When you were upset, sad, or hurt about something, GW would say: Well, “its better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick.” And usually he was correct, although at the moment it did not feel that way.
But was there more to it than just a ‘sorry you are hurting’ comment?
The underlying thought was, sorry you are hurting, but you should Be Thankful, and happy that it is not worse. As sad as the situation may be, look on the bright side. Life can deal some pretty nasty blows…like a poke in the eye with a sharp stick.