i have never had the privilege of experiencing another mind. since i have no basis for comparison, i must assume i have the most insightful, thought-provoking, fascinating, and deepest mind ever to contemplate existence. however, by that same accord, i also may have the dullest and most boring mind ever to think thoughts. although i doubt both of these conclusions very much, i am forced to accept them both. i believe that a person can never, not ever, experience true, absolute happiness unless they have had some type of terrible suffering as well. for one who has had that suffering, they are able to contrast it in relation to the happiness that they may feel and conclude the incredible difference between the two. the paradox here is that if one's suffering is far too baffling, it may prevent them from ever even experiencing that indescribable joy. one who achieves the perfect balance between a life that once has suffered and a life that knows happiness will have the most immaculate, distilled definition of cheer. the reason that we are able to appreciate beauty in all its wonderful forms is directly related to the opportunity to perceive the ugly. the individuals that should merit the most sympathy are those that never, tragically, experience any vast contrast. the sole factor that makes life undeniably beautiful is its capability to be also cruel, revolting, and horrid. revel in the despairs, for it is they that will allow you to fathom the truest of the joys.