Of New Year’s resolutions… – Michael Morse

by Michael Morse, contributing writer

When I am in a real world conversation, and things get a little contentious, I can literally feel my nervous system switch from flight to fight, or the other way, depending on how invested I am in the topic being discussed. If I find myself having to call out the person I’m talking with on something they think is right, but I am 100% certain is wrong, I feel uncomfortable, and try my hardest to be diplomatic.

I do not like how it feels when I hurt somebody else’s sense of importance. Being right is no source of joy for me, and if the topic isn’t all that meaningful, more times than not I just let it go.

Social media discussions are a little different. It’s fight or fight, no holds barred, no quarter, and to the victor go the spoils.

I cringe at times when I take the time to think about how easily I become savage, and wonder if the real word will eventually beat me down to the point I no longer care about other people, their feelings or sense of importance.

Human beings possess senses that allow billions of us to live together in relative peace. The vast majority of us do not want to be difficult, but want to be liked and want everybody to be happy. We are designed for cooperation, and are at our best when getting along.

I think that isolation and the keyboard are very real threats to humanity. Nothing can replace touch, a voice, and the invisible forces that create kindness and empathy.

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Michael Morse, [email protected], a monthly contributor is a retired Captain with the Providence Fire Department

Michael Morse spent 23 years as a firefighter/EMT with the Providence Fire Department before retiring in 2013 as Captain, Rescue Co. 5. He is an author of several books, most offering fellow firefighter/EMTs and the general population alike a poignant glimpse into one person’s journey through life, work and hope for the future. He is a Warwick resident.