Suffering is a fundamental aspect of the human experience that can lead to profound personal growth. The Buddha's journey illustrates how enduring pain and hardship can ultimately result in enlightenment. It highlights the transformative power of struggle, as the challenges one faces can foster deeper compassion and awareness. Such development is often an unexpected consequence of encountering suffering, pushing individuals towards a greater understanding of themselves and the world around them.

As we navigate through life's difficulties, we may find that our responses to pain shape us in significant ways. The path to inner peace can stem from the lessons learned during our trials. Huston Smith suggests that embracing suffering might encourage growth in emotional intelligence and empathy. This perspective encourages us to view our own suffering not just as a burden, but as a potential catalyst for personal and spiritual transformation.