A water reed is the classic image of something that bends rather than breaking. Sometimes we need to stand strong like the mighty oak, but other times it just makes sense to bend to circumstances so that you can carry on.
When have you chosen to bend rather than break?
I chose to bend when my mom was in her final months. We had had a difficult relationship for many years but in her final years I chose to do as much of what made her content and happy as I could rather than be engaged in argumentative time. It proved beneficial for both of us and provided a peaceful death for mom.
Accommodating with a friend while traveling together is sometimes necessary. Although opinions may differ determining what to do or how to get there can surface, it is best, I think, to let “the driver” decide and go along for the ride. It makes the trip more interesting, at least!