what does paine mean when he writes, “what we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly”?

Thomas Paine means that when something is obtained too easily or cheaply, people tend not to value or respect it much. In other words, things that come without much effort or cost are not treasured or appreciated deeply. He applies this idea in the context of the American Revolutionary War, suggesting that the hard struggle for independence will make the victory and freedom much more valued and cherished by the Americans. Paine is encouraging perseverance by emphasizing that the difficulty of obtaining something increases its worth and significance to those who achieve it. This quote underscores the importance of effort and sacrifice in truly valuing what is gained.