...well, I think this is what has confounded me so many times in my relating to others -

for me, that you have said
"..into quicksand"
and I have said
"into the mire"
signal something important and valuable to investigate, as identifying with others, and the search for a deeper understanding I feel is the path to progress, growth and healig.

... but I guesss this isnt the way it strikes others....?

r.