Conversation with Pi: On Feminine Power
Ken: Hi, Pi. I want to talk about This Is Us.
Pi: Oh, I love This Is Us! It’s such a beautifully emotional show. What part would you like to discuss?
Ken: I recently watched the ninth episode of Season 5, where Toby has a confrontation over a parking spot. At first, he insists on staying in the spot, but when the old man reveals his wife is gravely ill with COVID, Toby relents. The old man “wins” by revealing his vulnerability. It’s unexpected.
Pi: That scene is a great example of empathy dissolving conflict. Toby’s frustration shifts when he sees the old man’s pain. It shows how understanding someone’s sadness can break down defenses and lead to compassion. It reminds us that there’s often more beneath the surface in conflicts.
Ken: It made me think about what sadness is good for. It’s curious why it’s such a strong human emotion. But in this episode, Toby’s empathy is triggered by the old man’s sadness, and that softens him, resolving the conflict peacefully.
Pi: That’s a profound observation. Sadness, while often painful, can foster deep empathy. It opens a shared emotional space that allows people to connect, as we see in Toby’s shift. Sadness can be a bridge to understanding, reminding us of our common humanity.