Pain is inevitable; suffering is optional.

Summary

This quote highlights the distinction between pain and suffering. It suggests that while pain is an unavoidable part of life, suffering is a product of how we choose to perceive and react to that pain. In other words, pain can be seen as a physical or emotional discomfort, but suffering is the internal struggle and distress we add to that experience through our thoughts, emotions, or actions. By understanding this difference, we can work towards minimizing our suffering and finding peace even in the face of pain.