Blessings in disguise

Have you ever experienced a situation that you thought was devastating at the time that eventually led to something even better happening for you? I had this occur in my life when a position I thought was secure was suddenly affected by a change in management. Within a year I was no longer working for the agency and I wondered what my future would hold. Leaving that organization gave me the opportunity to move to another state and find employment in an even better position. After five years there I realized that it was time to change what I was doing. I thought it would be easy to find another job, but again I experienced obstacles that I hadn't anticipated. I continued to put one foot in front of another and follow what seemed to be a path not of my making. Eventually the steps led to the work I do today which I love and, since I work for myself, I don't have to worry about the personalities of those above me. What have been the challenging circumstances in your life that have turned out to be blessings in disguise?