Pain But Not Suffering

I am doing some new core exercises to strengthen my tummy and such.  These are hard, but they do not cause pain.  Pain is no good.  Suffering on the other hand is the path to strength and fitness at least in these exercises.  There may be an easier softer way, but I don't think so.  In the spiritual life we grow through some suffering but don't make it painful on your own.  Don't beat yourself with a whip.  Don't starve yourself.  Give up something that your will and self-indulgence wants but does not really need.  Be kind for no reason at all.  Go against self-implosion.  This might cause some suffering, but it is not really going to cause pain.  Unless you are a whiner.  No whining in spiritual growth.