I wish I could say the right words
To lead you through this land
Wish I could play the father
And take you by the hand
Wish I could stay
But now I understand
I'm standing in the way
— Giles, the song "Standing" in the musical episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer
You see this little hole? This moth's just about to emerge. It's in there right now, struggling. It's digging its way through the thick hide of the cocoon. Now, I could help it - take my knife, gently widen the opening, and the moth would be free - but it would be too weak to survive. Struggle is nature's way of strengthening it. Now this is the second time you've asked me for your drugs back... ask me again, and it's yours.
— Locke, Lost
Twilight Sparkle: You realize this was information we could have used hours ago?
Discord: And rob you of a valuable lesson in being princess? What kind of friend do you think I am?
— Princess Twilight Sparkle, My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic
Supergirl: Why didn't you help us?
The Spectre: The battle had to be won by yourselves. Or lost. Sometimes I am held back in these matters. But I was allowed to rescue you, once the battle was done.
The Spectre: The battle had to be won by yourselves. Or lost. Sometimes I am held back in these matters. But I was allowed to rescue you, once the battle was done.
