I think that souls have all sorts of experiences and they all have meaning. Probably when we leave our bodies all the joys and sufferings here evaporate instantaneously and seem like a dream. The obstructions and sufferings appear to be tests to see how we react to pain and frustration. Some souls take on very rough existences to challenge themselves to the utmost, others are easier on themselves. Handicapped people, for example, have multiplied the difficulties they will encounter. For me, everything has a "raison d'être" . The universe is too orderly for life to be an accident, and every life is precious and unique. But then, I am the eternal optimist!