You may recognize the phrase, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” from Kelly Clarkson’s 2011 award-winning song. But those words have been around for over 100 years. They’re generally attributed to the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, from his 1888 work Twilight of the Idols.

Are those famous words true? Well… maybe. It depends on your response to whatever almost—but didn’t—kill you.

Let’s say someone gets kicked out of college, or fired from their job, or falsely accused and their reputation destroyed… or worse, they lose their entire family in a tragic accident. These things happen to people. Some individuals rise above, continuing to strive, survive, and even thrive in spite of it. The terrible thing that happened to them probably did make them stronger.

But some people can’t find it within themselves to rise. Some curl up in a ball and quit. They assume the role of victim and live accordingly. Difficult circumstances didn’t make them stronger—but weaker.

What’s the difference? Their decision. It wasn’t the circumstance that strengthened or weakened—it was their choice. Choices are difficult. But they make or break our lives.

Today’s “Peace of Wisdom” can be found when we choose to be wise and rise.