What joy can be found in suffering?

Question

Just want to add. I know how concerned Y!A folks can be about others (*wink*) and *sometimes* there is a, ummm, tendency for people to think Q's are of a personal nature. But, this one? Strictly a philosophical Q-zie :-) :-).

Thanx for your answers everyone!!

:-)

:-)

Answer 1

The Fioretti, or Little Flowers of St. Francis of Assisi has a story that answers this, it speaks of the simplicity of joining one's sufferings to the redemptive suffering of Christ, finding independence from jaded selfish views. Francis calls that Perfect Joy.  A similar thing is the suffering that issues in the birth of a child, or the delivery of a nation.

[For a m*******t suffering meets a need, it does not provide joy.  Joy is a very different perspective on the world than that which is available to sadists and masochists, as well as any others with addictive disorders.  Joy for these is only obtained when ultimate release is won.]

[I may be wrong, but I think Greg was referring to suffering building depth of character from which joy derives.]

[I like your take on the vision through a time of suffering, seeing the end and release with elation.  Yes I think that is joy breaking in to give hope.]

Answer 2

Personally I don't get it. As to say i don' t get how some people can

derive so much satisfaction from suffering.

I have suffered, quite frankly I think it sucks. I have also caused suffering, and quite frankly I think that sucks even worse.

Far be it from me to condemn those who find joy in suffering. to each his own.

I don't condone someone causing unwanted suffering either.

Some deeply religious followers believe suffering is a manner of purification for the soul. These people I wish I could understand. I don't.

now that you have suffered through my answer, I apologize. please forgive.

Answer 3

Try giving birth.

Answer 4

...Definitely it exists, joy in suffering...no doubt ...I presume that while it is a Joy there is no more suffering for experiencer, but Joy...for witnesses it seems to be suffering,,,Site presumed to be impersonal and that is a Joy ...some personalities suffering in here ...not necessarily joyfully...

Answer 5

Of course it is a balance, but I don't there is such a thing as effortless joy.

Answer 6

There can only be joy in suffering if you are a m*******t. I think there can be growth from suffering and joy from the growing.  

Answer 7

Greater Depth of Character?

EDIT: Thanks K, it Doesn't Make it Easier to Go Through, but In Hindsight, One Might Become Better.

Answer 8

there's only joy in suffering for masochists.  this is like asking if there's any love in hating or fun in boredom or happiness in depression.  

uh, no.