Paine's View on Pain

          This week we read several literature pieces of early American history. One of them is titled The Crisis by Thomas Paine. Paine was an outspoken colonist that wrote papers calling for an America free of British rule. He wrote The Crisis to urge fighting colonists to not lose faith. Paine makes the essay inspirational and dramatic by writing statements such as "I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection."

Certainly, this quote evokes a sense of awe in people because, ultimately, we wish we will be able to make the best of difficult times. Apparently, Paine 'loves' those who are able to do so. Yet, is it wise to be so optimistic? Let's not forget that in those days, America was under Britain's thumb, the whole country was desperate, and people were losing family, friends, and faith to the war. Only a fool would disregard all of this and smile. But, according to Paine, that would be the respectable thing to do.

This principle of life can be reflected in today's society as well. Whenever something dreadful happens to us, we feel compelled to put on a bright face and try to forget the pain. But I think we have to accept the pain and mourn the incident because it is an essential part of our life. People have the right to despair and their grief  should not be hidden for the sake of false bravado. Earlier today, someone told me her dog had died recently. Then she gave a little laugh. I, on the other hand, don't find this particularily funny--it's horrible and should be treated as such.

          That's why, I choose to interpret the Thomas Paine quote a slightly different way: Be free to feel loss, but don't give up hope because eventually the situation will improve and you will walk away a more enlightened person.