Thriving Through Adversity and Trauma

by Jackson UpmannAnnouncementsApr 10, 2024

David Hardy was flourishing.

He had a wonderful wife, three lovely daughters, and a fulfilling career as a trial judge in Reno. Indeed, he was chief judge of his district and president of the state judges’ association—and he had just completed his PhD in judicial studies at the University of Nevada, where he would soon be an adjunct professor of political science. His future seemed nothing but bright.

Then tragedy struck. His eldest daughter was killed by a drunk driver.

Most of us can’t even imagine the pain and suffering that followed. But we can learn vital lessons from someone who has experienced such anguish.

We all face adversity in life—from career struggles and relationship problems to health challenges and financial hardships. And we may even face deep trauma, such as the loss of a lover or a child. When we do experience such difficulties—or nightmares, as the case may be—whatever the pain involved, we still face a choice: to work through it and strive for our best possible life given the context, or not to do so.

At LevelUp 2024, David will discuss how he processed the worst loss imaginable, and worked to rebuild a life of happiness.

Come learn how you, too, can overcome even the darkest of times and work your way into the light of life.

Register Now and Save 40%
Join us for what is guaranteed to be the most transformative conference of the year.

On Solid Ground

On Solid Ground is the hub for content from OSI fellows and affiliates, along with announcements about OSI’s programs and events. Here, you’ll find links to our team’s articles, videos, and other materials published across various platforms. And you’ll discover opportunities to support and engage with our global community.

Latest Blog Posts

Mr. Savior

by Maddox LocherPhilosophy

Oct 28, 2025

To “save” someone means to protect him from something that threatens or hinders his life. So... is God really a savior?

Violence as Spectacle in Chain-Gang All-Stars

by Angelica WerthArt & Culture

Oct 28, 2025

Brutal and at times jarring, Chain-Gang All-Stars nevertheless reminds us to view every single person as a fellow human being.

Why I’m Not a Republican

by Kiyah WillisPolitics & Liberty

Oct 28, 2025

In her new video, Kiyah explains why she’s not a Republican.

No, Not All Worldviews Are Faith-Based

by Maddox LocherPhilosophy

Oct 24, 2025

Maddox examines the divide between reason-based philosophy and faith-based Christianity—and why it matters. It’s the difference between knowing how to know and merely assuming you do, without evidence.