Years ago, a New York physician discovered a gene mutation that causes congenital insensitivity to pain, or CIP. It's an extremely rare condition that blocks people from feeling pain. 

Sounds good in theory, but pain is important. It tells the body when it's in danger and helps keep it alive. 

Put your hand in fire, get burned and you learn not to do it again. 

Or, put another way, living hurts. 

As long as you're hurting, you're living. We know this. 

Pain is an excellent teacher. 

And life is full of sayings that remind us of its upsides:

 "Growing pains. Labor pains. Happy tears. So good it hurts." 

Pain warns us. It protects us. 

And most of all, pain makes us appreciate life's pleasures. 

Cherish good company, good health, savor the moments after the hurting, when you're all better, pain free. 

At least for a while.