When In A Fight

I have had my fair share of fights: physical, verbal, destructive, productive, with myself, with others; almost everyday. The word fight carries a lot of weight; usually bringing back memories we want to forget, situations we never wished to be in, or actions we regret. All feelings which I have stored in my past and hold in my present. But what is interesting, is what I have learned from these fights. Looking back on brawls I have had which ended in steam or blood, I was too heated to grasp any information, experiencing a black out of sorts; blinded by a disregard for understanding and a need to be correct. The arguments I have had over a beer and some food, with a mixture of disagreement and respect, have always proven to give me so much more in return: the birth of real change through courtesy and civility. Building memories I am grateful to recall, situations I am happy to be a part of, and actions I can deem mature and fulfilling.

Life is offensive; how you react to this offense will not only dictate your future, but the future of your family, your community, and your society. Offense met with radical emotions have never revealed a positive finale. Offense met with a collected demeanor, a will to understand, and a desire to teach, only better prepares you, and your opp, for the next offense; which is inevitable.

I look back on fights I have seen or been a part of which have consisted of volume, anger, insults, and stubbornness. The repercussions of these fights only further polarized the opposing subjects of argument. Doing exactly the opposite of what was intended.

I guess the only result I would like to see come from this piece, is for individuals to start opening their minds before balling their fists. A task which seems nearly impossible to me at times. But, if it were a reality, I genuinely believe wars would end and harmony would thrive. I am not suggesting to end all arguments, this is what makes each life so unique and interesting. I am just trying to piece together a better way to contradict those we disagree with.

In other words: "I think we have got to learn to disagree, without being violently disagreeable." - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.