There is a simple rule of thumb about unix tools: when you are in need of a -f or --force parameter, most likely something is wrong and you should rethink what

There is a simple rule of thumb about unix tools: when you are in need of a -f or --force parameter, most likely something is wrong and you should rethink what you are doing. Even more so if the tool in question refuses to do anything unless -f is given. That said, I'm glad to see that the OP took this as a learning experience and not as a reason for posting a long-winded rant about why git should be considered harmful