Do you feel this is true? You don't necessarily need someone who understands you, you just need someone who wants to?

You mean “it’s the thought that counts”?

Hmm… it would be nice if they have the intent to do so… it would be nicer if they actually do.

I don’t need someone to agree with me all the time. But I’d be happy if the person(friend or lover) makes an effort to understand the person I am.

I think understanding someone can be a very long-term goal. People are complex and true understanding doesn't often come easily or quickly. Sometimes the sudden realization that one still has a long way to go hits pretty hard.

It's the "wanting to understand", no matter how hard it is or how long it takes, that matters.

If you're asking for a friend, then it depends on what your friend wants.

For instance, if your friend is coaching a soccer team, and they have a player who tries, but they just can't get it right. Kudos to them for trying, but you're a coach, and your ultimate goal is a win, while trying to be respectful of all the players.

Some people can't, despite their best efforts, but it's up to the other person to decide if they can "settle" for best effort, as opposed to what they really want.

If it's me, I want what I want, though I would go about it very respectfully.

Nobody wants to understand me, love me or care about me

Yes, that makes sense. And I thankfully have a few people who actually succeed.

Nope