Conflict...does it make the world go 'round?

I've been pondering some deep thoughts recently.

Okay...not deep for any of you Mensa cardholding readers...but deep for me.

Conflict, as constant as the sunrise and it's setting.

Yet, as Westerners...we mask conflict and the anxiety it creates with all sorts of tools. Anyone for a cigarette? Too uncouth now? How about a drink? Would you feel better if you just went shopping and bought something new for your home or your closet? A nice dinner out with a big, decadent dessert?

Maybe the "feeling" of conflict is only afforded those of us who have little concern for anything vital...abundant food, medicine, clean drinking water...many children no doubt think that water has always come from the tap at the sink...not the river. We've got no crucial, survival things to worry about...so we can mull over offenses and miscommunications.

Many of us will do anything to avoid conflict. We lie to ourselves...to others...

"Its really not that bad"..."No really, I'm not upset with you"..."I'll just get over it with a little distance."

But living life, a life where you're in the present, takes courage to face it.

Just reflecting on the past week there's been a fair amount of conflict and each time a choice to make. To live in the present, to feel the anxiety and yet to push through it and face up or to avoid it...anyway I can.

There's that moment, when the conflict is close and personal, when you're emotions can lead you to rage or tears...and it takes intent to maintain control. To choose the correct words, ones that you'll not regret, not unduly hurtful...but still honest...on point.

Does it ever get easier?

Because as a Westerner...the most intellegent question I can muster is...does it ever get easier?

Easy does it...right?