Based on interviews over a four-year period, this study examines the experiences of Hurricane Katrina survivors on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The purpose of this investigation was to better understand the traits or strengths that help some maintain and regain emotional well-being post trauma in order to inform more successful post trauma interventions. Participants were generous and graphic in their stories of struggle and growth. Four critical themes emerged that participants believed were responsible for their positive growth in recovery: 1) family and community, 2) God and spirituality, 3) goal-focused forward thinking, and 4) using the event to become a 'better person,' in keeping with current theoretical work on positive post-traumatic growth.