Anseldog

Great topic. I just lent out my planner and it came back with a nick in the knives.

The context of my answer:

I'm torn between wanting to find a way of protecting myself and a way of helping to create a world with trust and cooperation. I want to live in a world where both are possible. The problem is doing both at the same time.

My answer:

I need this tool for my living. It costs $$$ to repair or $$$ to replace. Are you sure you want to take on this responsibility?

I like this approach because it creates a cooperative dialogue rather than a "my way or the highway" demand.