Life, and living life to the fullest, are what is important.
Reading the powerful story of Diane Wilson, which we published in the Bay of Plenty Times Weekend on Saturday, drives this point home.
Click here to read Diane's story
We have had a number of stories on Diane, from her early days having to overcome many painful operations to reshape her face after she was born with Crouzon's Syndrome to last year's devastating car smash in Australia that nearly killed her.
The 23-year-old was left in a coma, with a broken neck, brain bleeds and a smashed pelvis. She is now blind in one eye and deaf in one ear. There were fears of brain damage. Doctors told her she wouldn't walk again.
But Diane is walking again and we caught up with her when she returned to her home town of Tauranga last week.
This young woman is proof that a positive attitude and being a fighter can make all the difference.
We asked her about her recovery. Her reply made me stop and think. "Positive attitude and determination - it will get you everywhere. People shouldn't focus on the little things. They should look at the bigger picture."
She added: "I could be all negative and down in the dumps - but what is that going to change about it? Nothing ... "
These are inspirational words from a woman who despite her young age has been through much more than most of us can even imagine.
Her message is right on target.
A positive attitude and determination will get you everywhere - no matter what challenges life throws.
Diane is now talking about travelling to Europe. I am sure that wherever she goes she will spread plenty of that positivity.
