I dislike when authors of self-help type books write that everything happens for a reason. It gives a false sense of security. Sure everything happens for a reason as in the cause-and-effect sense of the word. but not everything, or anything in my opinion has a higher meaning other than what you give it.
I mean what is more comforting, that the death of your mom was part of some unknown grand plan of an absent God. or that it is a reminder to live life with grace, dignity and class?
One is a vague idea that has no meaning, the other is a clear consise idea that one can draw strength from.
Personally, I like the freedom of chosing my own “higher” meaning. Even if I decide it doesn’t mean a thing.