Everything Happens for a Reason

Are you a believer in this statement? Personally, I do believe in this statement overall but how one deals with a situation will affect its meaning.

In the past, when a situation was overwhelming, I made the mistake of immediately banking in this belief. By stating that it was happening for a reason and not looking for the reason, I dismissed the experience and didn't recognize the purpose. I learned that it is very important to ride the full experience, no matter how turbulent the experience in order to realize its purpose as a whole. Sometimes, I discover something deep for myself and, other times, I review past lessons while observing others who may be having a similar journey.