In "Shopgirl," author Steve Martin highlights the transformative power of pain in our lives. The quote suggests that while pain can be a difficult experience, it often leads to significant personal growth and change. Martin implies that facing and overcoming challenges is an integral part of the human experience, influencing our perspectives and decisions.

This notion emphasizes that experiences of suffering can ultimately lead to deeper understandings of ourselves and the world around us. By acknowledging that pain is a catalyst for change, we can appreciate the lessons it brings and recognize its role in shaping our identities and life paths.