The Problem of Pain: When Suffering Demands an Answer

Those of us in healthcare know that clear answers are often elusive. We can treat many symptoms, but we cannot always resolve the deeper problem of suffering. One hard truth we learn is that no matter how badly we want to, we cannot fix people or eliminate all their pain. What, then, is our ethical response when suffering demands an answer we do not have? Perhaps, when suffering demands an answer, the most healing response may be: I do not know. But I will not leave you.