"Either we both win or we both lose... nothing in between".

The shooting guard says to the center: " The team really appreciates the position that you play out on the floor, but we feel that lately you have been taking shots in excess. The center responds: " You and I are now in competition because there are scouts on the floor looking for the best talent. The shooting guard explains " I can definitely understand your rationale, but that mindset is serving as an hindrance to success of this team. This unit can not function properly if one person is only thinking of themselves. Furthermore, there can be no competition between us, for you and I are on the same team... Either we both win or we both lose... nothing in between ." This same mindset should be shared among those who make the effort to nurture a relationship. Often times we figure that we draw strength from creating a strong defense within a relationship. True strength is found in a person who steps out of their comfort zone, and allows themselves to be exposed to possible disappointment, hurt feelings, fear, nervousness and even betrayal. Apprehensiveness can definitely be understood if you have felt these emotions before. But personally, if I claim to love and care for you, then I deserve to allow you to explore the many layers below my surface. If you and I are partners; what need do I have for a last word? Why should I feel like I should hide from you? And why would I want you to feel like you are incapable of breaking my heart? Just as I have chosen to allow an union between us... I should also choose to trust to you. I don't have to serve myself because now you serve me just I serve you. This partnership will function better if we think less of ourselves or more of each other. Furthermore, there can be no division between us, for you and I are partners... Either we both win or we both lose... nothing in between.