.

Everything that happened to you can be used to strengthen you, if you allow it, if you're open to it.

My highest achievement: never shutting down my heart. Even in my darkest moments—through sexual abuse, a pregnancy at 14, lies and betrayals—I remained faithful, hopeful, and willing to see the best in people, regardless of whether they were showing me their worst. I continued to believe that no matter how hard the climb, there is always a way to let in a sliver of light to illuminate the path forward.

You're saying thank-you," Maya said, "because your faith is so strong that you don't doubt that whatever the problem, you'll get through it. You're saying thank-you because you know that even in the eye of the storm, God has put a rainbow in the clouds. You're saying thank-you because you know there's no problem created that can compare to the Creator of all things. Say thank-you!