How does the attack by the spirit bear change Cole?

THe bear basically beats Cole into a bleeding pulp. All of Cole's cockiness and attitude are taken away. For the first time in his life, Cole feels vulnerable and alone. He is unable to tap his normal defence mechanisms. Cole can't cheat and lie his way out of anything. The bear cares not for Cole's harsh childhood or troubled past. Cole begins to appreciate life, any life. Cole worries about the little birds that fall out of a tree. Cole muses over his insignificance and fragility.