What is your opinion of the idea that significant events can change an individual's perspective?

My opinion of the idea that significant events can change an individual's perspective is this:

I believe that significant events such as a personal tragedy, an illness, a near-death experience, a conversation with someone much more versed and experienced, etc., can have significant impact on and can change an individual's perspective. For example, if a person who had never set foot in a third world country was forced to live in a small village where food, fresh water, outside communication, and healthcare were all in short supply, their perspective regarding their privilege might change. They would then understand how lucky they are to have plenty to eat, water to bathe in, brush their teeth with, and to drink, etc ... The same person might also change their perspective on say ... texting and driving if they were in an automobile collision that took a life as a result of texting and driving.