The Story Of Robert Herrick's No Pain, No Gain

In the second century a Rabbi named Ben Hei Hei said, “According to the pain is the gain.” Over the following centuries this quote evolved into the famous expression, “No Pain, No Gain.” I wonder today what the inspiration in Rabbi Ben Hei Hei’s life was that lead to his quote. In 1660, poet Robert Herrick wrote a two line poem titled, “No pains, No Gains.” The last line read, “Man’s fate is according to his pains.” Again, I wonder what was Robert Herrick’s inspiration. Did the Rabbi and Mr. Herrick face trials and pains in their life? Most likely, yes. The better question would be were their trials and pains emotional or physical? Trials and pains are my inspiration for associating the expression “No Pain, No Gain” with my road to college. My physical
Although my surgery and recovery were successful, I would never lead a pain free life. My pain was not as severe, but it still remained a prominent part of me. Over the following years I had regular MRI’s to monitor the continued success of my surgery. I was told I could not jump on trampolines or play a contact sport. I never cared about trampolines, but as I grew older I became obsessed with football. Pain or not, I really wanted to play
Pain has been a constant part of who I am and a constant reminder of who I want to be. I’m not a strong academic student, but my goal to play college football has served as my academic motivation. In a way, academics is one of my trials and pains. Make no mistake, my inspiration behind the expression “No Pain, No Gain” is the physical pain that reminds me daily not to give up. Not to fall victim and walk life on a crutch. The day may come when I will in fact be disabled, but on that day I will have no regrets. Through pain I will gain satisfaction, pride, and a college