Pain is not the only source of humor, for there are many other factors to consider, but it brings up an interesting point. It has been said that behind the painted face of a clown, you'll find a sad person. Most comedians grew up in dysfunctional or unusual circumstances. It is that experience that gives them a different perspective on life. When they creatively share their perspective with an audience, it is perceived as humor by most us. So, comedy and humor are largely based on one's perspective, and the source of that perspective could very well be pain related.
You will notice a little rat peeking out of the cave. I have a great fondness for rodents (except for mice and hamsters), and they have been a traditional element in cartooning and animation from the beginning. When I was in my teens and early 20's I had a good number of pet rats. They are wonderful, smart, clean, affectionate, critters that are not properly appreciated by the public at large. Anyway, The Wise One's yet-to-be-named companion is there to provide an additional wordless commentary.
While we're on the subject of wise people wearing robes on mountaintops-- let me recommend one of my all time favorite movies; Frank Capra's
Lost Horizon (1937). Like most Capra films, there is a message of hope, and an expression of higher values.
