In Lance D. Collins' column ("Don't want a war? You must change your lifestyle," Jan. 14 column) he refers to a "right to be free from suffering and the causes of suffering" that "all humans" supposedly have. Examining this presupposition independently and neglecting the rest of his argument, it is obvious that Collins fails to understand the nature of suffering.

We have all heard the cliché, "No pain, no gain," and it applies to all areas of life. For example, infancy was full of miserable experiences - such as shots and potty-training. All of these we probably considered "suffering" at the time, but in retrospect, we see that this pain inflicted on us improved our situation in life.

Even as adults, suffering continues to provide vital lessons. After all, should failing grades be banned because they can cause emotional distress? No, because the pain of a D or F instructs us - whether revealing academic weaknesses or demonstrating the need to develop disciplined study habits.

Without the possibility of failing, our society would quickly become one of wasted talent, since only the few with immense drives for greatness would ever approach their potential.

Of course, never inflict pain without good reason nor learn to enjoy it. But do not avoid suffering simply because it is suffering. Instead, when suffering comes, recognize the lessons that it can teach you and embrace them.