In Haruki Murakami's book "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running," he explores the dichotomy between pain and suffering. Pain is an inherent part of activities like running; it is unavoidable and something everyone experiences. However, the response to that pain—whether one chooses to endure it or not—lies within the individual's control.

This perspective emphasizes the importance of mindset in facing challenges. While pain may be a natural occurrence, suffering can be mitigated by how we approach our limitations. Ultimately, it is the runner's choice whether to succumb to discomfort or push through, highlighting the power of personal determination and resilience in overcoming obstacles.