Pain makes us make bad decisions. Fear of pain is almost as big a motivator.

I could say life is just a bowl of jello
and appear more intelligent and smart
but I'm stuck like a dope with this thing called hope--and I can't get it out of my heart...
...not this heart.

With all the hurt that I’ve done, hold it high for me
that can’t be undone, hold it high for me
light and guide me through, hold it high for me
I’ll do the same for you, and hold it high for me