I have been observing a dear friend struggling with this very short word: no.  It always surprises me how difficult this word is for so many of us.  When we say no, we feel guilty– even, or especially, if we are taking care of ourselves.

My friend has been pressured by family members to take on a job that would put her health at risk. It was a struggle to say no, and she thought long and hard about it. It became an argument that went on for several days, but she held her ground. And that was the end of it…..right?!?

Now that a few days have gone by, the family has asked her to reconsider.  The pressure is back on, because she has given in so many times before.  It is expected.  She is made to feel that she is being unreasonable. She feels perhaps she should just go ahead and say yes now….

When we give in, we allow other people to wipe their feet on us.  It sets up the expectation that we will always capitulate, that we will roll over and play dead, that we will put our lives on hold to accommodate others.  There is certainly nothing wrong with being generous!  But if you have said no– my dears– stick to it.  You have the right to say no. Your life matters.