It is not too far a walk between forgiveness and acceptance over into the realm of stupidity, hopelessness, and self-abuse. Just as well, the distance is minuscule between that of assertiveness and self-worth and that of outright anger and selfishness. I have trouble walking these two lines and, as a result, have destroyed many relationships that would have otherwise been fruitful.
I firmly believe that rules exist solely for someone else to show they need to be broken. However, I think that, for me, the best way to find these thin lines is to guess at a simple set of rules. Then, over time, they can be adjusted until they fit most situations. Once established I can decide case-by-case when these rules should be broken.
As I work to define these limits I hope that those who care about me will be sensitive to that and help me by pointing out when they think I’ve gone too far in one direction or another, either with them or with a mutual friend.
In the end I hope this will being me to be more patient and more sensitive, yet less likely to be walked on or taken advantage of. Like I said, it’s a very fine line.