It's understandable to not want to upset others.
Michael is talking to his friend who recently experienced a traumatizing accident.
Michael wants to consider bringing up the subject of the accident.
Michael decides he is better off not bringing up the subject of the accident and talks about something else.
Michael asks his friend about the recent traumatizing accident that he went through.
Michael's friend have a nice chat with Michael and momentarily forgets about the accident.
Michael's friend becomes incredibly upset at the mere thought of the accident and stops talking to Michael.