"There are no happy endings."

Kind of depressing, isn't it?

Yet, for Tommy, it's the truth. How can he expect to believe in happiness when his cousin and over 300 other firefighters died saving people during a terrorist attack? It's just not going to happen for him.

Like I've said before, it's easy for others to tell Tommy to "get over it" and "move on," but these folks aren't Tommy. It's not that simple. Especially when Tommy was in there and witnessed the destruction first hand. Especially because deep down he feels at fault for Jimmy. Especially when 9/11 gets brought up over and over again.

And with the tenth anniversary of that day coming up, it makes sense for those memories and feelings of frustration, anger, guilt, and loss to bubble to the surface.

Therefore, I completely understand his somber attitude toward the well-intentioned statements. Sometimes, all you want to do is drive a truck through a store just because it might make you feel better (even if the only way to do that is in your head.)

That said, I don't agree with his outlook. Life is full of ups and downs, but it's important to focus on the good. You can't always dwell on the bad. I just wish Tommy could see the light.

The only person that might truly be able to do that is Kelly. Conversations about life and death, Heaven and Hell? Those are serious discussions that Tommy hasn't had with Sheila and even Janet. He seems to become calmer and more thoughtful with Kelly. There's this odd connection and directness that continues to be entertaining to watch.

After all, Tommy is someone I want to see succeed. Sure, he's unlikable, but the show has managed to peel back his layers and reveal a depth that is more than a heroic firefighter. He's a fantastically flawed character.

Like always, it's Denis Leary that brings an effortlessness to Tommy. It's easy to forget that he's saying words from a script. Those steely stares, flustered mutterings, and varying degrees of emotion bring Tommy to life in a way that only Leary can accomplish.

I was confused by his kiss with Kelly, though. I thought they were just friends? As much as they seem to work well together, I don't think these two should end up together. Tommy needs to try and re-spark his connection with Janet, if anything, for the sake of his family.

Aside from the more serious aspect of the episode, and even Lou's evident continuing health problem, "Press" still managed to bring out the laughs. Lines such as "I didn't realize there was a not getting laid mode" and Mike's affinity for wedding plans were hilarious.

Once again, Rescue Me managed to deliver another solid episode, although I kept waiting for something bigger to happen. It's almost too calm with all of the guys. Plus, with the final moment a declaration about a lack of happy endings, I can only be left to ponder if Tommy's fate will be an unhappy one? Or can he pull himself up after seven years of problematic behavior to finally stand on top?

Sean McKenna was a TV Fanatic Staff Writer. He retired in May of 2017. Follow him on Twitter.