On a recent episode of V…

Anna: “Did you find what we’re looking for? “

Lisa: “There’s just so much.  What does it all mean?  They don’t seem to serve any purpose.”

Anna: “Human memories contain emotion, not just information.  That’s why they can be difficult to interpret.”

Lisa: “Why aren’t our memories like that?”

Anna: “Our species is designed for efficiency. We’re not burdened by emotional imprints like humans.”

This exchange between the mother and daughter characters on the series, V, really resonated with me.  I think it’s safe to say that most of us value emotional connections with friends, family, colleagues…and, for some of us, things.  That’s the reason why Anna’s last statement got stuck in my head.

Often, it’s our strong attachment to things that makes them hard to let go of.  When working with clients, I usually suggest that they allow me to handle the items that may be donated or thrown out.  I’ve noticed that when they touch them, their feelings about those items seem to heighten – and they tend to keep them, even if they know they will never use them again.  Once the client decides to keep that object, there’s no persuading them otherwise.  Interesting how the “emotional imprint” drives the decision irrespective of consequence.

Having no emotions means that the V’s are not slowed down by unnecessary thoughts and connections.  Theoretically, decisions would be easier and quicker to make.  We’d be better, stronger, faster…just not human.  It’s an extreme notion but I have to wonder if it would be preferable to be “designed for efficiency” rather than wade through emotional baggage (even it’s just a small suitcase).

Would no emotions = less stuff = simple life?

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