Why didn't I see this thread earlier?
Really? That's interesting thought.
It fascinates me why TJs (particularly ExTJs) have any interest in connecting to Fi. Part of me struggles to comprehend what the hell they could get out of it. Maybe its a misconception but it seems to me that TJs seem to see Fi as equivalent to weakness (in the broadest sense of the word). Actually what I'm talking about is less developed TJs, because as they get older they seem to soften and are less critical of Fi qualities. But really, I remember so many occasions where (often younger) TJs seem
offended by my Fi-ness - like they couldn't stand how backward it was. I just don't how they can go from that reaction to feeling pleasure in it.
It's also hard for me to get why someone so driven by hard logic and so self-assured in the way they see the world (as TJs generally are) would slowly back away from that over time. I know in theory that they're discovering the complexities of the world and learning to live with the 'grey areas', but still...
I have to say though, there are few things more disarmingly charming than a TJ (again, particularly a ExTJ) momentarily displaying strong Fi traits. It makes me go all mushy inside to see pillars of strength give a little.
Relating to what I said above, I don't think you guys realise how overwhelming the endless complexities of the world can be for us NFPs. It's tiring to deal with reality on a case by case basis. Te can just cut through the crap like a knife and get right to the crux of the matter, which can feel like lifting a huge mental burden. It brings clarity where once there was confusion and mental disarray. STJs in general have this (what I call a) restorative quality. It's like when things get off track they bring things back to where they need to be. It's a protective quality but it also renews our awareness and appreciation of what is important.