Yes, it is sad... Especially because I believe in researching and forming your own opinion... But as I said, I'd never given it a thought until you'd brought it up.

I think the answer to the question is the same as "is heaven eternal?" If you believe in eternity, then both go on forever. (Based on a prevalent interpretation I have heard:) While it may not say that Hell is eternal, it is reserved for those who have completely denied Christ/The Lord. (Those with some doubt but not all will find a way to believe, on their "own" or with His help.) It is an absence of Him that they brought about and that is the suffering. How can you ask forgiveness or accept someone/thing that you have completely denied? Eternity.