"苦しみは文明です"

The idea here is that the challenges and hardships we go through are what build and define our society. Without going through suffering, we wouldn't develop the structures, norms, and values that make up our civilization. Think of it like this: it's through overcoming difficulties that we learn, grow, and create the world we live in.

Historically, this concept can be seen throughout human progress. Take the Industrial Revolution, for example. It was a period of intense hardship for many—people worked long hours in dangerous conditions and lived in overcrowded cities. But it was also a time of great innovation and social change. Labor laws, public health improvements, and technological advancements all emerged as responses to the suffering of that era. The struggles of the workers and the challenges they faced led directly to significant societal improvements.

Now, picture this: a small community struck by a natural disaster. Maybe it’s a hurricane or an earthquake. The immediate aftermath is pure chaos—people are hurt, homes destroyed, resources scarce. But then you see something incredible happen. People start coming together, helping each other out, and rebuilding. They create stronger buildings, better emergency plans, and a tighter community fabric. The suffering they went through pushes them to improve and to create a more resilient community.

So, how do you apply this? First, recognize that suffering is often a catalyst for growth. When things get tough, instead of feeling defeated, ask yourself what you can learn from the experience. What can you change or improve because of what you’re going through? It’s about shifting your perspective from one of victimhood to one of empowerment and opportunity.

Imagine you're working on a challenging project at work. You've hit a wall, and everything seems to be going wrong. Deadlines are looming, and stress levels are high. It’s tempting to throw in the towel. But think about it—this is your moment to shine. Maybe you figure out a new system to manage your time better, or you discover a hidden talent for problem-solving. The struggle you're enduring could lead to a breakthrough that not only helps you succeed in this project but also in future endeavors.

Or think about your personal life. Maybe you’re going through a tough breakup. It’s painful, no doubt. But through the suffering, you might learn more about what you truly need in a relationship, how to set better boundaries, or even discover strengths and passions you never knew you had. The suffering pushes you to grow, to redefine your values, and ultimately to build a better version of your life.

In a nutshell, embrace the hard times. They’re an inevitable part of life, but they also hold the seeds of growth and improvement. It's okay to feel the pain, but don't let it stop you. Use it. Learn from it. Let it push you to build something better—whether it’s your personal world or the wider society we all share.