I like it when you drop by because I know you are here to discuss what is actually at hand.
Thanks :) I like stopping by and chatting with you, too! You tend to bring up interesting topics/perspectives for conversation and I have always enjoyed hearing the perspectives of others and trying to understand more about them.
As you know, I like to think and write across many areas whether I hold this position in 5 years or tomorrow, who knows.
Haha, I know exactly what you mean. My current perception is not the same as what it was a few years ago (and in some cases I can say minutes ago).
Life is about constantly adjusting to your surroundings (I am pretty sure you posted about that topic recently too!). As part of the adjustment, you need to be open to learning new things and absorbing information about the people around you and how they act/react to their surroundings.
Back on topic a bit.. I feel like I learned in grade school that you couldn't get empathy from a pet? (based on the Webster's definition of the word). It is possible that I am misremembering or that I was taught incorrectly.. just a random thought that popped into my head.