I was thinking the same thing the other day. I have heard the term numerous times over the last couple weeks and it has been driving me crazy. It can take decades, or even an entire life, to overcome some traumatic experiences. The idiom kind of belittles the struggle people go through. That said I welcome this revamped version.
"Pressure creates diamonds, but diamonds must be cut before they shine"
Thanks! I think you honed in on the message I was going for. Just because something seems pithy and sounds good, doesn't mean it's accurate. This saying is a good example of it.