I would rather create my own meaning as well. I was raised religious, but I had too many questions and not enough answers, so I have lived more so by the golden rule or, just don't be an unnecessary jackass to people.
How I see pain and pleasure is like how the old saying goes, "It is better to have loved and lost than never to love at all." You know how good you felt because of how bad you feel now. Without the bad, you have no reference for good.
Or, like whenever we get a cold, or twist your ankle really bad cause you're decided to be an idiot, you can look to the future and think, "Wow, I will really enjoy my life when I can think straight or walk without a limp again." Idk, I am kinda just yammering on now. lol
But, Rick and Morty is outstanding, and if you watch it now, you will surely have enough time to get through it before season four comes out. ha