Powen Shiah - the space between

Wise words on Metafilter about asking for what you need and people not being who we imagine them to be.

First, you can ask for things, but you can't demand them, and when people say 'no' you have to accept that answer. That is, as long as you're protecting yourself and your boundaries. In this relationship, you are not doing that. But still, ask for what you want - when someone says no, accept it and understand that they are not who you imagine them to be.
via jardinier on ask.metafilter.com

It's been a while since I've had a chance to read Metafilter, but tonight these word resonated.