"That's the reality. And I didn't have control over the things that happened to me or to my body.

VOA: standard.2010.02.23

That and the reality that Republicans still control the House and can block most anything in the Senate, is why Obama is likely to spend most of the next year or two struggling with budget issues even as he consolidates health reform.

FORBES: Five Challenges For Obama's Tough Second-Term

There is, however, another reality that they have less control over - and that is Greece itself.

BBC: The Greek conundrum

As the 21st century moves into its sixth year, many people have come to accept the geopolitical reality that neither nation can control the entire territory.

CNN: Raz: Small nation, huge influence