I started this piece cursively and repeatedly writing these words in reference to a couple of people in my life, a male and female. Upon hearing the following statement by Dharma teacher Anam Thubten, I finished it.

"Understanding that the very people who give us or provide severe, painful challenges are not the people who will comfort us or come from heightened awareness; rather, they are necessary catalysts for growth, and others will comfort us as we become more aware."