Sometimes the most meaningful art is birthed in darkness and suffering.

Gabe Taviano was 34 years old when he survived a massive heart attack that should have taken his life. Three years of anxiety and depression followed. He thought his passion for photography might never return.

What he didn't realize was that his creativity was being refined through the dark times. He would no longer want to simply be artistic to showcase his talent, but would now embrace the opportunity to express his emotions through his work and let others know they are not alone. The pain would produce compassion he had never considered before.

He always thought sunsets were supposed to be bright and colorful. Many are, but other times, the clouds roll in and get in the way, and a dark, brooding sunset emerges. And now Gabe can see the beauty in those dark sunsets too.

The suffering is all part of his story now, part of his art. It's hard to describe in words, but thankfully, you know what they say about a photo and how many words it's worth.