The Gospel According to Morgan: Chapter 3

Rule 13: NEVER GIVE ADVICE UNLESS IT IS REQUESTED
And even if it is requested, be gentle and ease into your message if it is harsh. Overall, personal opinions should be offered and not forced upon another. As a subset of this, be aware that everyone needs to be alone and given time to accept their own counsel.

Rule 14: TOUCH AND FEEL COVER A MULTITUDE OF SINS


Morgan in his smoking jacket accompanied by Blarney

 The corollary to this is Kissing and Hugging need not lead to sex. They can also satisfy our need to love and be loved.  If you love someone and you have problems with a simple touch or a quick hug, then they may not seem "real"  and then they can be hurt emotionally without us feeling any guilt. You may have an issue actually loving them, even as a friend. The Viet Nam War was the first war televised nearly real-time into our homes with all its killing and carnage. Because it was on the TV screen, it didn't seem "real" and so we were not as affected personally by it and didn't feel the sense of loss or actual sorrow. Be careful when feelings like this are muted or horrible acts like murder become dehumanized and "normal."

Rule 15: LEARN TO SPEAK AND APPEAR UPBEAT
Here is an example: instead of asking "Is everything alright with you?" change your approach to "I can see you are doing well for yourself" or "You look so good and fit, how are you doing it?"  If everything is less than perfect with your friend, this gives them the opportunity to let you know their status. If they are a little down, you just may have uplifted their spirits and ensured a positive subconscious association with them and they'll be encouraged by your company and counsel.

Thus, sayeth the Morg.
Have a great week and see you soon.  Love you all madly, Scoop