Pain is a part of life. Pain is rarely invited: it is usually unwelcome and often dreaded. But pain, including emotional pain — grief and heartache — is also a great and essential teacher. Pain is a strict teacher, but if we will stay in class and pay attention, pain reminds us that any particular pain is only a small part of Life. Pain instructs us not only in the need for self-care — for the sensible stewardship of the gift of Life — but also in the danger of self-pity and the importance of an outward perspective. Pain enables us to understand others' pain; to grow in empathy and compassion for others; and to see the importance to ourselves of helping others and new ways to do so.
