Explaining vs. understanding
I heard this phrase recently, in a conversation where one person was trying to get through to another person who was being uncooperative. I think it's a great line, and I'm going to try to remember it for the future.
“I can explain it for you, but I can't understand it for you.”
The problem is, that's pretty curt. I don't think most people would be able to really hear that, and I think we have a responsibility to make sure our words are heard. If we know our words won't be heard, what's the point of speaking at all? Is it to feel better about ourselves? It shouldn't be, in my opinion. We have enough of that already.
For that reason, I might try something kinder first when talking with an ornery person. In the past, I've used the following, and people seem to take it well.
“I'm sorry that's not the answer you want, but that's my answer.”
Substitute the word “answer” for “request,” “advice,” or any other word as needed.