October 25, 2004

"What is it you want from me?" he asked.

Don’t say anything too unkind," she replied, "and don’t make me feel bad with your words. Don’t be too critical or too specific in your complaints. Don’t talk about anything that hurts my feelings or touches on my insecurities. Let’s definitely not discuss my physical appearance or my wardrobe, and I would prefer if you not mention your thoughts on my friends and family. Please don’t say anything that might make me cry or make me angry. And most of all, don’t bring up anything negative about our relationship."

He studied her for another moment.

"What do you want from me?" he repeated.

She sighed with exasperation.

"Why honesty, of course," she replied.