What experience has made you a stronger person?

I truly believe the old familiar phrase, “What doesn’t break you only makes you stronger.” Everything that happens in our lives is meant to make us better, stronger human beings. Never resist, just go with the flow, accept, feel and learn what the moment is teaching you.

As they say, yesterday is gone forever, enjoy every minute of this moment, trusting that God has something greater in store for you.

Len Cabili, creative designer, Filip + Inna

I was diagnosed with papillary carcinoma back in 2001. No matter what kind of cancer you have, it changes your life. I turned to the Bible for comfort and guidance, and my relationship with God became intimate and personal. The experience deepened my faith, and continues to do so.

Vicky Zubiri, artist, president Filfest Cultural Foundation

The experience of surviving two brain surgeries and still having an existing tumor and the support of my five lovable children and their spouses plus nine beautiful grandchildren. Above all, my husband Joe who has loved and supported us always. The fact that we are finally celebrating our 50th adventurous, tumultuous, peaceful and loving wedding anniversary June of this year — for this, I thank the Lord.

Jessa Zaragoza, singer/actress

I’ve had a lot of experiences in life that have taught me how to be positive and wise, but what made me stronger was when I became a mother. From all the hardships and challenges in raising another human being that our Lord blessed me with, I have gained wisdom and learned how to love unconditionally. For me, motherhood taught me how to be strong not just for myself, but for my husband and daughter as well.

Christopher de Venecia, theater producer/director of 9 Works Theatrical, STAR columnist

When our house burned down and my sister KC passed away in a fire back in December 2004, I thought my life was over. But in time, I was able to pick up the pieces and realized that life was too short not to live it to the fullest.

Everything in my life, all my achievements, I dedicate to my sister KC.

Tintin Bersola Babao, host of Good Morning Club on TV5

The separation of my parents made me stronger. I was in my teens then. It strengthened my faith and my resolve na may marating ako sa buhay. It was also the time when I stood as the second mom to my siblings. I became very independent, strong willed.

Pinky R. Amador, department head, theater arts, Meridian International College

 Being a working actor for 29 years has provided me with the greatest life experiences and lessons like discipline, passion for excellence, humility, integrity, love for craft and others, and sheer determination.

Now that I have proven that I can transcend barriers internationally, and cross to other mediums (film, TV, singing and hosting), I am approaching probably the biggest lesson so far: sharing what I have learned in my new post as head of department for theater arts at Meridian International School this June 2012. It is time to pass this all on.

Baron Geisler, actor

The six-month voluntary rehab that I went through last year definitely made me a stronger and better person. It’s one thing to admit one’s mistakes and shortcomings, but it’s another to actually do something about it — especially if it entails a lot of sacrifice.

Thankfully, despite the pain and loneliness I had to go through for that ordeal, I eventually conquered my demons, won my personal battle with the bottle, and found peace with myself and the people I had wronged before.

Cheska Garcia, talk show host/actress

When my parents split up. It made me stronger and taught me how to accept the predicament I was in and find the good in a bad situation. Even if they can’t be together anymore, at least I still have them separately and they still love me no matter what the status of their relationship is.

Patis Tesoro, designer, animal lover and environmentalist

The death of my son three years ago made me realize that we are not on this earth forever. Planting trees in memory of my son and also for future generations to enjoy is a wonderful way of being strong.